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Issue 245 – Aug/Sept 2014

On the Cover

Install a High-Traffic Tile Floor

A forgiving underlayment and epoxy grout ensure that this tiled entry will stand up to heavy use.

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The Magazine

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Features

  • Installing High-Performance Windows in a Passive House

    By far the weakest link in a Passive House, these imported windows must be installed perfectly.

  • Tool Test: 18-Gauge Brad Nailers

    Now able to shoot 2-in. nails, these small tools are more versatile than ever.

  • deck footings
    Complete Guide to Sizing Deck Footings

    Use the charts and tables in this comprehensive guide to choose the right size beams and specify the appropriate concrete footings for your next deck project.

  • Building Science for the Rest of Us

    7 basic principles to make homes safe, durable, and energy efficient.

  • Family-Friendly Remodel

    Contemporary details and a new floor plan turn a near teardown into a practical home.

  • Aloha Boathouse

    Lasting inspiration

What is the Difference

  • What's the Difference: Paintable Caulks and Sealants

    Interior vs. exterior

  • What's the Difference: Residential Fire Extinguishers

    Units for class A, B, C, and K fires

Building Skills

  • Cutting Ceramic Tile with a Tile Saw

    Whether you buy or rent, a tile saw is a tool you'll need when laying tile.

Master Carpenter

  • Painting Trim the Right Way

    A pro painter shares 8 essential steps to get a smooth, blemish-free finish when painting molding.

Drawing Board

  • drawing of a 1940s cape with dormers
    Designing Gable Dormers

    Right-scaled gable dormers can both bring in light and add interest to a plain roof.

How it Works

  • how nails work
    How it Works: Nails

    Considering how critical nails are to holding wood-frame houses together, it’s surprising that we don’t pay more attention to them.

Project Gallery

  • Kitchen remodel: From passé to the present

    Architect Steven Ginn knew this kitchen was going to be a challenge the moment he laid eyes on it. Long, narrow, and dated, the original kitchen bisected the house, with…

Energy Smart Details

  • insulation strategies 
    Insulating a Slab-On-Grade Foundation

    Depending on your location, you may need rigid-foam insulation under and around the edges of the slab.

Tailgate

  • Tailgate: Nicole Starnes Taylor, Architect

    This former carpenter talks about how having worked in the trades made her a better architect.

GBA Insider

  • All About Washing Machines

    The overall efficiency of machines are rated two ways: the modified energy factor (MEF) and the water factor (WF).

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • Is there a difference between hardwood and softwood OSB?
  • Can exterior foam be added to a wall that has an interior vapor barrier?

Readers Tips

  • Tool-Pouch Toolbox
  • Clever Storage for a Story-Pole Tape
  • Basketball debris shield
  • Restoring a Plastic Cutting Board
  • More Caulk on Storage
  • Noting a Room's Special Color
  • Multitool Cutting Guide
  • Storing Sheet Goods in a Van
  • Job-Site Stringline

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers
  • Issue 327 - November 2024
    • Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings
    • Plumbing Protection
    • Talking Shop

Fine Home Building

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