Archives
Clean Heat: All About Pellet Stoves
Pellet stoves are gaining popularity, and for good reason. These heating units are cleaner, greener, and cheaper than many alternatives.
How To Use Columns Indoors and Outdoors
Want to bring a touch of interest to your home design? Here's everything you need to know about salvaged, indoor, and outdoor columns.
Learn the Secrets of a Perfect Paint Job
Read these 24 pro tips to ensure our walls and trim get a flawless finish.
S5 E9: Childproofing, Sump Pump
Kevin and child safety expert Jeff Baril visit a homeowner to "childproof" her home. The guys ask, "What is it?" Richard helps a homeowner install a back-up sump pump that is powered by municipal water pressure instead of electricity.
S4 E9: Re-Shingling a Roof
Richard shows how to use a common wire nut to save a partially-used tube of caulk. Tom Silva replaces the worn-out roof on an old garage by tearing off the old roof, laying down felt paper, and re-shingling the roof.
How To Install a Tin Ceiling
Turn your blank ceiling into an architectural showpiece. Learn how to install a tin ceiling in this step-by-step guide.
Wainscoting Panels and Design Ideas
Explore the different wainscoting styles and materials available today to choose the right one for your next interior design project.
Winter Construction Dome
Work 'tents' let your projects progress in the deep freeze
S4 E8: Circular Saws, Outdoor Faucet, Split Tree
Tom gives Kevin a few lessons on the proper use of a circular saw. Richard installs a new outdoor faucet using flexible plastic tubing called PEX. The guys ask, "What is it?" Arborist Matt Foti prevents a tree from splitting in half with steel cables and through-bolts.
S5 E8: Countertops, Chain Link Fence
Jason Keefe shows host Kevin how to maintain stone countertops and prevent stains. The guys ask, "What is it?" Roger and fence contractor Mike McLaughlin help a homeowner install a chain link fence.
Bar Sinks
Bar sinks are perfect for chilling cocktails and prepping hors d'oeuvres closer to your guests. Learn more about them and find design ideas.
Mold!
It's not only nasty, it's dangerous—to you and your property. Learn how to prevent and combat mold.
How to Research the History of Your House
Every old house has a story to tell. Find out when your home was built, who lived there, and how they changed it.
S4 E7: Mossy Roof, Valve Repair, Shade Ground Cover
Tom Silva removes moss and lichen from his shade-covered roof. The guys ask, "What is it?" Richard shows Kevin how to repair a leaky valve. Roger plants shade-loving groundcover under a 100-year-old beech tree.
The East Boston Project: Before
Take a tour through this two-family diamond-in-the-rough, and see how the crew will have to make the most of the space while keeping costs down.
S5 E7: Energy Audit, Toilet Seat Bolts
Kevin and energy efficiency expert Bruce Torrey conduct an energy audit of a house. The guys ask, "What is it?" Richard demonstrates how to remove an old toilet seat that has corroded bolts.
19th-Century Rowhouse Revival
It was moved, used as a house of ill repute, then chopped up into apartments. With its original details now carefully restored, this 1878 Italianate has once more claimed its place as a gracious family home
How To Spot a Crooked Contractor
Tom Silva and the National Association of Home Builders can help you spot a crook
Bars Straight Up
These built-ins are popping up in more and more homeowners' remodels, whether as a fully equipped kitchen in miniature or just a niche carved out for bottles and glassware.
Kitchen Lighting Schemes
The right kitchen fixtures not only provide task lighting and ambiance but also distinguish zones and accentuate design details.
The Women of This Old House
This just in: Women fix things! The media is all over it; websites are sprouting up—but here at This Old House, it's never been news that women are involved in home improvement. Just ask our staff.
Medicine-Cabinet MacGyver
Lipstick for home improvement? Yup. Your toiletries bag is essentially a tool kit