Issue 186
Features
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Problem-Solving Electrical Boxes
Cleverly designed boxes can get you out of trouble quickly during rough-ins and retrofits.
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A Fast, Foolproof Method for Fitting Doors
With plywood strips and hot-melt glue, you can make a template that guarantees a perfect fit.
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Inside the Hobbit House
This modern-day folly has all the charm and craftsmanship of the mythical cottages of The Shire.
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The Kitchen-Deck Connection
A small addition with a sunny deck builds a bridge to the backyard.
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23-gauge Pin Nailers Change Everything
These pneumatic trim guns are compact and lightweight, and fire nails so small that they barely leave a trace.
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A Beautiful Floor from Wood Scraps
Achieving the intricate geometry of a parquet floor doesn't require much more than a tablesaw, kraft paper, and wallpaper paste.
Article
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An Energy-Smart Foundation in Two DaysA compacted gravel footing is the only prep work required, and you don't have to wait for the weather.
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Comparing Rot-Resistant Framing MaterialsCopper- and borate-based preservative treatments have proven effectiveness, but structural plastics are more durable.
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A TV Complicates the MantelpieceTips on trim details and new design tools from a big project.
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So Easy Even a Carpenter Can Do ItInstalling precast concrete foundation wall panels set on gravel footings
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Weatherproofing DormersUse peel-and-stick bow-ties to flash a dormer.
Cross Section
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Houses That Roll With the PunchesA Japanese company takes a new approach to earthquake-proof homes
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But what about climbing a ladder with a chainsaw?
Ladder manufacturer studies fear of climbing ladders
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How many legislators does it take to unscrew 50 million lightbulbs?California and Connecticut lead the charge to ban inefficient bulbs
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Casa y Comunidad: Latino home and neighborhood design
Fernando Pages Ruiz reviews Henry G. Cisneros's lastest book, Casa y Comunidad
Tools & Materials
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A housewrap and rain screen in oneDelta-Dry weather-resistant barrier
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Plastic hinge shimsQuick align hinge shims
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Curved walls done quicklyQuick Curve Plates
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Metal-connector nailer is a leap forward in technologyMCN 150 StrapShot
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Better Fast-Acting Glue2P-10 Adhesive
Letters
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The remodeled FineHomebuilding.com
Editor Kevin Ireton introduces the new FineHomebuilding.com
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Reader Feedback: Issue 186, April/May 2007
Turn off the water when you lather up The essay “Down the drain” (FHB #183, p. 8) and the subsequent letters (FHB #185, pp. 8, 12) debating low-flow showerheads all…
What is the Difference
Building Skills
Master Carpenter
Great Moments
Drawing Board
Video
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Mixing Concrete in a WheelbarrowA simple wheelbarrow, a stiff rake, and a reliable process transform the task of mixing concrete from backbreaker to no-brainer
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Build the Mantelpiece in 3D FirstA free 3D drawing tool helps visualize difficult projects before you make your first cut
