It’s a little know fact that Tommy was first a contractor before he became a fine woodworker and TV personality. He has built and remodeled many homes including his own. In this section you can follow along as Tommy does real world remodels, additions, repairs and new construction. It’s entertaining and wicked informative!

 
 

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are an economical roofing solution. But shop around, because not all shingles are the same. Asphalt shingles are ...
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Building a Tighter Roof with Roofing Underlayments

Roof underlayments are designed to protect the roof sheathing and structure from moisture and penetration. Advances in materials and technology ...
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Cedar Shingle Maintenance

Cedar roofing and siding are a classic building material, and with proper installation, care and maintenance will last 20 or ...
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Expanding a One-Story House: Build a Second Story or a First-Floor Addition?

You’re expanding your home, but should you build up or out? Enlarge the footprint of your single-story residence or add ...
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Framing a Garage Workshop

When choosing the framing and construction materials for your garage, consider how it will be used, what fire and safety ...
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Green Homes Series: Foundations

A solid foundation is essential for any home. But today’s emphasis on “green” suggests that other factors be considered as ...
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Insulating Concrete Slabs, Foundations and Basements

Most residential concrete-foundation systems will come into contact with the ground and face moisture-management and heat-loss issues. Protecting the foundation ...
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Laminated Veneer Lumber

The laminated veneer lumber (LVL) manufacturing process creates a strong and stable product that can reliably support large areas. Wide ...
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Load-bearing Walls

Before you grab a hammer, saw or crowbar to remove an unwanted wall, make sure you understand its role in ...
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Natural Ventilation

Natural ventilation relies on the wind and the "chimney effect" to keep a building cool. The wind will naturally ventilate ...
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Roofing Materials

Cost, ease of installation and appearance are all factors when choosing a roofing material. While asphalt shingles account for close ...
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Roofs: Design, Function and Maintenance

A good roof is graceful, it's good-looking, and it ages well. To realize that end, however, you'll need to do ...
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Six Steps to Better Roof Protection

The weak link in most existing houses is in the connection of the roof sheathing to the rafters or roof ...
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Stairbuilding Basics

Take the quick way to the top with a simple lesson in basic stair construction. Building nice staircases takes patience ...
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The Carpenter’s Square

The carpenter's square is a deceptive tool. It looks simple, it's a ruler with an elbow, a straightedge that turns ...
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Vapor Diffusion Retarders and Air Barriers

Vapor diffusion retarders, air retarders, and air/vapor retarders all relate to the interaction of temperature and moisture in and around ...
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Window Properties and Design

The doors and windows that are right for you will depend on the climate you live in and the design ...
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Your Home’s Exterior: Comparing Paint and Siding

It's tempting to judge a home by its cover, but for decisions about paint or siding, you need to go ...
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