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I’m framing a deck with a center beam and trying to figure out whether to overlap the joists over the center beam or cut them and butt them over the beam. What are the considerations with each option? 

—S. Fortier via the FHB forum

Editorial advisor Mike Guertin replies: When deck joists meet over a center bearing beam, they have to be connected in some manner. The International Residential Code (IRC) doesn’t mention this in section R507 that covers deck construction, but it is addressed earlier in section R502.6.1, Floor Systems. The code gives us a couple options to join

Planning for moisture control is integral to the success of a comfortable and energy-efficient home. To manage water below grade, we applied Tremco’s line of water management and drainage system products to the foundation.

Tuff-N-Dri, Tremco’s spray-applied sealant that replaces traditional damp-proofing, was applied to the exterior foundation walls at a 60-mil thickness. When it cures out, it’s closer to 40 mil, but because of its elastomeric properties, if a failure in the foundation were to occur, water infiltration would be much less likely.

The second step in the Tremco process is the application of the Warm-N-Dri drainage board

An iconic Cape Cod bungalow built in 1904 required historical renovation and design work to meet the new owners’ goal of preserving and modernizing the 1800-sq.-ft. home and abutting 230-sq.-ft. cottage. To improve the stability of the property, construction began by lifting the building from its brick piers, moving it forward on rails, and placing it back on a solid foundation with helical piles. Then it was slightly rotated to allow for the addition of off-street parking and a path to the main entryway with a convenient tucked-in mudroom.

The use of built-ins for a dining nook, bunk beds,

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Patrick and Mason talk about an event they hope will encourage more people to consider trade work and enjoy satisfaction that goes with it.

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An increasing number of homeowners are looking to create indoor living areas that leverage stunning views and seamlessly flow into outdoor spaces. Many builders have found that large, scenic folding doors are a great way to deliver that cohesive indoor-outdoor experience, even in homes that may experience colder winter weather.

NanaWall recently introduced its new Generation 4 product family of folding glass doors/walls and one of the principal changes is that they have consolidated many aspects of their commercial and residential platforms. This means a homeowner can benefit from more advanced structural technologies and robust hardware components only previously