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Issue 233 – Feb/March 2013

On the Cover

Retrofitting French Doors

Install hinged patio doors so that they work perfectly, even in an out-of-plumb wall.

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Features

  • Energy-Saving Lightbulbs

    Incandescent bulbs are changing quickly to keep up with more-efficient, longer-lasting competitors

  • Time-Tested Approach to Chimney Flashing

    Roofing contractor Dyami Plotke demonstrates how to prepare a chimney for flashing and how to bend, install, and seal metal flashing for a durable, weatherproof, and beautiful job.

  • Buttoned Up for a New Century

    Preservation meets performance when a Brooklyn architect applies Passive House principles to four iconic urban town houses

  • An Old-School Path to a Barrier-Free Bathroom

    A classic mud job forms the tile base for a modern curbless shower.

  • Energy-Modeling Software: Is It Worth Your Time and Money?

    Even the most sophisticated programs have limits.

  • brick walkway
    Tips for Laying a Better Walkway

    Careful base prep is what keeps bricks or other pavers in place when installing hardscaping.

Article

  • frost heave deck foundation
    How it Works: Frost Heave

    In cold climates, you need to build driveways, foundations, and other structures correctly to prevent expanding ice and soil from damaging them.

  • Sunroom sanctuary

    Create an outdoor getaway.

What is the Difference

  • vinyl gutter
    Choosing Gutters

    Vinyl and aluminum are popular choices for gutters, but they're not the only options.

Building Skills

  • Bending Copper Chimney Flashing

    Bend flashing parts on a metal brake ahead of time.

Drawing Board

  • design a fireplace mantel
    Design a Classic Fireplace Mantel

    Fireplaces are appreciated and sought after for more than just their practical uses. Architect Reid Highley gives three examples of how to detail a traditional fireplace mantel.

Energy Smart Details

  • Hiding ducts in conditioned space

    Ducts, furnaces, and air handlers belong inside a house's conditioned space

Tailgate

  • Tailgate: Viviane Peixoto, Lumber Importer

    This native Brazilian is working to ensure that tropical hardwoods are harvested sustainably, guaranteeing their availability for years to come.

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • Are Spread-Base Deck Footings Worth the Effort?
  • Is There Any Alternative to Roof Gutters?

Readers Tips

  • Door-Painting Rack
  • A Simple, Ergonomic Push Stick
  • Tool Belt Pouch Organization
  • Tinting Mortar
  • Emergency Grinder Wrench

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Old House Journal – August 2025
    • Designing the Perfect Garden Gate
    • Old House Air-Sealing Basics
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work

Fine Home Building

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