Issue 322 – Apr/May 2024
Features
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Furnace to Heat Pump Retrofit
With proper load calculations, equipment selection, installation, and commissioning, you may be able to save energy and money while cutting emissions from fossil fuels.
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Windows Before Housewrap?
When it makes sense for inspections, extra protection, or sequencing demands, you can install a window before the WRB and still make it weathertight.
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9 More Building Science Mistakes to Avoid
From not venting your bathroom to not venting your siding, understanding how things go wrong is the first step to getting them right.
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Take Charge of Electric Vehicle Charging
What electric vehicle owners need to know about safely installing and operating a Level 2 charger at home
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Fine Homebuilding Issue #322 Online Highlights
Discover the online extras from Fine Homebuilding's latest issue, including videos, discussions, and articles.
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Paul Roman, 1931-2024
FHB staff remember the founder of Fine Homebuilding, who enriched millions with high-quality publications focused on crafts like woodworking and home building.
Tips & Techniques
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Protect Pipes and WiresWhen cutting through a stud with pipes or cables, use a pencil to shield the cable or pipe from the cutting blade.
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Shop-Made Hands-Free Cabinet PullYou can find a store-bought drawer pull, but it's easy enough to make yourself from a piece of scrap steel.
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Keep Closet Bolts UprightA pinch of wax packed in around the bolts keeps the toilet in alignment.
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Quick Fix for Tall WallsA strip of 3/8-in.-thick drywall fills in the gap for walls taller than 8 ft.
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Repurpose Tool BoxesRemove the inner lining to expose the plastic outer shell.
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Cut Conduit With Wires InsideA copper tubing cutter cuts cleanly through PVC conduit without damaging the cables.
Know the Code
Tools & Gear
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Mobile Bench ViseRoughly the same weight as a standard pipe wrench, the aluminum-body Pipe Vise is a great solution for holding pipe and fitting assemblies while you thread or solder them together.
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Brag-Worthy Chalk BoxThe Tajima Chalk-Rite II Ultra-Thin has a durable design that lasts longer than other "disposable" chalk boxes.
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Hard-Hat Hearing ProtectionThese Bluetooth-enabled helmet muffs and add-on boom mic offer job-site convenience to anyone who works near loud equipment and has to wear a helmet on a regular basis.
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Stand Steady on the RoofPitch Hopper roof wedges work as standing platforms, steps, or workstations on low-slope or steep roofs.
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A "Perfect" StrapThe holes in the body of the Adjust-A-Strap bungee make it easier to secure cargo of different sizes with a single, adjustable strap.
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Smart Truck StorageSwing Case toolboxes save space by tucking into that wasted space behind the wheel well, and then swing out for easy access.
HOUSES by Design
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Rear Addition for a RanchA single-story rear addition becomes a two-story structure hidden from street view.
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A Study in ContrastsA historical front facade contrasts with the modern details of a rear addition in this 1900s Greek revival.
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Cape ConnectionThis series of connected-barn-style structures have been rebuilt and updated for a modern feel.
Spec
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Natural and Grout-Free ShowerTadelakt water-resistant plaster works in wet spaces for a modern look without the need for tile and grout.
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Fixtures That Make a StatementKohler's Statement showerhead collection offers multifunctionality in each of its showerheads, massage jets, and handheld shower wands.
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Smarten Up Your ShowerKohler pairs digital controls with smart design to create an exceptional bathing experience.
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Illuminated Shower NicheThe Schluter-Kerdi-Board-SNLT integrates LED lighting into an easily waterproofed shower niche.
Building Matters
Keep Craft Alive
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