What's the Difference?

We compare construction materials, products, and tools so you can make smart choices for your home-building and remodeling projects.

What’s the Difference: Sawblade Tooth Angles
Top bevel, relief, and hook.
Home Security: Dead Bolts vs. Rim Locks
Learn how to choose the right door locks for your home.
What’s the Difference: Whole-House Fans vs. Powered Ventilators
We regularly receive emails at Green Building Advisor from homeowners with questions about attic fans: What’s the purpose of the fan in my attic? How often should I run it?…
What’s the Difference: Toilet Plungers
Standard, ribbed, and bellows
Choosing Gutters
Vinyl and aluminum are popular choices for gutters, but they're not the only options.
What’s the Difference: Paper and Fiberglass Mesh Drywall Tape
You can use either tape, but each one has advantages in specific situations.
Choosing the Right Plumbing Valve
Ball, gate, and globe valves all open and close supply lines. But they work differently and sometimes the code is specific about which you must use.
Choosing a Bathroom Sink
Learn the pros and cons of seven different styles of bathroom sink.
What’s the Difference: Fasteners for Pressure-Treated Lumber
For decks or other outdoor projects made from pressure-treated lumber, code requires the use of fasteners that offer good corrosion resistance.
Nonmetallic Sheathed Cable
Learn the basics about this common style of house-wiring cable.

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