Issue 196

Two testers and some basic know-how are all you need to be certain you are working safely.

Salvaged materials and unorthodox building methods are used to create a small, sacred structure

Learn how to make a strong, elegant door and a weatherproof threshold.

Micro-cogenerators, or combined heat and power (CHP) systems, are both environmentally friendly and a money saver

Appliance parts Find and purchase almost any part you’d possibly need for major household appliances. Interactive illustrations in the Repair Help section are particularly useful. www.repairclinic.com Green trends Read blogs…

Passive survivability is a life-safety issue. How long could you live in your house without power or fuel?

Voluntary Department of Energy program promotes and supports energy-efficient design and construction

SawStop brings their safety system into the field with this 10-inch model

Short handle mortar hoe

This water-based sealer is a quick and easy way to prime the end cuts of trim and minimize rot.

Figure 9 rope tightener

Here’s to responsible remodeling I enjoyed Betsy Pettit’s article ”Remodeling for Energy Efficiency” (FHB #194) and heard echoes of my own philosophies on old-house remodeling. I spent many years as…

No longer simply a spot for wet boots and coats, these spaces are both functional and beautiful  

Using butyl-based or rubberized asphalt-based depends on temperature, location

Are solvent-free, low-VOC products any good?

Choosing thinset or mastic depends on the tile job.

A good finished look starts with properly hung panels, which reduces the work of taping, mudding, and sanding

When a train station's 120-year-old roof brackets decay, a carpenter braces the roof and constructs a detailed template to guide the restoration 

Great moments in building history: When you think a man has a tool addiction, sometimes all you need is a little perspective

Answer these 12 important questions to help you balance your personal and business needs before planning an in-home workspace.

Learn to choose the right testing device for the job, and use it with care and confidence to work safely on electrical circuits.

With so many models on the market, which one is for you?

Spectacular Sashes: Hand-built reproduction mahogany windows are the order for this Manhattan row house.

Large reproduction mahogany windows are assembled onsite and installed in this Manhattan row house

What sort of house can you build on a 25 ft. by 100 ft. lot? An architect walks you through her award-winning design.

Watch Myron R. Ferguson demonstrate his techniques for smooth, hassle-free drywall hanging.