In every issue you'll find...

Expert insights on techniques and principles
Unbiased tool reviews
Step-by-step details to master the job
Field-tested advice and know-how

Join
Log In

Issue 282 – May 2019

On the Cover

Add a Belgian-Block Driveway Apron

Learn how to install granite pavers to add style and strength to any driveway. This illustrated tutorial covers every step, from creating a solid base to finishing the mortar joints.

Subscribe View the Digital Issue

The Magazine

Fine Homebuilding Issue #282 Online Highlights

Long Live Our Buildings; Install Joist Hangers; Podcast: Building Permit? #KCA Trucker Hat; and the FHB Forum
The Particulars of Porch Design

Learn how to nail the details to build a beautiful and functional covered porch; 3 case studies and a checklist of essential questions will help you get the job done right.
How to Rescue an Old Cedar Deck

A thorough cleaning and a quick refinish give new life to a weather-beaten deck. Get tips for doing the job right from a professional refinisher.
Attach a Deck to Any Wall

Builder Mike Guertin outlines code-compliant ledger and lateral-tie details for all types of deck builds.
Synthetic Decking Comes of Age

A maturing industry means composites and PVC deck planks look better than ever and can last for decades.
How to Build a Curved Ipé Garden Benches

Clamps and lots of screws put a bend in this dense and durable wood.

Article

Patio vs. Deck Throwdown

Two Fine Homebuilding editors face off on the pros and cons of these popular exterior spaces.
Dutch Door Done Easy

A layered assembly and clever installation make building and hanging a breeze

Online Extras

Video: Build a Dutch Door

The trick to making this traditional door easy to build is to use a layered-assembly technique, and to hang the door before cutting it in half.
How to Cut Belgian Block

Learn two reliable techniques–and what tools you will need for each–for cutting and shaping granite pavers.
Built-in Cedar Plant Stand

This easy-to-build deck accessory prevents runoff water from plant pots from rotting your deck boards.
A Better Sprayer for Cleaning Decks and Applying Wood Finishes

Professional deck refinisher Jim Grant built a custom spray rig with an electric pump as an easy-to-use alternative to the typical hand-pump garden sprayer.
Long Live Our Buildings: An Introduction

Architect Steven Baczek describes his ongoing inquiry into what makes a good building, and how we can continue to improve the way we design and build homes.

Know the Code

Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings

Learn how a sleeping room is legally defined and what sort of egress openings are mandated by building codes.

Tools & Materials

Hyperportable tablesaw

Milwaukee's lightweight cordless 2726-21HD saw is great for remote job sites, but portability comes with a few trade-offs.
Fine-finish sander

Internal dampening and tiny sanding strokes make Festool’s DTS 400 REQ a top-notch finishing tool.
Impressive structural connectors

This German-made hardware by Pitzl provides sturdy, concealed timber joints that are a snap to assemble.
Fabric footers

Speed up the process of forming concrete footings while also preventing problems caused by groundwater.
DIY ductless minisplit

This pre-charged kit from MRCOOL makes for an easy HVAC upgrade.

Design/Build

Boxed-eave Gable-end Returns

How to take cues from classical architecture to design roof trim that matches your traditional home.

HOUSES by Design

Lock, lift, and load

Builders find an ingenious solution for installing a custom-fabricated staircase into a home with challenging site-disturbance restrictions.
Barn built anew

A new home built with salvaged timbers pays homage to a beloved old barn that couldn't be saved.
Fit for floods

Storm-resistant building regulations inspired this home's architects to give it a better view of its beautiful coastal site.

Building Matters

Minimizing Concrete in a Slab-on-Grade Home

Whether your goal is to cut construction costs, minimize environmental impact, or both, there are practical ways to build a home with less concrete.

As-Built

A Trip to the Cedar Shed

A seasoned carpenter reminisces about the days before fiber-cement siding, but acknowledges that wood clapboards come with plenty of complications.

Keep Craft Alive

Keep Craft Alive: Adam Esparza, Tilesetter

"Craftsmanship is when you put your abilities to the test, and at the end of the job you still find room for growth."

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

Readers Tips

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

Fine Homebuilding

Follow

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Membership & Magazine

Taunton Network

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

In every issue you'll find...

Issue 282 – May 2019

On the Cover

The Magazine

Features

Article

Online Extras

Know the Code

Tools & Materials

Design/Build

HOUSES by Design

Building Matters

As-Built

Keep Craft Alive

Ask the Experts

Readers Tips

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

Fine Homebuilding

Follow

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Membership & Magazine

Taunton Network

Main Menu

Account

Popular Topics

Magazine

All Access

Shop the Store

More

Account

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Follow

Join All Access

Subscribe

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.