Issue 206

On the Cover

New Insulation for Old Walls

You can upgrade insulation without gutting your walls, but not until you know what’s in there now.

Subscribe

The Magazine

Features

  • A Wood Floor That Can Survive Anywhere

    In a basement or on a slab, create a stable platform to support quality engineered-wood flooring.

  • Fire Sprinklers

    With a smoking record for saving lives and protecting houses, it’s no surprise sprinklers were adopted into the International Residential Code.

  • From Luxury to LEED

    Used to building big houses with big budgets, the Picton brothers earned a platinum rating with their first modest green home—but mastering the learning curve wasn’t always a smooth ride.

  • Site-Made Moldings in a Pinch

    When all you need is a few feet of millwork to match existing trim, look to the tablesaw, a block plane, and some sanding blocks.

  • Tool Review: Hole Saws for All Sorts of Materials

    Bimetal saws are inexpensive and versatile, but don’t overlook the specialty tools designed to make clean cuts in less common materials.

  • person repairing wiring
    4 Worry-Free Wiring Repairs

    Focus on accurate wiring when replacing faulty outlets, switches, and fixtures.

Article

What is the Difference

Building Skills

Master Carpenter

Great Moments

Drawing Board

How it Works

Video

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

Readers Tips

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

Fine Home Building

Membership & Magazine

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.