POP Projects is a collection of new and classic projects from more than a century of Popular Mechanics. Master skills, get tool recommendations, and, most importantly, build something of your very own ...

Q. I've heard all kinds of things from friends about concrete foundation piers. To say the least, I'm confused. Some say you just dig a hole and fill it with concrete. Others say you need to be sure ...

Q: I was doing research about house foundations and came across interlocking foam forms that stack on top of one another. They assemble much like children's plastic blocks. Does a concrete foundation ...

DEAR TIM: My wife has instructed me that I no longer can put off the deck project. I’ve got the confidence to do all the work above ground, but I’m worried about the deck foundation. What do I need to ...

Insulating concrete forms have a long history of success in low-rise buildings, but now Building Teams are specifying ICFs for mid- and high-rise structures—more than 100 feet. ICF walls can be used ...

Concrete form tubes make the installation of footings for decks much easier. But cutting these tubes level can be an awkward process. Here's a simple tip that will make cutting straight lines on a ...