Fine Homebuilding Magazine

06/06/2026

Thinking about becoming a GC? Wondering whether DIY spray-foam kits are worth it? Looking for feedback on SmartSide siding?

In this week's episode of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast, Dan Kolbert shares advice for making the jump to general contractor and monitoring double-stud walls. Kerry discusses some of the downsides of DIY spray-foam kits for insulation and air-sealing, and the crew weighs in on SmartSide siding. Plus, we help a listener figure out the best load path for supporting a second-floor LVL beam.

Listen now and join the conversation:

In this episode of the FHB Podcast, the crew chats about DIY spray-foam kits, affordable siding, second-floor load paths, and more.

06/05/2026

Raised-panel wainscot delivers timeless craftsmanship—and it’s easier to build than you might think. Builder Gary Striegler shows how to create classic raised-panel wainscot using MDF, a router table, and basic carpentry tools.

With the right materials and information, raised-panel wainscot can be simplified. Learn to make wainscot less expensive and time-consuming.

06/05/2026

If you’ve spent any time around old-house enthusiasts, especially the craftspeople who work on them, you’ve probably heard reverent talk of “old-growth lumber.” It’s often cited as proof that “they don’t build ’em like they used to,” and always contrasted with today’s lumber, which is deemed comparatively subpar.

So what is it about old-growth lumber that makes it so legendary, and if it’s so great, why don’t we use it anymore?

In this issue's Restorationist, Justin Fink helps demystify old-growth lumber, offering insight into sapwood vs. heartwood, the strength and stability of juvenile and mature wood, grain direction, and overviews how managed forests are maintained.

Read 👉 https://bit.ly/4uW1v4C

06/05/2026

Can the placement of a whole-house dehumidifier impact its performance?

The FHB Podcast crew answers questions about placing a whole-house dehumidifier — particularly if the location can impact its performance.

06/05/2026

Ever wondered how blower door tests really work? Dive into the science behind measuring, and even improving, your home’s airtightness.

Learn testing tips and technical nuances of this essential home-energy-testing equipment from Collin Olson of The Energy Conservatory.

06/04/2026

Mason John Carroll goes through the process of rebuilding brick veneer using basic masonry skills.

Here you can see how John reconstructed this brick wall opening after a carpenter completed the rough demo and moved the window in the wall.

06/04/2026

Prescriptive codes don't address the connection at less common angles, so base the connection off more typical ones using bolts, structural screws, blocking, and steel tension ties.

Deck building expert Mike Guertin explains how to mount a guard post on a 45° corner for both single-post and two-post corners.

06/04/2026

Jon Harrod's deep dive into exterior wall retrofits taught him some expensive lessons and led him to shift his work in a different direction.

Jon Harrod's deep dive into a deep energy retrofit taught him some expensive lessons and led him to shift his work in a different direction.

06/04/2026

These prefabricated straw-insulated wall and roof panels, made by Maine-based manufacturer Croft, form the core of a high-performance enclosure. But when does off-site construction really make sense?

Using a high-performance home in southern New England as a case study, Ben Bogie of Building Performance Cooperative explores the pros and cons of building off-site.

Read the latest cover story from FHB Issue 340 online now: https://bit.ly/4e7qkDy