Windows and Doors contains the best field-tested residential construction and remodeling information available for professional builders, remodelers, and homeowners who want real pro advice. Inside this book is the information you need to spec, install, replace, or repair windows and doors. From simple jobs to more complicated ones, this book from the editors of Fine Homebuilding magazine covers a range of window and door projects, and gives you the technical help you need for a variety of projects.
In this book we've collected 21 articles from past issues of Fine Homebuilding magazine, all of which deal with windows and doors-choosing them, building them, installing them, fixing them. Written by builders, these articles represent hard-won knowledge and years of experience. Because they're often called on to remodel homes, builders see first-hand what has and hasn't worked. You'd be hard pressed to find better advice than what's collected here.
- Install vinyl-clad windows
- Install prehung or sliding doors
- Choose energy-efficient windows
- Weatherstrip a door
- Restore window sashes
You'll learn techniques that yield weather-tight installation, how to choose energy-efficient units, how to install specialty doors, how to make stock windows a custom look, and more.
From the Introduction
In a new house, the windows and exterior doors typically cost more than anything else. More than the lumber. More than the flooring. Even more than the kitchen cabinets and appliances. Unless those windows and doors are installed meticulously, they're the most likely places for water to leak and rot to gain a toehold. And even if they are installed meticulously, the windows and doors will be the biggest energy wasters in the house, driving up utility bills. Makes you wonder why we bother.
But windows and doors are the difference between a home and a prison. They provide light, air, views and access to the outdoors. In his landmark book on architecture A Pattern Language, Christopher Alexander even says that for a room to be comfortable it must have windows on at least two sides. You need walls and a roof to create shelter, but you need windows and doors to make a great place to live.
In this book we've collected 21 articles from past issues of Fine Homebuilding magazine, all of which deal with windows and doors - choosing them, building them, installing them, fixing them. Written by builders, these articles represent hard-won knowledge and years of experience. Because they're often called on to remodel homes, builders see first-hand what has and hasn't worked. You'd be hard pressed to find better advice than what's collected here.
- Kevin Ireton, Editor, Fine Homebuilding
