Archives

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How To Repair a Damaged Carrying Beam

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva teaches a homeowner how to repair some structural problems in his home.
waterproofing
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How to Waterproof Concrete Brick to Prevent Damage

Concrete brick can become water-damaged over time, but there's a simple solution to prevent this: waterproofing. Find out more here.
planter
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How to Turn a Feeding Trough Into a Planter

Ask This Old House landscape designer Jenn Nawada travels to Tennessee to build a planter out of an animal feeding trough
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How to Repair a Damaged Main Shutoff Valve

Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates solutions for replacing a water main shutoff
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S39 E17: Southern Charm, Season Premiere

A new two-project series begins in Charleston, South Carolina: a brick 1840s "single house" and a multi-generational 1890s home.
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S16 E17: Metal 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.
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Sneak Peek: Is There an Electrician in the House?

TOH gets some help with the Jamestown project from an unusual source

A DIY Renovation Becomes a Family Project

A dilapidated 1927 house regains its serene period spirit, thanks to a meticulous do-it-yourself remodel
notches
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How to Properly Notch Structural Beams

This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and general contractor Tom Silva explain how to properly notch structural beams.
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What Is It? | Black Plastic Spinning Object

Ask This Old House’s Tommy Silva shows a three-pronged plastic object that spins on a table, but what is it?
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How to Replace a Cracked Floor Tile

Did you recently crack a tile? Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows the correct way to replace a cracked kitchen floor tile.
steam_heat
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The Pros and Cons of a Steam Heating System

Considering steam heat? We help you weigh the pros and cons so you can decide if it is right for you.
kindling
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How To Turn Scrap Wood Into Kindling With a DIY Kindling Splitter

Learn tips for DIY kindling splitting from landscape contractor Roger Cook, landscape designer Jenn Nawada, and host Kevin O’Connor.
railing
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How to Install a Metal Railing

Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough installs a custom metal railing using anchoring cement
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Butcher Block | New Yankee Workshop

Norm's version of the indispensable kitchen staple, the butcher block, features a hard endgrain maple top instead of the usual parallel grain. Go to The New Yankee Workshop to see measured drawings for all projects
a rusty pruning shear and a clean one

How To Clean Rusty Pruners

Pruners can become rusty over time due to moisture. In this guide, we cover how to clean rusty pruners to have them working as good as new.
garage_floors

TLC for Garage Floors

Now’s the time to whisk away winter’s salt and sand—and while the floor’s clear, clean up any oil spots and rust stains, too.
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Big Container Plants for Small Yards

On a lot that has more hardscape than planting space, container gardening is one way to indulge your green thumb. In fact, you can grow seriously sizable plants in pots—even trees. Here are three surprisingly XL options that still work for XS footprints
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Office Makeover for $619

An unused bedroom becomes a stylish, storage-packed work zone with a DIY desk and custom-built shelving
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Kitchen Before and After: Beauty on a Budget

A design-savvy couple update their cook space using cabinets and appliances from a big-box store, and durable vinyl tile
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How To Choose Water Saving Plumbing Fixtures

Ask This Old House expert Richard Trethewey and host Kevin O’Connor discuss the different ways to identify water-saving plumbing fixtures.
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How To Install a Water Saving Toilet for Your Bathroom

Looking to cut down on utilities? Install a new water-saving toilet and save money with each flush by using our step-by-step guide.
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How To Organize Your Closets

Is a cluttered closet dragging down your routine? Learn tips from professional organizers to tame each type of closet in your home.
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All About Garden Sheds

Whether you have small or large garden shed plans, we offer an all-encompassing guide on your installing, building, and purchasing options, as well as designing and custom accenting your cozy workspace.
aphids
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How To Fight Aphids Naturally

Ask This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook explains how to tend to plants that are infested with aphids.