Andy Engel

Since 1979, Andy Engel has either been a carpenter wishing he was a journalist or a journalist wishing he was a carpenter. A former senior editor at Fine Homebuilding, he currently works as a carpenter and a freelance writer. When he’s not working, Andy sits on two municipal boards in his hometown of Roxbury, Conn., hangs out with his wife of 31 years and their three Australian shepherds, or can be found mountain biking on local trails.

Recent Articles

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  Building Matters

  What has COVID Taught Us?

  The demographic changes brought on by the pandemic may have long-term benefits

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  Building Science

  How Heat Moves

  Like structural and wind loads, the direction that heat loads travel depends on the source

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  Building Science

  Old Houses: Common Problems and Solutions

  A few tips on handling water management and air leakage in centuries-old structures

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  Building Science

  The Benefit of Larsen Trusses

  Adding depth to exterior walls is a smart way to add lots of insulation

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  Building Science

  Strategies for Preventing Wood Rot

  Correctly using and detailing lumber and other wood-based products adds to their longevity, which means we should be doing it on every job

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  Building Science

  Key Considerations When Insulating Old Walls

  Water is the enemy, so keep it away and ensure the house's drying potential

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  Building Science

  Understanding R- and Other Values

  You have to pay attention to the numbers, but first you have to know what the numbers mean

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  Building Science

  Understanding Radiative Cooling

  Why are my wife's hands like ice cubes when the house is 68℉?

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  Building Matters

  Understanding Building Science Basics: My Own Journey

  Pay attention to what's happening around you—there are building science lessons everywhere

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  Building Science

  Fibrous Insulation Types and Considerations

  Ruminations on the recycled content and carbon load of "warm and fluffy" insulation types