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Issue 248 – Dec/Jan 2015

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Dedicated footings and the right hardware make a secure stringer attachment

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Laying Concrete Pavers

For a driveway, walk, or patio, get the base right, and the rest of the job is straightforward
Double-Hung Window

Knowing your priorities will help you find the best value in windows.
Build a Risk-Free Finished Basement

Capturing this additional living space correctly and confidently requires a careful approach to the site and foundation.
Ultra-Portable Tablesaws

Small enough to carry with one hand, but big enough for job-site work.

Hammered: The History of Hammer Design

From rocks to titanium, hammer design has a rich history.

Wonder Wheel By the Water

During the winter of 2013, Ray Baytos convinced his wife, Joanne, that a water-wheel house would be the perfect addition to their koi pond. A hobbyist woodworker and sometime-builder for…

Laying Out Basic Stair Stringers

To ensure level tread cuts and plumb riser cuts on stair stringers, it's crucial to get the layout right. In this "Building Skills" article, senior editor and veteran stairbuilder Andy…

Modern Mantel Made Well

This cherry fireplace surround is assembled and installed with concealed fasteners

Alternatives to Drywall

Most residential wall surfaces are painted drywall, but interior designer Courtney Fadness likes to incorporate alternatives such as wood, tile, and natural stone into her projects where appropriate. She believes…

How it Works: Paint Failure Troubleshooting Tips

Failing paint on a house's exterior not only looks bad, but it also doesn't provide protection against the elements. In this "How It Works" article, professional painter Tim Leahy identifies…

Good Homes Come in Small Packages

The two houses featured here illustrate how well-designed homes can be comfortable and inviting no matter what the size. Both homes have an open floor plan, are finished and furnished…

Ducting HRVs and ERVs

Heat-recovery ventilators (HRVs) and energy-recovery ventilators (ERVs) are the most efficient devices for supplying fresh outdoor air to a house while simultaneously exhausting stale air from inside. To increase energy…

Mark Clement, Carpenter

This Philadelphia remodeling contractor has carved out a niche doing the dirty work on several reality TV shows

The Basics of Bath Fans

Bath fans are great at exhausting humid or smelly air, and senior editor Martin Holladay recommends that every bathroom have one. In this "GreenBuildingAdvisor.com Insider" article, he explains the importance…