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Issue 281 – March 2019

On the Cover

How to Frame Walls Plumb and Straight

When carpenters use consistent and efficient methods for framing a house, it makes the entire build go much more smoothly.

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The Magazine

Crisp Corners for Drywall

Learn how to install metal, vinyl, and paper-faced corner beads so that wall edges are straight, corners are tight, and bubbles are nonexistent.
9 Upgrades to Windproof Your Roof

Master these roof-installation details to keep asphalt shingles on and rain out of your house.
Small-Home Harmony

Tight space restrictions, unique cultural requirements, and the desire to age in place informed this compact, efficient design.
Precision Window Trim

This systematic approach to cutting and assembling window casing ensures better joints and a faster installation.
Arts and Crafts Meets Modernism

This high-performance house embraces local materials, modern lines, and the craftsman’s hand.
3-Tiered Checklist for Aging in Place

Incorporate as many of these design considerations as possible to build a home that is accessible and comfortable for people of all ages and abilities.

Know the Code

Electrical Outlets by the Numbers

Building codes dictate specific height and spacing measurements for receptacles and switches. Learn what the most common dimensions are and why.

Tools & Materials

Better Bibs for Cold-Weather Work

Made of ripstop polyester, these lightweight overalls are built to last.
Superportable Sliding Miter Saw

With its 36V battery, this 7 1/2 in. cordless saw can last a day or more on one charge, even at a production-carpentry pace.
Big Saw Bests Big Timbers

Skilsaw's Super Sawsquatch massive 16-5/16 in. circular saw can cut thick beams with ease.
New Technology Improves Airtightness

AeroBarrier uses compressed air to aerosolize a water-based sealant to fill gaps and cracks in an entire house.

Design/Build

Gable-End Eave Design

Learn how to detail exterior trim with harmonious proportions on eaves that don't return onto the gable.

HOUSES by Design

Aloft and Shingled

Finding creative design solutions to strict waterfront building requirements for a new home near the Rhode Island coast.
Vertical Fit: A Modern House Conforms to Strict Height Restrictions

The design-build team persevered to give this four-bedroom home in Austin, Texas, the stature it deserved while meeting tough zoning regulations.

Building Matters

Climate Change for Builders: The Biggest Opportunity

Faced with consequences equivalent to a giant asteroid set to hit the earth in 10 to 50 years, we designers and builders owe it to the future to do our part—and we need to start right now.

As-Built

Starting Steps

How a stair-parts salesman, some classic how-to books, and steely determination helped one carpenter hone his stairbuilding and handrailing skills.

Keep Craft Alive

Keep Craft Alive: Alex McKenzie, Carpenter and Furniture Maker

This dedicated craftsperson traced his lineage to and got his inspiration from several generations of Vermont woodworkers and timber framers.

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