Issue 198
Features
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Router Tricks for Trim
Armed with two routers and three bits, an experienced carpenter shares five problem-solving tips for trim, cabinets, doors, and stairs.
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Install Your Own Seamless Gutters
Looking to save money? Have custom lengths of aluminum gutters rolled out on site, and get out the ladders.
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Stop Drafts with a Drop-Down Door Seal
This hidden mechanism retracts when the door is open and eliminates the need for a bulky threshold.
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A Brick Rehab Meets LEED's Highest Standards
Solar panels aside, you can’t see the upgrades that make this downtown remodel so energy efficient.
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Why Pay More for Paint?
Because the binders, pigments, and additives that make long-lasting, durable finishes don’t come cheap.
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Tool Test: Laser Measures
Handheld laser measuring tools are more affordable than ever, but are they accurate enough to replace a tape measure?
Article
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Durable Deck StairsIpé decking covers beefed-up stringers and a newel-post assembly that won’t rack.
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Proper Paint Preparation
Click before you dip. For a quality paint job, the first thing you need to do is consult our collection of tips and advice from the pros.
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Master Class Video Series: Running BaseboardLearn the Ins and Outs of running baseboard in this video series.
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Job-Site Router Techniques
Gary Striegler shares the skills—and the tools—that make better site-built cabinetry, casing, brackets, and flooring
Cross Section
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Use of home-energy rating index growsHERS Index allows more latitude for recognizing reductions in energy consumption
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A new home in half the timeStudy results: Structural insulated panels win out over conventional framing
Tools & Materials
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The perfect circular saw?Fuego 6 1⁄2-in. Compact Circular Saw
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Solar panels disguised as skylightsSolar water-heating system
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Spinning Screed for Concrete FinishingThe Spin Screed system helps you easily tackle an otherwise-tedious step in finishing a slab.
Letters
Finishing Touches
What is the Difference
Building Skills
Master Carpenter
Great Moments
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Bells are RingingGreat moments in building history: The installation of a new wheel for a church's bell tower gets somewhat complicated
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In plain sightA few years ago, I had the pleasure of working with a team that built an award-winning private golf clubhouse and spa in Scottsdale, Ariz. A seasoned crew of old…
Drawing Board
Video
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Handheld laser measuring toolsLaser measures do the math for you. Can your tape measure do that?
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Using a Worm-Drive SawKnow where to put your hands and use this heavy saw's weight to your advantage
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Creating Curved FlooringUse a jigsaw and a router to cut the shape and laminate the thinner strips for a decorative accent
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There's a Better Way: Tool-Belt Pencil SharpenerA tip for when the point is to have a sharp pencil on hand
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Prompt Power-Cord PolarityA simple square of tape saves time and aggravation.
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There's a Better Way: Working With Tough, Sticky TapeA single-edge razor tucked into the roll keeps you from tearing your hair out
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There's a Better Way: Stud Finder On a ChainLocate studs easily with a simple magnet and chain device
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Coping Inside CornersFinish carpenter Tucker Windover demonstrates how to achieve a perfect inside corner when running baseboard.
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Mitering Outside Baseboard CornersOnce you've coped the inside baseboard corner to make a perfect joint, it's time to fit, measure, and place the outside corner.
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Locating Studs for Baseboard InstallationThe trim won't hold up if there's nothing behind it. Finish carpenter Tucker Windover shares his method for finding studs.
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Preparing a Room for BaseboardA pro explains how he ensures trim will run square to the floor with joints that are clean and tight before the work even begins.
Ask the Experts
Readers Tips
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