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Issue 285 – Aug/Sept 2019

On the Cover

The Complicated Role of a Water-Resistive Barrier

Choose the right WRB product and install it well, because if you're not keeping water out, nothing else matters.

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Features

  • Installing Reglet Trim
    Installing Reglet Trim

    This unique way to finish window and door openings without wood trim is a modern upgrade to a basic flush drywall return.

  • Built for Catastrophe

    This coastal Washington home is built to stay upright, even during weather events that would destroy the average house.

  • Air-Sealed and On Piers

    Carpenter Tim Holton and his crew came up with an up-in-the-air solution for sealing an addition with an elevated floor.

  • In common areas, cover carpet with protective products carpet protection.
    Job-Site Protection

    Remodeling experts Doug Horgan and Tom Johnston demonstrate the methods and materials they use to keep every surface in a client's house clean and safe.

  • Two Styles of Cornice Return

    Framing this classic detail capped with a hip roof or a shed roof is easier than you think.

  • Classic Character, Modern Comfort FHB House
    FHB House 2019 - Part 2: Classic Character, Modern Comfort

    Behind the brick lies an airtight envelope and an extravagant bath

Online Extras

  • Fine Homebuilding Issue #285 Online Highlights
    Fine Homebuilding Issue #285 Online Highlights

    Find online articles and videos on drywall routers, how to create sleek lines with reglet trim, and more.

  • Create Sleek Drywall Transitions With Reglet Trim

    This modern design element is tough to pull off, but the clean lines make it so worth it.

Tips & Techniques

  • Skirtboard Template

    Accurately reproduce skirtboards for an existing staircase using a technique borrowed from countertop installers.

  • Coffee-Mug Knife Sharpener

    Your morning cup of joe could put a fine edge on your knife blades in a pinch.

  • Copper-Pipe Crayon Holder

    My lumber crayon in my tool pouch was always destroyed by my other tools. So I decided to make these crayon holders from scrap 1/2-in-dia. copper pipe.

  • Another Way to Store Caulk Tubes

    After using screws and anils to stopper opened tubes of caulk, I figured there had to be a better way

  • Belt-Hook Tool Storage

    I was looking at different drill/impact-driver storage methods, and came up with the simple idea of using some 1-in. by 2-in. rectangular steel tube i had kicking around.

  • Solo Window Install

    Learn how to install a window solo without the risk of falling.

Know the Code

  • Changes to the Building Codes

    Code expert Glenn Mathewson explains how changes are made to the International Residential Code, with a chart detailing the code-development process.

Other

  • XSH06PT 7-1⁄4-in. circular saw
    Two Saws Are Better Than One

    Makita XSH06PT 7-1/4-in. circular saw, Makita XSH04ZB 6-1/2-in. circular saw

  • SurfPrep Electric Ray
    Specialist Sander

    SurfPrep's 3-in. by 4-in. Electric Ray orbital sander automatically adjusts its motor speed based on how much pressure you're using to help you sand moldings efficiently without ruining the profile of the molding.

  • Hi-tech hard hat
    High-Tech Hard Hat

    The MIPS brain-protection system, a safety feature commonly found in bicycle, motocross, and equestrian helmets, is now making construction job sites safer.

  • Starrett Dual Cut jigsaw blades
    Smooth Operator

    The bidrectional teeth on Starrett's Dual Cut jigsaw blades eliminate tearout on veneers and laminates without making your saw jump like a reverse-tooth blade can.

  • No-compromise cordless grinder
    No-Compromise Cordless Grinder

    With a 5Ah battery and a whole host of features that facilitate practicality, comfort, and durability, the Milwaukee 2780 is a great choice for anyone needing a grinder when they're on the go.

  • High-Style Column Refrigerator

    This narrow, hard-working refrigerator raises the bar for precision cooling.

  • Deck Ledgers Over Brick, Foam, and More

    Simpson Strong-Tie BVLZ brick-veneer ledger-connector system

  • Better Block Wall?

    Comfort Block

  • Bucks for Outsulation

    ThermalBuck's plastic-coated EPS foam backer solves the problem of how to fasten flanged windows when installing exterior rigid-foam insulation.

  • Synthetic Sidewall Shingles

    CertainTeed Sawmill Shingles

  • Dock and Tuck

    Wood-Mode and Docking Drawer power outlets

  • Thinner Peel-and-Stick Membrane

    GCP Grace Select

HOUSES by Design

  • Front of House
    Situating on a Steep Lot

    An increase in square footage proves to be a challenge due to the site's steep grade transitions.

  • Roof Overhang House
    Atypical Roof Overhangs

    Deeper-than-conventional floating roof canopies are hard to assemble, but mean this home is ready for rainy weather.

  • Raised Ranch
    A Targeted Approach

    Shortening the eaves and removing walls improves circulation and adds space to this home remodel.

Building Matters

  • Windows in Thick Walls

    Thick-wall assemblies offer better comfort and energy efficiency, but installing windows presents a challenge for builders.

As-Built

  • carpenter working on a house
    Confessions of an Energy Dinosaur

    Builder Scott McBride reflects on the disconnect between the act of building a house and making it energy efficient.

Keep Craft Alive

  • Bruno Sutter, professor of carpentry and timber raming
    Keep Craft Alive: Bruno Sutter, Professor of Carpentry and Timber Framing

    This traditionally trained artisan splits his time between teaching the next generation of craftspeople and building timber structures that people will enjoy for years to come.

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • To Vent or Not to Vent?
  • Vapor Barrier Over Mineral Wool
  • Insulating an Uninsulated Block-Wall Home

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 330 - April/May
    • 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
  • Issue 326 - October 2024
    • Paint Behind Strike Plates
    • Conceal Cut Ends
    • Ladder Slip Solution

Fine Home Building

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