Issue 290 – April/May 2020
Features
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Installing Cedar Shakes
Use these modern methods and materials to create a timeless and durable wood roof.
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Choosing the Right Concrete Mix
Learn how to choose the right mix for your small masonry projects from dozens of specialized bagged-concrete options.
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Protect Your Outdoor Electrical Outlets
Get the information you need to select the right weatherproof boxes and covers for your exterior power receptacles.
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Simple, Elegant Trim for a Shed
Although clean and unadorned, this revival of a Shaker exterior trim package is more complex than it appears.
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Books Every Builder Should Own
This essential reading list by carpenter and historic-preservation expert Brent Hull covers history, how-to, design, and more.
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Scribing Rails to a Round Column
Carpenter Maria Klemperer-Johnson shows how to make a router jig to create a smooth transition for this tricky porch-railing connection.
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Copying Moldings
Use bamboo skewers and corrugated cardboard to make an improvised contour gauge for moldings of any size.
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On-Board Bit Storage
Magnets keep driver bits on the tool so they're accessible when you need them.
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Quiet Your Stairs
Get rid of squeaks with construction adhesive and closed-cell foam.
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Hole-Saw Hack
If the pilot bit is missing or broken, use screws to control the saw.
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Compressor-Tool Keeper
Keeping track of tools is made easier with fuel line and cable ties.
Tips & Techniques
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Metabo's Multivolt Slider
This Japanese-made sliding miter saw performs exceptionally well for cutting trim and other general finish-carpentry tasks.
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Top-Notch Metal Connector Nailer
MAX's SuperLocator metal-connection nailer uses the nail itself to find the holes in framing connectors.
Tools & Gear
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Hidden in Plain Sight
Masking the garage in this historic-district-adjacent home meant creating a traditional entryway centered on the garage windows rather than the front door.
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Protection from Solar Gain
This Pennsylvana farmhouse-style home uses sliding-shade screens to allow in daylight without too much heat.
HOUSES by Design
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Streamlined Electronic Entry
The Baldwin Evolved series of keyless door handlesets replaces bulky number pads with a covert, high-tech touch-sensitive lock.
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Adaptable Recessed Lighting
Nora Lighting's versatile Iolite line of recessed lights is a step above average can lights with a wide range of designer trim and color options.
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Steel Garage Storage
Turn a messy garage into an organized and attractive workshop with NewAge Products' modular cabinets and slatwalls.
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Easy-Sipping Faucet
Nasoni's award-winning Fountain Faucet is an elegant way to avoid craning your neck for a sip of water.
Spec
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Alternative Patio Base
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Widening Deck Stairs
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Raising a Deck
