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6 Wood Substitutes and When to Use Them
Wood might be the most common choice for many home projects, but it’s far from the only option available to DIYers lo...
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How to Clean Metal the Right Way
Metal objects and fixtures are everywhere in our homes, but not all metals are cleaned the same way. It's essential t...
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9 Bathroom Flooring Ideas That Are as Durable as They Are Stylish
Choosing the right bathroom flooring can be a challenge. It’s not just a matter of matching a particular decor. The f...
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How Much Do Soapstone Countertops Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for soapstone countertops is from $1,700 to $4,200. Some of the biggest factors t...
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Composite vs. Wood Deck: Which Is Right for Your Outdoor Space?
There are few experiences better than a sunny evening of relaxing or entertaining on a backyard deck. As a result, de...
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The Best Flooring for Basements
Few things can turn a basement into a finished living space like flooring. And since the average size of a basement r...
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The Best Sandblasters of 2023
A good sandblaster can make many tough jobs—including restoring antique cars, returning concrete to like-new conditio...
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Silestone vs. Quartz: The Difference Between These Countertop Options, Explained
When you’re planning a kitchen remodel, countertops are one of the most important components you’ll select. Not only ...
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Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: What’s the Difference?
 Linoleum and vinyl are both popular flooring options for kitchens and bathrooms because they’re durable, water-resis...
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10 Innovative Materials Poised to Make Home Building More Sustainable
Not only is sustainability in vogue, but it is becoming more critical as climate change and other environmental issue...
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This Is Why You Should Incorporate More Copper Into Your Home
A worldwide pandemic has made everyone more aware of what they touch. Many bacteria and viruses, including Covid-19, ...
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10 Siding Options to Beautify Your Home
There are so many ways to clad your home’s exterior. Which is the most durable? Least expensive? Learn more about them so you can choose the best option for your ...
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What Is Art Deco Style? 6 Things Every DIY Designer Should Know
Art Deco style was at the height of its popularity during the 1920s and 1930s, but it remains a staple in interior de...
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20 Reasons Why Two-Tone Kitchen Cabinets Are Still Trendy
Two-tone cabinets are much more than just a passing trend. With the right colors, two-tone kitchen cabinets can be ti...
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Corian vs. Quartz Countertops: What’s the Difference Between These Popular Materials?
Quartz and Corian are two popular countertop materials that have been around for decades. While quartz is a natural m...
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This New Construction-Grade Building Material Recycles the World’s Worst Plastics
Plastic is a massive contributor to global waste and pollution. In fact, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)...
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Quartz vs. Marble Countertops: 6 Key Differences and 1 Enticing Similarity
When it comes to choosing a countertop for a kitchen or bathroom renovation, quartz and marble are among the most pop...
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See Inside Habitat for Humanity's First 3D-Printed Home—and the Future of Construction
Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity has constructed hundreds of thousands of affordable homes for people who need t...
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The Best Garage Floor Tiles of 2023
Garage floor tiles make a garage floor safer and tougher while also improving its aesthetics, so that a home workshop...
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17 Types of Wood All DIYers Should Know
As any DIY woodworker or carpenter is likely to find, there are seemingly endless species of wood from which to choos...
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The Best Concrete Sealers Tested in 2023
Indoors and out, concrete lasts longer and performs better with some protection—which is what today’s concrete sealer...
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8 Inexpensive Building Materials That Don’t Look Cheap
There’s no need to break your budget when buying building materials, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for ugly. These 8 reasonably priced materials look g...
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The Best Soundproofing Materials of 2023
Silence is golden for so many of us: DIYers who use loud power tools, night-shift workers who must reduce unwanted no...
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The Best Lumber Storage Racks of 2023
You may need to store the lumber you just bought for that new storage shed until you can get around to the project. O...
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What's the Difference? Prefinished vs. Unfinished Hardwood Flooring
The to-do lists are long in a home renovation—and that's before you account for unexpected tasks like running to the ...
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What's the Difference? Grout vs. Caulk
Novice DIYers eager to get started repairing, replacing, or installing new tile may wonder about the differences betw...
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9 Popular Driveway Options to Welcome You Home
From asphalt to brick, basalt to concrete, this is the stuff dream driveways are made of.
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10 Reasons to Reconsider Vinyl Siding
Today's vinyl siding products can mimic wood, insulate your home, and even stand up to tornado-force winds, making them a highly desirable exterior cladding option.
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All You Need to Know About Concrete Countertops
Frequently used in foundations, backyard patios, and fence-post installations, concrete is one of the strongest build...
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All You Need to Know About Beadboard Ceilings
Prominent in the trim aisles of home improvement stores and popular on home remodeling shows, beadboard offers a grea...
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Metal Roof vs. Shingles: Which Should I Use to Replace My Roof?
Choosing a new roofing material can be tough. It’s an expensive home update, and the variety of residential options f...
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All You Need to Know About Pool Decking
For refreshing summer fun, nothing beats a backyard swimming pool. While the water is the main focus, it’s the deckin...
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Solved! What’s the Best Wood for Outdoor Furniture?
Q: I love the warm look of wood for outdoor furniture, but I’m not sure which of the many species will look and perfo...
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All You Need to Know About Tile Countertops
Unlike natural stone, laminate, or solid surface (made of mineral dust and resins), tile offers endless creative poss...
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What's the Difference? Wood vs. Vinyl Fence
The iconic white picket fence symbolic of the American dream? It was surely made of wood. Yet wood fences also come i...
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What's the Difference? Vinyl vs. Engineered Wood Siding on Sheds
Sheds perform a number of functions, from storing tools and lawn equipment to serving as a child's playhouse. Whateve...
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What's the Difference? MDF vs. Plywood
While it’s hard to match the natural beauty of solid wood, it’s an undeniably pricey option. Fortunately, for many pr...
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What's the Difference? Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways
If you’ve had enough of the ruts, cracks, and stains of your current driveway and are considering installing a new on...
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18 Types of Roof Shingles
The roofing system is one of the most important structural features of a house. A layer of roof shingles on top of th...
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What's the Difference? Quartz vs. Quartzite
Quartz and quartzite, two high-end countertop materials derived from quartz, are so often confused that even retailer...
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What's the Difference? Vinyl vs. Aluminum Windows
Homeowners who are considering replacement windows have more choices in materials, finishes, and styles today than ev...
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4 Reasons Homeowners Choose Tile Roofs
An exotic sense of romance is associated with tile roofs, which commonly appear on Southwest-style and Mediterranean-...
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What's the Difference? Plywood vs. OSB
Though building codes treat both materials equally as "structural panels," plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) ar...
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5 Little-Known Advantages of Linoleum Flooring
Think linoleum and vinyl flooring are one and the same? Think again. While many people mistakenly call vinyl tile ‘li...
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What's the Difference? Granite vs. Quartz
If you’re looking to remodel your kitchen with new countertops—either to boost the beauty of the space or the resale ...
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How To: Cut Plastic
There’s little debate over the proper methods to cut wood. However, cutting plastic—particularly acrylic and polycarb...
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What Tools Do You Need for PEX Plumbing Projects?
Homeowners rarely do their own plumbing, right? Wrong. Nowadays, intrepid do-it-yourselfers rely on their own skills ...
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16 New Reasons to Love Subway Tile
Subway tile made its debut in the beginning of the 20th century, in the train stations of the New York City subway system. Since then, it has become a design stap...
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How To: Shop for PEX Tubing
This article has been brought to you by SupplyHouse. com. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. For much ...
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All You Need to Know About Stucco Homes
Stucco siding, a type of hand-troweled masonry plaster consisting of cement, water, and sand, is a definitive feature...
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All You Need to Know About Crown Molding
It’s the crowning glory of interior design: stylish overhead molding that adds architectural character while producin...
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All You Need to Know About Quartz Countertops
Beautiful, durable, easy-care quartz is among the most popular countertop materials available—but it is pricey. If yo...
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Walk This Way: Expert Advice on 3 Top Options in Flooring
Floors are the unsung heroes of our homes, at once establishing the look of a space even while taking a beating under...
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Bob Vila Radio: Stainless vs. Galvanized Steel
Have you ever wondered which holds up better against the elements, stainless or galvanized steel? Well, that depends ...
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The Many Faces of Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood flooring has made great strides in the last two decades, providing homeowners with options in affordable, stylish, and easy-install wood flooring ...
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The Appeal of Bamboo Flooring
Floors are an essential and important element in an interior design scheme. Small wonder, then, that the eye-catching...
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Planning Guide: Driveways
Why do we drive on the parkway and park on the driveway? That’s just one of life’s little mysteries, but there’s no m...
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13 Things All DIYers Should Know About Plywood
A manmade material prized for its great versatility, plywood appears in elements of the home as varied as flooring, w...
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How To: Paint Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding first became popular in the wake of World War II, when this metal, which had been so crucial to the w...
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Stone Veneer 101
The pharaohs capitalized on the beauty and strength of stone, overseeing the construction of architectural gems whose...
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How To: Install a Wood Block Floor
 For a very unusual floor finish, you might want to try wood blocks.  Lay out your floor the way you would any cerami...
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10 Trendy Ways to Use Glass Block in Your Home Design
From plain to pristal, glass block injects surprising style into interiors and exteriors alike. Check out these 10 glass block blockbusters.
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Bob Vila's Guide to Kitchen Countertops
Kitchen makeovers are among the most popular of home improvements. They can be costly—a mid-range minor kitchen remod...
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How To: Replace Damaged Tile
 Here's a way to replace damaged ceramic tile.  Remove the grout with a grout saw. Crack the tile with a hammer and c...
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Bob Vila's Guide to Roofing
Whether you are building a new house or renovating your current home, the roof will be one of the most important choi...
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Bob Vila's Guide to Exterior Siding
The exterior of your home faces a ceaseless barrage of threats from the hot sun, strong winds, precipitation in all i...
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How To: Repoint Brick Walls
Brick houses are hard to damage. Anyone familiar with The Three Little Pigs knows that. Inevitably, however, there co...
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Considering a Wood Deck? It's Not Just About Good Looks
There are many wood species that can be used for outdoor decks, but not all offer the same benefits and maintenance r...
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Buyer's Guide: Laminate Countertops
When you’re remodeling a kitchen on a budget, laminate is the best affordable option for countertops. Nowadays this t...
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A Beginner's Guide to Engineered Stone Countertops
Many Americans nowadays care about making eco-friendly choices. And when it comes to countertops, engineered stone is...
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Metal Roofs 101
The metal roofing industry has taken a page from vinyl flooring manufacturers. They’ve started with a 'plain Jane' ma...
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Buyer's Guide: Granite Countertops
Granite. It’s the most popular natural countertop surface for kitchens and baths in America. And for good reason—it’s...
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Kitchen Countertops 101
Consumers have a great deal of choice when it comes to kitchen countertops. There are options available from moderate...
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All You Need to Know About Engineered Siding Products
Whether it's called SmartSide, Catawba, or TruWood, engineered wood siding products all claim to have a technological...
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Types of Wood Siding: Your Guide to 5 Popular Home Cladding Options
Wood is a perennial favorite choice for siding options throughout the United States and Canada. Whether it is vertica...
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The Beauty of Reclaimed Lumber
Reclaimed LumberGorgeous rediscovered and recovered woods are being offered by fine mills and merchants throughout th...
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Ceramic Coatings for Increased Insulation
Ceramic coating has been around for almost 20 years and is highly effective in preventing unnecessary heat loss or ga...
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Blown-In Insulation vs. Spray-In Foam Insulation
Blown-In InsulationBlown-in insulation products are competing to bring improved performance per square inch and the l...
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Buying Home Building Materials
If your designer has specified all the fixtures, appliances, and home building materials needed for the job, you may ...
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Stucco 101
Animal hooves and horns. Wheat paste. Urine. Beeswax. Rye whiskey.  No, these aren't the makings of a potent witches'...
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Pea Gravel Brings Beauty to Any Patio
Outdoor spaces add value, not only for resale, but in lifestyle terms as well. If you're in the process of designing ...
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Composite Decking 101
For what is meant to be a relaxing outdoor refuge, a deck can sure be a lot of work. Sanding, power-washing, refinish...
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Vinyl Siding 101
Sometimes you’ve got to hand it to prehistoric man. Not because he discovered fire, and not because he invented the w...
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Roofing Roundup: 7 of Today's Most Popular Choices
Whether you are replacing an old roof—or building a new home from the ground up—you'll want to check out these seven popular roofing choices.
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Backyard Decks Go Green with Redwood Construction
Contrary to popular belief, redwood can be a very environmentally-friendly building material especially when compared...
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Fiber Cement Siding 101: What to Know About Cost, Maintenance, and More
While it’s been around for years, there are several reasons that fiber cement siding is becoming more and more popula...
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Trending Now: Green Roofs
As you plan landscaping for your yard, consider the potential of bringing it to the roof. The benefits of reduced runoff, improved insulation and longevity may b...
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Green and Blue: Denim Is Eco-Friendly Insulation
Next time you pull on a pair of jeans, consider this: You can use denim to keep your house cool in the summer and war...
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Which PEX Is Best? Choosing the Right Type of Tubing for Any Job
This article has been brought to you by SupplyHouse. com. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Polyethyl...
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10 Reasons to Love Bamboo Floors
Bamboo flooring has won fans both for its look and performance, not to mention its environmental sustainability.
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The Great Pretenders: All You Need to Know About Composite Shakes and Slates
Durable composite roof shingles arguably improve upon the traditional slate and wood shake shingles they are engineered to mimic.
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Composite Roof Shingles 101
Coming up with alternatives for traditional shingle materials has proved a steep and slippery slope for a surprising ...
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How to Clean Concrete Floors and Driveways
The first thing to know about cleaning concrete? You don’t need to go easy on it. After all, it’s one of the most dur...
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Old Wood Flooring: Replace or Refinish?
Recently my wife and I moved into a co-op. It’s kind of like a condo but with a few additional restrictions about wha...
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Superior Insulation for Less
You have the desire, the energy, and the skills to beef up the insulation around your house, but the cost of material...
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Trending Now: Cork Flooring
Sustainable, versatile cork floor options abound for today's eco- and design-conscious homeowner.
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Debunking 5 Metal Roof Myths
Learn the truth about five common misconceptions that involve metal roofing.
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Trending Now: Metal Roofs
Not just for barns or cabins any longer, today's metal roofs are enjoying renewed popularity. Here are ten stylish reasons why.
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12 Top Names in Engineered Stone
Get to know the industry leaders in kitchen, bar, and bath surfaces before you get started on your renovation.
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Eco-Friendly Flooring: 5 Ways to Go Green from the Bottom Up
60% to 70% of the homes in the U. S. contain carpeting made from nylon, polyester, or vinyl—materials dependent on no...
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Patio Pavers 101
Pavers are a versatile, DIY-friendly, landscaping material that can be used for laying paths, steps, driveways, pool ...
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Kitchen Flooring: 8 Popular Choices
Design, color, and surface are important considerations, but don't overlook comfort, durability and easy care—particularly in kitchen flooring.
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Kitchen Countertops: 10 Popular Options Today
The choices are many, but which kitchen countertop is the best for you? Find out here.
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Asphalt Shingles 101
Economical to produce, relatively easy to install and widely available, asphalt shingles are today’s most popular roo...
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Asphalt Shingles: A Showcase of Roofing Styles, Colors and Options
Asphalt shingles are one of the best values you can buy with regard to roofing materials for your home. They are simple to install, and their prices are reasonabl...
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Planning for Soil Conditions and Setting the Footings
Bob introduces homeowner Howard Brickman. Steve Ivas, an environmental engineer, describes the area wetlands, which must be accommodated. Innovative building tech...
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Putting in a New Fireplace, Painting the Interior, and Installing Doors and Floors
The walls in the new addition are just about ready for paint. The new fireplace, trimmed with fieldstone, will make this new in-law suite very cozy. Interior door...
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Constructing the Porch and Reviewing the Mechanical Systems
A big farmer's porch will run the whole width of the house. Bob discusses the boiler, which will heat the domestic hot water, radiant floor heating, and hydro-air...
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Installing Fiber-Cement Siding and Cellular PVC Trim
While the house is being dried out, fiber-cement siding is put in place, as well as a cellular PVC trim that has the look of wood boards without any of the hassles.
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Installing Galvalume Metal Roof and Solar Panels
Work is being done on the roof—laying Deck-Armor and installing metal roofing and photovoltaic panels. Bob talks with Jeff Wolf from GroSolar about the photovolta...
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Installing the New Garage Doors
Bob talks with Robert Rainey of PJ Overhead Door as the new and improved garage door panels and tracks are installed on the Norwell home.
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Installing Wood Shingle Siding
Bob works with contractor Bob Ryley and carpenter Chris Clark installing new wood-shingle siding.
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Building a Redwood Deck and a Redwood-and-Cedar Fence
Bob helps carpenter Bob Ryley build a redwood deck. Carpenter Danny Ruffini installs a custom-made redwood-and-cedar fence on the perimeter.
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Installing Copper-Lined Gutters
Carpenters Bob Ryley and Danny Ruffini and copper-work specialist Fred Mitchell install custom fabricated copper-lined wood gutters on Bob's home.
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Building a Metal Stud Wall in the Basement
Bob meets carpenter Danny Ruffini to see how a metal stud wall is built in the basement.
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Installing Stud Lumber Partitioning for the Bathroom
Bob reviews plans for the kitchen remodeling and visits the second floor, where one of the bedrooms has been removed to accommodate his and her bathrooms. He help...
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Installing Restored Brass Door Hardware and Faux Finishing the Mantelpiece
Bob and carpenter Bob Ryley install the restored door hardware, and artist Kim Sweet faux finishes the mantle in the den, taking as inspiration a piece of Bob’s f...
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Building a Privacy Fence and Touring the Completed Kitchen
Bob reviews the progress of his western red cedar custom fence, designed to provide privacy and block the carport from the neighbors’ view.
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Installing a Decorative Inlaid Vinyl Floor and Reviewing the Workshop Layout
The generously sized workshop has a functional layout and a unique vinyl floor designed by architect Gregory Rochlin.
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Installing Paneling in the Master Bedroom Closet
Bob joins carpenter David Ives, who is installing the paneling in the master bedroom closet, and then checks in on artist Kim’s faux finishing work on the walls.
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Installing a Soapstone Kitchen Counter
Bob discusses installation and care of the new kitchen soapstone countertop and tours the kitchen, showing the cabinetry, storage, future mudroom, and small offic...
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Installing Bluestone Pavers on the Terrace
Bob meets with Mark Marini of Schumacher Landscaping to discuss the installation of the bluestone pavers on the lower terrace.
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Reviewing the Layout of Bob’s Walk-in Closet
Bob meets with California Closets to review plans for his walk-in closet and checks out the careful herringbone floor installation in the library that is nearly c...
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Installing a Herringbone-Patterned Floor
Bob quickly reviews the completed work in the kitchen, and then oversees the installation of a herringbone-patterned floor in the den, which will essentially func...
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Installing Wall Paneling in the Entranceway and Visiting the Completed Tiled Shower
Inspired by designs found in the Isaac Bell historic house, paneling is installed on Bob’s entrance door to the living room. Bob looks at the completed tiled show...
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Completing the Basement Finishing System and Repairing the Basement Stairs
Bob talks with Owens Corning experts about the basement finishing system and discusses staircase repairs.
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Fixing Squeaky Floors
Bob talks with a floor expert about how to fix squeaky floors.
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Reworking the Existing Plumbing and Replacing Brass Water Pipes with PEX Tubing
Bob reviews the work done on the existing plumbing in the basement and the replacement of obsolete brass water pipes.
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Painting a Stucco and Wood Exterior
Exterior stucco walls and wood trim are painted, and repaired shingles are stained.
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Hardscaping, Selecting Plants, Installing Artificial Grass in the Backyard, and Preventing Weed Growth
Backyard landscaping has progressed with the completion of stone work, new plantings, weed control, and the installation of artificial grass.
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Replacing the Gutters, Trimming a Tree, and Creating a Low-Maintenance Front Yard
Old gutters are replaced and external landscaping continues with the trimming of a tree, installing a front garden, and creating steps from recycled granite.
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Basement Remodeling Update and Installing Subfloor to Prevent Water Damage
Bob discusses the installation of a plastic subfloor to prevent water damage and the selection of a basement dehumidifier.
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Cutting an Exterior Door to Fit
An energy-efficient door is cut down in size to replace the small exterior door leading to the new basement mud room.
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Installing a Fence on a Sloped Site
Bob talks with a fencing expert about installing a white-cedar fence in sloped areas at the Melrose house.
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Building a Retaining Wall, Front Steps, and Backyard Patio With Stone
Stone workers install a granite retaining wall, replace a front walkway, and build a backyard patio.
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Building a Template for a Kitchen Countertop
Scott Lawyer makes a template for a Corian kitchen countertop and installs the sink section, Andrea Johnson discuss Corian colors.
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Builder-Grade Cabinets in the Kitchen
Bob meets with Jack Ballantine to discuss and install Maple kitchen cabinets.
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Laying Porcelain Oxidized-Look Tiles
Bob and Anthony Lopez install porcelain tiles for a decorative look.
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Impact-Resistant Windows and PGT Factory Tour
Bob visits PGT Industries to learn what it takes to make impact-resistant windows.
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Custom Bamboo Garden
Kalo joins Bob to create a Zen bamboo garden.
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Installing Natural Bamboo Sliding Panel Shades
Cindy O'Reilly is on site with Bob to install the natural bamboo, sliding-panel shades.
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Plumbing Fittings and Faucets, Energy Star, Whole-House Surge Protection
Bob works with Bob and Dan Gerry to install kitchen sink fixtures. Then the ceiling fan is put in and a Square D All House Surge Arrester is installed.
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Installing Hardwood Floors over Concrete
Jesse Bartuesek joins Bob for the installation of Brazilian Walnut floors
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Removable Swimming Pool Safety Fencing
Bill Jasper joins Bob for the installation of a removable Baby Barrier pool fence.
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Swimming Pool Filtration, Sanitation, and Lighting
Bob watches as a pool cage is constructed. It is rated to withstand a wind load of 130 miles per hour
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Interior Sandblasting and Installing the Plywood Subfloor
Interior beams, walls, and ceilings have been sandblasted, exposing raw surfaces that will become an integral part of the interior design. Reggie Ray of Georgia-P...
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Metal Stud Framing
Dino Koukoudakis of Dino's Construction prefers using metal studs, because of their light weight and resistance to warping. Easy to cut and fasten, metal studs to...
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Tour of Luxury Loft Space and Brick Facade History and Restoration
Bob tours the multi-story luxury loft space of developer and artist Jane Walentas. Next, Bob and his son, Chris, consult with Cas Stachelberg about the history, a...
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Safety Railing Installation
An ironworker secures the rooftop deck's safety railing to its footings. Then, Bob meets with the window installer who is putting frosted thermal glass walls on t...
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Privacy Glass Installation
Bob looks on as the window installer puts in the glass walls for the head house (the structure surrounding the stares that lead up from the penthouse).
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Installing Hardwood Flooring
Bob watches as flooring specialists put in red rosin paper as underlayment before installing Ash hardwood floors in the penthouse apartment.
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Installing a Marble Tile Floor
Bob talks to Nick Tagios, of Tagios Tile and Marble, who's laying down the marble tile bathroom floor using a traditional installation technique.
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Cherry Cabinet Installation
Gam Danziger from Craftline Cabinets reviews the assembly of the contemporary Cherry kitchen cabinets being installed in the penthouse apartment.
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Restoration of the Brooklyn Academy of Music
Karen Brooks Hopkins, president of the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), gives Bob a peek at the restoration of the main building.
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Marble Kitchen Countertop Installation
Bob consults with the project's stone and tile specialist, who explains the process of attaching the Pietra Cardosa countertops to the Cherry Craftline island cab...
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Installing a Mahogany Windowsill
Bob puts in a Mahogany windowsill that's been precut with a cleat and bevel to make the installation easier. He also helps install Poplar floor molding and observ...
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Antique-Look Bathroom Sink, Soaking Tub, and Quartz Tile Installation
Bob watches over the installation of a few bathroom fixtures, including a custom vanity countertop and undermount sinks from Toto USA, as well as an acrylic soaki...
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Building the Roof Deck With Ipe
Bob watches the ongoing installation of the roof deck, which is being built woth a sustainable tropical hardwood decking called Ipe.
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Finishing the Façade & Touring the Completed Apartments
Bob gets a final status update on the restoration of the façade, as the ground-floor commercial storefront undergoes construction and the bluestone steps are laid...
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Reviewing the Penthouse Living Area & Kitchen
Bob surveys the interior decorating of the penthouse apartment, as well as the top-quality materials and appliances in the kitchen. Also, Bob learns about the dif...
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Installing Cork Floors
Bob confronts the remodeling challenge of choosing a flooring material that will deaden sound without sacrificing the sleek, clean look of tile or stone. So contr...
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Crafting Custom Countertops
Bob assists Princeton Custom Cabinetry as the crew crafts custom countertops on-site for the Miami Beach condo remodel.
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Touring a Pierce Allen-Designed Apartment
Bob and interior decorator DD Allen visit a Miami apartment designed by Pierce Allen.
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Advantages of a Pre-cast Foundation System
Chris Vila discusses the benefits of a factory-built foundation system with Mel Zimmerman of Superior Walls.
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Kitchen Cabinet Styling and Installation
Bob meets with Dave Boniello from Simplex Industries to discuss the custom modular kitchen being built and installed at the factory.
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Installing Quartz Kitchen Countertops
Bob looks on as workers instal a solid-surface countertop called Zodiaq (from Dupont), which is made of natural silica, quartz, and polymer.
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Cultured Stone and Façade
Bob talks with Mark Murphy (Owens-Corning) about a new man-made stone product for the exterior of the modular home.
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Installing the Metal Roof
Kevin Corcoran from Englert Roofing Systems explains to Bob the benefits of the Englert environmentally-friendly maintenance-free metal roofing product.
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Metal Roof Installation Using Crimping
Jeff Smith from Al Smith Gutters demonstrates the installation of a modern metal roof panel.
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Reviewing the Modular Home's Exterior
Bob surveys the modular home project in the Berkshire Hills of Western Massachusetts, paying special attention to the products used on the exterior of the house.
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Installing a Sound-Attenuating Coffered Wood Ceiling
Bob meets with Joe Adams and Ralph McGrath in the media room of Elm Court. Adams and McGrath are installing a sound-attenuating grid-ceiling system from Owens-Cor...
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Installing Carriage-Style Garage Doors
Dave Colette from Doorworks talks Bob through the installation of the garage doors.
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Installing a Central Vacuum System
Ron Boffoli from Cape Cod Vacuum Supply installs the components for a central vacuum system.
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Installation of Laminated Engineered Wood Floor System
Work continues at the sister project house where a new laminated floor system is being installed.
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Installing Marble Kitchen Countertops
Evan Zgonis and the crew form Olympia Marble and Granite are installing the marble countertops in the kitchen.
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Lyman Estate Tour
Interior Designer Leslie Curtis takes Bob on a tour of the Lyman Estate in Waltham, MA.
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Finishing a Wood Floor
Howard Brickman has begun sanding the old growth Eastern white pine floor in the bedroom of the modern Colonial.
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Tour of the McLellan House in Portland, ME
Bob visits the McLellan House in Portland, ME, part of the Portland Museum of Art.
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Choosing a Historically Appropriate Door and Creating the Jambs and Hanging a Door
Bob shows the Woodport medium-density fiberboard doors selected for the Manhattan Brownstone then works with the crew from Thorough Construction as they prepare t...
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Steel Bulkhead, Cedar Siding and Metal Flashing, and Standing Seam Steel Roof Installation
In a progress report, Ted Riley shows Bob the pre-primed red cedar siding , the heavy-duty metal Bilco bulkhead installation, and the Quechee home's standing seam...
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Redwood Deck Installation and Tour of Vermont Organic Farm
Bob talks with Ron Holen from Georgia-Pacific as the finishing touches are completed on the redwood front porch deck. Bob also visits with farmers at Cedar Mounta...
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Constructing Tapered Porch Colums With Preprimed Engineered Lumber
Bob Ryley is on site to help carpenter Pat Cloutier construct tapered columns on the front porch.
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Installing Tapered Columns
Bob observes as carpenter Pat Cloutier finishes off installing the tapered columns on the front porch.
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Hard Maple Flooring Installation
Bob checks out Shaw's Chateau wood flooring, which contractor David LaFosse and his crew are about to install in the great room.
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Installing Smartside Engineered Wood Siding
Bob meets Lance Olson of Louisana Pacific as LP's Smartside lap siding is installed on a Mashpee house.
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Building the Fireplace
Bob talks with general contractor Ted Riley about the fireplace construction.
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Retaining Wall Construction
Bob meets up with landscape mason Hector Santos, who is building a dried-laid stone retaining wall.
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Discussing the Bellawood Maple Hardwood Floor
Tom Sullivan of Bellawood is in one of the four Mashpee affordable homes where they have donated hardwood flooring for the living room, dining room, and kitchen o...
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Splitting Granite for the Retaining Wall
The mason on-site installing a retaining wall, Hector, shows Bob how to split a piece of granite that is too large and heavy to use as is.
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Touring the Calvin Coolidge House and the Burtch-Udall House
Bob meets University of Vermont professor Tom Visser in Plymouth Notch to visit the birthplace of President Calvin Coolidge. They then go to see the Burtch-Udall ...
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Reviewing the Bathroom Tile and Fixtures
Bob looks at the finished wall tile from Shaw in a second-floor bathroom at the Vermont farmhouse project site.
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Restoring the Brownstone Facade and Working on the Wrought Iron
Bob focuses on the exterior of the Manhattan Brownstone, where paint has built up over the last 100 years and now obscures the details and carvings on the facade.
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Custom Kitchen Cabinets and Drawers
Thomas Bump of Fine Custom Cabinetry shows Bob the Maple and hardwood panel cabinets that were built specifically for the Brownstone kitchen.
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Installing Permex Shutters, Viewing the Open Floor Plan, and Meeting the Affordable Home Buyers
Bob meets general contractor Wes Lohr at the Colonial-style affordable home in Mashpee, Massachusetts.
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Facade Details and Windows and the Interior's Finished Cornice Molding, Flooring, and Fireplace
Bob is outside the Manhattan Brownstone to show off the refurbished facade of the building and then goes inside to show us the completed living room of the floor-...
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Reviewing Satellite Dish Features and the Master Bedroom
Bob experiences the Panasonic Replay TV with the show-stopper feature and he tours the master bedroom suite, admiring the space, scope, and the view.
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Tour of Medford, MA
Bob introduces Medford, MA, a city five miles north of Boston. Settled in 1630, Medford once flourished with industry, including the shipbuilding building. Today,...
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Restructuring the First Floor and Kitchen Design
General contractor Charlie Tomaszewski completes the restructuring of the kitchen/family room, having replaced a rabbit warren of rooms with a 35-foot wide-open s...
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First Floor Framing and Barn Renovation/Demolition
Bob tours the first floor of the house, then turns his attention to the family room addition. Demolition has taken place in the barn, where a concrete floor has r...
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Interior Framing and Bathtub Installation
Much of the space on the first floor has been opened up to give the house a 21st-century lifestyle feel. The framing of the new addition is ongoing, and the Kohle...
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Installing French Doors
Bob talks with Ray Adam (from Pella Windows) about the new French doors to be installed in the library. It's an active/inactive door with all hardware. The most i...
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Installing Architectural Shingles and Skylight
A representative from Owens Corning tells Bob about the architectural shingles that have been selected to replace the old roofing material. And Velux VSE skylight...
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Skylight and Gable Window Installation
Bob goes up to the attic of the Victorian project house, where an ODL tubular skylight is being installed. Also, Bob looks back at the installation of windows on ...
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Installing Standing-Seam Copper Roofing
Bob Fulmer (from Harraseeket Restoration, Inc.) joins Bob on the roof of the breezeway to install a double-lock standing seam copper roof.
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Installing Copper Gutters
Bob watches as gutters are installed along the copper-roofed breezeway.
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Blowing In Cellulose Insulation
Bob joins Joe Sheridan (from Energy Guard) to learn more about the US Greenfiber Cocoon cellulose insulation being used in the barn.
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Blown-In Insulation
Bob joins insulation contractor Joe Sheridan to witness the process of blowing insulation in behind original plaster walls.
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Trellis and Lattice Fencing & Workshop Tour
Fred Goode (from Brattle Works) joins Bob to view the trellis and lattice fencing, and Bob visits the Brattle Works workshop to see how the fencing is manufactured.
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Building the Backyard Deck
Bob observes as general contractor Charlie Tomaszewski finishes up the picture framing for the mahogany deck.
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Replacing the Barn Door
Workers replace the old barn doors with an oversized Ponderosa Pine door (from KML Industries in Canada).
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Installing Wood Laminate Flooring
Fred Giuggio (from QuickStep) and his crew are busy installing wood laminate flooring in the barn of the Victorian restoration project house.
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Glass Block Floor Panel System
Mary Lou Pace (from Circle Redmont) joins Bob to watch the installation of the monolithic glass block floor panel system custom-manufactured for this project.
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Installing the White Oak Flooring
Bob and Tim Colgan (from Kahrs) discuss the white oak flooring being installed in the bedroom.
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Installing the Kitchen Cabinets
Mark Van Sickle (from Merillat) installs the hardware on the cabinets destined for the kitchen in the Victorian restoration project house.
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Discussing Silestone Countertops and Countertop Templating
Dick Deshant (from Counter Intelligence) tells Bob about the new Silestone countertops. And while Brece Rupolt (from Northern Marble & Granite) demonstrates the t...
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Tour of the Home's Exterior, Lighting Design, and Completed Kitchen
Bob tours the exterior of the completed Victorian restoration project house, remarking on the color scheme, breezeway, and artist's studio. Inside the house, Bob ...
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Laying Precast Foundation System and Discussing Engineered Wood
Carpenter Bob Ryley meets with Jim Whiteside, construction manager with Habitat for Humanity, and Dennis Hodgrin of APA.
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Installing the Engineered Wood Flooring System
The crew is using a crane to install the engineered wood flooring system.
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Manufacturing the Engineered Wood Floor Joists
Bob visits the Willamette I-Joist Mill in Woodburn, OR, before returning to Yonkers where the crew is assembling the second floor walls with structural insulated ...
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Setting the Glulam Ridge Beam and Structural Insulated Roof Panels
Workers set the glulam for the roof ridge and, assisted by a crane, put down the roof panel system.
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Engineered Wood Exterior Trim and Porch Ceiling
Bob meets with Dave Probst (from Louisiana Pacific) to learn about LP's Smart System Products and Lisa Francis (from the Engineered Wood Association) joins to wat...
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Manufacturing MDO Plywood
Bob visits the Simpson Plywood plant in Shelton, WA, where Jim Langenberg shows Bob how plywood, especially MDO, is made.
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Plastering the Walls
Tim Smyth, the plastering contractor, provides a drywall update and offers a few tips on quality, speedy installation.
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Helicopter Tour of Reforestation Efforts on Mount St. Helens
Bob takes a helicopter tour of the major reforestation efforts underway on Mount St. Helens.
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Pergo Flooring Installation
Carpenter Bob Ryley joins Steve Yates (from Pergo) to learn installation tips for, and the features of, Pergo wood laminate flooring and installation tips.
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Tour of the Perstop Flooring Factory
Bob visits the Perstop Flooring Factory to see how Pergo, wood laminate flooring, is made.
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Corian Kitchen Countertop Installation and Energy Star Appliances
Carpenter Bob Ryley meets Steve Wilkinson in the kitchen to install the Corian countertops, and Bob talks with Ren Anderson (from the National Renewable Energy La...
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Engineered Wood Floor Joist System
Bob discusses the advantages of engineered wood flooring with Steve Barth (from Willamette Industries).
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Installing the Tongue-and-Groove Plywood Subfloor System
Bob talks with carpenter Bob Ryley and general contractor Kevin Kalman, as they lay down the subflooring.
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Discussing the Building Materials and Wall Layout
Bob discusses the wall layout with carpenter Bob Ryley and, with Bryan Readling (from the Engineered Wood Association), the talk surrounds the use of laminated ve...
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Cutting and Laying Roof Rafters for the Vaulted Roof
Bob helps lay rafters and the ridge pole for the vaulted roof of the Lifespan House.
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Installing the Fireplace Throat and Flue
Masons install the throat and flue for the Rumford fireplace in the Lifespan House.
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Metal Roofing Installation
Bob meets with the president of the Metal Roofing Alliance, who demonstrates the process of installing metal roofing panels.
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Installing Cedar Trim and Clapboard Siding
Work has begun on the exterior finish. Contractors are installing the cedar trim, casing, and grounds, and continue on to begin installing the clapboard siding.
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Installing Custom Garage Doors
Bob gets up to speed on the progress made, before joining Kent Forsland (from Designer Doors) to discuss the new custom-made, cedar-faced garage doors, which have...
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Laying Plywood for the Front Porch Ceiling
General contractor Kevin Kalman and carpenter Bob Ryley lay plywood to the soffit of the front porch ceiling.
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Limestone Tile Installation
Bob talks with contractor Tim Galvin, who is installing limestone tile over a heavy bed of mortar.
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Installing a Granite Vanity Top
Bob looks over the shoulders of Rick and Brian (from Star Granite Interiors), as they install a granite vanity top in the first-floor bathroom.
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Cherry Kitchen Cabinet Installation
Bob observes, and assists with, the installation of Cherry cabinets, a Northland refrigerator, and a wine storage system.
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Installing a Reclaimed Heart Pine Floor
Carpenter Bob Ryley and contractor Grady Garrett install a reclaimed Yellow Pine hardwood floor.
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Tour of Virginia House
Bob tours Virginia House, which was once an English abbey. In the 1920s, it was shipped to Richmond stone by stone.
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Baseboard Molding Installation
Bob Ryley installs replica baseboard molding inside a room of the Virginia governor's mansion, which is under restoration.
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Faux-Finishing the Doors
Bob looks at the old doors, then meets with local artist Elaine Havaland, who demonstrates a faux-finishing technique.
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Aluminum Replacement Window Installation
Carpenter Bob Ryley and Bob George (from New England Window) install a bronze aluminum replacement window in an arched-top masonry wall.
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Fire Codes and Installing Fireproofing Material
Bob and carpenter Bob Ryley review the interior construction, which must satisfy stringent fire codes.
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Pergo Floor Installation
Joel Trepitti (from Pergo) talks Bob through the installation of the wood laminate flooring.
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Marble Countertop Installation
Bob checks in with Greg Rockland, the plumber installing a marble countertop in the loft conversion unit.
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Fabricating Stainless Steel Kitchen Countertops
Bob visits a stainless steel fabrication shop to see how the kitchen counters for the loft project unit are made.
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Installing the Stainless Steel Kitchen Countertops
Bob observes Bob Watts weld together the stainless steel kitchen countertops on-site.
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Butcher Block Installation and Care
Bob meets with Joel Scanlon, who installs legs on a butcher block top and explains how to care for the wood surface.
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Installing a Mirror and Glasswork
Bob observes Bill Brody (from Classic Glass) installing a large mirror, a glass shelf, and a glass partition wall.
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Discussing the Hallway Walls
Bob highlights the long curved wall in the loft's hallway. The wall provides a great deal of storage, and serves as a divider between the private and public space...
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Mounting Plantation Shutters
Carpenter Bob Ryley installs plantation shutters against a bedroom wall.
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Construction of the Roof Truss System
Bob explains the engineering and construction of the truss system supporting the roof of the accessible home.
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Asphalt Roof Shingles Installation
Roofing contractor Jack Viera demonstrates installing three-tab asphalt roof shingles.
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Plumbing With PVC Piping
Bob meets with plumbing contractor, who demonstrates how all the waste lines come together in a residence and how they exit the house.
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Building a Wooden Corner Bracket, Part 2
Carpenter Bob Ryley continues to fashion a wooden bracket for the exterior of the accessible home.
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Installing Steel Stair Stringers for the Bulkhead
Installer Juan Gonsalves shows Bob how to install steel stair stringers.
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Installation of the Buderus High Efficiency Boiler
Bob talks with factory representative Chris Hoff and heating contractor Peter Lydon during the installation of a Buderus high-efficiency boiler.
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Discussing the Northern White Cedar Picket Fence
A Northern White Cedar picket fence is discussed and installed.
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House One: Tour of a Gothic Carpenter-Style Home
The first Elmwood project concerns remodeling a Gothic Carpenter-style home, built in 1871.
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Flooring, Plumbing, and Plastering
The old flooring in the Gothic Carpenter-style home in Elmwood has been removed. Bob outlines the process of installing the new floor and discusses the new suppor...
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Installing a Reclaimed Pine Floor
Bob Riley and Howard Brickman install a reclaimed hard pine floor. The orientation of the boards is explained, and the moisture content of the subfloor is checked...
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Installing a Granite Countertop and Kitchen Cabinets
Bob talks with contractors Jim Azerroe and Mike Burk. Jim is installing a granite kitchen countertop, while Mike puts in the new cabinets and drawers.
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Mahogany Deck and Kitchen Appliances
Carpenter Bob Ryley works on the mahogany deck, while new kitchen appliances are installed and the lighting and cabinets undergo examination.
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Installing a Gas Fireplace and Refinishing the Hardwood Floor
Joe Murphy installs a direct vent gas-driven fireplace, and Howard Brickman refinishes the hardwood floor.
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Final Tour of the Completed Second Home in the Project
The second home in the Elmwood project, a Colonial Revival, is complete, after the second-floor bathroom gets a new vanity, new doors for the laundry closet, and ...
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Laying Down the Mahogany Deck and Final Tour of Third House
The mahogany roof deck is complete, with the hot tub sturdily supported. Bob takes a final tour of the residence, the third Elmwood project house.
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Porch Restoration: Custom Reproduction Moldings and Chatsworth's Columns
Porch restoration continues on the fifth Elmwood project house, with Forester Moulding and Lumber re-milling many porch elements.
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Fighting Carpenter Ants and Repairing the Porch
The restoration of the front porch continues with workers putting the decking down and replacing the old columns. In addition, anti-termite control stations are p...
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Discussing Cedar Shingle Siding
Homer Earl (from the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau) explains what makes a quality shingle. The group takes a look at Sikkens Cetol shingle stain products, and Bo...
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House Eight: Side Porch Renovation, Landscaping, and Home Inspection
The home's side entry will be restored using the original columns, which homeowner Jim Verity found in the basement. On the front porch, new support beams and rai...
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Landscaping, Front Column Installation, and Home Security System
Landscaping work continues, as the new security system is installed and the reproduction railing is going into place on the front porch.
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Finishing Touches on the Two Porches
Bob points out that the side porch is nearly complete and remarks on the landscaping, before he meets homeowner Jim Verity on the completed front porch.
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Restoring the Front Porch
The front porch is undergoing full restoration, due to excessive water and pest damage to the columns and other structural elements. Demolition begins and repair ...
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Weaving Cedar Shingles and Prepping Damaged Wood Trim for Painting
Front porch restoration continues with the roof being replaced and new red cedar shingles being applied on the porch wall. Bob demonstrates the shingle weaving pr...
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Painting Shingles and Shutters, Landscaping, and Hardscaping
Contractors put the finishing touches on the front porch by adding new Yellow Pine shutters and a coat of Sherwin Williams latex paint to the exterior.
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House Ten: Attic Conversion
Owners of the tenth Elmwood neighborhood project house, Peter Haraty and Brent Bachelder, want to create one large space on the attic level, a change requiring wa...
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House Eleven: Renovating Attic Space
Homeowner Don DeSantis is transforming the attic level into an exercise space. The floor structure is being shored up in order to hold the wieght of excercise equ...
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Installing a Granite Tub Surround, In-Floor Heat, and Fiber-Optic Lighting
A granite tub surround is installed, as well as an in-floor heating system and unique fiber optic lighting.
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Framing Begins on the Miami Home
As part of a Miami kitchen renovation, Bob frames a partition wall made to resemble a banana leaf. He also pours concrete to patch a floor.
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Installing Glass Blocks
Bob helps replace a traditional sliding glass window with glass blocks.
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Tour of Yuca Restaurant
Bob tours the heavy-duty, no-nonsense kitchen of Yuca, a Cuban-American restaurant in Miami.
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Installing Man-made Slate Roofing Shingles
Bob helps demonstrate the installation of man-made slate roof shingles.
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Installing Indian Slate Tiles on Back Porch and Pool Deck
Bob and contractor Cortney Lofton discuss the Indian slate tile being installed on the pool deck and back porch.
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Laying Redwood Decking
Bob confers with carpenter Cortney Lofton, as he lays the redwood decking for the back porch.
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Making Stained Glass Windows
Bob learns the process of creating stained glass windows. Designs begin on paper before they are traced onto glass using a light table. A variety of glass types a...
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Wood Floor Repair
Bob and homeowner Gavin repair and refinish a 75-year-old oak floor. Because the new patch floor panels have a different thickness from the original, a belt sande...
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Discussing the Zen Garden Design
Bob meets with Donald Young for a tour of the home's Zen garden. Donald discusses the plant choices and lighting requirements in a garden of this size. Slate tile...
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Home Foundation Inspection
Bob meets with the contractor to inspect the poured footings and discuss the pouring process. Next, Bob helps install the sill plate and explains the various type...
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Architectural Details and Framing
Bob reviews the framing for the new addition. Homeowner Linda points out the corner notches, which add architectural interest. And a large opening punctuates one ...
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Putting Up the Second Floor Exterior Wall
Bob assists the crew installing sidewall on the second floor of the addition.
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Shingle Siding
Bob joins carpenter Bob Ryley, who is putting sidewall shingles onto the exterior of the new addition.
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Framing the Deck and Laying the Deck Boards
Bob and carpenter Bob Ryley continue working on the backyard deck. Once they've finished theframing, they begin laying the deck boards.
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Marble and Venetian Glass Aggregate Bathroom Floor Tiles
Bob and Bob Ingram (from Rover Tile) discuss the tile that's going into the master bath and children's bathroom. The tile is a combination of marble chips, Veneti...
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Amtico Flooring Installation
Flooring specialist Mary Docker introduces Bob to Amtico. A flooring product from England, Amtico is vinyl that mimics the look of wood and marble. It's water-res...
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Slate Roofing
Bob meets with restoration contractor Richard Marks and roofer Joe Wells to go over the proper techniques for installing slate roofing.
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Prepping the Home's Exterior
Alongside restoration specialist Richard Marks at the Federal-style home in Charleston, Bob watches painter David Snyder scrape and sand old wood siding.
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Interior Paint Selection
Bob chats with painter Rick Snyder in the dining room of the Federal-style home, while Rick experiments with color on intricate wood detail.
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Installing the Rafters
The architect pays a visit to check on progress, while Bob and contractor Bob Ryley begin installing the Paralam rafters. Ryley goes into depth discussing these m...
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Greenhouse Glass Installation
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley install sloped glazing on a greenhouse with the help of Mark Santos.
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Bench Construction
The wood has arrived for the perimeter benches, so Bob and contractor Bob Ryley begin constructing the architect-designed benches for the greenhouse. The wood is ...
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Installing the Greenhouse Windows
Contractor Bob Ryley shows off the greenhouse's motorized windows. At the touch of a button, or via a thermostat, the windows open and close. Bob helps Ryley asse...
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Installing a Bluestone Floor
Bob discusses the bluestone floor being installed in the greenhouse.
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Installing the Decking and Joists
Bob helps contractor Bob Ryley install 4x10 douglas fir floor joists, and also put in 2 x 6 spruce tongue-and-groove decking on the second floor.
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Exterior Tour and Plumbing
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley tour the exterior of the cabin, whose exposed wood surfaces will pose some problems for the builders. The plumber installs a drain li...
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Installing Pine and Pergo Laminate Flooring
Contractor Bob Ryley installs tongue-and-groove yellow pine flooring, as Gary D'Lessio (from Pergo) installs high-pressure laminate flooring.
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Cellulose Insulation Installation
Contractor Rick Davenport demonstrates the installation of wet-spray cellulose insulation. Jets of water moisten the insulation as it leaves the blower hose nozzl...
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Installing the Cantera Stone Columns
The Malibu beach house gets a pair of Cantera stone columns in the entry foyer. The pieces are fit together and Bob learns what to odo when they don't come togeth...
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Malibu Master Bedroom Tour
Bob and interior decorator Robyn Peterson tour the master bedroom and bath. The 'antiqued' wood carpentry adds warmth to the bedroom, as does the use of unbleache...
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Termite Prevention and Pouring the Concrete Floor
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley join exterminator Dean Bailey (of Fowler and Sons) to discuss termite control in and around the garage. Also, concrete contractor Sha...
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Framing the Barn
Bob confers with Paul Pacella (from Maine Post and Beam of Cape Cod) about framing the barn. Eastern white pine is being used; this type of pine is a popular lumb...
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Lumber Mill Tour
Bob tours the Ralph A. Esty & Sons Lumber Corporation in Groveland, MA. Operations Manager Ken Monaco explains the process of aquiring and milling the lumber. The...
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Placing the Engineered Wood Glulam Roof Ridge Beam
Bob and Paul Pacella (of Maine Post and Beam) discuss the cutting and placement of the engineered wood glulam ridge beam for the garage.
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Discussing the Manufacture of Glulams
Bob visits the Willamette Industries glued laminated timber facilities in Eugene, OR to learn first-hand how glulams are manufactured.
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Tour of an Ainsworth Lumber Mill
Bob travels to Canada for a tour of the Ainsworth oriented strand board (OSB) mill, one of the most modern OSB factories in the world.
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Installing a Salvaged Door
Bob helps contractor Bob Ryley install a salvaged door on the side of the dream garage, which is undergoing construction.
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Working With Exterior Trim
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley create an overhang detail with eyebrow returns and cedar plywood siding.
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Plywood Testing Facilities Tour
Bob tours the American Plywood Association testing facilities with Tom Williamson, the Executive Vice President of Engineered Wood Systems. Tom explains the diffe...
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Installing Velux Skylights
Bob oversees the installation of a Velux skylight in a standing-seam metal-shingled roof.
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Standing-Seam Metal-Shingled Roof Installation
Bob looks on as the roofing crew installs a standing-seam metal-shingled roof.
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Installing a Lightning Rod
J & G Lightning Protection, Inc. installs a lightning rod system that will draw lightning toward the two copper rods, which perch on the garage roof. The copper p...
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Finishing the Interior and Exterior
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley install southern yellow pine plywood on the interior of the garage. On the exterior, Bob talks with Greg Binford about adding a stain...
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Staining the Interior
Bob helps painting contractor Milo Moran roll solid stain over the yellow pine plywood walls on the boat storage side of the garage. Though not often applied insi...
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Reviewing the Post-and-Beam Garage
Bob pays a final visit to the garage for a tour of the full building and a review of all the features installed. Along the way, he details the construction techni...
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Touring the Interior of Chateau-sur-Mer
Bob tours the lavish interior of Chateau-sur-Mer in Newport, RI. The entrance walls are painted canvas and the ceiling is adorned by a fresco. Hand-carved walnut ...
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Laying the Decking for the First Floor
Having reviewed their work on preparing the site, Bob and contractor Bob Ryley begin laying the first-floor decking by using glue and nails to attach the plywood ...
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Lyndhurst Mansion Tour
Bob tours Lyndhurst mansion, a testament to high living during the Victoria era in New York's Hudson River Valley. The 40-odd rooms include a Gothic dining room w...
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Installing Pella Doors and Windows
Bob and Tom Moran (from Pella) discuss the anatomy of the doors chosen for the Martha's Vineyard Victorian project, and contractor Bob Ryley demonstrates the proc...
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Adding a Door to a Wood-Paneled Wall
Bob reviews progress in the kitchen, which includes the installation of a pantry, and contractor Bob Ryley demonstrates how to build a door into a wood-paneled wa...
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Victorian House Landscaping
Landscape designer Ruth Foster visits the project site to explain her choice of plantings for the formal courtyard garden.
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Touring "Old Ironsides"
Bob meets with a project manager for the restoration of the U.S.S. Constitution, "Old Ironsides", dry-docked in Boston Harbor. They review the 21-inch-thick hull ...
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Pine Porch Ceiling
Contractor Larry Landers installs V-groove pine on the ceiling of the new front porch and demonstrates how to stagger and miter boards for an attractive, old-fash...
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Recycling a Hardwood Floor
Flooring contractor Leo Boudreau shows Bob how to recycle hardwood flooring. First, the floor must be salvaged. A pry bar is used to lift and remove the wood, pie...
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Constructing the Concrete Walkway
Bob and the contractor discuss the concrete walkway, with the contractor giving Bob tips on how to make concrete cure harder and have less cracks. Also discussed ...
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Replacing the Storm Windows
Bob helps carpenter Bob Ryley replace the storm windows on the Plymouth project house, and the newly designed bathroom needs tiles.
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Progress in the Kitchen
Work continues in the kitchen with the resurfacing of old counters. Tips on using contact cement are imparted.
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Vinyl Flooring Installation
Bob observes as workmen create a template that's used to cut vinyl sheet goods for an exact fit on the floor.
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Constructing an Insulated Floor
Bob helps carpenter-contractor Bob Ryley build an insulated floor so as to extend living space into the basement.
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Building a Free-Floating Deck
Due to flood plain regulations, the deck cannot be attached to the house-- it has to be free-floating. Bob helps the contractors set up the posts and joists, and ...
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Installing Cultured Marble Shower Walls
Bob helps install cultured marble panels in a bathroom. The tile professional on the job, Jack Miklaus, shares information on fabricating the panels and tips on i...
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Gunite Cement in Swimming Pool Construction
Bob observes as gunite is poured over rebar to form the bottom and sides of the swimming pool cavity.
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Bricking In a Window
General contractor Ron Gan talks through the process of bricking in a window in the new kitchen. Ron also addresses the installation of a smaller bathroom window.
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Visiting Shepley Wood Products
Bob visits Shepley Wood Products to discuss what to look for when ordering lumber.
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Installing the Wooden Window
Bob helps carpentry contractor Bob Ryley and his crew install a wooden window at the Cape Cod project house.
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Reviewing the Electrical Wiring
Bob goes over the electrical wiring with John Hickey. Also, cedar clapboards are put up on the exterior.
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Pine Interior Paneling
Carpentry contractor Bob Ryley demonstrates how to put up the pine interior paneling in the living room.
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Applying Bathroom Floor Tile
Bob looks on as tile setter John Boardman applies bathroom floor tile at the Cape Cod project house.
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Reviewing the Demolition
Bob and general contractor Ron Gan review the demolition and discuss replacing the bearing walls with special engineered beams.
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Tour of the Parallam Beam Factory
Bob joins David Parker at Macmillan-Bloedel’s Parallam plant in Vancouver, BC to see how the special engineered beams are manufactured.
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Installing the Parallam Beam
The crew installs a Parallam beam in the living room along with iron beams on the back masonry wall.
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Vinyl Siding
Contractor Carleton Bergere explains the advantages of vinyl siding and demonstrates how to install it.
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Installing an Authentic Iron Fence
Bob finds an authentic iron fence for the front yard and watches as the welder installs it using the arc welding process. Next, Bob heads inside to join general c...
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Congoleum Factory Tour
Bob tours the Congoleum plant in Marcus Hook, PA with Jim Kogut.
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Adding a Creative Touch to Vinyl Flooring
Installer Ed Janecek demonstrates how to add a creative touch to vinyl flooring, while painter Dirk Van Kinette rolls high-gloss paint onto the master bathroom wa...
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Touring Chicago Architecture
Bob joins architectural historian Susan Benjamin for a tour of some of Chicago's landmark buildings.
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Installing an Iron Staircase
Ironmonger Frank Szablewski constructs an iron staircase and balcony entryway outside the front door.
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Finishing the Steel Building Container
Once stripped down, an ISBU's exterior is finished with heavy-gauge steel, then faced in sheet-metal wrap and covered with SuperTherm insulating ceramic coating. ...
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Layout for a Container-Built Home
Bob joins Steve Armstrong, the project architect and engineer, to discuss the project. The challenge of building a home like this is marrying new methods of const...
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Installing a Solid-Core Cherry-Veneer Door
Bob helps general contractor Tim Berky put a solid-core cherry-veneer door on its bronze butt hinges, and install matching door hardware.
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Custom Trim, Windows, and Pocket Door
General contractor Tim Berky trims out the windows with custom millwork created from a profile of the home's original trim. Bob looks at the four-panel cherry poc...
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Chef-Quality Ovens and Cooktop
The Silestone island countertop arrives, with the cooktop cutout done on site. Matt Lihous (from DCS/Fisher & Paykel) explains the features of the Dynamic Cooking...
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Installing Cherry Cabinets
General contractor Tim Berky is installing Merillat cherry cabinets in the remodeled kitchen. Berky roughs in the base wall cabinet, shims it, and checks for leve...
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Facing the Retaining Walls with Cultured Stone
Retaining walls, foundation work, and curving stairways are faced with Cultured Stone from Owens Corning. These cast cement, pumice, and iron oxide products are m...
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Installing Cedar Deck Railings
General contractor Tim Berky is building the cedar deck railings, first by notching the edge board to receive posts, then by fitting one post into each notch. Onc...
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Building a Western Red Cedar Deck
Bob reviews the structure for the new deck. Paul Mackie (of the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association) joins to discuss the benefits of building with western red c...
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Installing a Standing-Seam Copper Roof
Rich Melo of Newton Roofing Company joins Bob for the installation of the copper roof on the Rowley addition. The Dutch cleat system has a crimped edge and a rece...
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Completing the Trim on the Oriel Window
General contractor Tim Berky is completing trim on the oriel window that faces onto the deck. He begins by covering the underboard with MDO (medium density overla...
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Deck Framing with Pressure-Treated Lumber
Rick Kleiner (from the Southern Forest Products Association) joins Bob to talk about using pressure-treated deck members. Such lumber resists fungal growth, termi...
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White Oak Hardwood Flooring Installation
General contractor Tim Berky installs the white oak, tongue-and-groove floor. Since the flooring will be nailed over the hyrdronic heat system, it is critical to ...
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Plans for the Multi-Level Backyard Deck
The extensive new deck will have multiple levels and various sections. General contractor Tim Berky digs holes for the footings before setting them in concrete.
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Regulating the Refrigerator Temperature More clips
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