In this podcast episode, host and FHB editor Justin Fink talks with design editor Brian Pontolilo and associate editor Patrick McCombe about TPR valves for water heaters, General Electric, making your own concrete patio pavers, and deck refinishing. The guys talk about the Taunton workshop (used by Fine Homebuilding and sister magazine Fine Woodworking). A reader question on slat-wall systems as an alternative to pegboard gets some expert consideration from Patrick and some general jocularity from all three. Plus more on Brian’s kitchen cabinets.

By the way, in the podcast, Patrick misspoke and called them “TPO” valves. But it is really TPR!

We also have two requests for listeners: (1) Let us know how you are being affected by new(ish) blower-door testing requirements for new homes and major renovations. If you have something to say on this topic, please email [email protected]. Also, (2) we need all our listeners to take our podcast feedback survey, by clicking here.

The show is driven by our listeners, so please subscribe and rate us on iTunes or Google Play, and if you have any questions you would like us to dig into for a future show, shoot an email our way: [email protected]. Also, be sure to follow Justin Fink, Rob Yagid, and Fine Homebuilding on Instagram — and “like” the magazine on Facebook.

The Fine Homebuilding Podcast embodies Fine Homebuilding magazine’s commitment to the preservation of craftsmanship and the advancement of home performance in residential construction. The show is an informal but vigorous conversation about the techniques and principles that allow listeners to master their design and building challenges.

Resources mentioned in (or related to) this podcast episode:

• Tool Box Project (reader submission)
• Deck Refinishing
• Articles by Shellac and Finish Expert Peter Gedrys
• How to Lay Concrete Pavers
• Paver Pattern from Quikrete
• Paver Installation Supervisor
• Photos of Brian’s kitchen cabinets are in the show notes for Episode 44 (scroll down)
• We need your feedback! Please do take the Fine Homebuilding Podcast survey!

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

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Flashing and Joist Tape

Flashing joists is a great way to prolong the life of a deck frame — after all, moisture management is key to longevity.

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Lithium-Ion Cordless Palm Nailer

This tool is nice to have for fitting in tight spaces when fastening hardware. While you may not use it often, you'll be glad you have it when you need it.

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Angel Guard Deck Demon

Demo has never been easier with the deck demon. The tool keeps the worker in an upright position and uses leverage to remove decking from framing, a must have tool for demo.

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