John Spier

John Spier is an engineer, carpenter, builder, writer, sailor, and world traveler. He owns a construction company building and renovating custom homes on Block Island, R.I., and has always focused on energy efficiency and sustainability. He is a frequent contributor to Fine Homebuilding, and is the author of several books including Building With Engineered Lumber (The Taunton Press, 2006).

PVC Roof Trim
A coastal builder’s technique for durable and weathertight fascias and soffits is based on years of experience with plastic trim.
CF325 Cordless Framing Nailer Review
Paslode CF-325 cordless framing nailer has been redesigned with an improved nosepiece, updated fuel cells, and a loading chamber that doesn't require twisting off caps or realigning nozzles
Product update: Cordless nailer gets a makeover
The Paslode CF-325 is a newly-released cordless framing nailer that features a redesigned nosepiece
Trimming the Roofline
Clean lines and durable details depend on careful framing and a systematic installation sequence.
Frame a Classic Shed Dormer
If you start with a full-scale layout on the subfloor and plan for the finished details, the framing is relatively painless.
Rough openings on the coast
Q: I need to frame an opening for a patio door in a coastal house. What type of lumber is the best choice and the most weather-resistant? Can I use…
Frame a Strong, Stable Floor With I-Joists
Engineered floor joists are straighter, faster, and flatter, but they aren't installed the same way as dimensional lumber.
Double Doors Are Twice As Tricky
Prehung double doors demand galvanized nails, a good eye for gaps, and as little moving around as possible.
DW369CSK Circular Saw Review
This circular saw from DeWalt has a flat, glass-reinforced composite base
27516 Circular Saw Review
This is an inexpensive circular saw from Craftsman

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John Spier

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