Rick Arnold knows his stuff. During his tenure as a contributing editor for Fine Homebuilding, Rick has written several dozen articles related to framing and roofing, and he's also one of our most trusted tool reviewers. You'll find Rick, more often than not, holding the other end of a board with his frequent collaborator, Mike Guertin.
Features by this author:
Video: Math Shortcuts for a ShedUsing a construction calculator during planning helps avoid wasting time, money, and materials
Shortcuts to a Shed
Time-saving tips about planning, materials, and construction that will get any outbuilding up in a hurry
6 Great Miter-Saw StandsThe best models help you to handle a multitude of carpentry tasks by setting up quickly, moving easily, and providing solid support
Low-Maintenance EavesAluminum fascias and vinyl soffits never need painting, look great, and incorporate ventilation
Reciprocating-Saw ShowdownThe newest corded saws cut more aggressively than their predecessors, and they're easier to adjust and handle
Beadboard WainscotIf you know how to handle a few tricky spots, this elegant detail can be a snap to install
Not Your Old SawNew circular saws are more lightweight, comfortable, convenient, and precise than ever before. Here's a close look at 10 top models.
12-in. Compound-Miter SawsIn a field of powerful and accurate tools, three saws stand out with useful features and large cutting capacities
Framing a Roof ValleyDo the math on a calculator so that you can concentrate on what's important: getting the rafters right
Choosing a Framing NailerWhether you prefer coil nailers or stick nailers, it's a buyer's market. Two seasoned builders sort through 30 models and find new favorites.
Built-up Center BeamsThese simple site-built beams are the backbone of the house, so make sure you build them straight and set them level
Finishing BasementsDespite the obstacles, converting that dark, scary place into comfortable living space is much cheaper than adding on
Installing Vinyl-Clad WindowsA nailing flange makes installation quick and easy; but pay attention to the details, or you'll never get the windows open
Framing With Nail GunsThey're as common on job sites as circular saws, but if you're not using your pneumatic nailer properly, maybe you should stick with your hammer
Forming and Pouring FoundationsThey hold up the house, hold back the earth and keep out the water. If they're not level and square, you may end up custom-cutting every rafter.
Forming and Pouring FootingsFill up a trench with concrete -- what's to know? If a house is going to stand on those little sidewalks, they'd better be straight, level and correctly placed.
Framing and Sheathing FloorsIf you do the layout carefully and precut all the joists, the floor will go together quickly like a giant jigsaw puzzle
Installing a Rubber RoofForget the mess of roll roofing -- for flat or low-slope roofs, EPDM membranes are the way to go
Framing Floors With I-JoistsWhether you're building a new house or remodeling an old one, engineered lumber can give you squeak-free floors with fewer callbacks
Installing HousewrapWhen properly detailed, high-tech wrappings can reduce the flow of air into outside walls while allowing moisture to escape
Raising Roof TrussesCareful preparation and wise use of a crane can allow a good-size roof to be framed and sheathed in a day
Squaring and Leveling MudsillsIf you assume the foundation is accurate, you may end up custom cutting each rafter and fussing with every miter in your trim
