Issue 312 – Dec 2022/Jan 2023
Features
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Gray-Water System for a Sustainable Home
A remodel aimed at water conservation becomes a case study for resource-efficient whole-house design.
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Insulate a Cape Roof to Avoid Ice Dams
Wood-fiber panels, blown cellulose, and a taped air barrier help solve the comfort and ice-dam problems common with Cape-style houses.
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8 Strategies for Effective Ductwork
The design and installation of a duct system plays a significant role in its overall performance.
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The Many Benefits of Design-Build
For high-performance builders, this collaborative model is hard to beat.
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Templating Techniques for Countertops and Floating Shelves
Fit finished parts into tricky spaces, with no gaps and no risk.
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Choosing The Right Construction Adhesives
Understanding the different types of adhesive available and when to use each is your best strategy to achieving the strongest, safest, and longest-lasting bonds.
Tips & Techniques
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Fast, Accurate Cuts Around PostsA post-sized hole in a scrap deck board serves as a template for installing diagonal decking.
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Removable Fence for Remodeling AccessConcealed-flange joist hangers create a section that can be easily lifted in and out.
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Longer-Lasting Trailer DecksSeal the ends of wood deck boards with composite decking for an equipment truck bed that stands up to the elements.
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Simple Job-Site RecyclingA dedicated setup for recycling aluminum cans keeps the site clean and eco-friendly.
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Drywall Cutouts With Wiggle RoomCut holes in drywall with a back bevel, then trim the front edges if needed with the sheet in place.
Know the Code
Tools & Gear
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Detect Leaks With This Compact Thermal ImagerThe Pocket 2 from Hikmicro is small and priced affordably to make it easier for anyone to diagnose building-performance issues.
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Quicker Coped MoldingsThe Collins Coping Foot lets you use nearly any jigsaw to easily cope all kinds of trim and moldings.
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Cordless Stapler for Hard-to-Reach SpacesOffering power and portability, the Milwaukee 12v cordless stapler is light enough to use above your head all day and fits just about anywhere you'd want it to.
HOUSES by Design
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A Modern and Affordable Prefab HomeBoth cost-efficient and lovely to look at, this prototype of a line of prefabricated homes has striking yet economical details.
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At the Juncture of Historic and PassiveTraditional Cape Cod elements mix with more modern details in an environmentally conscious home.
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Sustainable Home in the Twin CitiesThis net-zero home achieves a low carbon footprint with recycled, inexpensive, and energy-efficient details.
Spec
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Modern Siding From James HardieThe Hardie Architectural Collection provides panelized fiber-cement siding and trim options that move beyond woodgrain finishes.
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Prime Substrates for Better Tile AdhesionSchluter’s Primer-U enhances adhesion of mortars to hard-to-bond surfaces.
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Track Lighting for Functional Ambiance in Busy SpacesThe rail system of the Vario Power Track System provides a flexible lighting solution for cabinets and shelving for a clean aesthetic.
