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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.

Can You Add Water to Concrete?
It can be tempting to add water to make your mix easier to pour and finish, but be careful or you could weaken the concrete.
Adjusting Siding Exposures
Use these tactics to line up fiber cement or composite lap siding with window and door trim.
Installing Joist Hangers With Inconsistent Lumber
If better materials aren't an option, decide what is most critical—a flat floor, or a flat ceiling.
Keeping Cathedral-Ceiling Walls From Bowing
Compensate for sagging in the roof by bowing in the sidewalls before securing the rafters.
Tying in a Frost-Protected Shallow Foundation
An FPSF can be used in place of a frost wall in cold climates where the frost depths are greater than 12 in.
Affidavit in Lieu of Inspection
When inspections are unexpectedly canceled, you may be requested to submit a notarized affidavit.
Sealed Roof Decks and Fortified Systems
Understand how to best protect your homes in severe weather, and possibly save money in the process.
Grout Bag to Fill Gaps
Solve gap problems using a contractor's version of a heavy duty pastry bag.
Filling Nail Holes in Stained Trim
What’s the best approach to filling the nail holes of my stained white oak trim?
Dropped First-Floor Framing
Are there any ways to build the first floor with a reduced number of steps? One of our building experts explains how to reduce entry steps.

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