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Issue 278 – November 2018

On the Cover

Member Only

Tighten Up Your Trimwork

Though it doesn’t have a cord or battery, a block plane is a powerful finish-carpentry tool

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The Magazine

Shop-Built Housed-Stringer Stairs

Building in the shop makes assembly easier on the carpenter
Build a Custom Range Hood

Add a distinctive detail to your next kitchen with a curved-hood fan cover
On the Way to Net Zero

Renewables are part of the strategy, but conservation comes first
Fine Homebuilding Issue #278 Online Highlights

Digital exclusives: California House, Tool Tech video, Fab prefabs, Podcasts, and Pricing construction jobs

Article

Roof Vent Retrofit From the Outside In

Reroofing is the perfect time to lift the hood and make short work of an otherwise awkward venting job
Remove Roof Sheathing With a Modified Framing Nailer

Overdriving nails is faster and cleaner than a cat's paw.
Retrofit Intake Vents

Bring in fresh air through venting drip edge.
A Hybrid Approach to Lime Plaster

Drywall backing speeds the way to a textured, durable, old-world finish
Lime-Plaster Transformation: A Slideshow

The hand-sculpted textures of lime plaster bring warmth and depth to a midcentury ranch.
A Short Guide to Lime-Plaster Trowels

A handful of tools smooth the way to a beautiful, custom finish.
Add Color to Lime-Plaster Walls

There’s more than one way to color lime plaster.
From Rock to Dust to Rock Again

An in-depth look at hydrated lime.

Know the Code

Tiny Homes Get Big Recognition

Know The Code: Master the rules of home building

Tools and Materials

Cordless 16-in. Chainsaws Reviewed

A recent severe storm downed three mature white oaks on my property, providing the perfect opportunity to boost my fitness and test 16-in. cordless chainsaws from DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee.…
Labor-Saving Laser

The PLS 480 and Red System kit is a crew favorite in the field
Buzzkilling Recip Saw

Skilsaw’s 13-amp corded reciprocating saw with vibration-reduction technology
No-Wind Chalkline

Impressive, $20 self-retracting chalkine

Design/Build

Bay Windows

Design/Build: The Art of Residential Design

HOUSES by Design

HOUSES by Design: Site-Specific Shape and Scale

See additional photos from HOUSES by Design issue 278: Wade Design Architects responds to the lay of the land for this Napa Valley home.
HOUSES by Design: Building With Salvage

See additional photos from HOUSES by Design issue 278: Taproot Architects uses reclaimed materials to customize a Whidbey Island straw-bale home.
HOUSES by Design: Environment for Retirment

See additional photos from HOUSES by Design issue 278: ZeroEnergy Design revamps a summer cottage to accommodate aging in place.

Building Matters

The Dark Side of Dark Siding

Some things to be aware of if you’re considering dark siding

As-Built

Of Roof Decks and Duck Boards

As-Built: The History of Home Building

Keep Craft Alive

When You Love What You Do, It’s Not a Job

Joseph Clayton Castille, Jr. — Draftsman, LaFayette, LA

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Ask the Experts

Blown-In Mineral-Wool Insulation
Concrete Against Siding

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