Issue 282 – April/May 2019

Two Fine Homebuilding editors face off on the pros and cons of these popular exterior spaces.

A layered assembly and clever installation make building and hanging this door a breeze.

The trick to making this traditional door easy to build is to use a layered-assembly technique, and to hang the door before cutting it in half.

Learn two reliable techniques–and what tools you will need for each–for cutting and shaping granite pavers.

This easy-to-build deck accessory prevents runoff water from plant pots from rotting your deck boards.

Professional deck refinisher Jim Grant built a custom spray rig with an electric pump as an easy-to-use alternative to the typical hand-pump garden sprayer.

Architect Steven Baczek describes his ongoing inquiry into what makes a good building, and how we can continue to improve the way we design and build homes.

Learn how a sleeping room is legally defined and what sort of egress openings are mandated by building codes.

Milwaukee's lightweight cordless 2726-21HD saw is great for remote job sites, but portability comes with a few trade-offs.

Internal dampening and tiny sanding strokes make Festool’s DTS 400 REQ a top-notch finishing tool.

This German-made hardware by Pitzl provides sturdy, concealed timber joints that are a snap to assemble.

Speed up the process of forming concrete footings while also preventing problems caused by groundwater.

This pre-charged kit from MRCOOL makes for an easy HVAC upgrade.

Take cues from classical architecture to design roof trim that matches your traditional home.

Builders find an ingenious solution for installing a custom-fabricated staircase into a home with challenging site-disturbance restrictions.

A new home built with salvaged timbers pays homage to a beloved old barn that couldn't be saved.

Storm-resistant building regulations inspired this home's architects to give it a better view of its beautiful coastal site.

Whether your goal is to cut construction costs, minimize environmental impact, or both, there are practical ways to build a home with less concrete.

A seasoned carpenter reminisces about the days before fiber-cement siding, but acknowledges that wood clapboards come with plenty of complications.

"Craftsmanship is when you put your abilities to the test, and at the end of the job you still find room for growth."