FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In
The Fine Homebuilding Podcast

Podcast Episode 153: They Don’t Build Things Like They Used To

One listener wonders which modern tools and materials are better and which ones are worse than the ones available to previous generations of home builders

By Patrick McCombe, Matthew Millham, Rob Wotzak
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles
Video Player is loading.
Current Time 0:00
/
Duration 0:00
Loaded: 0%
Stream Type LIVE
Remaining Time -0:00
 
1x
    • Chapters
    • descriptions off, selected
    • captions settings, opens captions settings dialog
    • captions off, selected

      This is a modal window.

      Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.

      Text
      Background
      Window
      Font Size
      Text Edge Style
      Font Family

      End of dialog window.

      This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.

      This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.

      This week, Patrick, Matt, and Rob field listener questions about tool-manufacturing quality, crown-molding best practices, building a foundation for a covered breezeway, and designing an accessible home, after rambling on about several of their own remodeling projects.


      Listener Feedback

      Doug writes: Although it is not in the same class as modern cordless tools, I have found that I use my Kreg pocket hole kit for far more than I expected. I bought it in 2004 for cabinet face frames but I have found many other uses. It is very helpful when retrofitting existing cabinets or adding fixed shelves.​


      Editors’ project updates

      Patrick’s closet

      Tight quarters call for a pocket-hole jig and a long extension on his impact driver to finish up some framing


      Matt’s Bedroom Project

      Clothes are in the closet and lights are wired.

      Rob’s recessed lighting

      Slim recessed Halo LED lights and Lutron’s electronic Maestro switches allowed Rob to modernize the lighting in a cramped, dark stairwell. After busting a hole in the wall for wiring access, he found some unique antique wallpaper on the plaster hidden beneath the drywall.

      Rob's wallpaper

       


      IBS 2019

      If you can make it to the International Builders’ Show (Feb. 19th – 21st) in Las Vegas this year, you can get FREE tickets to the floor show courtesy of Fine Homebuilding.


      Question 1: How can I keep my crown-molding scarf joint from opening up?

      Steve writes: Hi guys, Long time listener here, been with you all since day one.

      Crown molding joint
      I’ve replaced some crown molding in my hallway, maybe 2 years ago.  The stock was from the orange big box store, and is finger jointed and came pre-primed. I’m in Massachusetts, so pretty high humidity summers and dry, cold winters.

      When I installed it (probably in the spring, if I remember correctly), the scarf joint was reasonably tight, and I filled it with a painter’s caulk (Alex Plus).

      It’s about a 40’ run of crown, so there are two joints in the run.

      Once the heating season got here, the lower indoor humidity caused the molding to shrink along its length, resulting in some ugly open joints, as shown in the photo attached.

      (Yeah, I know the molding is installed upside down — the wife liked the look better that way. Sigh…)

      I’ve tried reapplying the caulk, using a more elastic caulking (Big Stretch), but it still opens up during the heating season, as you can see in the photo.

      What’s the trick to getting these joints to stay tight during all seasons? Thoughts I’ve had:

      • Re-install during the winter, when the moldings are already shrunken from the lower humidity? (maybe this will cause the joints to slide by each other when the lengths swell in summer…)
      • Maybe I should be reinforcing the joint with a biscuit or dowel?
      • Or maybe it’s due to the cheap quality of the moldings?
      • Maybe I should have primed the back sides of the moldings, to minimize moisture absorption/loss during seasonal changes in humidity?

      Any tips? Or ideas for other approaches that will work to make these look less horrible?

       


      Question 2: Is it true that “they don’t build things like they used to”?

      Jonathan writes: I was recently working in my basement to seal up my leaky ducts. I came across this egregious job connecting ducts at a junction. What self-respecting HVAC tech does this and says “yeah, that’s good enough.”

      Nowadays, those gaps are completely unacceptable. It got me thinking about how far building science, building materials and tool technology have come since 1970 when my house was built.

      Adhesives, OSB, water-resistant barriers, cordless power capacity and general durability in products seem to be getting better each year.

      I still hear people say “they don’t make it like they used to.” Is there any truth to this? Do you see areas where building materials or tools have declined in quality?

      Thanks for the informative and entertaining show.​

       


      Question 3: What’s the smartest way to build a floor for a breezeway between a house and a garage?

      Graham writes:  Hey FHB podcast crew, I moved into a new-to-me house this summer and have already begun a number of projects.  Next summer, I am planning to build a detached garage.  We would like to have the garage connected to the house with some sort of connected breezeway, but I’m undecided how to go about it.  The garage will be built on a typical perimeter frost wall + slab foundation.  For the breezeway foundation, I am mulling 3 different options, but would like to hear your suggestions and preferences.

      1. Extend the frost wall/slab foundation from the garage to the house and do everything all at once.
      2. Build the enclosed breezeway on piers as you would build a deck or porch.  This could be done as a separate project in the future.
      3. Build the breezeway on a frost-wall with a crawlspace foundation.

      I do not currently have a mud room or coat closet, so I am expecting the breezeway to serve that purpose, even if it’s un-heated.  My frost depth is 48 inches and the breezeway will be roughly 15′ x 10′

      Thanks for your suggestions!

       


      Question 4: Can you give me advice for building an accessible home?

      Chris writes:  Hi Guys, Thanks for the great show, I enjoy it. I’m hoping to build an ADU (accessory dwelling unit) in my backyard (in Portland, OR), and am considering building it to be wheelchair accessible. Wondering if any of you have had any experience building an accessible home and if you have any advice and can point me to any good books or websites. Also I’ve read that there’s a shortage of accessible housing in Portland and it seems like it would be good to get some exposure to the idea. Thanks!

      Related links:

      • 3-Tiered Checklist for Aging in Place

       


      This episode of the podcast is brought to you by Huber Engineered Woods

      This episode of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast is brought to you by Huber Engineered Woods, makers of  AdvanTech and ZIP System products.
      If you’re going to the International Builder’s Show in Vegas, don’t miss Huber Engineered Woods – they will have two locations. The Prove It Tour product experience will be right outside on your way to pick up your badge near Show Village. Try ZIP System liquid flash, stretch tape and register to win a $15,000 product rebate prize. Catch Huber’s booth in the Central Hall where they will host the 2nd Annual “Best of Social Awards” with Matt Risinger Wednesday at 3:00. Not going to the show? Follow @huberwood on Instagram to see.

       

      We hope you will take advantage of a great offer for our podcast listeners: A special 20% off the discounted rate to subscribe to the Fine Homebuilding print magazine. That link goes to finehomebuilding.com/podoffer.

      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 and Fine Homebuilding on Instagram, and “like” the magazine on Facebook. Note that you can watch the show above, or on YouTube at the Fine Homebuilding YouTube Channel.

      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.

       

      Other related links

      • All FHB podcast show notes: FineHomebuilding.com/podcast.
      • #KeepCraftAlive T-shirts support scholarships for building trades students. So go order some shirts at KeepCraftAlive.org.
      • The direct link to the online store is here.

      Sign up to get the Fine Homebuilding Podcast newsletter and special offers delivered to your inbox.

      Signing you up...

      This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
      See all newsletters
      See all newsletters
      ×

      Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

      Signing you up...

      This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
      See all newsletters
      See all newsletters

      New Feature

      Fine Homebuilding Forums

      Ask questions, offer advice, and share your work

      • X
      • facebook
      • linkedin
      • pinterest
      • email
      • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

      View Comments

      1. MarcBostian | Jan 14, 2019 04:19pm | #1

        Hey Guys, just noticed the notes on this PodCast are the same as last week... that is all. thanks.

      2. LauraWilliams | Jan 15, 2019 05:07am | #2

        Very good sir!!

      3. DeweyMessier | Jan 16, 2019 02:58am | #3

        Nice idea!!

      4. patrick_mccombe | Jan 16, 2019 12:39pm | #4

        Thanks for the heads-up MarcBostian. It's fixed now--sorry for any confusion.

      5. BenjaminShaw | Jan 17, 2019 05:31am | #5

        The right way! Good

      6. KevinHuggins | Jan 25, 2019 03:15am | #6

        It's fantastic!

      Log in or create an account to post a comment.

      Sign up Log in

      Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

      More The Fine Homebuilding Podcast

      View All
      • Podcast Episode 686: Brick Steps, Ground-Source Heat Pumps, and Greenhouses in Nova Scotia
      • FHB Podcast Segment: Efficient HVAC for a New Build
      • Podcast Episode 685: Patching Drywall, Adding Air Barriers, and Rotted Walls
      • FHB Podcast Segment: Patching Drywall Near a Shower
      View All

      Up Next

      Video Shorts

      Featured Story

      Podcast Episode 686: Brick Steps, Ground-Source Heat Pumps, and Greenhouses in Nova Scotia

      Listeners write in about fireplaces affecting family harmony and bionic suits, before asking questions about brick steps, ground-source heat pumps, and building a dome greenhouse in Maritime Canada.

      Featured Video

      Builder’s Advocate: An Interview With Viewrail

      Learn more about affordable, modern floating stairs, from design to manufacturing to installation.

      Related Stories

      • Podcast Episode 686: Brick Steps, Ground-Source Heat Pumps, and Greenhouses in Nova Scotia
      • Fine Homebuilding Issue #332 Online Highlights
      • Podcast Episode 685: Patching Drywall, Adding Air Barriers, and Rotted Walls
      • Podcast Episode 684: Masonry Heaters, Whole-House Ventilation, and Porch Flooring

      Discussion Forum

      Recent Posts and Replies

      • |
      • |
      • |
      • |
      • |
      • |
      View More Create Post

      Highlights

      Fine Homebuilding All Access
      Fine Homebuilding Podcast
      Tool Tech
      Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

      "I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

      Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

      Signing you up...

      This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
      See all newsletters
      See all newsletters

      Video

      View All Videos
      • Podcast Episode 678: Live from the Builders' Show-Part 2
      • Podcast Episode 677: Live from the Builders' Show-Part 1
      • FHB Podcast Segment: The Best of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast, Volume 8
      • FHB Podcast Segment: Larsen-Truss Retrofit to Existing Stud-Frame House
      View All

      Fine Homebuilding Magazine

      • Issue 331 - June 2025
        • A More Resilient Roof
        • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
        • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
      • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
        • Deck Details for Durability
        • FAQs on HPWHs
        • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
      • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
        • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
        • A Kominka Comes West
        • Making Small Kitchens Work
      • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
        • How a Pro Replaces Columns
        • Passive House 3.0
        • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers
      • Issue 327 - November 2024
        • Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings
        • Plumbing Protection
        • Talking Shop

      Fine Home Building

      Newsletter Sign-up

      • Fine Homebuilding

        Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

      • Green Building Advisor

        Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

      • Old House Journal

        Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

      Signing you up...

      This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
      See all newsletters

      Follow

      • Fine Homebuilding

        Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

        Start Free Trial Now
        • Facebook
        • Instagram
        • X
        • LinkedIn
      • GBA Prime

        Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

        Start Free Trial Now
        • Facebook
        • YouTube
      • Old House Journal

        Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

        Subscribe Now
        • Facebook
        • Instagram
        • X
      • Fine Homebuilding

        Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

        Start Free Trial Now
        • Facebook
        • Instagram
        • X
        • LinkedIn
      • GBA Prime

        Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

        Start Free Trial Now
        • Facebook
        • YouTube
      • Old House Journal

        Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

        Subscribe Now
        • Facebook
        • Instagram
        • X

      Membership & Magazine

      • Online Archive
      • Start Free Trial
      • Magazine Subscription
      • Magazine Renewal
      • Gift a Subscription
      • Customer Support
      • Privacy Preferences
      • About
      • Contact
      • Advertise
      • Careers
      • Terms of Use
      • Site Map
      • Do not sell or share my information
      • Privacy Policy
      • Accessibility
      • California Privacy Rights

      © 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

      Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

      • Home Group
      • Antique Trader
      • Arts & Crafts Homes
      • Bank Note Reporter
      • Cabin Life
      • Cuisine at Home
      • Fine Gardening
      • Fine Woodworking
      • Green Building Advisor
      • Garden Gate
      • Horticulture
      • Keep Craft Alive
      • Log Home Living
      • Military Trader/Vehicles
      • Numismatic News
      • Numismaster
      • Old Cars Weekly
      • Old House Journal
      • Period Homes
      • Popular Woodworking
      • Script
      • ShopNotes
      • Sports Collectors Digest
      • Threads
      • Timber Home Living
      • Traditional Building
      • Woodsmith
      • World Coin News
      • Writer's Digest
      Active Interest Media logo
      X
      X
      This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

      Main Menu

      • How-To
      • Design
      • Tools & Materials
      • Video
      • Blogs
      • Forum
      • Project Guides
      • Reader Projects
      • Magazine
      • Members
      • FHB House

      Podcasts

      • FHB Podcast
      • ProTalk

      Webinars

      • Upcoming and On-Demand

      Podcasts

      • FHB Podcast
      • ProTalk

      Webinars

      • Upcoming and On-Demand

      Popular Topics

      • Kitchens
      • Business
      • Bedrooms
      • Roofs
      • Architecture and Design
      • Green Building
      • Decks
      • Framing
      • Safety
      • Remodeling
      • Bathrooms
      • Windows
      • Tilework
      • Ceilings
      • HVAC

      Magazine

      • Current Issue
      • Past Issues
      • Magazine Index
      • Subscribe
      • Online Archive
      • Author Guidelines

      All Access

      • Member Home
      • Start Free Trial
      • Gift Membership

      Online Learning

      • Courses
      • Project Guides
      • Reader Projects
      • Podcast

      More

      • FHB Ambassadors
      • FHB House
      • Customer Support

      Account

      • Log In
      • Join

      Newsletter

      Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

      Signing you up...

      This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
      See all newsletters
      See all newsletters

      Follow

      • X
      • YouTube
      • instagram
      • facebook
      • pinterest
      • Tiktok

      Join All Access

      Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

      Start Your Free Trial

      Subscribe

      FHB Magazine

      Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

      Subscribe

      Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

      Already a member? Log in

      We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

      Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

      Start your FREE trial

      Already a member? Log in

      Privacy Policy Update

      We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

      Cookies

      Analytics

      These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

      Advertising/Social Media

      These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

      Essential

      These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

      Delete My Data

      Delete all cookies and associated data