This Old House

Construction began on the Lexington project. A new energy code affects the construction.

A concrete block wall is built to connect the new mechanical space out front to the old.

A lally column is replaced by a larger ridge beam for an open kitchen and dining area.

Framing begins for a new zero-threshold sliding glass door. Geothermal is explained.

Geothermal pipes are run, wood blocking is installed, and receptacle boxes are replaced.

The original brick is repaired. A ramp is built, and a modern accessible house is toured.

A custom gutter is built. The neighbor's house, designed by the same architect, is toured.

A lesson on stucco is given, the siding is installed, and patio drainage is addressed.

Insulation and tile prep is in progress. A motorized multi-slide door is installed.

Electrical work for the elevator begins and the therapy pool is installed.

The elevator cab is built, and audio-visual technologies are explored for accessibility.

The new mechanical room is revealed. In-wall lights are installed at the front ramp.

The homeowners sit down for an interview about their son and Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

A final review of the geothermal system is done, and a blower door test is performed.

The accessible renovation of the mid-century modern home in Lexington, MA is complete.

A new project begins - an 1887 Victorian being renovated for multigenerational living.

Work begins on the 1887 Victorian to make it suitable for multigenerational living.

Termite damage is discovered. A high school student works as a framer on the project.

The new two-story addition is framed, and plumbing pipes are isolated from cold weather.

A trip is taken to the Empire State Building and the new plumbing system is discussed.

A custom jamb and threshold are built. Various water-resistive barriers are compared.

A new brick walkway and wood fiber insulation are installed. ERVs and HRVs are discussed.

A baseboard detail becomes a focal point, and a prefabricated shower niche is installed.

A built-in bench is constructed. The primary bathroom vanity gets a new durable finish.

Restoration of the 1887 Victorian in Glen Ridge, NJ, is complete. The crew gets a tour.