Fine Homebuilding Magazine

America’s trusted resource for residential building, remodeling, and home improvement. Convenient digital delivery includes unique bonus features and enhancements: linkable and searchable content, techniques videos, slide shows, tutorials, new products, digital tools, and more.

Out of Print • BUILDING BEYOND THE MAGAZINE’S PAGES

Contributors • THE VOICES OF EXPERIENCE

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

FROM THE EDITOR

Common code misconceptions

SHOW STOPPERS • FROM THE 2026 INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS’ SHOW The newest accessories, ingenious upgrades, and forward-thinking products we couldn’t ignore

Rising Above the Flood • After his house was destroyed by a hurricane, this homeowner built a new one designed to withstand the next storm

61/2-in. Cordless Circular Saws • The best models have a smart design, useful features, and plenty of power

The Foundations of Flatwork • An unassuming backyard patio project showcases the processes and tools for solid concrete slabs

CONCRETE CALCULUS • Knowing how to determine the slope, square the slab, and calculate the concrete yardage are critical skills for success in flatwork. Here are the steps we took to work out the numbers for our 28-ft. by 20-ft. concrete patio.

SHAPING THE SUBGRADE • The success and longevity of a concrete slab relies heavily on what is below it. It’s important to properly excavate, slope, and compact the subgrade to avoid long-term durability problems such as cracking and water pooling.

CONFIGURING THE FORMWORK • Of all the different aspects of a concrete project, setting up the formwork for flatwork is among the easiest. Once you have the corners accurately squared and staked out, setting forms is as easy as lining up to a stringline.

FINISHING THE FLATWORK • The brief moments of peace before the concrete truck comes barreling down the road at 6 a.m. on placement day can feel like the ultimate calm before the storm. However, if you’ve prepared well and understand the steps and tools to work the concrete, small projects with uncomplicated finishes can be accomplished regardless of experience level.

From Plans to Perfect • An experienced builder shares how to level up your project management to ensure perfection on custom details that come from a designer and land in the hands of subs

Fussy Finishes

A Survey of Man-Made Siding • Manufactured siding products promise performance and low upkeep, but choosing the right one means weighing real trade-offs

ENGINEERED WOOD • FIRE RATING Class C COST Low to moderate

FIBER-CEMENT • FIRE RATING Class A COST Moderate to high

METAL • FIRE RATING Class A COST Low to high

POLY-ASH • FIRE RATING Class A COST High

PVC • FIRE RATING Class A COST Moderate to high

HOUSE BY DESIGN ARCHITECTURAL CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

Ask the EXPERTS YOUR QUESTIONS // PRO ANSWERS

44 Years of projects, tips, and techniques for on-the-job success

Check Out Our Latest E-Learning Courses

The case for a clear process

TRUST THE PROJECT DEVELOPMENT PROCESS • A clear, shared process goes a long way toward avoiding project-derailing surprises. Here are some key points to prioritize as you refine your process:

PROJECT GUIDES • Trusted, comprehensive guidance from the pros for building, design, and remodeling projects

DESIGN BETTER. BUILD SMARTER. INNOVATE FOR SUCCESS.

Keep Craft Alive • CELEBRATING PASSION FOR BUILDING