Issue 300 – July 2021
Features
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Safe Beam Replacement
Personal protection, sturdy shoring, professional engineering, and careful planning mitigate the hazards when replacing overhead structural beams.
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Advice for Choosing and Using a Backup Generator
Get an overview of the main considerations—including generator type, fuel source, and electrical-connection options—so you can reliably supply your home with electricity when there's a power outage.
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On-Site Carpentry With a Circular Saw
Cutting in place saves time and trouble.
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The Fine Homebuilding Interview: Kristof Irwin
A professional engineer offers a consilient view of building science that prioritizes human thriving.
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How to Choose Paint Colors
There are no rules, but a bit of color theory and some expert tips will make your decisions easier.
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How To Prevent Spray-Foam Problems
Prep the space, test the equipment, keep the subcontractors happy, and verify coverage to get your money's worth when installing polyurethane foam insulation.
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Run Pipe and Wires Under Slabs
A pressure washer attached to a length of pipe creates a tool for easily tunneling under driveways, patios, and more.
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Vac Hack
Adding shower-door rollers to the base of a shop-vacuum nozzel holds the vac off the floor for greater suction and faster cleanup.
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Finger Bandage
To hold bandages in place, self-adherent wrap contours to your finger and forms a tighter seal than standard first-aid tape.
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Better Rubber Bands
Hair ties are less breakable and won't leave a residue when exposed to the weather.
Tips & Techniques
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Shop-Accurate On-Site Setup
Best for high-level production work, the Cut Hub work system yields accurate cuts and increased productivity with components built to last.
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Get Insider Information on Temperature, Humidity, and Airflow
Humidity and temperature data-logging sensors can tell you what's happening inside the house at odd hours or over long periods.
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Fine Chalkline for Any Toolbox
The Shinwa Neo chalk box has a pushpin tip and superfine line that leaves behind only the tiniest pinhole.
Tools & Gear
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House of Rusted Steel
Matching design details to standard-size Corten steel panels inside and out achieved a clean look with a minimum of metal fabrication.
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Connected in Antiquity
Old and new is combined in this modern take on the classic connected farmhouse, with a Greek-revival home at one end and a barn at the other.
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A Custom Design for Privacy on Demand
Multifunction walls and panels allow for both flexibility and privacy in this Oregon home.
HOUSES by Design
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Small But Powerful Air Purifier
Airmega AP-1512HHS from Coway gets the job done with three-stage filtration.
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Smart Faucets Are Getting Smarter
Touchless faucets from Moen come with the ability to track water usage and control operation by voice command.
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All-in-One Home Power Management
The Square D Energy Center from Schneider Electric has all the components you need to manage home power.
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Weatherproof Kitchen Worktop
The Outdoor Collection from Caesarstone is naturally nonporous with a resin that protects against color fading.
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New Magnetic Dryer Vent
This connector from MagVent takes the frustration out of ducting your dryer.
