Issue 298 – April/May 2021
Features
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Building Brick Arches
A seasoned mason's guide to laying out and laying up a classic feature of Roman architecture.
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The Fine Homebuilding Interview: Matt Risinger
This Austin builder is using his growing network to teach builders and clients to demand better.
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Successful Vapor Control
Vapor drive isn't as obvious as air or water leaks, but the potential for mold and rot is just as real.
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Bold Bathroom Remodel
How completely rethinking the floor plan helped resolve a cold, cramped suite bathroom.
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Built-ins for Odd Spaces
A simple, foolproof method for off-angle cabinets.
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Rock-Solid Guard-Post Connections
Tested and approved installation details to help you build safer deck railings.
Article
Tips & Techniques
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Butt Boards for Smooth CeilingsThese butt boards are easy to make on the tablesaw and create a recessed drywall-panel joint that's less visible and easier to finish.
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Help Installing GuttersA plastic wedge holds the drip edge off the fascia without scratching it.
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Safety BucketFive-gallon buckets keep first-aid kits and fire extinguishers easy to identify and access on the job site.
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Ladder LevelerThis wedge-shaped platform safely balances a ladder on sloped ground.
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Pulling Nails From RedwoodUse pieces of scrapwood to free nails without bending the nails or splitting the wood.
Know the Code
Tools & Gear
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Put Deck Boards in Their PlaceUnlike some other board benders, this deck-board straightener locks in place, freeing both of your hands for fastening.
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Brush With GreatnessCutting in with this trim brush results in laser-straight edges in a quarter of the time.
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Set-and-Forget KneepadsCarhartt's washable kneepads fit right inside the company's popular double-front carpenter's pants, offering a decent level of daily protection with very low maintenance.
HOUSES by Design
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Historic House, Contemporary Floor PlanMajor changes were made in this whole-house remodel to create a modest and period-appropriate look.
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Pivot-Point SolutionSite restrictions and environmental concerns required a "bend" at the center of the house, which keeps the scale in check.
Spec
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Smart Lock in a Small PackageWith its technology hidden in the internal deadbolt, this smart lock mimics the look of a traditional door hardware.
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High-Quality Deck LightingOne often-overlooked piece of a deck project is lighting—specifically, low-voltage LED lighting that will stand the test of time.
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Shockproof USB OutletThis new collection of receptacles offers ground-fault protection in wet locations and built-in USB charging ports in a variety of finishes.
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Make Deck Framing LastThis acrylic flashing tape is the best defense against water intrusion and rotting joists and ledgers.
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Easy Hidden FastenersPlastic collating strips save time and make it easier to match fastener patterns to decking.
