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Issue 289 – Feb/Mar 2020

On the Cover

The Rise of Metal Roofing

Long-lasting, lightweight, and resistant to hail and fire, metal makes an ideal roof.

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Features

  • MDF Window Returns

    This stronger, bench-built alternative to drywall returns gives windows a modern look with more rigidity and water resistance than gypsum wall board.

  • Rammed Earth: Creating a 500-Year House

    A design-build team demonstrates the durability of an ancient material.

  • Dead-Flat Bathroom Floor

    When the floor has to look perfect, but existing conditions are anything but, a dry-pack mortar bed can save the job.

  • control heat, air, and water for a durable house
    Crash Course in Control Layers

    You need to carefully manage water, air, vapor, and temperature in order to build a home that is durable and comfortable.

  • Net Zero-Ready Community

    High-performance, affordable homes characterize this modern pocket neighborhood.

  • Best New Construction Tools

    STAFDA's annual convention is the highlight of the year for tool aficionados like senior editor Patrick McCombe. Here are some of his favorite finds from the 2020 show.

Article

  • Fine Homebuilding Issue #289 Online Highlights

    Find online articles and videos on kitchens and baths, how to tile a shower, and more.

Tips & Techniques

  • Easy-Clean Putty Knife

    Cover the blade with packing tape to make cleanup super simple.

  • No-Scratch Metal Bucket

    Adding a plywood bottom keeps floors safe from scratches when using a bucket as a tool caddy.

  • Road-Ready Construction Documents

    A piece of PVC pipe prevents documents and building plans from being damaged by water and tools.

  • Improvised Hammer Loop

    When you have no tool belt, use a scrap of 12-ga. electrical wire.

  • Sawblade Storage

    Half of a lid from a plastic bucket stores multiple blades on the wall of your shop or work van.

  • Diamond Blade and Rigid Foam

    A diamond-bit masonry blade creates a cleaner, easier cut than scoring with a knife.

  • Pitch Block for Stair Stringers

    An alternative method for laying out stairs without a framing square.

Know the Code

  • Guardrails vs. Handrails: Where Do You Need Them?

    While they're both found on typical staircases, porches, and decks, guards and handrails have different purposes and code requirements.

Tools & Gear

  • Real Cordless Worm Drive

    Skilsaws new saw promises to cut all day on one battery charge, with more power than a corded version.

  • Roof Sheathing Rack
    Roof Sheathing Rack

    The PlyScaf storage rack puts sheathing where you need it on the job site.

  • Festool Favorites

    New tool offerings include an angle grinder, an oscillating multitool, and a mobile workshop.

  • Water-Free Tile Saw

    The iQ Power Tools tile saw cuts dry, with an integrated dust-collection system that also cools the blade.

  • Quiet and Capable Compressors

    Three low-profile models from Makita are the quietest heavy-duty compressors on the market.

  • Xtremely Nice Drivers

    DeWalt's Sub-Compact Series offers five powerful tool designs to fit in tight spaces.

  • Easy-Swap Grinder Accessories

    The new Bosch X-Lock system allows you to change grinder accessories with just one click.

  • Sheathing Specialist

    DeWalt's new cordless circular saw is designed for an easier reach across panel products.

  • Safer Scaffolds for Quick Jobs

    The WorkSafe line of fall-protection equipment satisfies safety requirements and is easy to use on small jobs.

  • Smooth Rolling Saw Guide

    The SkatePlate moves without effort, prevents scratches to material, and fits almost any saw on the market.

HOUSES by Design

  • Focused Face-Lift

    Removing the mansard roof and exposing the original structure beneath brought new life to this waterfront home.

  • Multipurpose Plan

    A number of cost-saving measures results in a well-organized farmhouse and separate guest dwelling built on a tight budget.

  • Structural Statement

    An exposed steel moment frame meets code requirements, allowing for a large open kitchen and dining-room space.

Spec

  • Masonry Walls with Modern Style

    These breeze blocks by Villa Lagoon Tile are perfect for creating contemporary privacy screens and accent walls that let in plenty of air and light.

  • Wood Siding: Burnt, Brushed, and Burnished

    Pioneer Millworks offers a wide range of finishes in their line of Shou Sugi Ban–a Japanese method for charring wood siding to preserve it.

  • Streamlined Skirtboard

    Boral TruExterior composite skirtboards blend right into the clapboards above and are impervious to water damage.

  • Expanding Foam Tape

    Hannoband creates a tight air-seal around windows, eliminating the need for spray foam or liquid sealant.

  • The Wood Look

    Interceramic's Black Forest line of rectified porcelain floor tile is moisture and scratch resistant, and looks just like hardwood.

As-Built

  • Why Hand Tools?

    The increasing number of power tools on the market make building easier, but learning how to work without them can make you a better builder.

Keep Craft Alive

  • Keep Craft Alive: Clay Chapman, Mason

    This mason leverages traditional techniques to build sustainable, affordable brick homes that provide a solution to today's modern building challenges.

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • Fix for Poorly Installed Window Flashing
  • Cover for Exposed Foundation Insulation
  • Cutting Walls for Drywall Delivery

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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