Ask the Experts

Get the answers you need to get the job done right. Home-building and remodeling pros and industry experts answer your questions about construction details, materials, tools, building codes, and more. Email Fine Homebuilding at [email protected] to have a question considered for publishing in the magazine.

When is a House Tight Enough to Need Mechanical Ventilation?
Building Scientist John Straube explains the basics of systems that bring fresh air into a house, including when you need one, how much air it should move, and what types of ventilation systems can get the job done.
Should I Close My Attic Gable Vents?
Get insight into the complicated relationship between ridge vents, gable vents, and attic floors.
Can hard water damage a tankless water heater?
Q: I recently purchased a tankless water heater for my house. The plumber wouldn’t install it after he realized that we do not run our hard municipal water through a…
Q&A: Clearing the Air Around Smoke Alarms
Expert advice on when and where to install smoke alarms and what types of smoke alarms work best for different rooms of the house
Fascia Joints That Won’t Open
Builder Mike Maines offers tips for using the right fasteners and adhesive to keep outside corners tight on exterior trim.
When Dryer Vents Need a Boost
What can you do if your clothes dryer is too far from an exterior wall?
How To Finish an Exterior Wood Door
Penetrating stains and marine varnish are a good start, but clear-finished doors will still need occasional maintenance.
Tiling over Different Substrates
Use expansion joints and an uncoupling membrane to prevent cracks in the tile installation where different substrates meet.
How to Break Up Old Concrete
A masonry expert offers tips for demolishing an unwanted slab, patio, or driveway.
How to Build a Concrete Porch Floor
Corrugated steel pan decking and mid-span support will ensure a successful pour

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