Issue 238 – Oct/Nov 2013

Small-House Secrets

This 800-sq.-ft. cottage uses 10 strategies for great comfort and style.

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Make an Old Deck Safe

Three days’ work and $600 in materials save this deck from a catastrophic ending.
What's New with Skylights?

Better glass means you now can use skylights with less energy waste
Portable Three-Legged Sawhorses

This versatile knockdown design sets up quickly and stores flat.
How to Make a Stair-Rail Easement

The part is small and complex, and must be carved by hand
Surviving the Storm

Know what your insurance covers and what it doesn’t—before disaster strikes
Building Craftsman-Style Brackets

Add a custom touch where your roof needs a little support.

Porch from the Past

Fifteen minutes after they closed on their new home, Pat and Dan Miller took a hammer to the stucco on the front porch. Certain that the prairie-style porch was an…

Choosing Metal-Cutting Snips

Learn the difference between tinners and aviation snips for cutting ducts and flashing.

Cutting a Prehung Exterior Door

While it's good practice to order a prehung exterior door cut to fit from the lumberyard, it's easy enough to shorten the unit yourself. In this "Building Skills" article, senior…

How it Works: High Winds vs. Houses

Ongoing research has taught specialists how high winds find the weak points in houses, so you can make your house as safe as possible from windstorms.

Project Gallery: Magnolia Pavilion

This timber-frame pool pavilion has its own guest entry and distinct areas for cooking, dining, and relaxing.

How to Insulate Your Rim Joists

Use spray foam or rigid foam to insulate and air-seal this commonly ignored part of the house

Tailgate: Mike Sloggatt, Volunteer

A year after superstorm Sandy, this Long Island building educator reflects on the cleanup and recovery from this devastating storm.