The new EPA lead paint removal rules starting this April 22 will probably have a big impact on how contractors deal with lead-based paints. Contractors will be responsible for containing and cleaning lead dust during remodels and renovations. Certification for contractors will be required and done by the EPA. Although these rules do not apply to homeowners unless they use paid help for the removal, the health risk is there for them too. Homeowners should take the same precautions when disturbing... more

Alton “Al” McCoy was a self-made man. He learned ocean navigation at the Portland library, eventually sailed all over the world and earned himself the rank of captain. During World War II, Al ran the entire United Fruit Company fleet successfully for the United States government. Al McCoy During his travels, he established ties with some hardwood companies on the east coast and began distributing hardwood flooring throughout the greater Portland, OR area. In 1946, Al founded McCoy Lumber. Al... more

Renovation and historic preservation can pose dilemmas for sustainability-minded owners of older homes. That’s especially true if you have a lot of exposed ornamental woodworking clad with many layers of accumulated paint. If you can barely make out the finer details of your old doors, windows, and molding, it’s probably time to have the wood stripped of its multiple layers of paint, stains, or lacquers. First step Manolis works with a chair in the first main vat. After the finish starts to... more

Do you own a dated bookcase? Plastic laminate or wood, it doesn’t matter, all can be improved with a little work and a few materials. This weekend project uses just a minimum amount of wood pieces, moldings, and a few basic tools. After all is painted you will have a detailed piece of furniture that will have the look of a custom-made bookcase. Tools & Materials: Wood pieces, miter box and saw or chop saw (can be rented), wood glue, hammer 1 1/2” finish nails, finish nail set, sandable wood... more

For this how-to we create a sanding block to match a molding profile by using a quart milk container to form the rough shape of the sanding block. Before you begin, make sure that the area of the molding you are duplicating is free of debris and paint chips. If you do not clean the debris and chips they will transfer to the molding profile. Tools & Materials: Fix-It-All patching compound one-pound box, quart-size milk container, masking tape, putty knife. Skill Level One hammer: Novice Five... more

Whether replacing damaged molding or adding decorative vintage detail, there are countless knife profiles to choose from. Do you associate the word custom with the word costly? Or, do you think of the word custom as choice? If you live in an older home there’s a good chance that all the moldings in your home are unique. Decades ago, profiles were cut on site using special hand planes with custom-cutting... more

Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure Installing molding calls for fairly sophisticated carpentry skills. Molding is one of the most expensive per square inch wood products you can buy. Practice is needed so you do not waste this costly product. Spend some time cutting and fitting scrap pieces until you feel comfortable... more

Scan the real estate listings in the Sunday paper, and the importance of moulding is clear. Terms such as boxed beams, wainscot, plate rail, built-ins, crown moulding, or elegant mantel are evocative of a home brimming with character, whether it’s new construction or a vintage house. Real estate agents recognize that millwork — which defines the style and personality of a home — sells. Casing and Base Chair... more