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.

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.
Bubbles in Membrane Under Metal Roof
Bubbles in roof membrane may not affect the appearance of the roof, but it could affect the underlayment performance.
Making Sense of Circuit Breaker Test Buttons
AFCI and GFCI breakers that protect against arc faults and electrocution have specialized test buttons in different colors.
Loading Engineered Joists
Andy Engel responds to a reader's question about how to properly secure storage racks to a ceiling with engineered joists.
Replacing a Damaged Clapboard
Use an oscillating multitool to remove and replace the cracked section.
Mounting a Minisplit in an Out-of-Level Ceiling
Two factors should be considered for this job: undersized ceiling joists and an air-conditioning unit that must be level to drain properly.
Do Subway Tiles Need to Be Spaced?
Your approach will depend on the tile brand and the look you want to achieve.
Recirculating Hoods and Indoor-Air Quality
Recirculating hoods work as part of a system to move pollutants in the air further away from the breathing zone.
Getting Casing Miters Tight
Preassembling mitered casing, shimming the molding, or applying jamb extensions can fix the issue when the wall is thicker than the jamb.
Keep Jambs From Rotting
Seal the jambs as well as the top and bottom edges of interior doors to prevent temperature and humidity from taking their toll.

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