In every issue you'll find...

Expert insights on techniques and principles
Unbiased tool reviews
Step-by-step details to master the job
Field-tested advice and know-how

Join
Log In

Issue 214

On the Cover

Member Only

How it Works: Wall Framing

When constructed correctly, a house’s frame resists a variety of loads, such as wind and snow.

Buy This Issue

The Magazine

Housed-Stringer Stairs: The Frame is the Finish

Treads and risers that are glued and wedged into routed stringers are tighter and more stable than conventionally framed stairs.
The Best Practices for Lead-Safe Remodeling

It’s now the law for professional contractors, but working lead-safe should be a priority for everyone
A Slick Approach to Straightening Walls

String and springboards make it easy to get walls straight and the second floor off to a great start.
For Great Tile Floors, Layout is Everything

Take time to snap a few chalklines and find where the cuts are, and tiling becomes an easier task with better results

Article

A Practical Look at Deep-Energy Retrofits

Cutting a home’s energy use by 50% to 90% is a worthy goal, but the extreme costs keep it out of reach for many. We take a look at the most cost-effective alternatives.
Will Your Next Asphalt Roof Last a Lifetime?

We peel back the layers on a new breed of laminated asphalt shingles.
4 Quick Cabinet Upgrades

Improve storage and style for a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.
Taping Tricky Transitions

Apply innovative products to difficult drywall corners for a faster, easier, and more durable job.
Live Tall on a Small Footprint

Two projects smaller than 1500 sq. ft. illustrate how to design a comfortable home with little impact on the site.

What is the Difference

What's the Difference: Pex Tubing

PEX-a, -b, or -c?

Building Skills

Using Extension Ladders Safely

What's the most dangerous tool that you work with? If your first thought is a power tool—probably a tablesaw—then the answer might surprise you.

Master Carpenter

Three Ways to Lay Out an Elliptical Curve

Ellipses can provide striking, graceful curves on a building, but they can be tricky to build.

Drawing Board

Windows From the Inside Out

Windows may be crucial to the exterior appearance of a house, but they play a vital role on the interior as well, and not just because they let in natural light.

Energy Smart Details

Airtight Drywall

These energy smart details will help you build a tight house with redundant air barriers.

Tailgate

Tailgate: Will Beemer, Timber Framer

From concrete eco-structures in Arizona to the post-and-beam heritage of New England, Will Beemer has built a teaching career that strikes a balance between the past and future of home building.

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

Readers Tips

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

Subscribe to Fine Homebuilding magazine now and save up to 52%

Renew Your Subscription

Fine Homebuilding

Follow

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Membership & Magazine

Taunton Network

© 2019 The Taunton Press, Inc. All rights reserved.