Issue 289 – Feb/Mar 2020
Features
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MDF Window Returns
This stronger, bench-built alternative to drywall returns gives windows a modern look with more rigidity and water resistance than gypsum wall board.
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Rammed Earth: Creating a 500-Year House
A design-build team demonstrates the durability of an ancient material.
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Dead-Flat Bathroom Floor
When the floor has to look perfect, but existing conditions are anything but, a dry-pack mortar bed can save the job.
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Crash Course in Control Layers
You need to carefully manage water, air, vapor, and temperature in order to build a home that is durable and comfortable.
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Net Zero-Ready Community
High-performance, affordable homes characterize this modern pocket neighborhood.
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Best New Construction Tools
STAFDA's annual convention is the highlight of the year for tool aficionados like senior editor Patrick McCombe. Here are some of his favorite finds from the 2020 show.
Article
Tips & Techniques
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Easy-Clean Putty KnifeCover the blade with packing tape to make cleanup super simple.
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No-Scratch Metal BucketAdding a plywood bottom keeps floors safe from scratches when using a bucket as a tool caddy.
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Road-Ready Construction DocumentsA piece of PVC pipe prevents documents and building plans from being damaged by water and tools.
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Improvised Hammer LoopWhen you have no tool belt, use a scrap of 12-ga. electrical wire.
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Sawblade StorageHalf of a lid from a plastic bucket stores multiple blades on the wall of your shop or work van.
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Diamond Blade and Rigid FoamA diamond-bit masonry blade creates a cleaner, easier cut than scoring with a knife.
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Pitch Block for Stair StringersAn alternative method for laying out stairs without a framing square.
Know the Code
Tools & Gear
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Real Cordless Worm DriveSkilsaws new saw promises to cut all day on one battery charge, with more power than a corded version.
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Roof Sheathing RackThe PlyScaf storage rack puts sheathing where you need it on the job site.
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Festool FavoritesNew tool offerings include an angle grinder, an oscillating multitool, and a mobile workshop.
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Water-Free Tile SawThe iQ Power Tools tile saw cuts dry, with an integrated dust-collection system that also cools the blade.
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Quiet and Capable CompressorsThree low-profile models from Makita are the quietest heavy-duty compressors on the market.
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Xtremely Nice DriversDeWalt's Sub-Compact Series offers five powerful tool designs to fit in tight spaces.
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Easy-Swap Grinder AccessoriesThe new Bosch X-Lock system allows you to change grinder accessories with just one click.
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Sheathing SpecialistDeWalt's new cordless circular saw is designed for an easier reach across panel products.
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Safer Scaffolds for Quick JobsThe WorkSafe line of fall-protection equipment satisfies safety requirements and is easy to use on small jobs.
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Smooth Rolling Saw GuideThe SkatePlate moves without effort, prevents scratches to material, and fits almost any saw on the market.
HOUSES by Design
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Focused Face-LiftRemoving the mansard roof and exposing the original structure beneath brought new life to this waterfront home.
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Multipurpose PlanA number of cost-saving measures results in a well-organized farmhouse and separate guest dwelling built on a tight budget.
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Structural StatementAn exposed steel moment frame meets code requirements, allowing for a large open kitchen and dining-room space.
Spec
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Masonry Walls with Modern StyleThese breeze blocks by Villa Lagoon Tile are perfect for creating contemporary privacy screens and accent walls that let in plenty of air and light.
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Wood Siding: Burnt, Brushed, and BurnishedPioneer Millworks offers a wide range of finishes in their line of Shou Sugi Ban–a Japanese method for charring wood siding to preserve it.
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Streamlined SkirtboardBoral TruExterior composite skirtboards blend right into the clapboards above and are impervious to water damage.
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Expanding Foam TapeHannoband creates a tight air-seal around windows, eliminating the need for spray foam or liquid sealant.
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The Wood LookInterceramic's Black Forest line of rectified porcelain floor tile is moisture and scratch resistant, and looks just like hardwood.
As-Built
Keep Craft Alive
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