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Issue 294 – Oct/Nov 2020

On the Cover

Schoolhouse Reimagined

A builder shares lessons in small-home design for downsizing and living well with less.

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The Magazine

Tool Test: Folding Sawhorses

We put a stable of store-bought sawhorses through their paces to learn which ones work best on the job site.
A Better Way to Build Tall Walls

This method of balloon framing makes constructing gable walls both safe and efficient.
Marking Tools for Common Building Materials

Learn about the best options—pencils, markers, crayons, and more—for writing notes and measurements on a wide variety of construction materials.
Working With ZIP R-Sheathing

There's a lot to like about these insulating panels, and a lot to learn about building with them.
Trim Out a Curved Bay Window

Finish carpenter Joseph Laskey shows how to measure, cut, and fit a mix of straight and curved parts to complete this unique interior trim project.
Replacing a Basement Door

Mike Guertin demonstrates the steps for preparing, installing, and flashing long-lasting bulkhead doors.

Article

Fine Homebuilding Issue #294 Online Highlights

Here are the digital extras from Fine Homebuilding’s November 2020, Issue #294: On page 8 of issue #294, we featured a number of online extras and urged readers to check…

Tips & Techniques

Keep Rain Off the Top

A trash can on top of a makeshift mast helps create a temporary roof.
Countersinking With a Spade Bit

A short piece of rod welded to a spade drill bit keeps the bit centered in the hole.
Move Panels Easily

Create an improvised panel cart with clamps and a dolly.
Free Precision Tools

Find high-quality tools from an unexpected source—your dentist.
Digging in Small Spaces

Remove dirt at a fast pace with this pipe-and-vacuum setup.
Cap Caulk Tubes

All you need is a disposable glove to close up a tube of sealant until the next time you need it.

Know the Code

Maximize Insulation in Minimum Headers

Alternative code-approved header designs for better energy performance.

Tools & Gear

High-Quality, Reasonably Priced Testers

Klein's new line of testers helps you locate the right circuit breaker and verify the voltage of your outlets.
Clever Crosscut Adaptor

Breaking down sheet goods and trimming doors is easier with the GRS-16 Guide Rail Square.
Help with Heavy Doors

These metal skates with locking casters make moving and raising door slabs a breeze.

HOUSES by Design

Rerofit for Energy Performance and Design impact

When a simple siding repair revealed extensive moisture damage, these homeowners decded the time was right for a deep-energy retrofit.
Optimizing Occupant Comfort

Natural materials and ecologically sound building practices define this 1600-sq.-ft. timber-frame home.
Learning to Live in a Passive House

A commercial architect's self-built Passive House offers lessons for DIY high-performance design.

Spec

Lighting With Industrial Pop

This warehouse-inspired collection of wall sconces strikes a nice balance between cost and impact.
Stylish Self-Stick Wallpaper

Mayflower Wallpaper's removable wall coverings are custom-tailored to perfectly match your space.
Hollow Reclaimed Pine

These reclaimed architectural beams offer an attractive way to hide framing, ductwork, wiring, and other mechanical systems.
In-Wood Rot Preventer

When the threat of water is high, use Bor-8 rods to attack rot fungus before it can cause damage.

Building Matters

Designing for Solar Panels

Incorporating photovoltaic panels into preconstruction planning can maximize energy efficiency and cost savings.

Keep Craft Alive

Keep Craft Alive: Catherine Autio, Master Carpenter

This carpenter proves that business ownership and project management are not the only career paths for skilled builders.

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