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Issue 266 – April/May 2017

On the Cover

Build a Gateway Pergola

This cedar structure combines the look of traditional joinery with contemporary lines — all built with simple techniques.

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Features

  • A Simple Screened Porch

    Inexpensive screen panels combined with cable railings create a clever assembly.

  • Stone Walls That Stay Built
    Stone Walls That Stay Built

    A master waller shares how to dry-lay stone walls that hold their ground for centuries.

  • Repair Rotted Wooden Deck and Porch Railings
    Better-Built Wood Railings

    Elegant, site-built, rot-resistant railings don’t have to break the bank.

  • The Groundwork of Landscape Design

    A professional landscape designer offers advice for every phase of the process, from grading to lighting.

  • Tool Test: Cordless Sliders

    Meet the new class of miter saws ... from big to little, we tested them all.

  • Passive House Meets Pueblo
    Passive House Meets Pueblo

    Three projects by a Santa Fe ­architect demonstrate how well the Passive House ­performance ­standard and the Southwest style work together.

Article

  • A Field Guide for Prefab Railing

    Manufactured deck railings are fast to assemble and look great.

Commentary

  • Much More Than a Magazine

    Website, podcast, demo house, and #KeepCraftAlive — and more to come.

Tools & Materials

  • IBS 2017: Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents Metal Connectors

    Get the look of reinforced timber frame construction with Simpson.

  • IBS 2017: Lapolla Spray Foam

    This new insulation product is eco-friendly.

  • IBS 2017: FastenMaster FrameFast Structural Framing System

    Framing system looks to eliminate hurricane ties.

  • IBS 2017: 3M Cubitron II Grinding Disc

    This new ceramic abrasive really is mind-blowing in its speed and durability.

Project Gallery

  • Project Gallery: Backyard Bliss

    Be inspired by six examples of entertaining outdoor spaces, for parties of six or 60.

Musings of an Energy Nerd

  • person installing a window
    Should I Replace My Old Windows?

    Comfort, historical character, and the presence of lead paint may matter as much as cost and energy efficiency.

Building Skills

  • Repairing Rot With Epoxy

    Use these versatile materials, simple tools, and straightforward steps to revive damaged exterior trim details.

Drawing Board

  • Making a Room Under a Deck

    A remodel can create an inviting, usable living space under the deck.

Keep Craft Alive

  • Keep Craft Alive: Brian Post, Waller

    “The stones in a wall are trying their hardest to get to the center of the earth … it’s a waller’s job to defy that.”

Finishing Touches

  • Finishing Touch: Essence of the Earth

    This wall, incorporating 250 tons of stone, features colorful stone mosaics, a 4-ton granite boulder, and large columns of basalt that were formed from rapidly cooling lava flows.

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • Horizontal vs. Vertical Drywall: Which is Best?
  • Generator Fix
  • Building Soundproof Walls
  • Proper Drywall Prep
  • Balloon-Frame Remodel

Readers Tips

  • Cargo Straps Shoulder the Load
  • Keeping the Cord Safe From the Sander
  • Preserving the Popcorn in Textured Ceilings
  • Using Leftover Pressure-Treated Lumber
  • A Block Plane in a Tool Pouch
  • Swivel Belt Clip for Measurements

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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