Issue 306 – April/May 2022
Features
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Building a Zero-Energy Home for Less
An Oregon design-build firm makes high performance more affordable.
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Good-Looking and Long-Lasting Traditional Gutters
An extruded-aluminum gutter and matching rake trim recreate a classic eave-to-rake transition.
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6-in. Random-Orbit Sanders
The top tools are comfortable, stop quickly, and stay flat to the surface.
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What Is a Smart-Home Integrator?
For a reliable and easy-to-use home automation system, work with a professional integrator.
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Solar Energy Storage Options
Learn what the current options and trends are for battery-backed and renewable-generator backup systems, bidirectional chargers, and more.
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Guide to Countertops: Natural Stone
Unique, durable, and easily repaired, stone is still hard to beat for kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities.
Article
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Battery-Based Solar Storage Comes in Many Sizes
Whether you're looking for a backup energy system for your whole house or you just need enough for the essentials, find out which storage systems are out there and what will work best for you.
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Power Your Home with Bidirectional Charging
As electric vehicles become more popular, learn what options you have for using them to charge your home.
Keep Craft Alive
Building Matters
Spec
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PVC Decking With Real-Wood Look
This decking line claims less maintenance, more woodgrain patterns, cooler surfaces, and a reduced environmental impact.
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Bypass Pocket Doors Make Open Floor Plans Work Harder
Two sliding-door kits from Johnson Hardware let you close off big doorways when you need privacy and make sets of doors disappear into the wall when you don’t.
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New Solar Shingles with Faster Installation
GAF Energy’s new line of nailable solar shingles collect solar energy while protecting the roof.
HOUSES by Design
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Sustainable Home in the Mountains of Colorado
Construction that emphasizes sustainability and livability while keeping to a tight budget is foundational to this mining-town community.
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Transforming an Old Barn Into a Modern One
Used mainly as a multigenerational entertaining space, this 17th-century barn with reclaimed materials retains an old feel while including modern features.
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Concert Venue Meets Everyday Living
An exposed steel and Douglas-fir beamed ceiling creates an ideal environment for music performances.
Tools & Gear
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Quiet Air Compressors for Interior Trim
This model from California Air Tools may be the last air compressor you'll ever need to buy.
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Combo Square and Level
This tool can from Scribner can be extremely efficient for everything from laying out stairs or rafters, or for finding the rake angle of a 150-year-old staircase.
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Right-Fit, U.S.-Made Workboots
Learn why carpenter Dejah Leger would recommend these Keen Dover boots to other tradeswomen.
Know the Code
Tips & Techniques
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Fix for Crooked Work Boxes
This is the easiest way to bring a receptacle flush with the drywall. Discover how to fix crooked work boxes, here.
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Simple Router Guide
This design can be adapted for any router by changing the spacing and rod diameter.
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Tight Space Tape Roll
It can be hard or impossible to fit an entire roll of electrical tape in a tight place. Learn how to get tape in tight places.
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Accurate Holes in Masonry
With a slotted drive shaft rotary hammer/hammer drill it can be difficult to drill accurate holes. Learn how to get better holes in masonry.
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Cut Long Rips in Vinyl Siding
Here is a precise way to make long rips on vinyl siding that only requires a simple ripping guide.
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Prevent Squeaky Floor Joists
If you live in an older home, you likely deal or have dealt with squeaky floors here and there. Learn how to prevent squeaky floor joists.
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Cleaner Paintbrushes
If you can never clean a brush to your own satisfaction, check out this tip.
Online Extras
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