Issue 302 – October 2021
Features
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High-Tech Heating and Cooling Systems
A new generation of variable-capacity heat pumps and air conditioners promise quieter operation, increased efficiency, and greater comfort.
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The Fine Homebuilding Interview: Chris Magwood
This Ontario builder and designer inspires us to see that our homes don't have to be at the expense of the planet.
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Earning a DOE Zero-Energy Ready Certification
Starting with stock plans, a builder prioritized his home's envelope details and made modifications to fit his family and their future.
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Moving a House
Transporting a home to a new location requires careful planning and some heavy lifting by professional house-movers.
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Simple Air-Sealed Ceiling for a High-Performance Home
Building an airtight box before adding a roof creates a conditioned mechanical cavity, a safe work surface, and a platform for deep insulation.
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Fine Homebuilding Issue #302 Online Highlights
Find online articles and videos on building homes to survive a wildfire, energy-smart HVAC, and more.
Tips & Techniques
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Portable Landscape-Light TesterUse cordless-tool batteries to test low-voltage landscape light fixtures and reveal poor electrical connections before the cables are installed.
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Keep Your Field Crew Up to DateGive the whole crew access to important information on any project or job site by using QR codes.
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Truck StopWhen there's no backup camera, a makeshift tire stop makes it easy to mount a trailer hitch.
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Make a Plumbing Job Easier with a Third HandUse a quick-adjusting bar clamp to position and install a sink in a rough opening.
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Less-Mess Toilet RemovalThis quick method of pumping the water out of a toilet before removal ensures less mess during the process.
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Double DeckingBuilding a deck with doubled-up joists means the planks can stretch out, there are no ends over a joist, and there is no doubling up on nailing.
Know the Code
Tools & Gear
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Air-Powered Sealant SprayerThough it comes with a fair learning curve, the Aerofixx Visconn dispenser is particularly useful for air-sealing hard-to-reach areas.
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Mark Holes for Anchor Bolts FastCarpenters used to make bolt-hole markers from job-site scraps, but the commercially produced version from Big Foot Tools has been a favorite with framers for over a decade.
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Compact Stackable CompressorRolair's Airstak compressor is built into a convenient Systainer box, making it easy to stack in your truck and carry onto the job site.
HOUSES by Design
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Lightening Up a Tudor With Steel and GlassReplacing heavy plaster walls with steel beams and open bookshelves adds a contemporary feel to this venerable brick home.
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Restoring a Historical CabinThis new build incorporates an 1800s log cabin that was painstakingly restored to resemble the original structure.
Spec
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Better Decks Over Brick WallsDeckStruc provides a way to meet stringent building codes for framing over masonry veneer while making the construction process much simpler.
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Latitude Exterior Acrylic Latex PaintClimateFlex technology from Sherwin Williams enables you to paint longer into both the hot and cold seasons.
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A Standout Grill for Your Outdoor KitchenThe circular EVO Flattop Grill is a versatile cooktop that would make a great centerpiece for any custom outdoor kitchen or patio.
