Sistering Joists

sistered joists, sistering floor joists

Working on older homes presents the carpenter or woodworker with special problems. As homes age, there are a number of things that can go wrong with them, some of which can be quite serious. Of these, structural problems are generally the worst. Structural problems can refer to a variety of differing things, ranging from problems … Read more

Stucco Over Plywood

stucco over plywood

Stucco is one of the oldest building materials in continuous use. Examples of stucco wall coverings have survived over 1500 years. Nor is stucco limited to one geographic area of the world. Here in the United States, we recognize stucco construction as coming north from Mexico, yet it was used extensively in Europe, especially in … Read more

Self-Leveling Compound on Wood Subfloor

leveling a wood subfloor, self-leveling compound, wood subfloor

One of the many signs of a properly constructed home is a flat, level floor. But not all homes’ floors stay flat and level, even if a home is well-built. Settling of the foundation, as well as shifting of the ground beneath the home, can cause a number of structural problems, including floors becoming unleveled, … Read more

Plywood for Shed Floor

untreated plywood, shed floor

Many homeowners eventually build a garden shed in their backyard. That generally coincides with them deciding that their garage just isn’t big enough for everything they’re trying to store in it. Adding a shed, even a small one, provides someplace to put the lawn mower, wheelbarrow and other gardening tools, even if that’s all it … Read more

Bunkie Board vs Plywood

bunkie board, slatted

Bed is a favorite place for many. There’s nothing like spreading out on the bed after a long, hard day and relaxing. Those few minutes of quiet relaxation before drifting off to sleep can be the best part of the day. A good night’s sleep is also essential to preparing us for the next day. … Read more