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Issue 161

On the Cover

Classical Proportions Make Attractive Trim

Greek and Roman orders of architecture can help establish molding size and placement.

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Features

  • A Do-It-Yourself Molding Machine

    Make a custom molding cutter to match the profile of old sash or other damaged trim.

  • Don't Skip the Primer
    Don't Skip the Primer

    The right primer improves the look and longevity of a paint job.

  • Improving Kitchen-Cabinet Storage

    Roll-out storage boosts capacity and utility.

  • Energy Efficient From the Ground Up

    One builder's plan yields Vermont's most energy-efficient house.

  • 25' Tapes

    They're not all the same, so don't just grab the first one.

  • Restoring Window Sashes

    Yes, they're worth fixing. Those old windows were built better (and from better wood) than anything you can buy today.

Article

  • outdoor outlet on home
    Adding an Outside Outlet

    Did you ever need power in the backyard? Here's how to get it.

  • Protecting A House During Construction

    A scratched door, a chipped tub, or a broken window can sour a project in a heartbeat.

  • fireplace mantels
    Three Unique Styles of Fireplace Mantels

    Different mantel designs, different materials, and different techniques all yield great results.

  • Framing a Roof Valley
    Framing a Roof Valley

    Do the math on a calculator so that you can concentrate on what's important: getting the rafters right.

  • Tips and Techniques for Installing Glass Tile

    Professional tilesetter Tom Meehan explains why installing glass is trickier than ceramic tile, and he shows how to get the job done right.

Letters

  • Reader Feedback: Issue 161, February/March 2004

    Good article on insulation, but... I want to congratulate you on a great insulation article in the last issue (FHB #160, pp. 50-55), though I’m sure you must be getting…

What is the Difference

  • What's the Difference: Disposable Gloves

    The frugal type will love the low price of latex gloves while nitrile gloves will satisfy those looking for more dependable protection.

Building Skills

  • Using a water level

    For simple projects, all you really need is plastic tubing and a bucket of clean water

Great Moments

  • Brick by Brick

    Great moments in building history: An interesting method for chimney demolition

Video

  • How to Use a Water Level

    All you really need is a length of plastic tubing and a bucket of water

  • Tape Measure Tips

    Not all tapes are created equal, so here are a few tips for making accurate measurements

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • Reboring a door
  • Condensation on housewrap
  • Hairline cracks in retaining wall
  • Stripping paint from a brick fireplace

Readers Tips

  • Surgical shower-valve replacement
  • Measuring mitered moldings
  • Keeping mud off the sides of a house under construction
  • Handy Storage for Small Parts
  • Fixing a Broken Louver
  • Coping with mini-grinders
  • Belt hook for an impact driver
  • Another way to clear those hairballs

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • 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

Fine Home Building

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