Issue 316 – July 2023
Features
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Build a Transom Above a Stock Door
A decorative transom fills in the space between a stock door and the home's 9-ft. ceiling, saving the cost of a custom door.
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Understanding Toilet Design and Efficiency
Today's best toilets do their job well while using half the water of older models.
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Tool Test: Compact Cordless Routers
These seven popular models all have great power, but balance and bit visibility make a winning tool.
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The Right Footings for Strong Foundations
Understand the options, design requirements, and common pitfalls to spec the best footings for your project.
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What to Consider When Choosing Insulation
With the material's implications for the building envelope, the environment, and installer and homeowner health, R-value is just the beginning
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Fine Homebuilding Issue #316 Online Highlights
Find online articles and videos on the podcast and more.
Tools & Gear
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Use a Press Tool for Plumbing ConnectionsThe Milwaukee M12 press tool has become a popular alternative to soldering copper for plumbing connections.
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Leveled Up Plate LevelThis level adjusts to wall heights up to 12 ft. 5-1/4 in. and has the Stabila Tech module already installed.
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Quiet and Compact Cordless BandsawThis compact portable bandsaw is a better option than other metal-cutting tools.
HOUSES by Design
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Greek Revival-Inspired RenovationThis two-unit home renovation with added dormers preserves the past while creating a modern interior.
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New House, Old ShellA full gut remodel brought new life to an 1821 home that had undergone several misguided renovations.
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From Garage to Maine RetreatAn auto-body shop was retrofitted into a home with metal siding and Passive-House design.
Tips & Techniques
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Foolproof Trim GaugeThis gauge is basically a block of hardwood with a rabbet cut around the perimeter.
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Helpful Hold-Downs for Small Wood PiecesPull-release picture-hanging adhesive strips keep a small router template and workpiece in place.
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Caulk Squeeze-Tube PreservationZip bags keep partially used squeeze tubes of caulk or sealant from drying out.
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Mud-Free Work AreaWoven stabilization mats (used for roadbeds) keep mud outside a house being remodeled.
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Trimming Your Trim NailsIf you need shorter trim nails than the ones you have, cut them to size with an old pair of snips.
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Lightweight Air Supply for Pneumatic NailersFor small molding jobs, bring along a portable air tank instead of a heavy compressor.
Spec
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Wall Sleeve for Minisplit PenetrationsFibrous insulation is hard to seal on exterior walls when installing heat pumps. These plastic tubes can help.
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Smart and Agnostic Electrical PanelAs both a load center and an energy management system, the SPAN electrical panel allows residents to prioritize energy usage and loads.
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From Waste to Aesthetic TileThese tile collections from Kohler WasteLab are made up of materials diverted from landfills.
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High-Tech Well-Water Storage TanksSmart controls and modular tanks make the Epp Low Yield Well System customizable to perfectly fit your home’s water-storage needs.
