Property Repair Maintenance and Decor

Adding a layer 1/2 ply over subfloor before lvp

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:17:34 -0500

submitted by /u/Running_jake
[link] [comments]

What does everyone drive?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:05:54 -0500

So we often ask, what hammers everyone is using, what tool belt, but what about your choice of vehicle?

For me, I gave up on vans, 3 break ins in 4 years. Nothing stolen, but a huge pain in the arse. I swapped over to a single cab Toyota Hilux. Great truck, massive compromise, would rather have a van. But you can't break into what is already wide open, so there's that.

So how about you folks.

submitted by /u/front-wipers-unite
[link] [comments]

First solo build

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:12:22 -0500

I’ve been a cook and bartender for the last decade or so. Lost my job this summer (they went bankrupt) and decided I wanted a change. Started apprenticing with a pal of mine who is a carpenter and I took a liking to it. This is my first solo build, and I made a shelf from the leftovers. Just posting because I’m proud of myself but any notes are welcome :)

submitted by /u/Najr92
[link] [comments]

Carpentry

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:00:36 -0500

Need a advice how to put door casing on and trim this out. Did the jam need to be thicker with perhaps? As you can see the drywall butts up with the framing and on the back side it just overlaps. So just an interesting looking at this year What are you guys think?

submitted by /u/Helpful-Ninja9727
[link] [comments]

Struggling with crown cope

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 15:57:06 -0500

Hi, I posted yesterday on measuring this but I’m really struggling. I got one side to fit right, but of course ruined my other side and now with small templates, I can’t get this.

Looks like the angle of this crown is either 50 degrees or 40 degrees. To complicate it more, I just have a 10 inch miter saw which cannot cut my 5 1/2 crown on an angle upside down. I came across the Fusco pdf but not sure how to cut this piece to then cope it in. I coped like 10 pieces and getting tiered of screwing up. Can someone help me please?

submitted by /u/Constant-Kangaroo566
[link] [comments]

Gap between window molding and drywall

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 15:17:59 -0500

Ill try to explain as best as I can since I do not have pictures at the moment. I ripped out the plaster and lath in the kitchen of the house I am getting ready to sell. I have never done any kind of window casing/molding/trim before so i have been trying to leave it as intact as possible. I used 3/4in dry wall to try and take up as much as that space as possible but the plaster was so thick that I still have a little over a 1/2in gap that will need to be covered. In everyone else's experience what is the best kind of molding/trim to use to hide that gap once it is properly insulated. I know the correct answer is to rip everything out but I have neither the time or money to do it that way. If that really is the only way then i will bite the bullet but I am trying my best to avoid. Thanks for any help/recommendations.

submitted by /u/Correct_Review_8900
[link] [comments]

Squeaking floor

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 15:13:05 -0500

We’re interested in buying this house. Does anyone know how much it might cost to repair the squeaking floors you can hear? Also, is this an important structural issue?

submitted by /u/Glass-Ad-218
[link] [comments]

It's beam day!

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:35:01 -0500

submitted by /u/Lopsided-Drink158
[link] [comments]

What hammer is most like the stiletto 10 oz hickory but cheaper?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 13:34:59 -0500

submitted by /u/technoviking9
[link] [comments]

Could it get any worse?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:06:04 -0500

submitted by /u/Lopsided-Drink158
[link] [comments]

Philly/NE Carpenters Advice

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 11:25:35 -0500

Hi all, need some advice. I’m a residential finish carpenter in Austin looking to move to Philadelphia in a year or so. I’m 35 with 5 years experience working on high-end homes. I know the union is a lot stronger in that region and am very pro-union in theory but I have some worries about getting started in a union at 35. From what I gather I would still have to start from scratch despite having experience and I’m not really interested in switching to framing or other aspects of carpentry. Is residential finish work done by the union? Can I do non-union finish work without being a scab? Are the wages competitive? Any insight into what it’s like working out there would be greatly appreciated.

submitted by /u/graaavearchitecture
[link] [comments]

What would be the easiest way to build this as a built in?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:54:58 -0500

On either side of the room. This is what I'm working with and in the next photo you'll see the sketch that I'm hoping to build in there. I would like it to be overlay style, doors and drawers.

As far as the cabinet bases go, I'm not sure if I should be building things all separate and then attaching them together. I'm assuming that's the proper way and probably the easiest way like the six drawers. All grouped together would be one unit and then the cabinet underneath the window would be one unit and so on and so forth. Does that make sense?

This is 100-year-old house and the framing is far from perfect so I'm going to need a way of trimming out the perimeter so that it looks good. I was going to leave about a 2-in Gap. Do you think that's enough or too much?

For the smaller cabinets up front I was thinking of three different cabinet boxes. One for the first two doors, another for the second two doors and a single box for the single door on the far right.

Below the window on top of that cabinet will be just a solid shelf top.

I'll probably do a 3-in toe kick on the bottom or maybe just build it out flush and then trim it with baseboard. What do you think would look better there?

If you guys have any examples of what the cabinet base should look like for these, that would be helpful. I've only built one cabinet, a small bathroom powder room and it turned out great but it only had two doors. Very simple.

Any recommendations on drawer slides? I'm in Canada so I'm not sure what brands are good and what not. But they'll be all for clothing or bedding materials. Things like that. And the dimensions of the larger drawers are 30x10. The max depth I'm working with is 23 and 1/2 in, but I don't plan to push the drawers all the way back to the drywall, but I want to maximize as much space as possible I guess.

The cabinets up top will just be open for some extra storage and to finish off the look on the sloped wall.

This will be my first attempt at doing built-in cabinetry and drawers. Like I said, it's pretty much a mirror on the other side of the room which I'll be doing the same thing. The dimensions are slightly different but very similar. I was planning on leaving a 1/8 Gap between the doors and drawer fronts I read that's pretty standard. Everything is going to be painted the same as the room, but I'll be using cabinet paint color match from Sherwin-Williams probably and I have a sprayer so I'll be attempting to do that.

it make sense to spray the cabinets before painting the walls right? Then I don't really have to worry about overspray too much. I'm going to make sure drywall mud is all done and primed before I do the built-ins of course.

Basically just looking for some feedback and suggestions on how you tackle this project. I've been renovating this 100-year-old home myself pretty much exclusively.

submitted by /u/jjax2003
[link] [comments]

What to do with this dish washer opening?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:34:58 -0500

Dish washer is gone never to come back.

Forget the doors in the hole none of them fit the opening and I'm not that good of a finish carpenter to make them fit.

So it needs something that will look ok without doors.

I'm thinking some kind of canned food racks on drawer sliders so it can be filled from the rear easier. It will be tilted so the cans will roll forward.

Just need it not to look like a after thought.

submitted by /u/Educational-Ad2063
[link] [comments]

Glue seems to be keeping new plywood floating higher than old plywood, how and can I sand the edges to smooth the transition for carpet prep?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:26:52 -0500

Just want to make it feel smooth underfoot. Will have a thick carpet pad. Off by about 1/8th maybe 3/16th in height around the edges. Would prefer to not sand the entire thing down but if that can work I’ll try as well even tho it would really suck to do.

The old floor here was really bad and creaked terribly. I ripped it out and was able to run wires for lights downstairs, bathroom exhaust vent, insulation around the band, etc.

submitted by /u/mikejr96
[link] [comments]

Fixing a racked atrium door?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:54:15 -0500

Is it possible to fix a sag in my in-swing glass patio door that is causing it to be out of square? There's about a 3/8" gap at the top right when closed, hinges are on the left, bottom right drags on the threshold a bit. Glass panel is also sagging due to the door being out of square. The door frame/casing is still square. I really don't want to replace it as it is a beautiful door, but now nearly 40 years old. Thanks in advance!

submitted by /u/al_koper
[link] [comments]

High School Project survey

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:49:57 -0500

In my high school engineering course, we have to identify a problem, and justify making a solution to this problem. My partner and myself chose the problem that modern sanders (mainly palm sanders and hand sanding techniques) are insufficient to reach small divots and groves in the work piece, and sanding certain areas of the piece is hard due to its geometry. Additionally (and more importantly to this subreddit) consistent prolonged exposure to vibrations made by electric sanders can be very damaging, causing carpal tunnel syndrome, hand arm vibration syndrome, and a whole host of other musculoskeletal disorders which are common with carpentry workers.

Our solution is to make a sander that utilizes ultrasonic vibrations, which are much safer for prolonged exposure. Additionally, these vibrations can be focused to a specific point (kind of like a pencil) which allows for easy sanding of groves and small recesses and improves mobility to sand hard to reach places.

It would be immensely helpful to us if you could take two minutes of your time to take this survey.

submitted by /u/icy_fire1234
[link] [comments]

How practical would it be to remove the door frame so the wall becomes one long flat hallway?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:23:14 -0500

submitted by /u/PsychologicallySalty
[link] [comments]

Caulk or no caulk?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:05:33 -0500

submitted by /u/Pet_Palace
[link] [comments]

Is wood filler bad?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 04:23:03 -0500

Floors have not been refinished since the house was built. Should I tell the contractor to not use wood filler at all? (These photos are just to showcase some area that are cracked / open )

submitted by /u/mercedesforlife18
[link] [comments]

Just curious how much I left on the table…or cabinet top, as it were.

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 22:19:16 -0500

Just curious what some of you would bid for this built-in. Materials and labor. Materials is as follows, 3/4 MDF, 1/2 MDF, Sheetrock, Sheetrock Mud, flexible edge, Blum soft close hinges, Kilz, Sherwin Emerald Urethane paint, and fasteners of course. Customer to provide cabinet pulls. I’m and just about finished with the project. Customer let it slip that another contractor bid the job at 3X my price. They didn’t get the job because the customer thought the bid was absurd. However, I know the other contractor and they stay busy. With that being said, I think my prices are on the low side, and theirs are very high. The image was provided by the customer and they asked me to basically “make like picture” and I have done so. I also have no shortage of work, plenty of referrals. Enough that I’m looking to hire some help, but probably need to increase prices to make it work. Thanks for your feedback.

submitted by /u/jtothehizzy
[link] [comments]

How common (or acceptable) is vertical OSB wall sheathing in Ontario?

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 20:39:44 -0500

Hey folks,

I’m building my detached garage in Ottawa and doing most of the framing solo.

My wall studs are standard 8' height, 16" o.c., and I’m using 7/16 OSB for exterior sheathing.

I noticed that installing the panels horizontally is the usual way, but it’s pretty awkward when you’re working alone lining up the joints, lifting, holding, and nailing all at once. I’m wondering how common (and acceptable under OBC) it is to just run the sheathing vertically instead? Would vertical installation still meet the structural/bracing intent, as long as the vertical joints land on studs and everything is nailed per code (6" edges / 12" field)?

Or would I lose shear strength or run into inspection issues later?

Any Ontario framers or inspectors seen this done before?

Appreciate any real-world feedback!

submitted by /u/EugeneWPG
[link] [comments]

How much would you charge to wrap these beams?

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:44:48 -0500

Having trouble quoting wrapping these beams in mitered cedar. Northern suburbs of Chicago, let me know how much you would charge. Feel free to ask any questions

submitted by /u/Garshmel
[link] [comments]

How many doors can you hang in a day?

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:00:43 -0500

Im talking no prehung doors. Cutting and routing jambs and hinges and doorstop etc.

Today I hung 13 and this is my personal record but my boss says it’s not fast enough. Im curious how I compare to the rest of you.

submitted by /u/RumpleForeskin4
[link] [comments]

Being ripped off

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 17:09:38 -0500

I’ve worked for this small company In Ontario for 4 years now. Completed my apprenticeship through them and a few months back passed my red seal exam. In those 4 years I rarely missed a day. Worked hard. Custom homes/cottages. Footings, foundation walls, ICF systems, all framing including custom rafters. Scaffolding. All interior and exterior finishes including aluminum brake work. I’ve learned a lot and I enjoy learning and improving my skills. Truth is after being one of this company’s best employees. I’m now licensed and the owner gave me a “raise”. $27/hr….i sat with it for a minute. Realized it sucks. There’s a guy who misses weeks at a time, drags his feet, no license and makes more than me.

Owner is a good guy but he’s either cheap or clueless what wages are now. I want out of there. Trouble is winter is closing in and I don’t think a union or other custom home builder would have many opportunities this time of year. I’m also 24 and single, don’t have many ties to where I live. I think it’s high time I bmove on and start earning more. I’m going to visit a local union on Friday as a start. See if I can talk to a rep.

I get it, small company but there’s no reason I shouldn’t be making 35+. I do side jobs on weekends and bill myself a hell of a lot higher than that. I don’t have the funds to start my own business or I would.

If you have an opinion or would like to shed some light on this. Speak your mind. Don’t hesitate if “feelings” might be hurt. Say it anyway I’d rather get the shot of reality.

submitted by /u/Solitary-Road190
[link] [comments]

" find the 90 °"

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:14:43 -0500

Framed and finished this deck earlier this year. Architect had fun drawing this one so the joke was" find the 90 °"
We had a lot of fun putting this together. Let us know what you think

submitted by /u/NoCoastNeutral
[link] [comments]

Podcast Episode 709: Considering Trade Careers, Faulty Fire Alarms, and Windows in Masonry Walls

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 05:00:16 -0400

Listeners write in about the satisfaction of trade work and ask questions about faulty smoke detectors and detailing windows in brick walls.

FHB Podcast Segment: Vinyl Double-Hung Windows Simplified

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:40:07 -0400

Learn how to seal and trim double-hung windows the right way to keep water and air where they belong.

Crucial Details for a Pass-Through Window

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 09:35:44 -0400

Learn how to install pass-through multi-glide windows like a pro.

Podcast Episode 708: Controlling Indoor Humidity, Swelling Hardwood Flooring, and ERV vs. HRV

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:00:15 -0400

Listeners write in about dew points and controlling humidity and ask questions about tenting hardwood and ventilation appliances.

FHB Podcast Segment: How to Choose Between an ERV and HRV

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:33:49 -0400

Learn how to determine if your home will benefit more from an ERV or HRV.

Air-Sealing and Insulating Rim Joists With Spray Foam

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 11:37:36 -0400

Precision-applied spray foam can help create fully air-sealed, energy-efficient spaces.

Podcast Episode 707: Off-Grid in Arizona, Architectural Salvage, and What is Natural Building

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 05:00:50 -0400

Listeners write in about building in Arizona exurbs and wet basements and ask questions about good architectural salvage and building with hempcrete walls.

FHB Podcast Segment: To Salvage, or Not to Salvage?

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 03:33:00 -0400

Learn what appliances and fixtures are worth trying to find secondhand.

How GO Logic’s Shop Passed a Blower Door Test — Even with Giant Overhead Doors

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 12:25:45 -0400

Learn how GO Logic's panel shop became the first Phius-certified industrial building in the U.S.

WEEKLY DIY/HOMEOWNER QUESTION THREAD

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 06:01:21 -0400

Please post Homeowner/DIY questions here.

submitted by /u/Basileas
[link] [comments]

Convenient Dust Containment

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:46:48 -0400

Secure plastic sheeting with minimal impact on finished ceilings.

Tool Review: Bow Products 5-pc. Bandsaw Resaw Master Pack

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:10:16 -0400

Bandsaw Helpers Work on a Variety of Machines

Folding Table Supports Bandsaw Outfeed

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 10:10:59 -0400

With this simple auxiliary table, you can use your workbench to support bandsaw work.

Knife Hinges Made Easy

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 10:15:18 -0400

Chris Gochnour shows the most elegant hinge doesn't have to be the hardest to install.

Offset Knife Hinges for Inset Doors

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 10:10:12 -0400

Straightforward methods ensure clean results: Chris Gochnour shows you how.

STL345: Rogowski’s Rose-Colored Safety Glasses

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:10:39 -0400

Gary and Vic join Ben and discuss fancy scrapers, the durability of veneer, projects that instill a love of woodworking, and Gary declares his life's greatest love.

Leaves of Hope

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 10:10:16 -0400

In a certain medical clinic in Wisconsin, there’s a sliding door that features a marquetry mural by Spider Johnson and Cindy Goldman.

13 Tips for a Better Oil-Based Varnish Finish

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 10:38:53 -0400

The dos, the dont's, and a few things you never thought of when working with oil-based varnish.

Online Extras from FWW Issue #318

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 16:10:20 -0400

Finishing with Flair In this segment from our eLearning course, Mike Mascelli demonstrates his tips and tricks for applying an oil-based varnish. Mirrors for Mock up's Bob Van Dyke…

Fine Woodworking Issue #318

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 15:25:37 -0400

Our latest issue is here! Featuring Chuck Bender, Rob Spiece, Ellen Kaspern, Chris Gochnour, Mike Mascelli and more.

Transform White Ash into Brown Oak

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 16:12:01 -0400

Common acrylic paint and a tinted wax are easy to apply

WEEKLY DIY/HOMEOWNER QUESTION THREAD

Mon, 05 May 2025 06:01:46 -0400

Please post Homeowner/DIY questions here.

submitted by /u/Basileas
[link] [comments]