New Construction

Tips for getting the most out of limited square footageby Sean Groom

Cross-linked polyethylene is tough and flexible, and you don't need a torch to install itby Dave Lovesky

A thick mortar bed over a vinyl membrane makes a sturdy base for tile, but it pays to test for leaksby Tom Meehan

A building inspector reviews the most frequent violations of the plumbing codeby Redwood Kardon

One-piece fixtures are quick to install, but should you buy a gelcoat or an acrylic model?by Scott Gibson

An earthy alternative to the cold, austere look of marble, limestone is easy to work with and maintainby Tom Meehan

For caulking around bathroom and kitchen fixtures, nothing lasts longer or keeps out moisture better than siliconeby Brian Zavitz

Take the time to get your tiles tight and flat, and your shower will look as if it had been carved out of solid marbleby Tom Meehan

Substituting backer board for the traditional mortar bed makes the job easier without sacrificing durabilityby Michael Byrne

Synthetic materials can be worked like wood and polished like stoneby Sven Hanson

Blocking makes a house more stable and makes it easier to install drywall, plumbing and sidingby Larry Haun

A few tips to help you keep your sticks and nails out of my wayby Peter Hemp

It's mostly in the flangeby George Skaates

Building the critical parts -- the pan, the wall membrane and the mortar bedby Michael Byrne

On sizing, laying out and choosing the right fittings for a residential waste systemby George Skaates