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Issue 278 – November 2018

On the Cover

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
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.

Article

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 Installation Over Drywall

This one-coat, environmentally and budget-conscious wall finish has a lot to offer.
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 mixing hydrated lime to create plaster.

Know the Code

Tiny Homes Get Big Recognition

Know The Code: Master the rules of home building

Tools & Materials

3 Cordless 16-in. Chainsaws Reviewed

We tested 16-in. cordless chainsaws from DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee, and the best choice depends on whether light weight or total runtime is more important to you.
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

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.
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.
Environment for Retirement

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

Building Matters

How to Choose Black Siding

If you want to paint your siding a dark color, you have to select the material carefully

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

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

Blown-In Mineral-Wool Insulation
How to Safely Pour Concrete Against Siding

Readers Tips

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