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Issue 282 – April/May 2019

On the Cover

Add a Belgian-Block Driveway Apron

Learn how to install granite pavers to add style and strength to any driveway. This illustrated tutorial covers every step, from creating a solid base to finishing the mortar joints.

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Features

  • Issue 282 On The Web
    Fine Homebuilding Issue #282 Online Highlights

    Find online articles and videos on installing joist hangers, building permits, and more.

  • The Particulars of Porch Design

    Learn how to nail the details to build a beautiful and functional covered porch; 3 case studies and a checklist of essential questions will help you get the job done right.

  • how to refinish a deck
    How to Rescue an Old Cedar Deck

    A thorough cleaning and a quick refinish give new life to a weather-beaten deck. Get tips for doing the job right from a professional refinisher.

  • attaching a deck to a wall
    Attach a Deck to Any Wall

    Builder Mike Guertin outlines code-compliant ledger and lateral-tie details for all types of deck builds.

  • Considering Choices for Synthetic Decking

    A maturing industry means composites and PVC deck planks look better than ever and can last for decades.

  • How to Build a Curved Ipé Garden Benches

    Clamps and lots of screws put a bend in this dense and durable wood.

Article

  • deck vs. patio
    Patio vs. Deck Throwdown

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

  • dutch door
    Dutch Door Done Easy

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

Online Extras

  • Build a Dutch Door

    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.

  • Cutting Belgian Block
    How to Cut Belgian Block

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

  • How To Build A Built-In Plant Stand
    Built-in Cedar Plant Stand

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

  • how to clean a deck
    A Better Sprayer for Cleaning Decks and Applying Wood Finishes

    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.

  • Long Live Our Buildings: An Introduction

    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.

Know the Code

  • Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings

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

Tools & Materials

  • Hyperportable tablesaw

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

  • Fine-finish sander

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

  • Impressive Structural Connectors

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

  • Fabric Footing Forms

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

  • DIY ductless minisplit

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

Design/Build

  • Boxed-Eave Gable-End Returns

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

HOUSES by Design

  • Lock, lift, and load

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

  • Barn built anew

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

  • Fit for floods

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

Building Matters

  • slab foundation with minimal concrete
    Minimizing Concrete in a Slab-on-Grade Home

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

As-Built

  • A Trip to the Cedar Shed

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

Keep Craft Alive

  • Keep Craft Alive: Adam Esparza, Tilesetter

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

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • Seal an Unused Fireplace
  • How to Insulate a Floor over a Crawlspace
  • What Causes Frost to Form on Sheathing?
  • Finish Fix for a Varnished Door

Readers Tips

  • Unistrut Soffit Vent
  • Baluster Tape Trick
  • How to Make Custom Rubber Parts
  • Get a Grip on Light Bulbs
  • Make Plans Talk
  • Keep Water in the Shower

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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