February/March 2008

Articles	Page
PAINT-GRADE INTERIOR TRIM by Chris Ermides Choosing molding that looks good and finishes well takes more thought than it used to	48
A BALCONY DECK BUILT TO LAST by Michael Maines Durable finish materials hide strong framing connections in a graceful design that overlooks the ocean	54
SETTING UP AN EFFICIENT JOB-SITE SHOP by Gary Striegler A veteran trim carpenter shares his strategies for improving productivity, precision, and security	60
A CLEVER KITCHEN BUILT-IN by Nancy R. Hiller Six small boxes joined behind a simple face frame exploit a shallow space	65
PLUMBING A BASEMENT BATHROOM by Mike Guertin Cutting through the slab is grunt work of the highest order, but a relatively easy way to get an extra bath	70
A BETTER HOME RIGHT NOW by Rob Yagid This concept home shows how smart design, advanced building practices, and modern technologies improve livability and energy performance	74
A SMARTER WAY TO FLASH by Harrison McCampbell Removable two-part counterflashing allows access to roof flashings without digging into the wall	80
FIBER CEMENT TOOLS by Larry Haun The popularity of this durable, low-maintenance siding has bred a variety of tools to simplify and speed installation	82
A FENCE FOREVER by Scott Grice Furniture-grade details dress up a steel-frame fence	86
Departments	Page
CONTRIBUTORS	8
LETTERS	10
CROSS SECTION Solar Decathlon, A chat with Henry Cisneros	22
TIPS & TECHNIQUES Improved rafter pattern, Cold-weather dehumidifier	32
TOOLS & MATERIALS Pint-size miter saw, Push fittings for plumbing	40
FINISHING TOUCHES Celebrating built-in storage	92
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS Greek-revival d ormer, Outlet orientation, Tile backerboard	96
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? Fire-resistant drywall, Rope	108
BUILDING SKILLS Pulling stubborn nails	116
DRAWING BOARD Laying out wainscot paneling	122
MASTER CARPENTER Laminating a curved rail	132
INDEX TO ADVERTISERS	132
GREAT MOMENTS My $14,000 lamp	142
BACK COVER Re-creating a masterpiece

Paint-Grade Interior Trim, A Balcony Built to Last, Setting Up an Efficient Job-Site Shop, A Clever Kitchen Built-in, Plumbing a Basement Bathroom, A Better Home Right Now, A Smarter Way to Flash, Fiber Cement Tools, A Fence Forever