Jobsite Know-How
Jobsite Know-How
Construction Practices
Crawl Spaces to Basements: Proceed with Caution
Converting a crawl space to other uses can upgrade a home and add significant value, but when done incorrectly, it can also be disastrous
Jobsite Know-How
The Ins and Outs of Pedestal Tile Systems
A non-exhaustive overview of all things pedestal tile systems
Construction
How to Attach a Patio Roof to an Existing House
A graceful integration may mean more work but improved functionality and aesthetics
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How to Repair Plaster on Lath
For long-lasting results, reattach loose lath and plaster surrounding the patch
How to Demo Drywall Fast, Clean, and in One Piece
Goodbye bull-and-jam demo. Magnets and drills are cleaner—and ultimately faster—than sledgehammers.
How to Use Liquid Flashing in a Fat Wall
Trowel-on flashing is a good solution for fat-wall openings into which windows are partly or fully recessed
How To Accurately Locate Framing Penetrations
The trick is to drill a tiny exploratory hole with a locator bit made from a piece of piano wire
How to Tool a Caulked Tile Joint Without Making a Mess
A tile setter shares a 40-year-old secret to tooling perfect joints every time
Framing Tips for Double-Stud Walls
How to lay out, align, and connect the inner and outer walls of a superinsulated double-wall house
Shape Affects Cost
Unit pricing is an invaluable tool for fast, accurate estimating. But counting units is not the same as estimating. Make sure your estimator knows the difference.
How to Smoke Out Air Leaks
A pre-construction smoke-test will produce air leaks you (and your clients) can see
Routing Box Cutouts In-Place
The result is a clean cutout that will be easily concealed by a standard coverplate
How to Slip Peel-and-Stick Roof Membrane Under Existing Step Flashing
The trick is to use narrow strips of membrane and a triangular stick