Issue 291 – June 2020
Features
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Stripping Wallpaper
Use these pro tips to take your wall from paper to paint with minimal damage.
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What Makes A Pretty Good House?
High-performance-home designer Michael Maines takes a detailed look at the new low-carbon edition of the grassroots building standard.
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How To Build a Craftsman-Style Fireplace Mantel
Simple joinery and layered construction create a rock-solid, refined fireplace centerpiece.
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Choosing an Efficient Water Heater
Heat-pump water heaters offer the most energy savings, but they still struggle for a toehold in the market.
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2020 Best Remodel: Two Structures, Two Treatments
A restored Massachusetts farmhouse receives a modern addition inspired by traditional New England barns.
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2020 Best New Home: Science Drives Design
The need for special indoor conditions affects the shape and layout of a new build.
Article
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2020 Editor's Choice: Island InspirationAn admirable team effort results in a modest, modern home at ease in its rural setting.
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2020 Readers' Choice: Contemporary FarmhouseA narrow lot and custom garage drive the design of this four-volume home.
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Fine Homebuilding Issue #291 Online HighlightsFind online articles and videos on the 2020 House Awards, making stepped corbels with a router jig, and more.
Tips & Techniques
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Sash StandThis jig is perfect for holding window sashes when painting, planing, or other works needs to be done.
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Magnetic Nail HolderA tape measure holds nails in hard-to-reach areas until it can be started with a hammer.
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Protecting Communication CableUse this trick to avoid accidentally cutting cable when installing drywall.
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Effective Can-Light CoverA bucket and spray foam is all it takes to air-seal ceiling electrical boxes and can lights.
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Shingle-Replacement ToolA laminate-flooring bar fits under replacement shingles in places where a hammer won't reach.
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Save Those ShinsHockey shin guards can protect your knees during tile-setting, baseboard installation, and more low-down work.
Know the Code
Tools & Gear
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PPE Kit ChecklistKeeping a kit of personal protective equipment on the job-site helps you and your crew stay safe and comfortable.
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Speedy Paint SprayerThe Graco Ultra cordless sprayer takes less time to set up than a spray rig, is easy to fill and clean up, and yields professional results on small jobs.
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Great Stapler for Sheet GoodsThe Cadex V3/90.40 narrow-crown stapler is the best tool for attaching cabinet backs and building jigs with thin material.
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Wonder WipesMiracleWipes cleaning wipes eliminate handprints and smudges on walls and ceilings.
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Construction-Ready CoolerThe RTIC cooler comes in a variety of sizes and keeps ice solid for over a week on the job site.
Spec
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Deliberately Repurposed BoardsCentennial Woods sustainable, rustic wood paneling starts as highway snow fencing.
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Sliding Secret DoorCreate a hidden passageway in your home with the MonoFlat Unison door kit from Sugatsune.
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Smart Home Water-Line Leak PreventionThe Flo leak-detection-and-prevention system by Moen allows you to monitor and track water usage in real time.
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Slinky Shade ScreensCascade Home Decor's coiled-wire-fabric curtains are an attractive and durable option for outdoor spaces.
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Efficient Water DistributionThe Viega Manabloc is adaptable to any size plumbing system and compatible with a wide array of connector types and sizes.
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Hands-Free Kitchen DrawersThe Blum Servo-Drive drawer system electronically opens drawers and doors with a single touch or light pull.
As-Built
Keep Craft Alive
Online Extras
More? View Past Issues
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