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Issue 208

On the Cover

8 Basic Rules to Master Trim Carpentry

Excerpted from a contractor’s new-employee handbook, these fundamentals will improve the efficiency and quality of any finish carpenter’s work.

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Features

  • Fixing Leaky Copper

    Learn how to remove and replace a failing valve or fitting when working with copper pipe.

  • Green-Building Programs

    Isn't it about time you got recognized for building right?

  • A Fearless Approach to Epoxy Grout

    When durability is paramount, epoxy can’t be beat, and with careful prep work, it’s not as fussy as you think.

  • Tool Test: 18v Li-Ion Hammer Drills

    Three testers, three sets of tools, one common task: Evaluate the flagship drill from each major too brand.

  • Hiding the Wiring for a Wall-Hung TV

    Hanging the bracket is only half the battle.

  • Make Old Walls Smooth and Sound

    Cracks, peeling paint, and bad patches disappear with a wide roll of adhesive mesh and two thin coats of joint compound.

Article

  • A $40,000 Kitchen Remodel

    How do you renovate an entire living space for what would cover only the cost of a typical custom kitchen’s cabinets? Wisely.

  • energy smart walls
    Six Proven Ways to Build Energy-Smart Walls

    Whether you're building new or remodeling, use these alternative framing and insulating techniques to make your home more comfortable, energy efficient, and durable than a code-built house.

  • Q&A: Clearing the Air Around Smoke Alarms

    Expert advice on when and where to install smoke alarms and what types of smoke alarms work best for different rooms of the house

What is the Difference

  • What's the Difference: Torches

    Discover the difference between propane vs. propylene gas torches for homebuilders, remodelers and plumbers 

  • What's the Difference: More Moisture-Resistant Drywall

    Discover the differences between treated-paper drywall and fiberglass-faced drywall for use in moisture-resistant situations.

Building Skills

  • Replace a Wood Window: Part 1

    In this first segment, carpenter Scott Grice explains how to remove the old window and flash the rough opening.

Master Carpenter

  • new lights
    Retrofit Undercabinet Lights in Frameless Cabinets

    Learn how to accommodate undercabinet lighting with frameless European-style cabinets.

Great Moments

  • The Wheelbarrow

    Great moments in building history: A wheelbarrow is too useful to become a flower planter

Drawing Board

  • Sensible TV placement

    Learn techniques for making sure that the TV is in the right place when placing a TV in a family room or living room 

How it Works

  • Hammer Drill-Driver

    Learn how a hammer driver works in this in-depth look at variable speed and torque settings, and the three modes of operation: hammer, drill, and drive

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • Draining-the-battery-memory myth

Readers Tips

  • Asphalt-shingle cutting guide
  • Miter-Saw Workstation Upgrade
  • Accessible, affordable small-parts storage
  • Extension-Ladder Storage
  • A Brite Palm-Sander Idea

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • 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
  • Issue 327 - November 2024
    • Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings
    • Plumbing Protection
    • Talking Shop

Fine Home Building

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