Library builder

Before installing baseboards, use a putty knife first to clean any excess joint compound from the corners. Then clearly mark (or re-mark) the location of the studs on the floor. If the gap between the bottom edge of the drywall and the floor is greater than 1 in., take the time to fill it with […]

IF YOU’RE INSTALLING BASEBOARD TRIM that

Many types of countertops are available these days, but the most common type of affordable countertop is plastic laminate applied over particleboard or MDE Laminate countertops come in many colors and styles. Remember that if you choose this type of countertop, scratches show up more on dark surfaces than on lighter ones. Also, be aware […]

Cabinet installation details are the same, whether you’re working in the kitchen, the bathroom, or any room. Some people prefer to install wall cabinets first so they won’t have to reach over the base cabinets. Perhapsbecause 1 am tall, I generally install base cabi­nets first. Either way, it’s best to begin in a corner. Corner […]

IN 1991, WE REHABBED A HOUSE for a couple with seven children. The father, Eddie, had never had his own bed as a child. As we worked together fixing up the house that would become his family’s new home, it was clear that he was overwhelmed with pride. Eddie had a colorful personality, and he […]

If you’ve installed prehung doors with the cas­ing (trim) attached, then some of your trim — work has already been done. If not, then the time to trim the windows and doors is now. Remember: Accuracy is critical for good finish work. All joints between pieces of wood should be tight, with no space showing. […]

Some people like to install a folding staircase to give them access to attic space. A factory — made folding staircase doesn’t meet the code requirements for a regular stairway, so it’s not designed for everyday use. But if it is installed properly and used carefully, a folding staircase works quite well. Most folding staircases […]

the hinge and jamb and into the trimmer. This step helps anchor the hinges and hinge — side jamb to the wall framing. Throughout the process, continually check the door to see that it opens and closes with ease and that the jamb sides cross-sight, as described in the sidebar on p. 245. If a […]

  thickness of a nickel, all the way across the top (see the top photo above). If the margin at the top is too tight (less than % in.) or too wide (more than % in.), it can be corrected by rais­ing a jamb side. The hinge side can be raised, even with a nail […]

Once the underlayment is down, start installing the prehung doors. I have lived in older houses that required work on sticky doors, misaligned locks, and squeaky hinges. Quality doors open and close with ease even after years of use—if you take the time to install them with care. Remember that doors and jambs should last […]