Issue 265 – Feb/Mar 2017
Features
-
Paint Problems and How to Prevent Them
Knowing why paint fails is the best way to get a long-lasting, problem-free paint job.
-
Dress Up a Gable With Shiplap Siding
This traditional detail is fast to install and adds historic charm, even on a new house
-
Fine-Fitting Solid-Plank Flooring
A long-lasting, good-looking floor starts with a smart layout and strong fastening.
-
Bad Ducts = Bad Air
Higher energy bills and lower comfort levels aren’t the worst effects of faulty ducts.
-
Gutting One Bath to Build Two
A contractor shares ideas for managing complex design/build projects.
-
Tool Review: 18v Cordless Multitools
Modern batteries make this problem-solving tool even more useful.
-
Bombproof Chimney Cap
Lead flashing keeps water out and protects masonry.
-
Double-Duty Dust Collector
This portable homemade box catches dust and provides power to job-site tools.
-
FHB House: Elevating the Standard of Building
The build team brings the project closer to completion in preparation for the reveal of the finished home.
Article
-
Help Keep Craft Alive
Fine Homebuilding is launching a campaign to help close the skills gap.
Commentary
-
Track-Guided Sidewinder
This is the first cordless saw that can replace a corded saw for 85% of what it does.
-
Ultrasmooth Impact Driver
This cordless tool’s smoothness and control — no matter what type of fastener you’re driving — is impressive.
-
Bright, Sturdy Worklights
Priced from $80 to $400, these lights are just the thing to illuminate your job.
-
Hose-Free, Hassle-Free Nailer
This cordless model works consistently at high altitudes and in cold temperatures.
-
Black is the New Teal
Makita's brushless drill and brushless impact driver are small and comfortable.
Tools & Materials
-
Doggone Great Kitchens
Here are a few of our favorite ideas from kitchens that have gone to the dogs.
Project Gallery
-
How Much Insulation Is Too Much?
Martin Holladay shares insights from industry experts about when envelope improvements are a waste of money and how to determine when enough insulation is enough.
Energy Smart Details
-
Laying Out and Cutting Common Rafters
Traditional cut rafters are still the go-to approach to roof framing in some areas.
Building Skills
-
Balustrades
If you can solve the geometry, spacing, and proportions of the balustrade along the rise and run of the stair, then the design for a level balustrade is a piece of cake.
Drawing Board
-
Arts & Crafts and Automobiles
This elegant garage, inspired by the English Arts & Crafts movement, uses a hybrid system of trusses connected by steel plates and bolts along with support beams using mortise-and-tenon joinery.
Finishing Touches
-
Keep Craft Alive: Monica Coyne, Blacksmith
“If I’m given a task in my shop, I solve it ... If I need a tool, I make it.”