Ask This Old House (2002)
← Back to main
Steve Thomas Rooney as Himself
Episodes 589
Repairing a Window Screen; Saving the Rain; Looking for Headroom
In the debut episode, Steve joined Richard, Roger and Tom in the Ask This Old House loft to give viewers a chance to ask questions and get expert advice about their homes. Tom shows Steve how to build a replacement window screen using inexpensive parts purchased from a home center. Roger demonstrates how an old barrel can be used to water a garden. Responding to a letter from a homeowner, Richard and Steve demonstrate how to fix and a leak in a 20-year-old dishwasher. Roger demonstrates the proper technique for sharpening lawn mower blades. Tom hits the road for the first House Call of the season, to a tall homeowner whose low ceiling threatens to knock him out on his way to the basement.
More Info & Resources
Read MorePlumbing Toolkit; Park the Car Quietly; Safe Swinging
At the Ask This Old House barn loft, Roger demonstrates different ways to mend a damaged garden hose. Richard shows the basic plumbing tools he recommends for homeowners. Tom explains how to use a square as a guide for cross-cutting with a circular saw. Tom then makes a House Call to homeowners struggling with a muddy lawn under the swings.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreConcrete Stoop Covering; Battling the Skeeters
Tom visits homeowners in search of a modest way to hide an ugly back stoop. Back in the barn loft he shows the different adhesives and fasteners used, as well as more traditional types of decking. Steve and Roger demonstrate a new product that promises to rid backyards of mosquitoes. Richard shows the proper technique for installing a thermostat on an old radiator.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreAir Eliminator; Saving the Trim; Filling the Gaps
Richard visits a homeowner and installs an air eliminator valve on her hydronic heating system, reducing the need for annual maintenance. At the Ask This Old House barn loft, Tom shows how to remove nails without damaging the trim on a door frame. Steve and Roger perform annual maintenance on a snow blower. Steve consults with Jim on ways to clean and maintain old paintbrushes. Tom makes a House Call to a young couple and shows them how to use sisal and jute rope to fill the gaps in their 160-year-old pine floor.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreSanding Options; Digging Post Holes; Better Boiling
Tom and Steve demonstrate two types of floor sanders: a traditional drum sander. Roger and Steve use manual and power tools to dig post holes for a new fence. Richard travels to a historic district in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to replace a corroded pipe on a viewer's boiler. Back in the loft, Tom gives Steve a lesson in proper caulking technique.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreCeiling Repair; Grinding the Stump; Shop Specs
Tom visits a young couple and teaches them how to repair a cracked plaster ceiling in their condominium. In the workshop loft, Richard and Steve rebuild a toilet to prevent it from continuously filling. Roger uses a stump grinder to remove an old tree stump from a homeowner's front yard. Back in the loft, Tom replaces a broken pane of glass and reglazes a window sash.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreJacking It Up; Chainsaw Smarts
Tom works with a homeowner to repair a sagging floor in a three-family house. Together, they jack up the failing beam, pour new concrete footings, and install several new lally columns. Back at the barn, Roger works with chainsaw expert Tim Ard to sharpen and maintain his saws.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreWooden Bung Holes; What Is It?; Lattice Project
In the workshop loft, Tom shows Steve how to cut wooden bung holes and install them in decking. Jim visits a viewer and shows her why the new paint in her bathroom is cracking and peeling. In the loft, Tom, Steve and Roger examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess what they're used for. Tom makes a House Call and shows a young couple how to build an attractive outdoor lattice.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreBasement Window; Painting Panels; Weed Trimmers
Tom hits the road on a House Call to replace a rotting basement window and install a new dryer vent for a homeowner. Back in the Ask This Old House loft, Jim shows the proper technique for painting a pre-hung six-panel door. Electrician Allen Gallant visits homeowners and installs a new power outlet in their dining room, and Roger shows Steve how to replace the string on a weed trimmer.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreWasher Repair; Pressure-Washed Brick; Drip-Free Faucet
In the Ask This Old House loft, Richard and Steve take apart an old washing machine to determine why it's making a loud rumbling sound. Roger pays a visit to a homeowner and uses a pressure washer to clean off his slippery brick walkway. Back in the loft, Steve, Tom, Roger and Richard examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they've used. Tom demonstrates different types of spirit levels, and Richard sets out to help a homeowner with a leaky kitchen faucet.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreGarden Pruners; Shutters; What Is It? A Tankless Job
In the Ask This Old House loft, Roger and garden tool expert Paul Schneider discuss different types of hand pruners. Tom helps two homeowners repair and reinstall their broken shutters. Back in the loft, Steve, Tom, Roger and Richard examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Richard shows Steve several models of instantaneous water heaters, then visit a local homeowner to examine his tankless hot water system.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreSawhorses; Frost-Free Faucet; What Is It? Composting Leaves
In the loft, Tom shows different types of store-bought sawhorses and teaches Steve how to build a pair from scratch. Richard hits the road and installs a new frost-proof outdoor faucet for a homeowner. Back in the loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Steve examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Roger then shows Steve how to collect and compost leaves.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreSpray-Painting; Chimney Dampers; What Is It?; Splitting Logs
In the loft, Jim shows the several different types of paint sprayers and demonstrates the proper technique for using a spray painter to paint a shutter. Steve enlists the help of chimney expert Mark Schaub to replace a broken fireplace damper for a homeowner. Back in the loft, Steve, Tom, Roger and Richard examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Steve and Roger head outside to demonstrate different ways to split logs for firewood.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreNo More Scalding; Robotic Mowers; Critter-Proofing
Richard visits a homeowner and installs a new shower faucet that will eliminate the chance of scalding. Roger and Steve head outside to test the latest robotic lawn mowers. Tom and an animal control expert visit a homeowner and help her ""critter-proof"" her house.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreStubborn Ivy; What Is It?; Replacing a Bathroom Window
Roger helps homeowner Mark Wegener remove the ivy covering his home in Madison, Wisconsin. Back in the loft, Roger, Steve, Tom and Richard examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Tom then helps homeowner Christian Hansen replace the window in his third-floor condominium bathroom. Afterward, Tom explains the proper way to measure for a replacement window.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreAerating the Lawn; What Is It?; Hanging Pictures
In the barn loft, Jim shows Steve the proper way to paint the exterior of a double-hung window. Roger helps homeowners Paul and Claire Blumenfeld aerate and fertilize their lawn. Then Roger, Steve, Tom and Richard examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Tom then shows Steve different ways to hang a picture on a hollow wall.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreWasher-Dryer Shutoff; What Is It? Drywall; Plumbing Torches
Richard visits a homeowner and installs an automatic water shutoff valve on her combination washer/dryer. Then Richard, Tom, Roger and Steve examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Tom then shows Steve the proper technique for preparing drywall joints and Richard discusses different types of plumbing torches.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreGutter Protection; What Is It? Steadying the Toilet
Tom visits homeowners Roy and Sandra Lynn and shows them several products that are designed to keep leaves and other debris out of rain gutters. Then Tom, Richard, Roger and Steve examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Richard then visits homeowners Steve and Maureen Parker and helps them repair their wobbly toilet.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreInsulating Windows; What Is It? Sewage Injection Pump
Tom helps homeowner John Hill prevent drafts near his windows by installing insulation around the weight pockets. Then Tom, Richard, Roger and Steve examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Richard makes a House Call to help homeowner John Johnstone install a sewage ejection pump for a new basement toilet.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreNew Sill; What Is It? Rolling Paint; Sharpening Knives
Tom helps homeowners Annette Ritchie and Charlie Bubar remove the aluminum siding around their window and repair the damaged sill. Back in the loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Steve examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Then Jim shows Steve how to use different types of paint rollers while Roger and knife sharpening expert Stan Watson sharpen kitchen knives.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreSnow Removal; What Is It?; Fixing a Sash
Steve and Roger head outside to demonstrate different types of snow shovels and snow throwers. Back in the loft, Steve, Roger, Richard and Tom examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Tom then visits homeowner Bernice Robinson and helps her repair the broken sash cords on an old window.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreLeaky Faucet; What Is It? Removing Wallpaper; Glue Guns
Richard examines homeowner Kerry Goodwin's leaky shower tub faucet. Together, they purchase the replacement parts from a local plumbing supply company and repair the fixture. Then Richard, Tom, Roger and Steve examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it's used. Jim helps homeowners Kathleen and Kevin O'Connor remove painted wallpaper. And back in the loft, Tom and Steve demonstrate several hot glue guns, including a new cordless model.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreCrown Molding; What Is It?; Keeping Out the Cold
Tom installs crown molding with homeowners Sheila and Karen Fitzpatrick. Back in the loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Steve examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Then Richard helps a Chicago-area homeowner install insulation to prevent his bathroom pipes from freezing.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreKitchen Disposer; What Is It?; Hearing Protection
Richard is off to Chicago to help homeowner Dave Skena install a new garbage disposer. Back in the loft, Ricard, Tom, Roger and Steve examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Outside the barn, Roger and hearing protection expert Dr. Mark Stephenson test the decibel level of several power tools. Inside, they show Tom several new types of hearing protection.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreThe Dutchman; What Is It?; Flood Prevention
Tom helps Chicago-area homeowners Daryl and Catherine Katauskas repair their exterior door jamb by installing a dutchman. Back in the loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Steve examine two unfamiliar objects and try to guess how they're used. Then Richard prevents a basement from flooding by installing a leak sensor and automatic water shutoff valve on a water heater.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreClearing a Toilet; What Is It? Attic Access; Tomatoes
In the loft, Richard shows Steve several different ways to clear a toilet stoppage. Then Richard, Steve, Tom and Roger examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it's used. Tom and homeowner Tom Flannery install a new set of folding attic stairs and Roger shows Steve how to start tomato plants from seeds.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreDeadbolt Installation; Hedge Trimming; Hot Water Heater
Installing a deadbolt; trimming hedges; fixing a heating system.
Read MoreNewel Renewal; What Is It? Replacing a Water Heater
Securing a shaky newel post at the top of a stairway; replacing a 50-year-old water heater.
Read MoreSlate Walkway; What Is It? Shower Stall Leak
Restoring a slate walkway; repairing a leak in a fiberglass shower stall.
Read MoreFixing a Hole; What Is It? 14-Inch Rough-in Toilet
Repairing holes in drywall; replacing a large 1920s wall-mounted toilet.
Read MoreDrywell Installation; What Is It? Getting a Grip
Installing a backyard drywell; installing a bathtub safety grab bar.
Read MoreWindow Trimming; Utility Boxes; What Is It? Kitchen Faucet
Installing interior window trim; hiding utility boxes in front of a house; fixing a broken spray hose on a kitchen faucet.
Read MoreGroundcover Planting; Opening Stuck Windows
Replacing ailing grass with ivy and pachysandra; opening double-hung windows that are painted shut.
Read MorePrefinished Engineered Floor; Replacing a Sink Stopper
Replacing wall-to-wall carpeting with pre-finished hardwood flooring; pros and cons of floors; replacing a rusty bathroom sink stopper.
Read MorePoison Ivy Removal; What Is It? Installing a Shingles Corner
Removing poison ivy from the yard without using herbicides; weaving cedar shingles on an outside corner of a house.
Read MoreChimney Liner; What Is It? Toilet Tank Condensation
Chimney flue repairs; installing an anti-sweat valve to prevent condensation on a toilet tank.
Read MoreStairway Handrail; What Is It? Transplanting a Rhododendron
Installing a staircase handrail; transplanting a rhododendron.
Read MoreDrip Irrigation Repair; What Is It? Leaky Tile Tub
Repairing an irrigation system; fixing a bathtub leak.
Read MoreSqueaky Hardwood Floors; What Is It? Building Timber Stairs
Silencing squeaky hardwood floors; building a set of timber stairs.
Read MoreWalkway Installation; What Is It? Cutting Accurate Miters
Brick-walk installation; cutting a miter in wood trim.
Read MoreSliding Closet Doors; What Is It? Electric Heat; Paint Colors
Fixing sliding closet doors; electric radiant floor heat; selecting exterior paint colors.
Read MoreWater Quality Testing; What Is It? Damaged Floorboard
Examining water quality; installing a water softener and filter; replacing a rotten board in hardwood flooring.
Read MoreSnaking Speaker Wire; What Is It? Planting a Tree
Snaking wire through exterior walls; planting a magnolia tree.
Read MoreDeterring Deer; PVC Pipe; What Is It? Sagging Shower Door
Protecting shrubs from deer; pipe connections; fixing a shower door that will not close properly.
Read MoreCutting Glass; Climbing Vines; What Is It? Portable Aircon
Cutting a pane of glass; planting climbing vines; installing a portable air conditioner.
Read MoreProgrammable Thermostat; What Is It? Plaster and Lath Wall
Programmable thermostat installation; repairing a cracked plaster and lath wall.
Read MoreSteam Radiator; What Is It? Preparing Raised Garden Beds
Air vent replacement; repairing a steam radiator's shut-off valve; preparing garden beds for winter.
Read MoreCurved Molding; Buying Wire Foot; What Is It? Maple Syrup
Installing a curved basecap molding in a stairwell; purchasing electrical wire by the foot; collecting sap and making maple syrup.
Read MoreRadiant Heat; What Is It? Prep Aluminum Siding for Paint
Installing a curved basecap molding in a stairwell; purchasing electrical wire by the foot; collecting sap and making maple syrup.
Read MoreTrack Light; Drywall Repair Clips; Noisy Baseboard Heaters
Installing track lighting in the kitchen; how to quiet noisy baseboard heaters.
Read MoreCopper Pipe Corrosion; What Is It? Stripping a Drafty Door
Corroded copper pipes; how to replace worn-out weather stripping around a kitchen door.
Read MoreDoor Jamb and Storm Door; What Is It? Garden Tools
Repairing a damaged door jamb and installing a new storm door; choosing the right garden tools for spring cleanup.
Read MoreEdging a Lawn; Selecting Drill Bits; What Is It?; Fighting Fire
Our first House call of the season takes us to Beverly, Massachusetts, where Roger shows new homeowners Todd and Chrissy Fratzel the proper way to edge a lawn and flower bed. Back in the loft, Tom gives some lessons on choosing drill bits. Then the guys ask ""What Is It?"" Finally, Kevin visits Captain Hugh Duffy at the Boston Fire Department Training Center for some lessons on choosing the right type of fire extinguisher.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreClogged Trap; Brick Walkway Patterns; Fixing Ceiling Cracks
Richard makes a House call in Wellesley, Massachusetts, to help homeowner Ziad Tarawneh replace a trap under his bathroom sink. Back in the loft, Roger shows Kevin a few design options for laying out a brick walkway. Then Tom shows homeowners Rudd Coffey and Melissa Liazos of Watertown, Massachusetts, how to make their cracked plaster ceiling look like new by covering it with drywall.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreBroken Fence; What Is It? Shower Valve; Keyless Chuck
Roger repairs a broken fence with teenage neighbor Amanda Rao. Back inside, the guys ask, ""What Is It?"" Then, Richard restores hot-water flow to a shower for a house-sitter by repairing an anti-scald shower valve. Back in the loft, Tom shows how to upgrade an old drill by installing a ""keyless"" chuck.
More Info & Resources
Read MorePass-Through Opening; What Is It? Stopping a Running Toilet
Tom visits homeowners David and Patti Dobrindt in Milton, Massachusetts, to help them cut a pass-through in their kitchen wall. Back in the loft, the guys ask, ""What Is It?"" After that, Rich repairs a continuously running toilet in West Roxbury, Massachusetts, for homeowner Peter Fay.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreScrew Extractors; Cobblestone Edging; Rotting Porch Post
Tom shows Kevin how to remove bolts and screws with stripped or damaged heads. Roger visits homeowner Lauren Speisman of Waltham, Massachusetts, to help create an edge along a concrete walkway using jumbo cobblestones. Back in the loft, Tom, Roger, Kevin and Richard ask, ""What Is It?"" as they identify unknown objects. Then Tom heads to Wenham, Massachusetts, to help homeowner Francine Molay jack up the roof of her front porch and fix a rotting post.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreFlower Boxes; What Is It? New Lawn with Sod
Tom helps spruce up the front of homeowner Stacy Keller's Acton, Massachusetts, house by building window boxes for flowers. Then Tom, Roger, Richard and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Then Roger installs sod to create a brad-new lawn in the backyard of Needham, Massachusetts, homeowner Peter Burdick, just in time for his family's annual barbecue.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreAnode Rod Replacement; Water Diverter; Too Much Heat!
In the workshop loft, Richard demonstrates how to extend the life of a hot water heater by replacing the sacrificial anode rod. Tom visits homeowner Alison Hardy of Topsfield, Massachusetts, and installs a ""cricket,"" or rain diverter, to keep water away from her front steps. Then Richard, Tom, Roger and Kevin ask, ""What Is It"" Then it's off to Brighton, Massachusetts, where Richard helps homeowner Kim McMahon cool off by installing thermostatic valves on her stream radiators.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreHanging Shelves; Soil Testing; Hot Water Recirculator
Tom helps homeowners Rich and Sarah Paisner of Brighton, Massachusetts, get organized by installing adjustable shelves on the wall in their den. Back in the loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Then Roger is joined by soil expert Roberta Clark from the University of Massachusetts for some tips on testing soil before planting. Then Richard gets Tewksbury, Massachusetts, homeowner Paige Impink into hot water by installing a hot water recirculator pump in her upstairs bathroom.
More Info & Resources
Read MorePlumbing Valves; Old Bulkhead; Drip Irrigation Repair
Inside the loft, Richard gives Kevin some lessons on leaky valves and how to repair them. Then, Tom heads to Waltham, Massachusetts to help homeowners David Anderson and Alica Beneteau replace an old, rusty cellar door with a new fiberglass model. Back in the loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Then, Roger helps homeowner Christine Dinardo of Carlisle, Massachusetts repair a leaky drip irrigation hose.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreNoisy Toilet; What Is It? Cutting Crown Molding; Broken Tile
Richard visits Stephen Davidson of Littleton, Massachusetts to find the source of a strange ""fog horn"" sound coming from his plumbing system. Then Richard, Tom, Roger and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Back in the loft, Tom shows the three basic cuts necessary to install crown molding. And tile contractor Joe Ferrante helps homeowner Brandon Ingersoll of Cambridge, Massachusetts replace some hard-to-find broken bathroom tiles.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreLadder Safety; What Is It? Replacing an Old Retaining Wall
Kevin heads outside the barn to learn about ladder safety from expert John Drengenberg. Up at the loft, Kevin, Tom, Richard and Roger ask, ""What Is It?"" Then, Roger rebuilds a crumbling retaining wall with homeowner Colin White of Wakefield, Massachusetts using interlocking concrete blocks.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreCracked Stucco; Cleaning a Lawnmower; Dehumidifier Pumps
Tom heads to sunny Los Angeles, California where he helps homeowner Joshua Tano repair some cracked stucco. Back in the loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Then, Roger shows Kevin how to keep a lawnmower humming all summer long by cleaning underneath the deck. Then, Richard helps water-logged homeowner Karen Kostegan of Bedford, Massachusetts install a pump to remove condensate from her basement dehumidifier.
More Info & Resources
Read MorePlanting a New Lawn; What Is It? Replacing a Kitchen Sink
Roger re-seeds a damaged lawn for homeowner Mary Brintnall of Beverly, Massachusetts. Back in the loft, Roger, Tom, Richard and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Then, Richard heads to Detroit suburb of Sterling Heights, Michigan to install a new kitchen sink for homeowners Donna and Tim Mackey.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreChicago Door Glass; Glass Expert; Pruning a Pin Oak
Tom heads to the windy city suburb of Park Ridge, Illinois, where he helps homeowner Richard Westphal replace the broken window pane in an exterior door. Back in the loft, Tom and glass expert Larry Rosenfield show Kevin different kinds of safety glass. Afterwards, Tom, Kevin, Richard and Roger ask, ""What Is It?"" Then Roger is off to Brookline, Massachusetts to ""let the sunshine in"" for homeowner Elizabeth Choi by pruning her Pin Oak tree with the help of arborist Matt Foti.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreOld Storm Window; Shrubs; Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Tom helps homeowner Tarah Hirschey of Wellesley, Massachusetts make her old windows more efficient by installing new storm windows. Then, Roger offers tips for getting your shrubs ready for winter. Afterwards, Tom, Roger, Richard and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" in the Ask This Old House loft. Finally, Roger heads to New York City where he meets up with home inspector Stephen Gladstone and homeowners Roy and Sophia Pachecano for some potentially life-saving lessons on carbon monoxide detectors.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreReplicating Moldings; Unlevel Patio; Stripping Wallpaper
In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom shows Kevin a few ways to recreate different molding profiles. Then, Roger heads to Skokie, Illinois where he has some ""uplifting"" advice for a homeowner with a sinking brick patio. After that, Tom, Roger, Richard and Kevin guess ""What Is It?"" in the loft, Then, Jim shows Kevin and homeowner Caroline Pooler of Andover, Massachusetts a new way to strip wallpaper.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreRotted Deck Balusters; What Is It? Connecting an Icemaker
Homeowner Martin D'Agostino of Swampscott, Massachusetts receives a visit from Tom who knows him how to repair and replace his rotting deck balusters. Then Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" in the Ask This Old House loft. Afterwards, Richard heads off to Salem, Massachusetts to hook up a refrigerator's ice-maker and water dispenser for homeowner Joe Cole.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreUnclogging Drains; Window Weights; Low-Maintenance Garden
In the barn loft, Richard ""clears up"" the mysteries of clogged bathtub drains. Then, Tom helps Marblehead, Massachusetts homeowner Terry Lavelle replace his double-hung window weights with spring loaded sash balancers. Afterwards, Tom shows Kevin how to insulate the empty window weight pockets to prevent cold winter drafts. Then Tom, Richard, Kevin and Roger ask, ""What Is It?"" Finally, Roger helps a very thoughtful tenant, Brett Campbell of Arlington, Massachusetts, plant a low-maintenance garden for his elderly landlady.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreComposting; What Is It? Removing a House Trap
Roger shows homeowner Doug Ferguson of Hudson, Massachusetts how to recycle his yard waste through composting. They visit a compost bin test site where they meet compost expert Ann McGovern from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Then Roger, Tom, Richard and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" in the Ask This Old House loft. Later, Richard helps homeowner Kate Smukler of Arlington, Massachusetts remove an old cast-iron house trap on her main sewer line so that a clog can be easily cleared.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreFloor Leveling; What Is It? Leaky Water Valve; Air Compressors
Tom helps homeowner Mark Andrews of Charleston, Massachusetts level an uneven concrete floor so that he can install hardwood flooring. Then Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" in the Ask This Old House loft. Then, Richard shows homeowner Jenna Williams of Rex, Georgia a simple repair for a leaky water shut-off valve. Then, up in the loft, Tom teaches Kevin about air-compressors and how to select the right one for the job.
More Info & Resources
Read More220-Volt Receptacle; Gardening Hand Tools; Macerating Toilet
Tom shows Kevin what's inside a typical residential electrical service panel. Then, master electrician Allen Gallant helps homeowner Steve Bankowitz of Burlington, Massachusetts install a 220-volt receptacle in his garage-turned-woodshop. Roger shows Kevin what types of hand tools every home gardener should own. Then, the crew ask, ""Whats Is It?"" in the Ask This Old House loft. Later, Richard helps homeowner Scott Jones of Arlington, Massachusetts install a macerating toilet in his basement.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreRiding Lawnmowers; Garbage Disposers; Rotting Threshold
Roger heads to Alpharetta, Georgia to help homeowner Dale Eneberg shop for a new riding lawnmower. Then Roger, Richard, Tom and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Later, Tom replaces a rotting wooden threshold for homeowners Steve Chapman and Maggie Hale of Arlington, Massachusetts. And, back in the loft, Richard shows Kevin how garbage disposers work and explains how to keep them working like new.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreClogged Vent Stack; What Is It? Backyard Ice Rink
Richard helps homeowner Tom Pulkowski of Chelmsford, Massachusetts clear a clogged vent stack with the aid of a fiberoptic plumbing snake. Then Richard, Roger, Tom and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Then Roger helps homeowner Dennis Cronin of Duxbury, Massachusetts build an ice skating rink in his backyard.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreAir Cleaner; Walkway Ice Removal; Bathroom Venting
Richard helps a pair of homeowners from Arlington, Massachusetts install an electronic air cleaner on their forced-air furnace. Then Roger shows Kevin some tools and materials for removing ice from concrete walkways. And Tom shows homeowner Enza Sheehan of Swampscott, Massachusetts how to properly vent a bathroom fan to the outside of the house.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreFlorescent Light; Landscaping Software; Aluminum Heat Cover
Up in the loft, Tom shows Kevin a few tricks for using one of the most basic tools, a tape measure. Then master electrician Allen Gallant visit homeowner Kristen Berger of Leominster, Massachusetts and brightens up a dimly-lit basement with new fluorescent fixtures. Then Tom, Kevin, Richard and Roger ask, ""What Is It?"" Later, Kevin shows Roger a software package that can be used to create a three-dimensional landscape plan. And Richard makes a house call to homeowner Wendy Smith in Duxbury, Massachusetts and shows her how to replace the banged-up aluminum cover on an old baseboard heater.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreWindow Boxes; What Is It? Plumbing Connections
Tom makes a house call to Atlanta, Georgia to show homeowner Terry Andrews how to use masonry fasteners to install window boxes on his brick townhouse. Then Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin ask, ""What Is It?"" Then, back in the loft, Richard shows Kevin several different ways to make copper pipe connections, including a new solderless system. Then, Roger helps homeowner Alan Lear of Carlisle, Massachusetts install a perimeter drain to catch rainwater running off of his roof.
More Info & Resources
Read MoreMortared Stone Walkway Repair; Patching an Oak Floor
Our 4th season begins with a house call from landscaping contractor Roger Cook who helps a homeowner repair a loose flagstone in his mortared front walkway. Then Roger, along with general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom helps a handy homeowner patch a hardwood floor where an interior wall once stood.
Read MoreCreaky Stairs; Static Cling Solution; Electric Shut-Off Valve
General contractor Tom Silva quiets a homeowner's squeaky stairs and replaces a broken baluster. Then Tom, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Richard helps a homeowner prevent a damaging flood by installing an automatic shut-off valve for her washing machine.
Read MoreUnder-Sink Water Filter; Planting a Drought Resistant Tree
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner improve the quality of her drinking water by installing an under-sink filter. After that, Richard and host Kevin O'Connor are joined in the loft by water-filtration expert Bill McTighe who explains several other types of residential water filters. Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner select a drought-resistant tree and plant it properly in her sloped front yard.
Read MoreFlat Tire; Aluminum Rain Gutter; Thermal Expansion Tank
Up in the loft, landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows host Kevin O'Connor how to repair a flat wheelbarrow tire. He also shows a new type of flat-free tire. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner repair an aluminum rain gutter. Then, back in the loft, Kevin and Tom demonstrate a tip sent in from a viewer on how to drill a hole in ceramic tile. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner with a leaking T&P valve on his water heater by installing a thermal expansion tank.
Read MoreRose Bushes; Wobbly Toilet; Water Leak; Hydraulic Cement
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook heads to Grandview, Missouri to help a homeowner care for an ailing rose bush. Then Roger, along with general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Up in the loft, Richard shows Kevin a number of ways to steady a wobbly toilet. Then, Tom helps a homeowner prevent water from leaking through a hole in his foundation into his basement.
Read MoreRaised Garden Bed with Timbers; Clearing a Bathtub Drain
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a young couple build a raised garden bed using composite landscape timbers made from recycled plastic and sawdust. Back in the loft, Roger shows host Kevin O'Connor several other types of landscape timbers, including one that has been pressure-treated with liquid glass. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner clear a slow-draining bathtub using a plumbing snake.
Read MoreMoss, Algae and Lichen; Leaky Water Valve; Planting Shade
General contractor Tom Silva shows a homeowner how to remove moss and lichen from his shade-covered roof and keep them from coming back. Then Tom, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Up in the loft, Richard shows Kevin how to repair a leaky valve by replacing the washer and valve seat. Then, Roger helps a homeowner plant shade-loving groundcover under a 100-year-old beech tree.
Read MoreCircular Saw 101; Outdoor PEX Faucet; Cabling an Oak Tree
Up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva gives host Kevin O'Connor a few lessons on the proper use of a circular saw. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey installs a new outdoor faucet for a homeowner using flexible plastic tubing called PEX. Then Richard, along with Tom, Kevin and landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" And arborist Matt Foti prevents a tree from splitting in half by installing steel cables and through-bolts to hold it together.
Read MoreGarage Roof Re-Shingling with Asphalt; Fiberglass Shingles
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey starts the show with a suggestion sent in by a viewer. Richard shows how to use a common wire nut to save a partially-used tube of caulk and demonstrates a new replacement caulk tip. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps a pair of homeowners replace the worn-out roof on an old garage. Together, they tear off the old roof, lay down felt paper, and re-shingle the roof using new asphalt-fiberglass shingles.
Read MorePruning an Overgrown Privet Hedge; New Laundry Sink
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a pair of homeowners tame an overgrown privet hedge with some "rejuvenation pruning." Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner install a laundry sink in the basement of her new townhouse. Together, they run the copper pipes for the water supply, make the new PVC drain connection, and connect the plumbing vent.
Read MoreSnowthrowers; What Is It? Installing A New Exterior Door
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook and host Kevin O'Connor bundle up and head outside for a few lessons on the different types of snowthrowers and how to use them properly. Back in the barn loft, Roger and Kevin, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom makes a housecall to help a homeowner replace an old, drafty exterior door with a new pre-hung, energy-efficient unit.
Read MoreWashing Windows; What Is It? Flushing an Electric Water Heater
Host Kevin O'Connor heads to southern California and meets with a local expert to learn about the proper tools techniques for window washing. Then back in the loft, Kevin, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then, Richard helps a pair of homeowners flush the sediment out of their aging electric water heater. Later, up in the loft, Richard demonstrates several water heater maintenance tips.
Read MoreNew Vinyl Floor; What Is It? Preventing Frozen Pipes
General contractor Tom Silva heads to New York's "lower east side" to help a pair of apartment-dwellers install a new vinyl floor. Then Tom, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, landscaping contractor Roger Cook and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, up in the loft, Richard shows Kevin a few ways to prevent plumbing pipes from freezing in the winter and the proper way to thaw pipes if they do freeze.
Read MoreRadon Mitigation System; Pruning an Apple Tree
Host Kevin O'Connor heads to Minneapolis, Minnesota to help a pair of homeowners who have discovered dangerous levels of radon gas in their finished basement. Then, up in the loft, Kevin shows a number of radon test kits available at home centers and local health departments. Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows a homeowner how to prune his apple tree to produce healthy fruit.
Read MoreIn-Ground Sprinkler System; Pouring a Concrete Footing
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook heads to Dallas, Texas to help a homeowner install a low cost in-ground sprinkler system. Then Roger, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, general contractor Tom Silva, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom helps a homeowner pour new concrete footings for a backyard deck.
Read MoreChoosing Hammers; Pressure-Assisted Toilet; Plastered Wall
Up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O'Connor several different types of hammers and how to use them properly. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner repair a pressure-assisted toilet. Tom then gives Kevin some lessons on how to patch a large hole in a wall using veneer plaster and blueboard.
Read MoreResidential Well Repair; Repairing a Hole in Vinyl Siding
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and a specialist repair a residential well system for a homeowner by replacing the pump and pressurized well tank. Then general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner repair a small hole in his vinyl siding.
Read MoreTransplanting a White Spruce; Extending a Staircase Handrail
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows a homeowner how to transplant a spruce tree that was originally planted too close to her house. Then Roger, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, general contractor Tom Silva, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom heads off to Seattle to help a homeowner extend a staircase handrail using a new type of fastening system.
Read MoreCustom Radiator Cover; Installing a Steam Humidifier
General contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O'Connor how to build a custom cover for a radiator. Then plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows Kevin several different types of humidifiers and then makes a housecall to help a homeowner install a steam humidifier on her forced-air heating system.
Read MoreGranite Driveway Marker; Hot Water Radiator System
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook and a specialist help a homeowner install a granite driveway marker so that visitors can more easily find his house. Then Roger, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, general contractor Tom Silva, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard heads to Pennsylvania to fix a hot water radiator that is not providing any heat.
Read MoreWater Heater; Planting Trees to Save Energy; Cellulose Insulation
This special episode is all about making your home more energy-efficient. Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Atlanta where he helps a homeowner install an instantaneous water heater to save on rising fuel costs. Then, up in the loft, landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows how proper planting of deciduous and evergreen trees can help reduce the costs of heating and cooling your house. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps a pair of homeowners insulate the walls of their antique Victorian using blown-in cellulose insulation. Back in the loft, Tom demonstrates how to add additional fiberglass insulation to an attic.
Read MoreCast-Iron Radiator and Bathtub; Grading; Wobbly Newel Post
Up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O'Connor how to repair damaged threads on a radiator using a drill and "tap." Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner solve a grading problem that is causing wood rot on the side of her house. Then Richard and Kevin, along with general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom shows Kevin how to stabilize a wobbly newel post. Then, Kevin and a tub refinisher help a homeowner refinish her old cast-iron bathtub and make it look like new.
Read MoreReplacing an Interior Door; Leaky Kitchen Faucet
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner replace an interior "hollow-core" door with a heavier, more attractive, "solid-core" door. Then, up in the loft, Tom and host Kevin O'Connor cut several doors in half to reveal how different types of doors are constructed. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Philadelphia to repair a leaky kitchen faucet. Afterward, back in the loft, Richard shows Kevin several types of kitchen faucets and a few tips on repairing them
Read MoreReplacing a Dishwasher; Sharpening a Chisel; Lawn Spreaders
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner select and install a new dishwasher. Then, Richard, along with general contractor Tom Silva, landscaping contractor Roger Cook and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, up in the loft, Tom shows Kevin how to sharpen wood chisels using different types of sharpening stones. Then, Roger and Kevin head outside for some lessons on proper use of lawn spreaders.
Read MoreCutting Ceramic and Stone Tile; Installing a Sump Pump
Up in the loft, tile expert Joe Ferrante shows host Kevin O'Connor the proper way to cut several different types of tile. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner with a wet basement install a sump pump. Back in the loft, Tom and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey discuss emergency backup systems for sump pumps.
Read MoreMini-Split Air Conditioning System; De-Thatching a Lawn
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey visits a homeowner in Kansas to help install a mini-split air conditioning system. Then, Richard, along with general contractor Tom Silva, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger helps a homeowner "wake up the lawn" in preparation for spring by using a de-thatching machine.
Read MoreDoor Latch; Bamboo Privacy Screen
Our 5th season kicks off with general contractor Tom Silva helping a homeowner repair an interior door that won't latch shut. Then Tom, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger heads for "fabulous" Las Vegas, Nevada, where he helps a pair of homeowners select and plant a privacy screen using bamboo plants.
Read MoreFaucet Aerator; Houseplants; Squeaky Floors
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner replace a clogged aerator on his bathroom faucet. Then, up in the loft, landscaping contractor Roger Cook is joined by plant expert Carrie Kelly to learn about caring for houseplants. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner quiet a squeaky subfloor hidden underneath wall-to-wall carpeting using special "breakaway" screws.
Read MoreShower Pan; Tile Backerboard; Rain Barrel
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner begin to remodel his bathroom by installing a new acrylic shower base. Back in the loft, Tom demonstrates the proper way to install backerboard and tile around a new shower base. Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner save water by installing a rain barrel to catch rainwater from the roof.
Read MoreGarage Cabinets; Ceiling Fan
General contractor Tom Silva heads to Las Vegas to help a young homeowner organize her garage by installing new cabinets designed especially for garages. Then, in the "What is it?" segment, host Kevin O'Connor and landscaper Roger Cook test a new type of vacuum-assisted post hole digger. Afterward, electrician John Barros visits a homeowner who needs help installing a new ceiling fan. Then, up in the loft, John shows Kevin a few other ways of installing fan-rated electrical boxes.
Read MorePlant Bulbs; Ripping Plywood; Water Hammer
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook and host Kevin O'Connor plant flower bulbs outside the barn. Then, up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva shows Kevin how to makes straight rip cuts with a circular saw using a customized jig. Then Tom, Kevin, Roger and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard helps a homeowner eliminate the water hammer noise from his pipes by installing shock suppressors.
Read MoreBuilding a Small Deck
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner with a large carpentry project: rebuilding a small exterior deck. They start by removing the existing deck, which has rotted and become unstable. Together, they build a new deck, including stairs and handrails, using pressure-treated lumber and composite deck boards.
Read MoreEnergy Audit; Toilet Seat Bolts
Host Kevin O'Connor and energy efficiency expert Bruce Torrey conduct an energy audit of a house. Using an infra-red camera, they locate areas where weather-stripping and insulation can be improved. Then Kevin, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard demonstrates how to remove an old toilet seat that has corroded bolts.
Read MoreCountertops; Chain Link Fence
Up in the loft, stone countertop expert Jason Keefe shows host Kevin O'Connor how to maintain stone countertops and prevent stains. Then Kevin, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Roger and fence contractor Mike McLaughlin help a homeowner install a chain link fence.
Read MoreChildproofing; Sump Pump
Host Kevin O'Connor and child safety expert Jeff Baril visit a homeowner to "childproof" her home. Then Kevin, along with general contractor Tom Silva, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard helps a homeowner install a back-up sump pump that is powered by municipal water pressure instead of electricity.
Read MoreTile Backsplash; Lawn Repair
Tile contractor Joe Ferrante helps a homeowner install a brand new kitchen backsplash using glass tile. Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner replace a damaged section of lawn using sod.
Read MoreDamaged Clapboards; Felling Trees
General contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O'Connor how to replace damaged cedar clapboards on the exterior of a house. Then Kevin and Tom, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger and chainsaw expert Tim Ard show a homeowner how to fell trees safely using a chainsaw.
Read MoreMixing Valve; Tool Batteries
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to San Francisco to help a homeowner repair an old shower mixing valve. Then Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then, up in the loft, Kevin and Tom are joined by battery expert Tim Pugh to discuss battery technology in cordless tools and proper recycling of batteries.
Read MoreMulching; Sash Weights
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook takes a homeowner shopping for mulch and shows her how to re-mulch and edge her garden beds. Then, general contractor Tom Silva shows a homeowner how to replace broken sash balancers in his double-hung windows.
Read MoreWillow Pruning; Water Heater
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook and arborist Matt Foti help a homeowner properly prune his overgrown willow tree. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Denver to fix a hot water heating system that doesn't provide enough heat to a newly-built addition.
Read MoreClearing Drains; Installing Cabinets
Up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O'Connor different methods for clearing clogged drains. Then Richard and Kevin, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner install new kitchen cabinets.
Read MoreRemoving Shrubs; Extension Cords; Drain Pop-Up
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook heads to Denver to help a pair of homeowners remove an overgrown Juniper bush. Then, up in the loft, host Kevin O'Connor and general contractor Tom Silva demonstrate the proper way to coil extension cords. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner replace a pop-up drain assembly on the pedestal sink in his bathroom.
Read MoreCarpet; Table Saw Safety
Kevin O'Connor helps a homeowner select wall-to-wall carpet and install it properly with the assistance of a professional installer. Back in the Ask This Old House loft, Kevin, Tom Silva, Richard Trethewey, and Roger Cook examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it is used. Then Tom teaches Kevin a few important lessons for using a tablesaw safely. He demonstrates a new type of emergency brake that helps to prevent tablesaw injuries.
Read MoreVinyl Floor; In-Ground Sprinkler
Tom travels to Sacramento to help homeowners repair a damaged section in the vinyl flooring in their kitchen. In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it is used. Then Roger goes to Las Vegas to help a homeowner repair his leaking in-ground sprinkler system.
Read MorePainting Radiators; Standby Generator
Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner refinish her cast iron radiators. They remove the radiators and take them to a restoration specialist, who sandblasts the peeling paint and applies a new finish and makes them look new. Afterward, Kevin O'Connor travels to St. Louis to help a homeowner install a standby generator who lives an area with frequent power outages that last for several days.
Read MoreHeat-Tolerant Shrub; Solar Powered Vent
Landscape contractor Roger Cook shows a homeowner how the brick stairs in front of his house have created a blistering "micro-climate," causing damage to an adjacent shrub. Together, they remove the ailing shrub and replace it with a heat-tolerant yew. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom improves the ventilation in an attic by installing a solar-powered roof fan
Read MoreComposite Decking; Noisy Steam Heat
General contractor Tom Silva removes the cracked and warped boards on an old deck and installs new composite decking using hidden fasteners. Afterward, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey quiets down a noisy steam heating system
Read MoreShut-Off Valve; Climbing Roses
Richard assists a homeowner in replacing a corroded shut-off valve with a new one without using soldering. In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it is used. Then Roger helps a homeowner with her rose bushes so they will climb a two-rail fence.
Read MoreBathroom Radiator; Hand Planes; Crabgrass
Richard Trethewey assists a homeowner install a new bathroom radiator that will double as a towel warmer. In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom Silva shows Kevin O’Connor how to shape wood by using hand planes. Roger Cook helps a homeowner remove crabgrass from his lawn and prevent it from returning.
Read MoreMailbox; Brick Foundation Repointing
Roger Cook helps a homeowner replace a mailbox that had been damaged by snowplows. Tom Silva travels to St. Louis to help a a young couple repoint the failing mortar on the brick foundation of their home.
Read MoreEdge Mowing; Water Heater; Stair Tread
Roger shows two young homeowners the proper methods for mowing and edging their front lawn. In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it is used. Richard shows Kevin how to repair and maintain electric water heaters. Tom helps a homeowner repair a broken stair tread using a new type of wooden dowel.
Read MoreWorkbench; Lawnmower; Whistling Heat
In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom Silva shows host Kevin O'Connor how to build a simple workbench. Roger, Kevin O'Connor, Richard Trethewey and Tom Silva examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it is used. Roger then gives Kevin tips on how to tune-up a gas-powered lawn mower. Then Richard silences a whistling forced-air heating system by installing a bypass duct.
Read MoreBathtub Drain; Ceiling Repair
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Cleveland, Ohio to help a homeowner replace a bathtub drain trap. Then Richard, along with general contractor Tom Silva, landscape contractor Roger Cook and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner repair a cracked drywall ceiling.
Read MoreCarpentry Squares; Brick Patio
Up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O'Connor a few different types of "squares" used for general carpentry. Then Tom and Kevin, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Roger helps a homeowner build a new patio using concrete paving bricks.
Read MoreToilet Flange and Plaster Repair
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner replace a broken cast-iron "closet flange" for a toilet. Then Richard, along with landscape contractor Roger Cook, general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner repair a cracked plaster wall using a new type of adhesive system. Back in the loft, Roger shares a tip from a viewer about digging holes.
Read MoreFlood Prevention; Foundation Plants; Epoxy Repairs
Up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O'Connor a few devices for preventing plumbing floods in the home. Then, Roger helps a pair of homeowners remove some overgrown shrubs and replace them with appropriate "foundation plantings." Then Richard and Roger, along with general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom shows Kevin how to repair a rotted windowsill using a two-part epoxy.
Read MoreDisposers; Exterior Paint Stripping; Cutting Joists
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a pair of homeowners with a jammed kitchen garbage disposer. Then Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva and landscape contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Then, Kevin learns from a painting expert how to remove exterior paint from cedar siding. Back in the loft, Tom and Richard show Kevin the do's and don'ts of cutting holes and notches in joists.
Read MoreTree Removal; Door Trim
Landscape contractor Roger Cook and arborist Matt Foti help a homeowner remove an old tree that threatens to fall on her house. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then Tom helps a homeowner bring some character into a room by installing wood trim around a plain doorway.
Read MoreHome Energy Savings
In this special episode, the crew demonstrates several ways to save energy at home. First, general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner select and install energy-efficient "replacement" windows. Up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O'Connor a few ways to reduce the energy needed for heating water. Then, Kevin and an energy auditor visit a home and discuss how to improve the heating and air conditioning system and reduce electrical consumption.
Read MorePlay Area; Space Heaters; Bath Fan
Landscape contractor Roger Cook helps a young couple transform a muddy backyard into a low-maintenance play area for their two children. Then, up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O'Connor several different types of portable space heaters and offers suggestions on how to choose the right one. Then Roger, Kevin and Richard are joined by general contractor Tom Silva for the regular "What is it?" segment. Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner with a bathroom fan that drips water down into the room.
Read MoreChristmas Trees; Caulking a Window
Landscape contractor Roger Cook is on a special mission to pick the perfect Christmas tree at a local tree farm. Later, up in the loft, Roger shares a few tips for keeping Christmas trees healthy throughout the holiday season. Then Roger, host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva try to answer the question, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom heads to Florida to show a homeowner the proper way to caulk a leaky window.
Read MoreRoof Runoff; Refinishing Hardwood Floors
Landscape contractor Roger Cook shows a homeowner in Portland, Oregon an innovative way to handle storm-water runoff from her roof. Later, Roger is joined in the loft by host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey to answer the question, "What is it?" Then, Tom shows a homeowner how to refinish her hardwood floors.
Read MoreCracked Flagstone; Replacing an Electric Range
Landscape contractor Roger Cook replaces the cracked flagstone on a set of front steps with bluestone. Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Richard visits a serious cook and helps her replace her old electric stove with a new gas range.
Read MoreGrading; Inside Walls; Bathtub Stopper
Landscape contractor Roger Cook shows host Kevin O'Connor several different ways to determine the grade, or pitch, of a landscape. Then, back in the loft, Roger and Kevin, along with general contractor Tom Silva and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom and Richard show Kevin different ways to "see" what's inside a wall. Finally, Richard helps a homeowner repair a bathtub that won't hold water.
Read MoreVinyl Fence; Garage Floor Epoxy
Landscape contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner install a new vinyl fence. Then host Kevin O'Connor heads to Omaha, Nebraska, where he helps install a protective epoxy coating on a homeowner's garage floor.
Read MoreRadiator Control Valves; Refrigerator Install
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner control the temperature of her radiators, which are overheating the rooms upstairs. Then Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva and landscape contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom helps a homeowner squeeze a new refrigerator into an opening that's just a little too small. Finally, Roger shares a tip from a viewer on how to tame a tangle of bungee cords.
Read MoreDishwasher Smells; Rose Bush; Saw Blade
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner with a smelly dishwasher. Then Richard, along with landscape contractor Roger Cook, host Kevin O'Connor and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Roger heads to Iowa to help a homeowner transplant a rose bush. Afterward, up in the loft, Tom shows Kevin the proper way to change a circular saw blade.
Read MoreSkylight; 3-Way Light Switch
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner replace a skylight that is leaking water down into the kitchen below. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscape contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Afterward, electrician Peg Preble shows Kevin how to troubleshoot and repair a faulty 3-way light switch.
Read MoreSoil Test; Water Supply Pipes
Landscape contractor Roger Cook heads to Oregon to help a homeowner improve her lawn, starting with a simple soil test. Next, Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Richard and Kevin visit a local home center to identify several different types of water supply pipes.
Read MoreWater Softening; Fiber-Cement Siding
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Phoenix, Arizona to help a pair of homeowners install a new water softening system. Then, general contractor Tom Silva shows a homeowner how to install fiber-cement shingles on his new backyard shed.
Read MoreAttic Insulation; Landscape Lighting; Kitchen Faucet
General contractor Tom Silva shows a homeowner how to save energy and money by increasing the insulation in his attic. Then, landscape contractor Roger Cook makes a dark walkway safer by adding low-voltage landscape lighting. Afterward, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner replace her old kitchen faucet.
Read MoreKids Show; Soccer Goal; Stilts; Sandbox
In this special episode devoted to projects for kids, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows two kids how to build a soccer goal using PVC plumbing pipes. Next, up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates how to build a pair of stilts. Then, landscape contractor Roger Cook shows a family how to build a sandbox and make replicas of fossils.
Read MoreMortise Lockset; Pellet Stove; Gas-Free Lawn Mowers
General contractor Tom Silva demonstrates how to install an old mortise lockset on a new door. Afterwards, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner install a pellet stove to provide supplemental heat during the cold winter months. Back in the loft, landscape contractor Roger Cook shows host Kevin O'Connor several different types of lawn mowers that do not require gasoline.
Read MoreGranite Steps; Deadbolt Locks; Pipe Repair
Landscape contractor Roger Cook replaces a set of rotten wooden stairs with new steps made of granite. Back in the loft, host Kevin O'Connor shows general contractor Tom Silva the latest technology for deadbolt locks. Afterward, Richard travels to Raleigh, North Carolina to help a homeowner replace the leaky polybutylene pipes throughout his house.
Read MoreLawn Over-Seeding; Home Sale; Ceiling Leak
Landscape contractor Roger Cook shows host Kevin O'Connor how to improve a lawn using a "slice seeder." Next, plumbing contractor Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva share a tip from a viewer on how to drive a nail in a tight spot. Afterward, Kevin is joined in the loft by a real estate specialist for some tips on preparing a home for sale. Finally, Richard visits a homeowner to help fix a water leak in her living room ceiling.
Read MoreLife and Work of Tile Expert Joe Ferrante
This special episode is dedicated to the life and work of tile expert Joe Ferrante. Joe worked on many projects for This Old House and Ask This Old House over 20 years. This episode begins with Joe helping a homeowner replace a broken bathroom tile with a new tile that matches the existing color. Next, up in the loft, Joe shows host Kevin O'Connor some different ways to cut ceramic and stone tile using both hand and power tools. Finally, Joe helps another homeowner install a kitchen backsplash using translucent glass tile.
Read MorePressure Reducing Valve; Grass; Cabinet Crown Molding
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner with very high water pressure by installing a "pressure reducing valve." Next, landscape contractor Roger Cook is joined in the loft by turf expert Mary Owen to discuss which types of grass are appropriate for certain climates and conditions. Then Roger and Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner who ran into a problem while installing crown molding on his kitchen cabinets.
Read MoreToilet Tank; Watering a Lawn; Bookcase
Up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O'Connor how to replace all the parts inside a typical toilet tank. Next, landscape contractor Roger Cook and Kevin head outside for a look at different types of above-ground sprinklers and some basic tips on watering a lawn. Finally, back in the loft, Tom shows Kevin how to build a very simple but elegant bookcase using plywood and portable power tools.
Read MoreCollapsing Garage Roof; Installing a Dry Well
Ask This Old House kicks off its 7th season on PBS. General contractor Tom Silva prevents a garage roof from collapsing by replacing a rotting support post. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger helps two homeowners dry out their basement by installing a dry well to handle discharge from their sump pump.
Read MoreMature Tree; Noisy Heating System
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows a pair of homeowners how to transplant a large, mature tree to their front yard. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then, Richard helps two homeowners sleep better at night by quieting their noisy heating system.
Read MorePendant Lighting; Care for Succulents
Host Kevin O'Connor travels to Nashville, Tennessee, where he helps a pair of homeowners brighten up their kitchen with some new pendant lighting. Then, up in the loft, houseplant expert Carrie Kelly shows Roger how to care for cactus plants and other succulents.
Read MoreDamaged Lawn; Curved Stair Molding
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps two homeowners repair the damage done to their lawn when a new well was installed. Then Roger, along with general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom shows a homeowner how to make a piece of curved stair molding with some red oak and a few simple power tools.
Read MoreIncreasing Water Pressure; Transplanting a Bush
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner transplant a giant Rhododendron bush. Then Roger, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, general contractor Tom Silva, and host Kevin O’Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Richard helps a homeowner increase his water pressure with an electric water pressure booster.
Read MoreLaminate Countertops; Brick Walkway; Furnace Filters
Up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O’Connor how to repair damaged laminate countertops. Then, landscape contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner rebuild a brick walkway. Then Tom, Kevin, Roger, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then Richard shows Kevin several different types of filters for forced-air heating and cooling systems.
Read MoreReducing Heating Costs; Using a Whole House Fan
This episode has many tips for making your home more energy efficient. First, general contractor Tom Silva shows several different ways to seal the openings around doors, windows, and other penetrations in the shell of a house. Next, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner reduce his heating costs by installing a weather-responsive control on his boiler. Then, landscape contractor Roger Cook shares some tips on reducing energy costs. Finally, Tom helps a homeowner keep things cool with a whole house fan.
Read MoreWaterproofing System/Installing A Privacy Screen
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner prepare a shower enclosure for tile using a new type of waterproofing system. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger helps two homeowners install a privacy screen using bushes and a decorative flower garden.
Read MoreBuilding a Retaining Wall; Loud Faucet
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a pair of homeowners build a retaining wall using pressure-treated timbers. Afterward, Roger, along with general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Richard has an easy fix for a kitchen faucet that is making a loud, shuddering sound.
Read MoreWhole-House Water Filter; Repairing a Roof
Plumbing & heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Indianapolis to help a pair of homeowners install a whole-house water filter. Then Richard, along with general contractor Tom Silva, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then Tom helps a homeowner repair a hole in a rubber roof and Richard shares a viewer tip for cutting PVC pipe without a saw.
Read MoreRepairing a Deck; Hydrangea Bush
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner repair a very dangerous deck. Then Tom, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook, plumbing & heating expert Richard Trethewey and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger helps a homeowner with a hydrangea bush that won't flower.
Read MoreRemoving A Boulder; Securing Loose Pipes
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a pair of homeowners break apart and remove a large boulder in their backyard. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing & heating expert Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Next, Richard helps two homeowners secure their loose pipes inside a shower wall and Tom shares a viewer tip about getting a secure grip on a hammer.
Read MoreEnergy-Efficient Water Heater; Leveling a Concrete Walkway
Plumbing & heating expert Richard Trethewey and host Kevin O'Connor replace an old tank-type water heater with a new, energy-efficient "tankless" unit fueled by propane. Then Richard and Kevin, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger helps a homeowner level his sagging concrete walkway using a method called "mudjacking," and Tom shares a viewer tip for removing hammer dents from a piece of wood.
Read MoreBackyard Gate; Basement Window; Using Expanding Foam
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner in Charleston, South Carolina fix a sagging wooden gate. Then Roger, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, host Kevin O'Connor, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom helps a homeowner replace his drafty old basement windows with new energy-efficient ones. Later, up in the loft, Tom and Richard discuss how to properly use different types of liquid foam insulation to prevent drafts.
Read MorePainting Kitchen Cabinets; Installing Cabinet Accessories
This special episode is dedicated to making the most out of your existing kitchen cabinets. First, host Kevin O'Connor and expert painter Rich O'Neil show a homeowner how to prepare and paint her oak kitchen cabinets. Next, general contractor Tom Silva visits a pair of Connecticut homeowners in need of some organization solutions for their cramped, cluttered cabinets.
Read MoreBathtub Conversion; Wood Fill; Solar-Powered Fountain
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner convert a claw foot bathtub into a shower. Then Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva and landscape contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Later, Tom shows Kevin how to use different types of "fillers" for both wood and PVC trim. Then Roger helps a homeowner install a solar-powered fountain in her yard.
Read MoreStaining A Deck; Preventing Sewage Backups
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner clean, stain and seal his mahogany backyard deck. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and landscape contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Kevin makes a House call to Chicago to help a homeowner prevent sewage backup in her basement by replacing her flood control system. In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom and Richard share a viewer tip on how to remove a wood plug from a hole saw.
Read MoreTree Pruning; Installing a Shower Mixing Valve
Landscape contractor Roger Cook shows a homeowner how to prune her neglected crabapple tree properly. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Later, Richard helps a homeowner install a new "anti-scald" shower-mixing valve.
Read MoreBanging Pipes; Installing Fiberglass Door
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner quiet his banging pipes by installing a water hammer shock suppressor. Then Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva and landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom and Kevin show how to install a pre-hung fiberglass exterior door.
Read MoreKids Projects; Vegetable Garden; Mini-Golf; Rocket Launcher
Our annual "kids" episode features family-friendly projects that parents and kids can build together! First, landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a 12-year-old budding master gardener build a raised bed for growing vegetables. Then, up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, with the help of several kids, build a miniature indoor golf course. Next, Kevin and a middle school teacher show some eager students how to build a model rocket launcher using commonly available household and hardware store items.
Read MoreWater Saving Toilet; In-Ground Sprinkler System
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner install a new "dual flush" water-saving toilet. Then Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Next, Roger and Kevin head outside to install an in-ground sprinkler system that any homeowner can install.
Read MoreHeating & Cooling System Controller; Re-Grout Tile Floor
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a California homeowner install a new type of "zoning" control for her forced-air heating and cooling system. Then Richard, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook, host Kevin O'Connor and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Next, Tom helps a homeowner re-grout the tile floor in her master bathroom.
Read MoreBasement Wallboards; Tying Knots; Storm-Damaged Trees
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner prepare his concrete basement walls for finished wallboard. Then, up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O'Connor how to tie a few basic knots. Next, Tom, Kevin and Richard, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger and certified arborist Matt Foti demonstrate how to care for storm-damaged trees.
Read MoreGarage Door Installation; Preventing Frozen Pipes
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner install a new garage door. Then plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows a homeowner how to "winterize" his plumbing to prevent frozen pipes when the house is unoccupied.
Read MoreVentilation Fan Installation; Chemical Free Lawn Care
Kevin O'Connor and electrician Brian Bergeron help a homeowner install a new ventilation fan in her bathroom. Tom, Kevin O'Connor, and Richard Trethewey examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it is used. Roger Cooks show two homeowners how to care for their lawn without using pesticides or chemicals. He obtains a soil test before performing work on the lawn, then he spreads lawn fertilizer with chicken manure as the primary ingredient and uses grass seed enhanced with fungal endophytes.
Read MoreLeaky PVC Drain Trap; Installing Bamboo Flooring
This episode demonstrates how to repair a leaking PVC drain trap under a kitchen sink, how to install a bamboo "floating" floor in a basement, and how to clean roof gutters without a ladder.
Read MoreCampfire Pit; Installing Range Hood & Microwave Oven
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook kicks off our 8th season by helping a homeowner build a cozy campfire pit in her backyard. Then Roger, along with general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner install a combination range hood and microwave oven over her kitchen stovetop.
Read MoreHome Intercom System; Energy-Efficient Fireplace
Host Kevin O'Connor teams up with an electrician to install a home intercom system. Then Kevin, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, landscaping contractor Roger Cook and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Next, Richard helps a homeowner make a wood-burning fireplace cleaner and more energy efficient by installing a gas-burning insert.
Read MoreOutdoor Living Space; Installing Fiber Cement Siding
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook travels to Baltimore, where he helps transform a small urban backyard into a pleasant outdoor living space. Then Roger, along with general contractor Tom Silva, host Kevin O'Connor, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, up in the loft, Tom shows Kevin some new ways to install fiber cement siding without creating a lot of dust.
Read MoreAluminum Gutters; Energy-Efficient Washer & Dryer
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner install new aluminum gutters and downspouts. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard helps a homeowner install a new energy-efficient clothes washer and dryer.
Read MoreSliding Glass Door Installation
General contractor Tom Silva helps a pair of homeowners install a new siding glass door. Afterward, Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?"
Read MoreContainer Gardening; Installing Rooftop Antennas
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook joins plant expert Carrie Kelly at a nursery to learn about container gardening. Then, up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor discuss different types of flooring, including solid wood, engineered wood, ceramic tile, vinyl, and linoleum. Next, Kevin and a television antenna expert help a homeowner install a new rooftop antenna for his digital TV.
Read MoreWeather Stripping; Energy-Efficiency Tips & Analysis
It begins with general contractor Tom Silva helping a homeowner seal out drafts by installing weather-stripping on her front door. Then, up in the loft, host Kevin O'Connor is joined by residential energy expert Paul Scheckel to discuss several ways to monitor and save electricity. Next, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner determine the proper size for a new heating system by performing a comprehensive heat-loss analysis.
Read MoreBasic Picnic Table; Installing a Utility Sink
General contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor head outside the barn to build a basic picnic table using common framing lumber. Then, Tom and Kevin, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Then Richard helps a homeowner install a new utility sink in a basement laundry area.
Read MoreOrganic Lawn Care; Re-Routing a Bathroom Fan
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook visits Harvard University to learn about their new organic lawn-care program and shows host Kevin O'Connor how to make his own "compost tea." Then, Roger and Kevin, along with general contractor Tom Silva and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner prevent mildew in his attic by re-routing a bathroom fan that was improperly vented near a soffit.
Read MoreStone Veneer Installation; Retrofitting HVAC Ducts
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner install stone veneer over an ugly concrete retaining wall. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then, up in the loft, Richard shows Kevin how to retrofit dampers in forced-air HVAC ducts. Next, Tom shares a viewer tip about how to get the most from your can of insulating foam.
Read MoreLaminate Kitchen Countertops; Installing Steel Edging
General contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor show how to build and install new laminate kitchen countertops. Then Tom and Kevin, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Next, Roger helps a homeowner create a clean border between a garden bed and a lawn using steel edging.
Read MoreConcealing Retaining Walls; Quieting PVC Plumbing Vents
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a pair of homeowners improve the appearance of an unsightly concrete retaining wall with wooden lattice and climbing vines. Then Roger, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, general contractor Tom Silva, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Next, up in the loft, Tom shows Kevin how to flash a newly-installed window properly. Then, Richard helps a homeowner quiet a noisy PVC plumbing vent in her attic.
Read MoreBroken Water Softener; Preventing Deer Damage in Gardens
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Tampa, Florida to help two homeowners repair their broken water softener. Then Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Next, Roger helps a homeowner repair and prevent deer damage to one of his evergreen trees. Then, up in the loft, Tom shares a viewer tip on how to reduce airborne dust while sanding.
Read MoreMantel and Hearth; Rejuvenating Baseboard Radiator
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner dress up an old fireplace by installing a new mantle and marble hearth. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'C'onnor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard shows Kevin a few ways to improve the appearance of old baseboard heaters.
Read MoreBathroom Installations; Comparing Wall Insulation
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner update the look of her bathroom by installing a new vanity cabinet, countertop, and sink. Then Richard, along with general contractor Tom Silva, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and host Kevin O'Connor ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom and Kevin discuss several different types of wall insulation and how each is installed.
Read MoreConserving Rainwater; Removing an Interior Wall
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner conserve water by installing an innovative rainwater collection system. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then Tom helps a pair of homeowners connect two rooms in their home by removing an interior load-bearing wall.
Read MoreDuctless Air Conditioning; Eliminating Ceiling Leaks
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Tampa, Florida to help a homeowner cool off his garage workshop with a ductless air conditioning system. Then Richard, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook, host Kevin O'Connor, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner eliminate a mysterious leak in her living room ceiling.
Read MoreCrown Molding; Replacing Rotting Fence Posts
General contractor Tom Silva helps a pair of homeowners in Houston, Texas install crown molding in their bedroom using an innovative fastening system. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Roger and Kevin head outside to replace a rotting cedar fence post.
Read MoreProtective Furniture Finish; Winterizing Outdoor Gardens
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner replace the broken sash locks on his vinyl windows. Then, up in the loft, host Kevin O'Connor gets some tips on staining furniture and applying protective finishes from finishing expert Bruce Johnson. Afterward, landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner protect her plants from the ravages of winter.
Read MoreRemodeling Kitchen Area; Improving Drainage in Planters
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva head to Detroit to help a homeowner remodel her kitchen with new appliances, countertops, a backsplash, and even the kitchen sink! Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook shares a viewer tip with host Kevin O'Connor on how to improve drainage in the bottom of a flower pot.
Read MoreEnergy-Efficient Water Heaters; Propane-Fueled Mosquito Traps
Host Kevin O'Connor and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey head to Virginia to help a homeowner replace his old, electric water heater with a heat pump water heater that uses much less electricity. Then, up in the loft, Richard and Kevin, along with general contractor Tom Silva and landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Roger and Kevin discuss propane-fueled mosquito traps and how to keep them working properly. Then Tom helps a homeowner install exterior trim against a very uneven stone chimney.
Read MoreReviving a Damaged Lawn; Unclogging Kitchen Sink Drains
Roger Cook helps a homeowner repair portions of his lawn that have been damaged by snow mold, which is a fungal disease that can occur in winter from excess moisture and fertilizer. Tom Silva shows Kevin O'Connor how to build a simple utility cart out of plywood. Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner fix a clogged kitchen sink drain by replacing the PVC fitting with a metal one, which did not have a diverter.
Read MoreUsing String Trimmers; Stripping Dangerous Lead Paint
Roger Cook shows a homeowner how to use and maintain string trimmers for a variety of landscaping chores. Tom Silva and Kevin O'Connor discuss different types of woodworking clamps and their uses. Tom also shows how rubber surgical tubing and rubber bands can be used as clamps when only light pressure is needed. In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it is used. Kevin and a remediation team help a homeowner remove lead paint from her old house by using hand scrapers and chemical strippers.
Read MoreAttracting Different Bird Species; Dual-flush Toilet Valves
Roger Cook visits a nature center to learn how to attract many different species of birds using different types of bird feeders and birdseed. Tom Silva and Kevin O'Connor visit a home center to identify various types of interior moldings and their uses. In the Ask This Old House loft, Tom, Richard, Roger and Kevin examine an unfamiliar object and try to guess how it is used. Richard helps a homeowner conserve water by installing a new type of dual-flush valve in his existing toilet.
Read MoreRepairing Newel Posts; Cutting Rigid Pipes
Tom Silva helps a homeowner repair a wobbly newel post at the bottom of a staircase. In the Ask This Old House loft, Richard Trethewey shows Kevin O'Connor various methods for cutting rigid pipes and flexible tubing. Roger Cook visits an arboretum to learn how to reproduce plant specimens from cuttings and by grafting.
Read MoreReplacing an Outdoor Faucet; Sharpening Lawn Mower Blades
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner replace his leaky outdoor faucet. Then, up in the loft, landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows host Kevin O'Connor how to sharpen a lawn mower blade properly. Afterward, Richard, Roger, and Kevin, along with general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Then Tom and Kevin build custom shelving for a walk-in closet.
Read MoreWater and Drain Lines for a Sink; Rescuing Improperly Planted Trees
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey kicks off the 9th season of Ask This Old House by helping a homeowner in Canada install a new kitchen sink. Then, up in the loft, general contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O'Connor some tools that no home workshop should be without. Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook and arborist Matt Foti rescue a tree from "volcano mulching.
Read MoreBalusters an a Staircase; Laying a Stone Footpath
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner install balusters on his new staircase. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger helps a homeowner install a new stone footpath.
Read MoreAttic Storage Space; Repairing a Broken Doorbell
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner find additional storage space by creating a new doorway into an unused attic. Then Tom, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook, host Kevin O'Connor, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard shares a viewer tip on how to create a faucet wrench from a standard PVC pipe. Then, Kevin and an electrician help a homeowner repair a broken doorbell.
Read MoreRepairing a Rotted Windowsill; Installing an Outdoor Faucet
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner repair a rotted windowsill. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Roger shows Kevin a few gardening tools designed for people with limited mobility. Afterward, Richard helps a homeowner install an outdoor faucet.
Read MoreWheelchair Accessible Raised Garden Bed; Fixing a Leaky Roof
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook builds a raised garden bed that is accessible by wheelchair. Then, general contractor Tom Silva shows a homeowner how to repair a leak in his roof caused by a worn-out plumbing vent gasket.
Read MoreChoosing Groundcover; Installing Hydronic Baseboard Heaters
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook and plant expert Carrie Kelly discuss different types of groundcover. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner warm up her cold living room by installing new hydronic baseboard heaters. Afterward, back at the workshop, general contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O'Connor a new product that makes it easier to mark and cut openings for electrical outlets in wallboard.
Read MoreCircular Patio and Fire Pit; Repairing Brick Stairs
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook heads to Fargo, North Dakota, where he and a local crew help a homeowner build a new circular patio and fire pit. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Tom and Kevin head outside to repair a set of brick stairs.
Read MoreEnergy-Efficient Storm Door; Cutting and Soldering Copper Pipes
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner install a new energy-efficient storm door. Then, up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O'Connor how to cut and solder copper plumbing pipes and fittings. Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner reduce the size of an overgrown privet hedge.
Read MoreUneven Stone Patio; Repainting a Rusty Bulkhead Door
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner repair an uneven stone patio. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Kevin and painting contractor Mauro Henrique help a homeowner repaint a rusty metal bulkhead door.
Read MoreHot Water Radiant Tubing; Joint Compound on Drywall Corners
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner heat his newly remodeled kitchen by installing hot water radiant tubing underneath the floor. Then Richard, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom shows Kevin how to apply joint compound to drywall corners. Then Roger and Kevin head outside for a few lessons on using a wheelbarrow properly.
Read MoreLoose Carpeting on a Staircase; Tools for Digging; Recessed Lights
General contractor Tom Silva helps an old friend repair the loose carpeting on his staircase. Then, landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows host Kevin O'Connor several different types of shovels and other tools for digging. Afterward, Kevin heads to Pasadena, California where he and a local electrician help a homeowner install recessed lights in a kitchen ceiling.
Read MoreForced-Air Furnace and Air Conditioning; Damaged Oak Flooring
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a pair of homeowners reduce their utility bills by installing a new forced-air furnace and air conditioning system. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner repair damage to her oak flooring that was caused by a leaky radiator.
Read MoreSharpening Chains; Fixing a Leaky Rain Gutter; Fiberglass Bathtub
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook and chainsaw expert Tim Ard demonstrate safe chainsaw use and a brand new way to sharpen chains. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner with a leaky rain gutter. Back in the workshop, Roger and Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then, Richard and Kevin install a new fiberglass bathtub and shower enclosure.
Read MoreSecond Bathroom Sink; Large Crack in a Concrete Block Foundation
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner install a second sink into an existing bathroom vanity. Next, landscaping contractor Roger Cook shares a viewer tip that makes yard clean-up a little easier. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner repair a large crack in his concrete block foundation.
Read MoreLawn Mowing; Building a Backyard Deck
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows host Kevin O'Connor a few helpful techniques for mowing a lawn. Then, general contractor Tom Silva helps two homeowners begin building the backyard deck of their dreams.
Read MoreCompleting a Backyard Deck; Hidden Deck-Fastening Systems
General contractor Tom Silva helps two homeowners complete the construction of their new backyard deck. Then, back in the workshop, Tom shows host Kevin O'Connor a few other types of hidden deck-fastening systems.
Read MoreRainwater from Gutters; Pliers; Insulating an Attic Floor
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook shows host Kevin O'Connor a few ways to deal with rainwater from gutters and downspouts. Then, up in the workshop, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey talks "All About" pliers. Then Roger, Kevin, Richard, and general contractor Tom Silva ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Tom and Kevin insulate an attic floor using fiberglass batts and blown-in insulation.
Read MorePainting Interior Walls; Water Heater with a Valve Preventing Floods
Up in the workshop, expert painter Mark O'Lalor shows host Kevin O'Connor a few tricks and techniques for painting an interior wall. Then Kevin, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook, general contractor Tom Silva, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard helps a homeowner install a new water heater with an electronic valve that prevents floods due to water leaks.
Read MoreNarrow Garden Bed; Workshop in Memphis; Wood-Burning Insert
In the first episode of a two-part road trip through America's heartland, landscaping contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner in Wichita, Kansas plant a narrow garden bed near her driveway. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, general contractor Tom Silva, and host Kevin O'Connor conduct home improvement workshops with live audiences in Memphis, Tennessee, Little Rock, Arkansas, and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Afterward, Richard and a local contractor make an old fireplace more energy efficient by installing a wood-burning insert.
Read MoreOutdoor Outlets; Flower Bulbs; Graceland; Worn-Out Cabinets
The conclusion of the road trip through America's heartland. Included: installing an outdoor electrical outlet; planting flower bulbs; replacing worn-out kitchen-cabinet hardware. Also: a tour of Elvis Presley's Graceland estate in Memphis.
Read MoreSolar Water Heating; Electrical Safety Devices; Support Posts
Installing a solar water-heating system; replacing rotting support posts under a backyard deck. Also: devices that make residential electrical systems safer.
Read MoreAntique Door Hardware; Geothermal Home Heating and Cooling
Host Kevin O'Connor and general contractor Tom Silva demonstrate how to select and install antique and reproduction door hardware. Then, Kevin and Tom, along with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and landscaping contractor Roger Cook ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard shows a homeowner how a geothermal home heating and cooling system works.
Read MoreSplitting Firewood; Paintbrushes; Connecting a Bar Sink to a Sewer
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook and host Kevin O'Connor show some different methods and tools for splitting firewood. Then, back in the workshop, professional painter Jeff Young shows Kevin how to choose, use, and care for paintbrushes. Then Kevin and Roger, along with general contractor Tom Silva and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then Richard uses an electric pump to connect a basement bar sink to a sewer drain.
Read MoreTool Storage Cabinet; Protecting a House From Flood Damage
Up in the workshop, general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor build a tool storage cabinet, perfect for any basement or garage. Then, Tom and Kevin, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Then Kevin works with a damage prevention specialist to protect a house from catastrophic floods.
Read MoreRemoving Vinyl; Vintage House Parts; Eliminating Gurgling Sounds
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner remove a vinyl kitchen floor. Then host Kevin O'Connor tours a well-stocked architectural salvage yard for vintage house parts. Back in the workshop, Kevin and Tom, along with landscaping contractor Roger Cook and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask, "What is it?" Afterward, Richard helps a homeowner eliminate a gurgling sound coming from his bathroom plumbing.
Read MoreYard Clean Up; Installing Carpet Tiles
Landscaping contractor Roger Cook and host Kevin O'Connor head outside to do some yard clean-up using rakes, blowers and lawn vacuums. Then, up in the loft, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows Kevin how HVAC thermostat technology has evolved over the years. Next, general contractor Tom Silva and Kevin install carpet tiles over a concrete basement floor.
Read MoreTransplanting Tress; Hooking Up Plumbing to a Washing Machine
A homeowner plants two trees. The crew helps hook up plumbing to a washing machine.
Read MoreShower Valve Repair; Rebuilding a Wobbly Stair Banister
The crew helps repair a faulty shower valve and rebuild a wobbly stair banister.
Read MoreCorroded Water Heater Fitting; Vented Range Kitchen Hood
The crew helps replace a corroded fitting on a water heater and installs a vented range kitchen hood.
Read MorePruning an Overgrown Hedge; Installing a Kitchen Tile Backsplash
The crew helps one homeowner prun an overgrown evergreen hedge and another with installing a tile backsplash in the kitchen.
Read MoreWall Insulation; Repointing a Fieldstone Foundation
The crew shows a homeowner the proper way to insulate a wall using fiberglass batts and helps repoint a fieldstone foundation.
Read MoreRemoving Overgrown Shrubs; Quieting a Noisy Baseboard Heater
Roger helps a homeowner remove several overgrown shrubs and plants new perennials. The crew quiets a noisy baseboard heater.
Read MoreRepairing a Crack in an Asphalt Walkway; Getting Rid of Mold
The guys repair a crack in an asphalt walkway and help a homeowner get rid of mold.
Read MoreFixing a Kitchen Sink Drain; Quieting Squeaky Hardwood Floors
The crew helps a homeowner fix a kitchen sink train and track down and repair a squeak in a hardwood floor.
Read MoreBuilding a Porch Railing; Selecting Stone for Building Walls
Tom Silva helps building a porch railing while Roger helps a homeowner select stone for building walls.
Read MoreBackyard Pizza Oven; Threaded Pipe Connections
The crew finishes a backyard pizza oven and shows a homeowner how to work with threaded pipe connections.
Read MoreFront Porch Light; Splitting Firewood
The crew helps a homeowner install a front porch light. Roger provides tips on splitting firewood.
Read MoreBattery Back-Up Sump Pump; Fixing a Rusty Metal Railing
Rich installs a battery back-up sump pump while Tom helps a homeowner fix a rusty metal railing.
Read MorePreventing Ice Dams; Applying Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation
The crew shows a homeowner how to prevent ice dams and helps another apply closed-cell spray foam Insulation in their attic.
Read MoreSolid Oak Front Door; Driving Rebar into the Ground
Tommy helps a homeowner install a solid oak front door and the crew gives tips on driving rebar into the ground.
Read MoreUpgrading Electrical Services; Attracting Butterflies to Gardens
The Ask This Old House crew sends out an electrician to upgrade an electrical service from 100 to 200 amps. Roger tours a garden designed to attract butterflies.
Read MoreStaining a Cedar Fence; Installing Window Boxes
Kevin helps a home owner stain a cedar fence while Roger and Tom provide some tips for installing window boxes.
Read MoreReusing Water From a Washing Machine; Small Gasoline Engines
Rich shows a home owner how to reuse water from a washing machine. The crew talks about maintaining small gasoline engines.
Read MoreUpgrading a Neglected Urban Patio; Hanging a Heavy Mirror
Roger helps a homeowner upgrade a neglected urban patio while Tom helps hang a heavy mirror.
Read MoreRecirculation Pump; Lining a Fireplace Chimney
Rich works on installing a recirculation pump while the crew works with a homeowner to line a fireplace chimney.
Read MoreNew Vinyl Trim; Installing a New Dishwasher
Kevin helps install new vinyl trim around a window while Rich helps a homeowner put in a new dishwasher.
Read MoreGarden with Native Species; Replacing a Door with a Window
Roger shows a homeowner how to plant a garden using native species, and Tom replaces a door with a window.
Read MoreBathroom Floor Tiling; Weatherstripping a Front Door
A contractor shares tips for tiling a bathroom floor while Tom helps a homeowner weatherstrip her front door.
Read MoreFinancing Solar Panels; Framing Walls for Basement-Remodeling
Instalilng solar photovoltaic panels; framing walls for a basement-remodeling project.
Read MoreOld Window Restoration; Installing a Kitchen Sink Water Filter
Tom shows how to restore old windows while Rich helps a homeowner install a kitchen sink water filter.
Read MoreManual Transfer Switch; Fixing a Clogged Sewer Line
The This Old House crew brings in an electrician to Install a manual transfer switch, and Rich helps a homeowner fix a clogged sewer line.
Read MoreRefinishing with Spray Paint; Installing a Pre-Finished Wood Floor
Kevin and Roger provide some tips on refinishing with spray paint while Tom Installs a pre-finished wood floor.
Read MoreTransforming Stock Shelving; New Washing Machine Valve
Transforming stock shelving into a custom built-in; installing a new washing machine valve.
Read MoreBluestone Patio; Hanging Bikes in a Garage
Installing a bluestone patio; hanging bikes in a small garage.
Read MoreCustom Fireplace Mantle; Repairing a Leaking Kitchen Faucet
Building a custom fireplace mantle; garden edging; repairing a leaking kitchen faucet.
Read MoreLaying Sod in the Backyard; Installing a Wireless Thermostat
Laying sod in the backyard; finding measurements without doing math; wireless thermostat controls the heating system.
Read MorePlanting Palm Trees; Replacing an Old Heating System
Planting several varieties of palm trees in a front yard; light bulbs; Replacing an old heating system and hot water heater with a more efficient single appliance.
Read MoreSpecial New York Episode
The crew visits New York City, where plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey tours a scale model of the city. Host Kevin O'Connor and a local electrician add task lighting to a Brooklyn kitchen. The guys play "What Is It" in Times Square with Jimmy Fallon. Landscape contractor Roger visits the Highline. General contractor Tom installs cable deck railing in Greenwich Village.
Read MoreNew Kitchen Sink and Faucet; Insulated Sidelights on a Front Door
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Colorado Spings to install a brand new kitchen sink and faucet. General contractor Tom Silva installs insulated sidelights on a front door.
Read MorePrivacy Fence; Replacing a Clogged Shower Valve
Landscape contractor Roger Cook works with a fencing contractor to install a vinyl privacy fence. Then, Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Richard replaces a clogged shower valve.
Read MoreInterior Window Trim; Heating a Swimming Pool
General contractor Tom Silva installs interior window trim. Richard heats a swimming pool using an air conditioner.
Read MoreProperly Mulching Garden Beds; Installing a Natural Gas Line
Landscape contractor Roger Cook shows a homeowner how to properly mulch his garden beds. Then Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Richard installs a natural gas line for a barbeque grill.
Read MoreUsing Hand Planes; Repairing a Cracked Stone Walkway
In the workshop, general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the proper way to use hand planes. Then, Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscape contractor Roger Cook ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Roger helps a homeowner repair a cracked stone walkway.
Read MoreCeiling Fan; Installing a Water Softener
Host Kevin O'Connor and electrician Scott Caron head to Denver to install a ceiling fan on a cathedral ceiling. Then, Kevin, along with general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscape contractor Roger Cook ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Richard visits New Jersey to install a water softener.
Read MoreTransplanting a Rose Bush; Replacing Old Outdoor Lighting
Landscape contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner temporarily transplant a mature rose bush while exterior work takes place. Then, Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Richard shows Kevin some rookie plumbing mistakes. And Tom and Kevin replace old outdoor lighting with new fixtures.
Read MoreRestoring Terrazzo Floors; Repairing a Cracked Floor Joist
Host Kevin O'Connor heads to Del Ray Beach, Florida to restore Terrazzo floors. Then, Kevin, along with landscape contractor Roger Cook, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner repair a cracked floor joist.
Read MoreToilet Installation; Patching a Lawn with Grass Seed
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey heads to Cheyenne, Wyoming, to help a homeowner install a toilet. Then, Richard, along with landscape contractor Roger Cook, host Kevin O'Connor, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Roger and Kevin patch a lawn with grass seed.
Read MoreHanging a Flat Panel TV; Controlling Insects Without Pesticides
Master electrician Scott Caron helps a homeowner hang a flat-panel television on the wall and conceal all the wiring. Back in the workshop, Scott shows Kevin examples of many different types of electrical outlets. Roger heads to Miami to help a homeowner control the insect pests in her yard without the use of pesticides.
Read MoreMaintaining Kitchen Appliances; Installing a Rain Gutter
Host Kevin O'Connor meets appliance repairman Richie Isaacson to learn how to maintain kitchen appliances. Then, Kevin, along with landscape contractor Roger Cook, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner install a rain gutter, downspout, and rain barrel.
Read MoreStorage Bench; Soldering Pipes; Overgrown Perennial Garden
In the workshop, general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor build a storage bench for an entryway. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to solder copper pipes properly. Afterward, landscape contractor Roger Cook helps a homeowner maintain an overgrown perennial garden.
Read MoreOrchids as Houseplants; Purchasing a Kitchen Wall Cabinet
Landscape contractor Roger Cook visits a tropical botanic garden to learn how to care for orchids as houseplants. Then, Roger, along with host Kevin O'Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Tom helps a homeowner purchase and install a kitchen wall cabinet.
Read MoreInsulating Ductwork; Maintaining Clothes Washers and Dryers
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey visits Cortland, Illinois, to learn how corn is harvested and then to help a homeowner insulate ductwork. Landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates proper pruning technique. Roger, Richard, host Kevin O'Connor, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Kevin learns how to maintain washers and dryers.
Read MoreDuctless Heat Pump; LED Lighting
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and host Kevin O'Connor install a ductless heat pump to heat and cool a room. Richard, Kevin, landscape contractor Roger Cook, and general contractor Tom Silva ask "What Is It?" Master electrician Scott Caron demonstrates new technologies and applications for LED lighting. Roger learns how to select houseplants for different situations.
Read MoreSolving a Melted Mystery; Whole-House Energy Audit
General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner solve the mystery of her melted vinyl siding.
Read MoreUsing Ladders Safely; Replacing a Shower Valve
General contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor demonstrate how to use all types of ladders safely. Then plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey replaces a three-handle shower valve with a single-handle antiscald valve.
Read MoreSurge Protectors, Cutting Stone
Master electrician Scott Caron installs several types of surge protection. Then, general contractor Tom Silva, host Kevin O'Connor, landscape contractor Roger Cook, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Roger demonstrates how to cut and shape stones for hardscaping projects.
Read MoreCustom Concrete Countertops; Cordless Landscape Tools
How to make and install custom concrete countertops. Can you install watertight connections without soldering? Cordless landscape tools.
Read MorePainting Kitchen Cabinets; Installing a Smart Thermostat
The final episode of the 2012/13 season investigates how subway trains are serviced. The crew shows how to paint kitchen cabinets; estimate landscape material by the cubic yard; and how to install a smart thermostat.
Read MoreReplacing an Old Door; Hot Water Without Waiting
The twelfth season of Ask This Old House begins with Kevin teaching the guys how to use Twitter. Tom replaces an old, rusted bulkhead door. Richard discusses several ways to get hot water without waiting. And the guys ask "What Is It?"
Read MoreBuilding a Garden Bed in New Mexico; Repairing a Leaky Toilet
Roger builds a garden bed for chile pepper plants in New Mexico. Richard repairs a leaky toilet with a worn out flange. And the guys ask "What Is It?"
Read MoreHands-Free Kitchen Faucet; Channel Drain to Divert Rainwater
Richard replaces a leaking kitchen faucet with a new hands-free model. Kevin explains rechargeable batteries. Roger installs a channel drain in a driveway to divert rainwater. And the guys ask "What Is It?"
Read MorePre-Hung Front Door; Big Containers for Screening and Shading
Installing a pre-hung exterior door. How to use large containers for shading around the home.
Read MoreShade Sail Over a Deck in Santa Fe; Hybrid Water Heater
A member of the team learns about styles prevalent in Santa Fe, N.M. Roger teaches the proper way to use a wheelbarrow. How to install a shade sail to a deck. Richard installs a hybrid water heater.
Read MoreLeaky Skylight; Repairing a Noisy Toilet
Tommy replaces a leaky skylight. Richard quiets a noisy toilet.
Read MorePlanting a Maple Tree; Working on an Underground Bathroom
Roger transplants a specimen maple tree. Fixing an underground master bathroom.
Read MorePreparing for Severe Weather
How to make improvements to make your home safer during a tornado, hurricane and power failure. A meteorologist describes how weather is changing and what homeowners should do to prepare.
Read MoreUses for a Router; Replacing an Air Conditioning Unit
Tom demonstrates many uses for a router. Richard replaces an air conditioning unit that freezes when it runs. And the guys ask "What Is It?"
Read MoreIrrigation System; Installing a Heat-Pump Water Heater
Installing an irrigation system designed for a desert climate; new style of heat-pump water heater; reusing an old garden hose reel.
Read MoreCrown Molding in Seattle; Replacing a Rotted Fence Post
Installing crown molding; replacing a rotted fence post; difference between cement, concrete and mortar.
Read MoreHouse Humidifier in North Carolina; Hardwired Smoke Detector
Installing a Whole-House Humidifier in North Carolina; Installing Hardwired Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors.
Read MoreWaffle Gardening in Santa Fe; Mechanical Dampers for Air Heating
"Waffle Gardening" in Santa Fe; Adding Mechanical Dampers to a Forced-Air Heating System
Read MoreRotted Porch Post; Dealing with High Indoor Humidity
Repairing a Rotted Porch Post; Dealing With High Indoor Humidity
Read MoreFitting a Mattress up a Staircase; Repairing a Light-Switch in Seattle
Fitting a Mattress Up a Narrow Staircase; Repairing a Light-Switch in Seattle
Read MoreClawfoot Tub with Shower; Installing a Permanent Fire Escape
Installing a Clawfoot Tub With Shower; Installing a Permanent Fire Escape in a Bedroom
Read MoreHigh Tunnel Greenhouse; Converting Recessed Lights Into Pendants
Building a high tunnel greenhouse; converting three recessed kitchen lights into three pendants. Selecting pliers and wrenches.
Read MoreQuieting a Squealing Shower; A DIY-Friendly Security System
Quieting a Squealing Shower; A DIY-Friendly Security System and Video Camera
Read MorePlants from Seed; Outdoor Hose Spigot; Movable Kitchen Island
How to start plants from seed. How to prevent an outdoor hose spigot from freezing. How to build a movable kitchen island.
Read MorePlanting a Low-Cost Privacy Screen; Sealing Ductwork
Planting a low-cost privacy screen; and sealing ductwork without removing the walls.
Read MoreBaseboard Hole-Patching; Maintaining a Lawn Mower
Replacing a shower valve; repairing damage to a baseboard; keeping a lawn mower in excellent shape.
Read MoreCelebrating 300 Episodes
Celebrating 300 episodes of "Ask This Old House" with a review of favorite moments.
Read MoreBuilding a Simple Table; Getting Rid of Tree Stumps
Building a simple table from solid fir; removing tree stumps; solar energy.
Read MoreAccessible Home; Modifying a Bathroom and Dangerous Staircase
Modifying a bathroom and stairs to make them wheelchair accessible; rebuilding dangerous staircase.
Read MoreReplacing Fluorescent Under Cabinet Lights; Working with Concrete
Replacing fluorescent under-cabinet lights with LED fixtures; working with concrete.
Read MoreAll About Kitchen Renovations; Chef Michael Symon
Installing new cabinets; countertop options; the home and restaurant kitchens of chef Michael Symon.
Read MorePass Through, New Gate
The Season 13 premiere discusses rust staining; the installation of a pass-through in a load-bearing wall; and the replacement of a poorly built fence gate. Also: NASA astronaut Rick Mastracchio joins the fun when the guys play "What is it?"
Read MoreCitrus Greening, Tile
Citrus greening, a disease that's killing citrus trees in Florida, is discussed. Also: replacing an old vinyl peel-and-stick floor with ceramic tile.
Read MoreBeneficial Insects; Resizing a Front Door; Outdoor Garden Faucet
Beneficial insects are discussed. Also: resizing a front door that gets stuck on the carpet whenever it's opened; and repairing an outdoor garden faucet.
Read MorePractical Drought Solutions; Replacing an Old-Fashioned Toilet
Practical solutions for drought. Included: replacing a water-guzzling lawn with a desert-appropriate alternative; and replacing an old-fashioned toilet with a "water sense" solution. Also: meteorologist Jim Cantore shares cautionary tales from the front lines of the drought.
Read MoreStructural Problems; Running Wiring for a New Ceiling Fixture
Repairing structural problems in a home and running wiring for a new ceiling fixture and switch in a living room.
Read MoreNatural Gas Line Installation; Hanging a Heavy Mirror
Installing a natural gas line for a new grill and hanging a heavy, decorative mirror on a masonry chimney. Also: what grows best in the shade.
Read MoreSetting Up a Beehive; Adding Lighting to a Dark Kitchen
Setting up a beehive and adding lighting to a dark kitchen without running new wiring.
Read MoreHarvesting Honey; Adding Outlets
Harvesting honey and adding outlets to a home.
Read MoreHydroponic Garden; Hot- and Cold-Water Outdoor Faucet
A hydroponic garden is built and a hot- and cold-water outdoor faucet is installed.
Read MoreBasement Lighting; Crabapple Tree
Connecting a basement lighting system to one switch; air conditioning maintenance; rejuvenating a crabapple tree.
Read MoreBroken Window; Toilet Rotation
A broken window is replaced with a safer option; and a toilet is rotated.
Read MoreFire-Pit Table Top Build; Bathroom Sink Upgrade
A cover for a fire pit is built; and a bathroom sink is upgraded.
Read MoreInterior Window Trim; Above Ground Pool Wiring
Interior window trim is installed; an above-ground pool is wired. Also: first-time plumbing tips.
Read MoreEdible Landscape; Snaking Drains; Damaged Siding
Removing overgrown shrubs and replacing them with edible landscape; snaking drains; replacing damaged pieces of vinyl siding.
Read MoreDuctless Heating; Repairing Plaster Ceiling; Hearing Protection
Installing a whole house ductless heating and cooling system; hearing protection; repairing a plaster ceiling.
Read MoreBacksplash; New Kitchen Faucet
Transforming an old backsplash; installing a new kitchen faucet.
Read MoreBroken Sash Cords; Plant Bulbs
How to repair broken sash cords; and plant bulbs. Also: historian Doris Kearns Goodwin guests in the "What Is It?" segment.
Read MoreEntry Shelf Build; Rough Electric Install
Building a basic entry shelf from poplar and plywood; wiring a basement room for outlets and lighting.
Read MoreCeiling Fan Replacement; Bonsai Tree
Replacing an undersized ceiling fan; bonsai nursery.
Read MoreLightning Protection; Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Install
Lightning protection system; installing a reverse osmosis filter for drinking water.
Read MoreInstalling Landscape Lighting; Replacing Water Main Shutoff Valve
Installing landscape lighting; replacing a water main shutoff.
Read MoreMailbox Replacement; Ask Kevin: Window Anatomy
Replacing a mailbox damaged by a snowplow; window anatomy; reusing an old door in a new opening.
Read MoreNoisy Baseboard Heating Fix; Recessed Kitchen Lighting
Kitchen island dimensions; quieting a noisy baseboard heating system; adding light to a kitchen.
Read MoreMaine Tropical Houseplants; USA Flag Build
Planting an indoor tropical garden with plants from Jamaica; changing the temperature on water heaters; building an American flag out of wood.
Read MoreElectrical Vehicle Charger Install; Kitchen Sink Install
Installing an electric vehicle charger; installing a new kitchen sink.
Read MoreSmart Thermostat Install; Barn Solar Install
Installing a thermostat that interfaces with a smartphone to save energy; installing a photovoltaic solar array on a barn.
Read MoreClassroom Garden, House Fan
The Season 14 premiere features a whole house fan installation; and an explanation of new water heater regulations. Also: working with students to liven up a school's garden.
Read MoreGarage Power, Chainsaw Safety
Chainsaw safety is discussed; a garage's electrical connection is improved; and squeaky floors are silenced in a baby's room.
Read MoreDriveway Patch, Shaker Table
A driveway pothole is repaired; and an old railroad lantern is given new life. Also: building a Shaker-styled nightstand.
Read MoreRenewable Energy
Energy efficiency is explored during a visit to Germany. Also: installing a residential wind turbine in Texas.
Read MoreHome Composting, Steam Boiler
How to create soil from organic garbage. Also: why a steam boiler is losing water.
Read MoreSink Mistake, Security Light
Richard travels to Atlanta to replace a vessel sink with a self-rimming sink. Scott installs a motion sensor security light in a driveway. And the guys ask "What is it?"
Read MoreButterfly Garden, Dark Closet
Roger heads to Texas for a lesson on planting a butterfly garden. Tom maps out the best tools for woodworking beginners. And Scott helps a homeowner find illumination in her closet.
Read MoreHome Brew Beer, Rain Barrel
Kevin heads to a brewery to learn how to make his own beer at home. Bridget Lancaster from America's Test Kitchen stops by with a lesson on ales versus lagers. Tom is in Baltimore to help install a do-it-yourself rain barrel. And Richard has advice on what not to put in your disposers.
Read MoreChildproofing; Falling Sink
Kevin visits Delaware to help a new mother childproof her home. Richard uses his skill to fix an under counter mount sink. And Scott gives Kevin a tutorial on the latest voltage testers.
Read MoreWinter Weather Special
Scott Caron offers an electrical solution to ice dams. Kevin talks climate change with Weather Channel meteorologist Jim Cantore. Roger shares a few tips on snowblower maintenance. And Richard goes over furnace upkeep.
Read MoreCoffee Table; Grass Paver
Roger heads to Cape Cod to transform a patch of grass into a lawn you can drive on! In "Build It," Tom and Kevin use reclaimed oak wood to create a coffee table. Richard explains how to keep pipes from freezing in the winter months. And the guys ask, "What Is It?"
Read MorePost Light, Pedestal Sink
Scott heads to South Dakota to install a post light. Richard is in Delaware to replace a pedestal sink. Landscape designer Jenn Nawada explains how to make succulent plants into a piece of art. And it's a wand with three probes. "What is it?"
Read MoreKitchen Makeover; Attic Stair
Installing a new attic staircase; updating a kitchen; blowtorches
Read MoreSmart Lock; Outdoor TV
Kevin uses a smartphone app to help a homeowner turn his front door deadbolt into an electronic entrance. Scott installs a television outdoors for a little open-air entertainment. And it's a white sphere with blue holes, but "What is it?
Read MorePhilly Sconce; Trim Closet
Tom trims a coat closet to include a shelf and hanger pole and then installs a pre-hung door. Richard explains why a toilet may be leaking. And Scott gives an old Philadelphia church a new look with an outdoor wall sconce.
Read MoreMaple Syrup; Chicken Coop; USB
Tom and Kevin head to Connecticut to construct a back yard chicken coop in "Build It." Jenn Nawada visits a Vermont maple syrup farm to learn how it's made. Christopher Kimball from America's Test Kitchen stops by to break down the best and worst maple syrup. And Scott explains how to choose the right USB outlet.
Read MoreChimney, Exhaust Fan, Shingle
A chimney overhaul; the installation of an exhaust fan in a kitchen; and a tutorial on roof shingles.
Read MoreOverflow, Antique Fixture
Scott heads to St. Paul to wire a light fixture to match the aesthetic of an antique home. Richard makes an old tub safe by installing an overflow. Tom explains what every homeowner should have for insulation when it comes to R-value. And the guys ask "What Is It?"
Read MoreWildlife Garden, Floor Patch
Converting a front yard into a wildlife oasis; restoring a wood floor; unclogging a sink.
Read MorePotato Farm, Track Lighting
Growing potatoes in Idaho; Jim Cantore talks about weather stations; installing track lighting.
Read MoreWasher-Dryer, Chandelier
A washer and dryer are installed; and a chandelier is added to a dining room. Also: using a power driver.
Read MoreShort Door, Grow Herbs
Repairing an antique door; and growing edible herbs indoors. Also: disappearing toilet water.
Read MoreDeck Lighting, Fireplaces
A deck is given festive lighting; and fireplace options are discussed. Also: the best tools for first-time gardeners.
Read MoreNick Offerman, Pipe Shelf
Nick Offerman visits. Also: creating a steel pipe shelf; and building a pond-less waterfall.
Read MoreMurphy Door, House Hydrant
A bookshelf is turned into a secret door; and an outdoor house hydrant is installed. Also: the two tools used for most electrical work.
Read MoreDoorbell, Home Gym, Pipes
A home gym is built for a wounded Navy SEAL; and a faulty doorbell is repaired. Also: the important roles that 22 and 45 play under the sink.
Read MoreWindow, Robotic Mower, Lead
Watch Tom pull off a balancing act to repair an old window. Roger shows Kevin the future of lawn care with a robotic mower. Richard addresses concerns of lead...
Read MoreFire Prevention, Strainer
Preventing fires in homes; replacing a rusty sink strainer.
Read MoreBookshelf, Foundation Plants
Tom and Kevin use store-bought stair treads to create a bookshelf in Build It. And landscape designer Jenn Nawada transforms the look of a home’s foundation by using existing plants.
Read MoreWater Heater, Home Orchard
Roger helps plant a home orchard using apple and pear trees. Tom shows Kevin how to choose and use a circular saw. Richard installs a new tank water heater and discusses new regulations on them. How to Plant a Home Orchard Roger helps a homeowner plant an pear and apple orchard in her backyard.
Read MoreMolding Raceway, Deck Board
Tom repairs a broken board on a front porch. Richard analyzes a homeowner’s green-stained shower. Scott brings more power to a bedroom and is able to conceal the wiring with crown molding.
Read MoreHVAC Zoning, Plaster Patch
Richard learns about a way to heat and cool a house using a new room-by-room ventilation system. Tom explains the best ways to patch a small hole in the wall. And the guys ask, “What is it?”
Read MoreReclaimed Bench, Robotic Wall
In Future House, Ross Trethewey helps build a robotic wall that could be the key to tight spaces in urban living. Tom and Kevin use reclaimed pine heart wood to create a bench with a historic theme in Build It.
Read MoreLaundry, 3-Way Switch, Saw
Richard travels to Seattle to help a couple choose and install laundry appliances. Tom shows Kevin new table saw technology. And Scott repairs a three-way switch.
Read MoreMicrogreens, Elevator
Kevin helps a contractor install a home elevator. Jenn learns how to grow and harvest microgreens.
Read MoreWood Shop, Wireless Switch
Tom heads to Chicago to transform a one-car garage into a carpentry workshop. Scott installs a wireless light switch. Richard gives a history lesson on antique bath fixtures.
Read MoreBluestone, Mead, Wire Splices
Roger rips up an old, dangerous walkway to replace it with bluestone. Scott explains the best wire nuts to use for each project. Kevin gets a lesson on making mead.
Read MoreRadiator, Saws, Garage Lights
Landscape Designer Jenn Nawada shares an environmentally safe way to keep walkways safe during the winter. Tom gives a tutorial on hand saws, showing how and when to use them.
Read MoreRooftop Garden, Stains, Shed
Landscape designer Jenn Nawada learns about rooftop and small space gardens. Tom explains the best practices to remove stains from plaster and dry wall. Scott helps a homeowner power his shed by running electricity underground from his house.
Read MoreFuture House, Nick Offerman
A tour of comedian Nick Offerman's woodworking shop. Also: measuring a home's energy consumption; and making a dish soap blunder.
Read MoreWater Heat, Panels, Astronaut
Solving a hot water problem; and sprucing up a dining room. Also: a former NASA astronaut talks tools.
Read MoreBuild It, Lighting, Mousetrap
A cutting board is made from scrap heart pine; an overly bright room is recast with LEDs; and mice-preventive measures are discussed.
Read MoreKentucky Lawn, Chandelier
Tips for lawn care; and a jigsaw tutorial. Also: installing a motorized lift for a chandelier.
Read MorePassage Set, Landscape
An historic plan is used to revive a back yard; and an inactive door handle is replaced with a passage set. Also: the evolution of plumbing.
Read MoreWater Heater, Storm Door
A house is made more energy efficient; and a hybrid water heater is replaced. Also: voice-recognition technology.
Read MoreBuild It, Cable Lighting
A home message center is built; and cable-powered fixtures are installed. Also: the importance of carbon monoxide detectors.
Read MoreWater Filter, Fire Pit, Wood
A whole house water filter is installed; and a patio and granite fire pit are built. Also: the differences between soft and hard wood.
Read MoreAlaska Generator, Wood Floor
Hooking up a portable generator capable of powering an entire house; and repairing a poorly installed piece of wood floor nosing. Also: an inside look at dishwasher cycles.
Read MoreClogged Pipe, Convection Heat
A clogged drain is fixed; and an electric convection heater is installed in a chilly bathroom. Also: a masking primer that leaves clean lines on a window.
Read MoreBuild It, Future House, Surge
A planter box is built with western red cedar. Also: a tablet attachment that makes 3D scans of home interiors; and the need for surge protection.
Read MoreRain Garden, Cabinet Hardware
A rain garden is planted to keep runoff and waste out of marshlands; and a dim bedroom receives new overhead lighting. Also: installing cabinet hardware accurately and consistently.
Read MoreHawaii Makes 50
In Hawaii, a unique keepsake box is built from island materials; storing solar energy is explored; and an organic garden is planted.
Read MoreWater Softener, App, Shadow Box
Installing a new type of water softener; a home organization app; building a shadow box using wood from an old door.
Read MoreToolbox; Smoke Detector; Leaking Valve
A young fan learns how to build a tool box; installing smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; diagnosing a leaking safety valve and installing an expansion tank to fix it.
Read MoreBacksplash; Leak Detection; Rainwater
How to install a backsplash. Also: a wireless leak detector that prevents floods; and a water feature that collects and reuses rainwater.
Read MorePatch Lawn, Swap Toilet, Off-Grid
Reseeding a dead section of lawn and blending it in with the rest of the yard; the basics of changing a toilet; and an off-grid home tests commercial HVAC equipment.
Read MoreRadiator Swap, Brick Repointing
Replacing a small radiator with one that's the correct size; and repointing brick. Also: the importance of sunscreen on the jobsite.
Read MoreTree Removal; Stud Finders
The differences between water filters; and different ways to locate studs in a wall. Also: removing a tree that's leaning toward a house; and installing a smart garage door opener.
Read MoreHappy Holidays from AskTOH!
A toy box is built; and the guys exchange gifts. Also: preventing fires from holiday decorations.
Read MoreWindow Gap, Solar Drinking Water
Roger teaches how to care for orchids; Tom fixes a window that was not hung properly and his now letting air in; Mark demonstrates how to clean brick with acid; in Future House, Ross finds a solar panel that can generate drinking water.
Read MoreWalkway Reset; Patch Chipped Floor
Roger shows how to repair a damaged walkway, and also how to identify what caused the damage so it can be prevented; Tom patches a chipped wood floor using a Dutchman and hand tools.
Read MoreSilica Dust, Wobbly Toilet
Mark tests out different tools that collect silica dust more efficiently; Richard shims a wobbly toilet; Kevin heads to the Catskills to build a wooden slice table with Jimmy Diresta, a maker who's famous online for his how-to videos.
Read MoreTankless Water Heater, Retaining Wall
Richard heads to Milwaukee to install an instantaneous water heater; Tom demonstrates some techniques for cutting straight edges with a circular saw; Mark rebuilds a retaining wall that was stacked with the wrong material.
Read MoreDutch Door, Landscape Checkers
Richard shows Kevin the proper way to ventilate a sink; in Nashville, Tom converts a regular door into a Dutch door; Jenn updates a landscape by moving around, dividing, and pruning the current plants in the yard.
Read MoreRain Chain, Vanity Installation
Roger installs a downspout alternative; painter Mauro Henrique explains the differences between various types of paintbrushes; Richard installs a vanity for homeowners who gave up on it 7 years ago; Tom shows closet storage options.
Read MoreLawn Care, Workshop of the Future
Roger tends to a lawn that was seeded in the summer and is not doing well; Richard goes over low-budget kitchen upgrades; Tom travels to a futuristic workshop in San Francisco to build a stool using computer-based tools.
Read MoreSpitting Faucet, Painting 101
Richard diagnoses and repairs a water system with air in it; in Open House, Tom analyzes a staircase that is not to code; Mauro makes his first house call to teach a homeowner the basics of painting a room.
Read MoreHouston After Harvey
In this special episode of AskTOH, the guys head to Texas in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey to profile nonprofits working to tear down, clean out, and rebuild homes that were destroyed during the storm.
Read MoreMetal Railing; Tile Replacement
Mark installs a metal railing using anchoring cement; in Open House, Richard weighs the pros and cons of steam heat; Tom demonstrates the correct way to replace a cracked kitchen floor tile.
Read MoreJimmy DiResta; Trough Planter
Richard demonstrates a solution for replacing a water main shutoff; Jenn travels to Tennessee to build a planter out of an animal feeding trough; Mark waterproofs brick; Kevin heads back to Jimmy DiResta's shop to build a sign.
Read MoreStair Railing; Smart Show House
Richard discusses the possible causes and solutions for a frozen air conditioner; Tom fixes an end cap on a stair railing that is loose; Ross travels to Napa to tour a house that's testing a variety of interconnected smart home devices.
Read MoreShower Valve; Chainsaws; Bucket Stool
In Nashville, Richard repairs and replaces a leaking shower valve; Roger explains safety features built into all chainsaws; Kevin makes a bucket stool with Ben Uyeda, a maker best known for his design-based online videos.
Read MorePaint Door; Match Mortar; Wood Joints
Mauro teaches a homeowner how to paint a metal door; Mark explains how to match mortar for repointing jobs; Tom teaches apprentice Austin how to make a variety of different wood joints by building simple utility boxes.
Read MoreGutterless Gutters, Desert Plan
Tom installs an alternative to a gutter when a traditional one does not work; Ross and Richard update Kevin on a Future House technology; Jenn heads to Phoenix to recreate the desert in a homeowner's front yard.
Read MorePaint Stripping, Fridge Hookup
Mauro travels to Sacramento to show a homeowner the safe way to strip paint; Tom explains basic chiseling techniques; Richard helps a special homeowner hook up her refrigerator with an icemaker.
Read MoreReface Fireplace, Kitchen Faucet
Mark teaches apprentice Krysten how to reface a granite fireplace; Jenn gives some tips on starting an organic garden; Richard helps a homeowner replace her kitchen faucet when she realizes her shutoff valve is broken.
Read MoreDrafty Door, Clean Paintbrushes
Tom uses multiple techniques to make a drafty door weathertight; Mauro demonstrates the most effective way to clean a paintbrush; Roger and Jenn test out a variety of battery operated lawn tools.
Read MoreNet Zero Community, Live Edge
In Austin, Ross visits a community that plans to have all net zero energy housing; Richard demonstrates the uses of less common wrenches; Tom and Kevin build a console table using a maple slab with a live edge on it.
Read MorePlunge Pool, Heat Pump
Jenn installs a plunge pool for a homeowner with a small backyard; Tom gives some basic tips about insulating an attic; Richard travels to Celebration, Florida to help a homeowner select and install the right electric water heater.
Read MoreWindow Repair, Space House Tour
Mark explains how to make concrete; Tom replaces a broken pane in a basement window; in Future House, Ross travels to NASA Johnson Space Center to learn about the technology they use on the International Space Station to keep the astronauts alive.
Read MoreStone Walkway, Rustic Headboard
Mark installs a front walkway for a homeowner using natural stone; Mauro explains the uses and techniques for different types of painter’s tape; Tom and Kevin build a headboard using rustic barnboard.
Read MoreGarage Heat, DIY Security System
Richard travels to Akron, Ohio to install a garage heater; Tom teaches the basics of sanding; Ross installs a DIY security system; Mark investigates a strange issue happening to foundations in the Northeast.
Read MoreCrown Molding, Strip Wallpaper
Tom installs crown molding on cabinets with full overlay doors; Richard discusses toilet seats; Mauro teaches apprentice Mary how to strip wallpaper without using any chemicals.
Read MoreStorage Bench, Old Shower Valve
In Build It, Tom and Kevin build a modern storage bench out of a single sheet of MDF and then Mauro paints it; Richard travels to Seattle to help a homeowner whose shower runs cold whenever there’s a demand for hot water elsewhere in the house.
Read MoreSwap Door Swing, Tropical Yard
The team discusses tools that make good gifts; Jenn returns to her home state of Florida to help a homeowner design a tropical landscape for his backyard; former apprentice Nathan returns to help Tom change the swing of an entry door.
Read MoreFireplace Makeover, Drip Edges
Repairing and updating a fireplace surround; drip edges.
Read MoreSwing Set, Robotic Construction
Building a swing set; building saw horses with materials left over from the job site; automated home construction.
Read MoreConcrete Walkway, Jimmy DiResta
Replacing a concrete walkway with brick pavers; installing gas piping in a home; building a farmhouse table; guest Jimmy DiResta
Read MoreSeismic Retrofit, Dryer Vent
Protecting homes from earthquakes; staining concrete; why and how to change lo locks in a new home; rerouting a lengthy dryer vent.
Read MoreSoft Close Cabinets; Secret Garden
Soft close kitchen cabinets; how gas regulators work; cleaning up an overgrown garden and redesigning it as a secret garden.
Read MoreCloset Door; Bathroom Paint
Replacing a bifold closet door; alternatives to flower bouquets; painting a bathroom using a mold resistant paint.
Read MoreVertical Garden; Toilet Factory
Installing a vertical garden; uses for different drill bits; advances in toilet engineering that help save water.
Read MoreStucco Repair; Gas Dryer
Repairing a crack in a concrete retaining wall with a stucco finish; air compressors; installing a gas dryer.
Read MorePaint Metal Railing; Wine Rack
Repainting a rusty metal railing; innovations that make cleaning a clogged sink easier; building a wire rack out of a reclaimed beam.
Read MorePrairie Grasses; Wildfires; Solar Flower
Caring for prairie grasses; making a home more resistant to wildfires; a robotic solar array mimics a sunflower.
Read MoreSmart Irrigation; Jimmy DiResta
Upgrading an irrigation system; home inspection nightmares; kitchen renovations; building an Adirondack-style outdoor chair with Jimmy DiResta.
Read MoreWater Filter; Bathroom Caulking
Updating a water filter on a retro faucet; the uses for different types of masonry jointers; when and how to use a Japanese pull saw; re-caulking a bathtub.
Read MoreFoundation Repointing; Textured Ceiling
Re-pointing a fieldstone foundation; water management on the outside of a house; the disposal of oily rags; smoothing over a textured ceiling.
Read MoreStair Treads; Gas Stove Pipe
Replacing split-level stair treads; pruners; shortening a gas pipe for a new stove.
Read MoreFireplace Restoration; Porch Swing
Killing weeds without hurting the lawn; restoring a historic fireplace built with custom bricks; thermostats; hanging a swing.
Read MoreScorched Floor; Hardy Plantings
Testing a smart stud finder; repairing a wood floor that had been burned; using a table saw safely; replacing and improving foundation plantings that had been crushed by snow.
Read MoreHumidity Mystery, Brick Patch
Tom discusses the conversations a homeowner and a contractor should have before starting a renovation project; Richard travels to Orlando to diagnose and repair an HVAC system that is creating way too much humidity; Mauro demonstrates the technique for using a paint sprayer; Mark travels to Denver to patch a hole in a brick wall.
Read MoreDeck Staining; Water Monitoring
Sharpening a knife; re-staining a deck; building a fire; automatic water shutoff valves.
Read MoreHistoric Paintings; Wood Utensils
Adding curb appeal to a house using Victorian flowers; matching paint colors; home inspection issues; hand carving wooden serving utensils.
Read MoreSliding Barn Door, Dry Well
Nathan travels to Birmingham, Alabama to install a sliding barn door in an open-concept loft apartment. Tom compares the qualities of different types of roofing materials. Ross explains the culprit behind damaged solar panels and how to prevent future damage. Mark installs a dry well for a homeowner with drainage issues in his backyard.
Read MoreNursery Paint, Record Stand
Mauro paints a baby’s nursery using zero VOC paint. Richard tests out a new dryer that uses a heat pump to dry the clothes. Tom and Kevin build a record player stand out of oak plywood.
Read MoreRadiator, Fireplace Veneer
Mark replaces a homeowner's sloppy fireplace surround with a clean, thin brick veneer.
Read MoreDuctless Humidifier, Planters
The uses and purposes for different types of screws. Installing a whole house ductless humidifier. Changes to electric bill payment structures. Installing a front entry planter.
Read MoreBuilt-in, Dining Room Light
Repairing an old dining room built-in with hand tools. Home inspection nightmares. Installing a chandelier in a dining room.
Read MoreWomen's Repair Class; Garden
A women's only do-it-yourself class; selecting and installing plants for a terraced garden; how homeowners and contractors should communicate about expectations for home improvement projects.
Read MoreSwitch; Affordable Geothermal
Replacing a standard toggle switch with an antique push button switch; affordable geothermal heat pumps.
Read MorePolybutylene; Squeaky Door
Indoor air quality; replacing polybutylene piping with conventional PEX; drop cloths; different methods for silencing a squeaky door.
Read MoreCable Railing; Painting Shutters
Replacing a stair railing; upgrading a door to make it look more modern; cleaning and painting vinyl shutters.
Read MoreBeehive Oven; Jimmy DiResta
Restoring a beehive oven; failure points in toilet tanks and how to repair them; building a metal coat rack.
Read MoreStoop Planters; Fireplace Insert
Building a hexagon planter; reviving a stoop; home inspection nightmares; installing an electric fireplace insert.
Read MoreCeiling Light; Tool Storage
Installing a ceiling light; installing the temperature rating system for ceiling lights; the uses for different types of trowels; building a tool storage shelf.
Read MoreLoose Railing; Smart Thermostat
Nathan tightens a railing; Mauro strips paint off hardware; Richard upgrades a thermostat.
Read MoreWeird Shower Valve; Mossy Roof
Richard replaces a shower valve with a conventional pressure balanced one, Nathan demonstrates how to refinish stair treads, and Tom removes moss from a roof in the latest episode of Ask This Old House.
Read MoreIndoor Garden; Fireplace Hearth
Planting an indoor garden; the basics of using a hole saw; replacing a common terra cotta hearth with slate tile.
Read MoreDog Dish Stand; Gas Lantern
Using a mobile CNC routing machine; building a dog dish stand using power tools; different methods for wiring a portable generator to a house.
Read MoreCherry Blossoms; Mount Rushmore
The Ask This Old House team travels to and appreciates different national parks and makes a few house calls.
Read MoreCustom Screen Door; Paint Trim
Ross tests out some new smart lighting configurations, while Tom helps a homeowner build a custom screen door. Richard gives general advice on maintaining a washing machine, and Mauro teaches a homeowner techniques to paint old 1960s wood trim with a varnish on it.
Read MoreGround Wire; Fireplace Doors
Kevin works with Jenn Largesse to demonstrate a technique on a trim router. Heath grounds an outlet, while Mauro explains paint rollers and demonstrates rolling techniques. Mark then replaces fireplace doors.
Read MorePedestal Sink; Grout Cleaning
In this episode, Richard helps a homeowner replace components of his pedestal sink, and Heath discusses bathroom vent fans. The team shares home inspection nightmares, and Tom explains how to clean dirty tile grout.
Read MorePaver Patio; Shoe Rack
Mark helps a couple install a concrete paver patio; Jenn discusses the common elements she includes in outdoor kitchen designs; Tom and Kevin build a combination bench/shoe rack out of fir decking.
Read MoreCedar Shingles; Vegetable Garden
In this episode, Tom explains the architecture, installation, and maintenance of white cedar shingles. Richard repairs a hose spigot, and Jenn builds and plants a self-watering vegetable garden.
Read MoreMantel; Too Many Light Switches
In this episode, Richard tests a faucet, and Mark installs a mantel. Ross and Mauro discuss why and how to remove cigarette smell from a home. Then, Heath connects 4 separate switches that control 6 lights in the same room.
Read MorePantry Doors; Reflective Shingle
Nathan installs bypass doors for a pantry; Richard tests different smart automatic water shutoff valves; Ross explores asphalt roof shingles that can reflect some of the sun’s heat.
Read MoreQuartz Countertops; Firepit Kit
Kevin learns how quartz countertops are manufactured and installed. Nathan explains how to hang and display a U.S. flag, and Tom and Jenn split firewood. Then, Mark installs a fire pit that comes in a kit.
Read MoreShower Cartridge; Turning a Bowl
Nathan shows Kevin some old drywall paneling he found, and Richard teaches a homeowner how to clean her shower cartridge. Tom teaches Kevin the basics of using a lathe, and then they turn a bowl together.
Read MoreAll Hands on Deck
In this special episode of Ask This Old House, Tom walks two homeowners through the entire process for building a two-level deck, starting with pulling permits and getting a land survey all the way through to installing the deck boards and railings.
Read MorePreventing Plumbing Disasters
Richard explains how, where, and why plumbing systems fail; Richard gives a deep dive on when and how plumbing pipes and connections can be repaired or replaced; Ross explains and demonstrates how to prevent plumbing failures with new technology.
Read MoreAll About Walkways
In this special episode of Ask This Old House, Roger, Jenn and Mark explain best practices for installing or repairing a walkway; Mark helps a homeowner install a brand new walkway using natural stone.
Read MoreLandscapes Across America
In this special episode of Ask This Old House, Jenn explains how various climates across the United States impact the design, care, and maintenance of different landscapes, which includes discussing USDA Hardiness Zones and native plant species.
Read MoreAll About Windows
Tom and Kevin explain everything you need to know about using, installing, maintaining and repairing a window.
Read MoreInstalling Water Features
Jenn and Roger install a variety of different water features to accentuate landscapes; Roger installs an alternative to a downspout; Jenn installs a waterfall feature in a backyard that reuses water.
Read MoreAll About Fireplaces
In this special episode of Ask This Old House, Tom and Mark tell you everything you need to know about fireplaces; Tom builds a custom mantel for a homeowner; Richard discusses fireplace inserts; Mark replaces the hearth of a fireplace with granite.
Read MoreString Lights, Christmas Trees, & Happy Holidays!
Jenn discusses Christmas trees; Richard explains what can and can’t go down a garbage disposal after holiday dinners; Heath helps a homeowner safely install a variety of Christmas lights.
Read MoreReclaim Beam Mantel, Geothermal
Nathan helps a homeowner turn a reclaimed beam into a fireplace mantel; Richard demonstrates how to change a bathroom faucet; Ross explores innovations to geothermal installations.
Read MoreLandscape Lights, Brick Walkway
Heath installs landscape lights in a garden; Richard explains how siphons work and how they are used to make a toilet work; Tom organizes tools with pegboard; Mark helps a homeowner redo his walkway.
Read MoreGarden Upgrade, Adirondack Chair
Jenn demonstrates how to clean up a garden; Ross explains how air filters can catch unwanted air impurities and demonstrates how to build a DIY one; Tom and Kevin build an Adirondack chair.
Read MoreRadiator Paint, Load Bearing Wall
Richard replaces a weird shower valve with a conventional pressure balanced one; Mauro repaints a radiator cover with lead paint on it; Tom explains how to identify and remove load bearing walls.
Read MoreMini Split, Butcher Block
Richard explains how a mini split unit is installed; Jenn explains how to identify Japanese maple trees and how to incorporate them in a landscape design; Nathan installs a butcher block countertop.
Read MorePrecast Concrete, New Lamppost
Mark learns how precast concrete steps are made and then replaces a homeowner's steps; Mauro explains how to refinish an old table; Heath helps a homeowner replace his front lamppost with a new one.
Read MoreAutomated Landscape, Modern Bench
Ross explores ways that landscaping could be done automatically; Mark goes over different walkway and driveway deicers and how they might impact masonry products; Tom and Kevin build a modern bench.
Read MoreGarbage Disposal, Concrete Wall
Tom travels to Nashville to turn an original, exterior door into a Dutch door; Richard explains how to install a garbage disposal; Mark and Jenn reface a concrete wall with thin stone veneer.
Read MorePower Washing, Deck Lights
Tom explains how different sanders work and how to sand well; Mauro shows how to use a power washer to clean siding; the team share more home inspection nightmares; Heath installs deck railing lights.
Read MoreMove Baseboard, Cooler Bench
Richard moves baseboard heat from one side of a room to another; Jenn explains the basics of selecting different species of arborvitae; Tom and Kevin build an outdoor bench that doubles as a cooler.
Read MoreFlickering Lights, Brick Stairs
Jenn travels to Orlando to upgrade a homeowner's irrigation system with a smart one; Heath explains a few different ways to troubleshoot flickering lights; Mark repoints a set of brick front steps.
Read MoreSpring Projects: Paint, Prune, Spigots
Richard explains a variety of failure points in a hose spigot; Mauro demonstrates the how to paint vinyl siding; Jenn explains how and why to maintain pruners; Nathan builds a custom fence gate.
Read MoreEchinaceas, Kitchen Punch List
Jenn explains how to care for echinaceas; Mark explains how to cut stone with a saw and chisel; Richard replaces a kitchen sink and faucet; Tom helps a homeowner wrap up a few kitchen projects.
Read MoreInspection, Door Restoration
Heath performs an electrical inspection; the team share more Home Inspection Nightmares; Tom helps two homeowners meticulously restore their antique front door using a variety of techniques.
Read MoreDishwasher Retrofit, Rolling Pin
Richard and Nathan retrofit a new dishwasher into an old kitchen; Mauro paints wood paneling; Tom and Kevin turn a French rolling pin.
Read MoreFlood Prevention, Deck Hangers
Richard installs a shutoff valve for washing machine supply hoses; Ross and Heath discuss the progression of EV chargers; Jenn discusses ornamental grasses; Nathan helps a homeowner repair her deck.
Read MoreColors, Fireplace Upgrade
Kevin and Tom travel to Montana to set up an accessible home gym for a Navy SEAL veteran; Mauro shares how to select the right paint color; Mark updates a fireplace with a stacked stone veneer.
Read MoreWorking from Home
Nathan builds a display case to store his grandfather's U.S. flag; Heath replaces a circuit breaker; the team shares the ways their trades were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read MoreSummer Special
It's summertime and the team are here to help with some fun outdoor projects! Tom travels to Colorado to help a couple build a swing set for their young son; Jenn travels to Raleigh, North Carolina to help a couple build a self-watering vegetable garden that will survive even if they go away on vacation; Mark helps a homeowner build a cost effective firepit for his backyard that comes in a kit.
Read MoreRethinking a Garden
Not all landscape projects require starting from scratch. Many times, working with plants already there can make a huge impact. In this special episode, Jenn Nawada uses an historic landscape design from a protege of Frederick Law Olmsted to transform a yard. She updates a landscape by moving around, dividing, and pruning current plants in the yard. Finally, she designs a secret garden.
Read MoreUltimate Garage Workshop
We don't have an overview translated in English. Help us expand our database by adding one.
Kitchen Upgrades
We don't have an overview translated in English. Help us expand our database by adding one.
Two-Prong Outlet; Deck Stair Rail
Richard discusses pipe soldering; Heath explains what two-prong receptacles are, why they're no longer to code, and how to replace them; Nathan and Mauro build, install, and paint deck stair railings.
Read MoreDurable Landscape; Cutting Board
Jenn creates a landscape that can withstand heavy pedestrian traffic; Richard explains the options available for water heaters; Tom and Kevin build a cutting board out of walnut, cherry, and maple.
Read MoreHole Patches; Threshold Repair
Jenn discusses creative options for ground cover plants; Tom demonstrates different techniques for patching wall holes; Mark demonstrates how to patch brick holes; Nathan installs a new threshold.
Read MoreWood Floors, DIY Ice Rink
Mauro demonstrates how to remove dried paint from a paintbrush; Tom shares the best techniques for connecting and installing tongue and groove flooring; Jenn and Nathan build a DIY ice rink.
Read MoreSmart Doorbells, Recessed Lights
Ross discusses the pros and cons of smart doorbells; Mauro demonstrates techniques for painting wood paneling; Heath shares some of his most-used tools and helps a homeowner install recessed lights.
Read MoreEasier Plumbing, Roofing 101
Mark explains how bricks are made and how many different varieties there are; Richard explains how solderless connections work; Tom assess and reshingles a shed roof with asphalt shingles.
Read MoreFall Garden Tips, Paint Cabinets
Jenn shares her list of must have gardening tools and how to put a garden to bed before winter; Mauro demonstrates how to paint a kitchen cabinet; Nathan installs exterior front door trim.
Read MoreAn AskTOH Barn Raising
The entire team comes together to help Mark rebuild the chicken barn he lost to a fire. They reframe the barn, hook up new electrical wiring, connect a utility sink, and hang an exterior door.
Read MoreDrill Drivers, Patios Expansion
In Tool Lab, tool expert Chris Ermides demonstrates how tables saw blades work; Heath explains why and how to use a voltage tester; Mark helps a homeowner extend her existing patio.
Read MoreCamilla's Workshop
General contractor and expert woodworker Tom Silva meets past guest and young woodworker Camilla in her dad's shop where they catch up since they last met. After checking out some of Camilla's work, the two discuss her need for a workspace of her own. With a worktable in mind, Tom invites her back to the workshop to help with the special project, a birdhouse.
Read MoreHoliday Projects
Jenn explains how to identify and care for holly plants; Richard explains how dishwashers work and how to troubleshoot them when they don't drain properly; Tom and Kevin turn Christmas ornaments.
Read MoreWifi Extension, Tub Drain
In Tool Lab, Nathan explains what different table saw blade types are used for; Ross extends WiFi service in a house; Richard replaces a faulty tub drain; the team shares their New Years' Resolutions.
Read MoreRot Repair, Heat Pumps
Mark shares the story of how he became a mason; Tom explains why wood rots on houses, how to prevent it, and how to repair it if it occurs; Ross explores heat pump technology.
Read MorePatch Plaster, Sinking Drywell
Heath explains why finish electrical work is his favorite stage of the job; Mauro demonstrates how to repair a crack in plaster; Mark raises a drywell in a driveway that is sinking below grade.
Read MoreCelebrating 20 Years
The entire cast reflects on the 20th anniversary of ASK THIS OLD HOUSE. They'll discuss how the show was made and what they think the legacy of the television program will be moving forward.
Read MoreVinyl Floor, Heating Bill Savings
Jenn shares the story of how she became a landscape designer; Richard and Ross explain cost-effective ways to save money on your heating bill this winter; Nathan helps a homeowner replace a vinyl kitchen floor.
Read MoreWater Fountain, Supply Chains
Jenn and Mark show how to make a stone water fountain for your garden; In Tool Lab, Nathan breaks down Miter Saw blades; The team comes together to discuss the challenges they've faced dealing with ongoing supply chain issues.
Read MorePorch Base Column Repair, Smart Thermostats
Richard shares how he became a plumber and what he loves about his trade; Ross talks about smart thermostats and their features; Heath explains how to understand switch legs; Tom replaces an old, rotted porch column base.
Read MoreShrub Harvesting, Building A Box Joint Jig
Jenn visits a nursery to learn how shrubs are planted and harvested; Ross and Nathan show cost-effective ways to air-seal your windows this winter; Tom demonstrates how to build a serving tray using a box joint jig.
Read MoreConcrete Driveway, Spray Paint
Nathan gives a tour of his highly organized truck; Richard shows different kinds of bidets and their functions; Mauro explains how to use spray paint for small home projects; Mark replaces an old, patched driveway with a new concrete one.
Read MoreFront Hall Closet, Block Retaining Wall
Jenn Nawada explains how you can compost at home; Jenn Largesse and her landscape contractor install a concrete block retaining wall in Jenn's backyard; Tom constructs custom built-in drawers, cubbies and shelves for a front hall closet.
Read MoreFireplace Repairs, Simple Clog Fixes
Heath breaks down the basic voltages of cordless tools; Richard gives an overview on how to handle simple clogs in a bathroom sink, kitchen sink and toilet; Mark repairs a fireplace and replaces its cover.
Read MoreWindow Flower Boxes, Smart Electrical Panels
Tom shares how he became a general contractor and what he loves about his trade; Heath and Ross explain what smart electric panels are and how they work; Jenn and Nathan build and fill new window flower boxes.
Read MoreSagging Fence Gate, Shipping Container Pool
Nathan demonstrates different ways to fix scratches on wood furniture; Jenn Largesse oversees the installation of a shipping container pool in her backyard; Tom shows how to fix and resecure a sagging fence gate.
Read MoreWobbly Toilet, Led Lightbulbs
Nathan shares how he became a carpenter and what he loves about his trade; Heath talks all about different LED light bulbs; Richard fixes a wobbly toilet and repairs a sticky faucet handle.
Read MoreVinyl Fence, Building A Beehive
Jenn Nawada suggests houseplants for areas of shade, partial shade and sun. Heath explains techniques for drilling holes to run electrical wire. Jenn Largesse shows how to put up an outdoor vinyl fence. Tom builds a beehive out of wood.
Read MoreDIY Birdbath, Dog Chew Wood Repair
Nathan shows how to mount a flat screen TV on a wall. Mark builds a stone birdbath. Tom repairs a Newel post damaged by a dog.
Read MoreGarage Door Replacement, Emergency Plumbing Fixes
Ross shares why he became an engineer; Tom talks about different types of hammers; Richard shows how to control common plumbing emergencies; Nathan removes and replaces a garage door.
Read MoreAll About Hydrangeas, Refinish Deck Railing
Jenn shows off different varieties of hydrangeas; Heath explains types of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and their functions; Mauro refinishes deck railings and posts.
Read MoreReplacing a Toilet Seat, Full Mortise Lockset Repair
Richard shows how to replace a toilet seat; Jenn Largesse builds a pergola for her backyard; Nathan repairs a century-old full mortise lockset.
Read MoreAll About Succulents, Under-Sink Water Filter
Jenn talks about different types of succulents; Richard installs a reverse osmosis under-sink water filter; Tom builds a classic milk stool.
Read MoreBasic Electrical Tools; Home Energy Assessment
Using common electrical tools; an in-depth home energy assessment; painting.
Read MoreHappy Father's Day
Team members talk about their fathers as mentors; airflow in buildings; finishing a baseball bat display case.
Read MoreKevin O'Connor explains how he became host of "This Old House"; a simple trick for drawing a perfect ellipse; moving a light fixture and patching the ceiling; the basics of finish nailers.
Read MoreCrown Molding for Corner Angles; The Future of Solar
Heath shares why he became an electrician and what he loves about his trade; Mauro shows a trick for applying caulk in gaps; Tom shows how to install crown molding around corner angles; Ross explains the future of solar at MIT.
Read MoreTrack Saws, Adding A Receptacle
Mauro shares why he became a painter and what he loves about his job; Jenn shows how to test soil at home; Nathan explains how to use track saws; Heath adds a receptacle to a kitchen island.
Read MoreDeck Chairs, Damp Basement
Tom shares a trick to space balusters evenly; Heath shows how to drill holes in studs to run wire; Jenn Largesse builds DIY deck chairs; Richard explains ways to deal with a damp basement.
Read MorePond Maintenance, Demilune Table
Mark explains finishes for brick and concrete; Jenn shows how to maintain a small backyard pond; Tom builds a three-legged Demilune table.
Read MorePizza Oven Repair, What Is It?
Nathan explains the anatomy of track saws; Mark repoints an outdoor pizza oven; The Ask This Old House team comes together for a 20th Anniversary "What Is It?"
Read MoreWater Heater Autopsy, Composting
The Ask This Old House team talks about why they enjoy working together; Richard cuts open a failed water heater, and Jenn shares her love of educating kids about the outdoors. Then, she and Nathan build a compost bin.
Read MoreEV Chargers, China Cabinet Repair
Heath explains the three levels of EV chargers and which scenarios they work best for; Mark breaks down different brick patterns, where they originate from, and their pros and cons; Nathan helps a homeowner repair a cracked built-in china cabinet using MDF panels; Mauro then repaints the china cabinet and shows how to paint on MDF.
Read MoreDoorbell Retrofit, Driveway Edging
In this episode, Heath installs a doorbell with new wiring, Richard explains bottle traps, and Mark replaces a homeowner’s brick driveway edging with cobblestones.
Read MoreWoodland Garden, Chimney Repairs
Jenn plants a native woodland garden; Mauro shows how to patch cracked or chipped porcelain; Mark explains common chimney problems and then shows how to repair a chimney step by step.
Read MoreWallpaper Restore, Gutter Repairs
Kevin O'Connor visits the Franklin Pierce Homestead in New Hampshire to learn about the restoration of a historic, French wallpaper from the 19th century; Heath Eastman explains the basics of GFCI receptacles; Tom Silva helps a homeowner repair and repitch the gutters above their back patio.
Read MoreSandstone Repair, Awning Installation
Mark travels to Dallas, Texas to repair sandstone steps; Ross explains how to pick a solar plan how to avoid being scammed by a solar company; Nathan helps a homeowner install an awning.
Read MorePaint Bathroom Tile, Hot Water Tank Replacement
Richard helps remove an old 40-gallon hot water tank; Heath shares safety tips for holiday light decoration; Tom explains how to identify, repair, and prevent woodpecker damage; Mauro shows how to paint over bathroom tile using epoxy acrylic paint.
Read MoreLittle Free Library
Tom and Kevin team up to build a Little Free Library for an elementary school; Tom and his daughter, Kate, paint and decorate it to look like a school bus. Tom and Kevin meet up with students to help them install it and add their favorite books.
Read MoreInstall Cabinet Hardware, Breaker Trips
The team shares the professions they might have pursued; Mauro discusses types of wallpaper and tools to remove it; Heath explains how different amped receptacles can cause breaker trips; Nathan helps install kitchen cabinet hardware.
Read MoreAntique Pocket Door, Shaker End Table
Nathan and his dad, Bill, help install an 1800s pocket door with reclaimed hardware; Ross explains the technological advancements of induction cooktops; Kevin meets maker Char Miller-King and build a Shaker-style-inspired end table together.
Read MoreBaby Proofing, Septic Systems
Nathan, Heath, and Mauro help a homeowner baby proof her house by replacing old receptacles and installing cabinet locks, and baby gates; Jenn breaks down the basics of caring for houseplants; Richard explains how septic systems works and maintain them.
Read MoreNeighbors Helping Neighbors
In a special episode, the team partner with Rebuilding Together Boston. With the help of the Ask This Old House extended family and volunteers, the crew repair a deck, construct a patio, and install landscape lighting and new plantings.
Read MoreFire Pit Plan, Window Restoration
Tom repairs a homeowner's antique window; Mauro talks through interior paint finishes; Jenn and Mark travel to Georgia to help a homeowner develop a landscape design plan for her small backyard. Then, they help her install a stone fire pit.
Read MoreDimmer Switch Troubleshooting, Clothes Rack
Jenn shares why she loves bringing her dog to work; Heath helps a homeowner troubleshoot a strobing dimmer switch; Ross explains the benefits of smart bath ventilation; Tom builds a DIY clothes rack.
Read MoreShed Organization, Pea Stone Walkway
Nathan heads to Texas to help a mom of six organize her family shed; Richard emphasizes the importance of a yearly service call for furnaces; Mark installs a pea stone walkway to match an existing walkway in front of the homeowner's house.
Read MoreWetlands; Foundation Painting
Jenn works with a wetlands specialist; Ask This Old House profiles general contractor Zach Dettmore in a new segment; Ross discusses Indoor Air Quality testing; Mauro teaches a homeowner how to repaint an exterior, concrete foundation.
Read MoreFireplace Painting; Bathtub Tray
Mauro helps a homeowner upgrade a fireplace; Jenn introduces landscape contractor Lee Gilliam, and together they discuss different landscape tools and how to maintain them for Spring; Tom and Kevin Build a bathtub tray out of zebrawood.
Read MoreOven Ventilation; Wireless EV Charger
Richard helps a homeowner replace a leaking gas oven; Jenn and Kevin discuss how to create a pollinator garden at home; in Future House, Ross learns how wireless electricity technology can be applied to electric vehicle chargers in future homes.
Read MoreAttic Insulation, Asphalt Parking Spot
Ross helps a homeowner dealing with ice dams decide whether to insulate from his attic roof rafters or the attic floor; Richard shares tips on irrigation repairs; Mark expands a driveway by adding an asphalt parking spot.
Read MoreTransition Garden, Granite Post Sign
Jenn helps a homeowner transform a small sun and shade backyard with a new garden; Tom explains the importance of gutter downspouts; Mark adds street visibility to a farm by remounting an original farm sign and engraving an 1800s granite post.
Read MoreFull Sun Garden, Radiator Floor Patch
Jenn creates a thoughtful backyard entrance; Mark shares how to safely clean hardscaping on different types of common hardscape materials; Tom shows how to patch holes in wood floors caused by previously removed radiators.
Read MoreCold Water Bathtub, Cornhole
Richard helps a homeowner dealing with cold bath water by installing a reserve tank to fill the bathtub fully with hot water; Mauro shares his favorite tips for cleaning up after painting projects; Tom and Kevin work together to build a set of cornhole boards and after, the Ask This Old House cast come together for a head-to-head cornhole tournament.
Read MoreFlagstone Repairs, Tub Diverter
Richard troubleshoots why a homeowner's shower leaks when the tub is running and makes the necessary repairs, then in studio, Richard explains why it was a unique repair; Heath deep dives into different wire gauge sizes and the electrical load capabilities of each size; Mark helps a homeowner repair some loose flagstone steps in his entryway and in his basement.
Read MoreHand-Turned Spindle, Replication
Tom Silva is rarely stumped. But when a homeowner reached out about a missing hand-turned spindle in the staircase of her 1900s Queen Anne Rowhouse, Tom attempts to replicate the spiral-detailed spindles on his lathe. There, he turns straight grain fir balusters and troubleshoots a string technique to replicate the spiral detailing.
Read MoreCircuit, Table Saw, Fireplace Insert
Heath helps a homeowner whose kitchen breaker trips when the basement humidifier is running by installing a new basement circuit; Tom showcases the importance of table saw safety by demonstrating safety techniques for the most common sources of table saw injuries; Richard helps a homeowner supplement their homes heating by installing a wood burning insert into their drafty fireplace.
Read MoreSawmill, Bar Top
Nathan mills a large piece of an old red oak tree. The team come together to see if they can guess each other's cards in a special Ask This Old House headband game; Tom and Nathan team up to build a bar top out of the milled piece of red oak.
Read MoreGirl Scout Community Garden
Nathan Gilbert shares his own experience as a Boy Scout and introduces his niece's Girl Scout troop and the project they need help with; Tom Silva and Kevin O'Connor create a two-layered hexagonal herb planter for the garden; Jenn Nawada and Nathan pick up materials to build a garden bed and then team up to help the Girl Scout troop rebuild and replant their community garden beds.
Read MoreString Lights, Kitchen Painting
Heath Eastman helps a homeowner install outdoor-grade remote-controlled patio string lights over their backyard patio; Mauro Henrique color matches a homeowners retro aqua kitchen cabinet and repaints it to match the rest of the vintage kitchen; Mauro takes a sample of the aqua-colored kitchen cabinet and heads to Home Depot to demonstrate the color matching process.
Read MoreShower Valve Repair, Sloped Landscape
Ask This Old House welcomes landscape contractor, Lee Gilliam to the cast and shines a spotlight on his 30 years of experience; Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner repair a leaking 3-valve shower while retaining the bathrooms original 1930's tile; Lee and Jenn Nawada work together to refresh a homeowner's eroding sloped yard; removing excess mulch, and installing boulders and ground cover plants.
Read MoreCreosote Removal, Utility Cover
Nathan Gilbert heads to Tulsa, Oklahoma to build a replacement utility cover. Ross Trethewey discusses low-level carbon monoxide exposure, symptoms, and differences in CO detectors and low-level monitors. Mark McCullough helps a homeowner clean out creosote build-up in their kitchen fireplace and explains the dangers of creosote build-up, options for removal, and the safety preparation involved.
Read MoreGenerator Hookup, Brick Lintel Repair
Heath Eastman assists a homeowner who wants to hook up a generator to their home by installing a transfer switch to the circuit board; Environmental contractor, Ron Peik demystifies asbestos and shares options for mitigation; Mark McCullough fixes a faulty brick lintel repair on an 1833 home, discusses the difference between Flemish and American bond, and how to match existing mortar and joints.
Read MoreDouble Pane Window, Paint Bench
Mauro Henrique shares the importance of prep work for any painting project, and why homeowners shouldn't skip it. Then, Mauro and Kevin O'Connor team up to refinish an antique outdoor bench with a whitewash stain; With a glass expert's help, Tom Silva learns how double pane glass is made while helping a homeowner repair a broken window.
Read MoreRain Garden, Wrought Iron Railing
Jenn Nawada teams up with a water conservation expert in Portland, Oregon to help two homeowners install a rain garden; Ross Trethewey shares how moisture meters can detect unseen water damage; Mark McCullough helps a homeowner increase the safety of their concrete steps by installing a wrought iron railing and showcases how railings are made at an iron fabrication facility.
Read MoreWinter Prep, Miter Saw Station
Lee Gilliam shares the key tools and products to include in a winter weather kit to prepare for winter; Mark McCullough shares his favorite homeowner-friendly masonry tools and how to use them for entry level projects; Tom Silva and Kevin O'Connor upgrade the workspace by building a new mobile miter saw station, featuring two work benches and cabinets for extra storage.
Read MorePaint Front Door, Generator Selection
Heath Eastman shares what factors to consider when selecting a generator, such as fuel or electrical load, and the options that are available; Jenn Nawada shares how to build a worm farm, what foods to incorporate and exclude when feeding the worms, and the many benefits of worm composted soil; Mauro Henrique refreshes a homeowner's vintage front door with a fresh coat of paint.
Read MoreWindow to Door Conversion
Nathan Gilbert helps a homeowner create a backyard entrance by converting a window into a backdoor; The team discusses what they look for in houses for sale that could be considered deal breakers for homeowners not looking to undertake major repairs or renovations.
Read MoreGarage Graffiti, Nursery Closet
Nathan Gilbert shares his love of flea markets, what items he's found, and what he recommends looking for; Mauro Henrique teaches a homeowner how to paint over old garage graffiti and which primer is right for the job; Ross Trethewey shares how radon tests can detect harmful levels of radon in homes; Nathan helps a homeowner ready her nursery for a second baby by installing closet shelving.
Read MoreHot Water, DiResta Leather Tote
Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner troubleshoot why her upstairs shower runs out of hot water so quickly and helps her install a heat pump water heater; Kevin O'Connor returns to maker Jimmy DiResta's workshop in Upstate New York to get a lesson in leatherworking as they hand stitch a leather tote bag.
Read MoreLathe Turned Segmented Bowl
Heath Eastman shares his tips and tools homeowners can use to identify and label home circuit breakers; Tom Silva discusses his hobby of lathe turning, why he enjoys it, and shares some of his favorite pieces he's created. Then, in Build It, he shows how to turn a segmented bowl, which is comprised of multiple pieces of wood glued together and turned, creating a unique visual effect.
Read MorePaint Wood Paneling; Play Kitchen
Mauro Henrique discusses how he sees color, and shares some of his favorite colors to use for projects; Then, he updates a homeowner's office by painting over dated wood paneling with the perfect dark blue; Lee Gilliam discusses various shrub pruning tools; Nathan Gilbert heads to Portland, Oregon to help a homeowner build a sensory mud kitchen for her at-home daycare.
Read MoreInvasive Plants; Bidet Toilet
Lee Gilliam helps a homeowner clean up his backyard by removing a diseased tree and shows how to remove and maintain invasive plants; Mark McCullough discusses the function of chimney caps, options available, and how homeowners can know if they need to install one; Richard Trethewwey installs a toilet with a built-in bidet for a homeowner and shares the variety of options available.
Read MoreWildfire Mitigation
The Ask This Old House team head to California to explore a variety of ways that homeowners can protect their houses against wildfires. Jenn Nawada learns about local flora and helps firescape a front yard, Tom Silva learns how to fire harden a home's exterior, and Richard Trethewey learns a unique weeding technique that helps to mitigate the risk of fire spreading.
Read MoreShade Sail, Concrete Walkway
Nathan Gilbert helps a homeowner add shade to a pool area using a shade sail and unique anchor points; Ask This Old House spotlights the brothers of Jordan's Legacy Landscaping, a fourth-generation landscaping company in the Atlanta area; Mark McCullough helps a landlord make a cost-effective repair to her tenant's concrete walkway.
Read MoreGrass Troubleshooting, Rocky Canyon Rustic
Installing a shade-tolerant sod in a backyard; heat pumps; building a side table.
Read MoreRadiant Floor Retrofit, Cable Railings
Retrofitting a radiant floor system; cable railing connections and maintenance; the updated USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
Read MoreRain Barrel, Pooling Patio
Installing a rain barrel; installing a drain to divert water from a patio; the team shares new additions to their tool bags.
Read MoreNew Shade Pattern, HVAC Showroom
Improving a garden with a new shade pattern; Richard gives Kevin a tour of his new HVAC distribution and education center.
Read MorePaint Dark Basement, Bat House
Mauro brightens a dark apartment using paint concentrations; Mark and Richard discuss what naturally causes wet basements and how to mitigate it; Tom and Kevin build a bat house.
Read MoreGarden Restoration, Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Restoring a garden bed; a New Hampshire painter explains how she got into the trade; installing a bathroom fan in a house with bad wiring.
Read MoreSmart Thermostat Wires, Bluestone Cleaning
Installing a smart thermostat after finding a wiring issue; staining a deck to protect and maintain it; cleaning a bluestone patio.
Read MoreFirebox Restoration, Tool Storage Organization
IAQ testing; restoring a Victorian firebox; transitioning landscapes from spring to summer; organizing a tool storage cabinet.
Read MoreRose Test Garden, Wall Tile Replacement
The International Rose Test Garden; replacing damaged bathroom tiles; reviewing comments from viewers.
Read More