Issue 272 – Dec 2017/Jan 2018
Features
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Dense-Pack Cellulose Insulation Done Right
How to tell the difference between a good cellulose insulation job and a bad one.
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Dense-Pack Cellulose Coverage Chart
Find the expected yield for any framing cavity you’re likely to encounter.
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Prefab Paneled Wainscot
On-site measurements and off-site production yield a traditional wainscot look at a more affordable price.
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Snap-Lock Standing-Seam Metal Roof Installation
Factory-made panels and flashing go together without specialty tools or subcontractors.
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Frame a Gable Wall
This fundamental approach hinges on an accurate layout that keeps the math to a minimum.
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What About Steel in Home Construction?
Despite some advantages over wood, light-gauge steel framing hasn’t made the leap to residential building, and the reasons why may surprise you.
Article
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A Remarkable Home RemodelTurning a quirky rustic lodge into a comfortable modern home is a problem-solving proposition.
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Updating the LodgeA first-rate team of builder, architect, and landscape designer remodel an oddly built stone cabin.
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Better Board-and-Batten SidingModern materials breathe new life into a siding that can be both rustic and refined.
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Takeaways After Trying Out a New Siding and Trim MaterialA remodeler’s thoughts on working with TruExterior fly-ash siding and trim.
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Connecting PEX PlumbingTake a close look at the ever-expanding options for joining PEX plumbing.
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Connect PEX with ASTM F1960 Expansion Fittings and ProPEX RingsFor a connection that gets stronger over time, ProPEX expansion fittings are hard to beat.
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Connect PEX with ASTM F2080 Expansion Fittings and Compression SleevesWith brass fittings and compression sleeves, F2080 is the Rolls-Royce of PEX fitting systems.
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Connect PEX with Crimp Fittings and Crimp RingsThere’s more than one way to connect PEX with crimp fittings, but this is the original.
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Connect PEX with Crimp Fittings and Stainless-Steel ClampsStainless-steel clamps are an approved method for joining crimp fittings to PEX tubing.
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Connect PEX with Push FittingsFor a quick repair or retrofit, push fittings for PEX connections are a go-to solution.
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Connect PEX with Viega PEX Press FittingsViega has developed one of the fastest and easiest methods for joining PEX.
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Affordable Net-Zero Housing: Designed for the BudgetA modern-day interpretation of a Cape meets its energy-efficiency goals by targeting public areas with higher-quality finishes and using builder-grade materials in other places.
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Designed for First-Floor LivingThe owners can take care of all their needs without using the stairs.
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Home Buyers Love Splurges in the KitchenIt makes sense to treat the kitchen—especially the cabinets and countertops—with higher-quality finishes than other areas in the house.
Tools & Materials
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Untethered TablesawTool Review: The DeWalt DCS7485 features a rock-solid rack-and-pinion fence and tubular frame.
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Faster Truss Tie-DownsFastenMaster’s FrameFast system features a ½-in. Milwaukee drill motor with an attached extension tube and a driver head that holds the fastener.
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Good-Looking Composite SidingMaterial Review: Icon composite siding from CertainTeed has the look of 7-in. cedar clapboards with excellent moisture resistance and installation.
Project Gallery
Musings of an Energy Nerd
Design/Build
Building Skills
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Replacing an Asphalt ShingleThe job isn’t hard, but it’s not exactly straightforward, either.
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Video: Replace an Asphalt Roof ShingleThere may be more nails than you expect.
