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LATEST ARTICLES
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Joist Hangers
When building a deck and using joist hangers, be sure to use the proper nails. Many joist support systems, or truss hangers, recommend nails or fasteners that are approved for their hangers. If the joist hangers your carpenter used are approved for use with the newer ACQ treated lumber, you should have nothing to worry about.
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Engraved Brick
Engraved brick pavers are nothing new. Engraved bricks have been around for hundreds of years. Today, there are laser engraved bricks that can create personalized bricks with almost anything etched on the brick.
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Deck Piers
When building a deck, it is important to have solid deck piers that don't move with frost action. You can support wooden deck posts with deck piers in any number of ways. A concrete deck pier can provide a stable platform for your deck posts.
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November 16, 2010 AsktheBuilder Tips And News
In this issue, I have returned from traveling coast-to-coast, improvements to the Checklists, a super energy-efficient house, a crazy heel problem and shoes that might help, new technological trends in smartphones and my latest columns.
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Sheathing
OSB sheathing has now pushed plywood aside as the main stay for housing construction. The fiberboard sheathing serves several purposes mainly it is a structural material. The sheathing prevents the wall from racking from side to side.
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Clogged Toilet
Just about everyone has to deal with a clogged toilet from time-to-time. Did you know it is possible to unclog a toilet without a plunger? A bucket of water can free a toilet clog.
LATEST VIDEOS
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Wall Sheathing Video
Tim Carter describes wall sheathing technology of 2010 and sheathing materials used from the late 1800's to the present.
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Sill Plate Video
Tim Carter describes the importance of a treated lumber sill plate in a wood-framed house.
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House Framing Techniques Part 1 Video
Tim Carter describes how stacked framing is the best structural way to construct a wood-framed house.
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Diagonal Bracing Video
Tim Carter describes several ways to use diagonal bracing while constructing a wood-framed house.
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Precast Concrete Deck Pier Video
Tim Carter shows a precast concrete deck pier before and after installation. He compares pros and cons of all styles.
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Concrete Footer Part 3 Video
Tim Carter describes installing a concrete footer in this multi-part series.
