The Career of a Builder: Tom Bodett’s Path from Alaska to Community Woodworking Every builder has a story, and few are as instructive as the journey of Tom Bodett. Best known to many as the voice of the Motel 6 commercials (“We’ll leave the light on for you”), Bodett built a remarkable career in residential […]
Protecting wood posts from moisture damage is one of the most critical challenges in outdoor construction. Posts supporting decks, porches, pergolas, and fences are constantly exposed to rain, snow, and ground moisture. The end grain of a post acts like a straw, wicking water deep into the wood and setting the stage for rot, decay,
A detailed walkthrough of deck framing issues including joist hanger gaps, improper hanger modifications, ledger attachment concerns, and building code requirements. Learn what red flags to look for when inspecting deck construction.
Kitchen remodeling presents a distinct set of design challenges. Unlike new construction, where every dimension follows the original drawings, a remodel must accommodate existing structural conditions, outdated plumbing runs, and subtle floor level variations that never made it onto any plan. Professional designers and contractors increasingly turn to 3D design software such as Chief Architect
The concept of a morning kitchen has gained significant traction in residential design, particularly within master suites and upper-level landings. A morning kitchen is a compact, highly personalized kitchenette space that provides convenient access to coffee, refreshments, and light snacks without requiring a trip to the main kitchen. Originally popular in luxury custom homes, this
Proper window installation is one of the most critical elements of a durable building envelope. Among the most reliable modern methods is installing a nail-fin window over a fluid-applied weather-resistant barrier (WRB). This technique combines the convenience of factory-installed nail fins with the superior sealing properties of liquid-applied flashing, creating a watertight assembly that outperforms
Key lessons from the 2021 Midwest Building Science Symposium on air sealing, high-performance wall assemblies, insulation strategies, and moisture management for durable, energy-efficient homes.
The kitchen has evolved far beyond its utilitarian roots to become the emotional and social heart of the home. As families gather, cook, and connect in this central space, the way we approach kitchen design has undergone a profound transformation. Moving away from rigid layouts and predictable material palettes, a new wave of design thinking
Quality trim carpentry separates a professionally finished home from one that looks merely adequate. The November 2021 issue of Fine Homebuilding (Issue 303) devoted extensive coverage to the craft of interior woodwork, built-in cabinetry, and the tools that make precision possible. Whether you are framing a custom library wall, installing window casings, or building drawer
Door jambs are among the most vulnerable components of a home’s exterior envelope. Positioned at ground level and exposed to rain, snow, and splashing moisture, they endure constant assault from water that can lead to rot, swelling, and structural failure. Keeping jambs from rotting requires understanding how moisture enters, selecting appropriate materials, and applying proven
