Issue 315 – June 2023
Features
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A high-performance contractor shares the challenges of building in the cold Alaskan climate.
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This material is durable, waterproof, and ideal for places where the weather is hard on a home's exterior.
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This architect and engineer developed a Passive House standard for the United States. In this interview, she discusses what it will take to move the building industry toward climate-positive realities.
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Utility stairs are transformed into a squeak-free finished staircase with straightforward carpentry and easy-to-source parts.
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Integrating cross-laminated timber, wood-fiber insulation, panelized construction, and a solar-tile roof for Passive-House performance.
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Find online articles and videos on the podcast, project guides, and more.
Tips & Techniques
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Flatten Planks for Cutting
If you need to create a straight and uniformed bevel for a scarf joint, a cupped board can be problematic.
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Protect Board Ends to Prevent Rot
To prevent premature rot on pressure-treated lumber, seal every end cut with penetrating epoxy.
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Handy Bit Storage
An old metal eyeglasses case with a spring-loaded lid makes a perfect storage container for drill and driver bits.
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5-Gallon Buckets That Won't Stick
Here is a way to stack buckets so they never stick together.
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Easier Dust Collection
Use a plastic zipper bag to contain the dust when drilling a hole.
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Rust-Free Paint Lids
Add a small bead of oil around the recess where the can meets the lid.
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Don't Lose Your Battery and Charger on a Job
Use this reminder so that you never leave a job site without your battery and charger.
Know the Code
Tools & Gear
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Capable Cable Stapler
Milwaukee has made fastening line- and low-voltage electrical cables easier with its M12 Cable stapler.
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A Pair of Precision Protractors
The features and quality of these smaller protractors from Starrett match those of the 12-in. version.
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Premium Pipe Reamer
This tool reams 1-1/2-in. fittings in schedule 40 PVC, CPVC, and ABS.
HOUSES by Design
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High-Performance Wall of Windows
The functional areas of this lakeside home all have an unobstructed lake view while still maintaining excellent energy efficiency.
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1912 Craftsman Renovation
The renovation team figured out how to maintain historical details while updating this home to meet current needs.
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Small But Versatile Second-Floor Addition
With this renovation, the goal was to take the space occupied by a little-used second-floor deck adjacent to an art studio and incorporate it into the rest of the postmodern shingle-style house built in 1995.
Building Matters
Keep Craft Alive
Spec
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Kickout Flashing for Seamless Siding and Trim
J’d Out from American Flashing provides a recessed siding receiver and water deflector for an easier and more aesthetic installation.
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Cement Tile That Makes a Statement
The Circles + Curves line from Clé introduces compelling colors and patterns for floors, walls, or backsplashes.
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Precise Panel Fasteners
The Standard Range from Fastmount is a versatile solution for projects requiring precise panel placements without exposed fasteners.
Fine Homebuilding Magazine
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- Bank Note Reporter
- Cabin Life
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- Fine Woodworking
- Green Building Advisor
- Garden Gate
- Horticulture
- Keep Craft Alive
- Log Home Living
- Military Trader/Vehicles
- Numismatic News
- Numismaster
- Old Cars Weekly
- Old House Journal
- Period Homes
- Popular Woodworking
- Script
- ShopNotes
- Sports Collectors Digest
- Threads
- Timber Home Living
- Traditional Building
- Woodsmith
- World Coin News
- Writer's Digest