Archives

Norm Abram explains the decision to use a formerly controversial exterior cladding system known as an exterior insulated finishing system, or EIFS. Kevin finds Tom Silva and chimney specialist Mark Schaub working with the new gas fireplace unit.

Tom Silva removes the old steel slider in the living room and replaces it with a more energy-efficient, insulating glass unit. Norm Abram travels to Keene, NH, to meet artisan tile manufacturers Stephen and Kristin Powers.

Kevin finds stone specialist Jason Buechel installing natural quartzite veneer on the landscape walls. Tom Silva oversees the installation of the low-slope EPDM roofing system.

Master mason Lenny Belliveau gives Kevin a lesson in block work. Kevin travels to Los Angeles to see a restored modern house that once belonged to Hollywood legend Gary Cooper.

Kevin lends Norm and general contractor Tom Silva a hand framing in the "not quite flat" roof above the library. Richard Trethewey shows Kevin a new software program that allows him to design the HVAC system on a laptop.

Norm Abram shows Host Kevin O’Connor the newly discovered problems at the project house, most of them caused by the poor workmanship of a previous contractor. Roger Cook reveals the anatomy of new landscape walls; they’ll be natural stone veneer over reinforced concrete.

Certified arborist Jack Kelly shows landscape contractor Roger Cook a treatment of horticultural oil that will protect the property’s hemlocks. Kevin meets curator Nancy Jones for a tour of the legendary Longfellow House.

Tom Silva discovers extensive rot and termite damage on the eastern elevation, and what he thinks is a failed footing in the basement. Norm Abram finds that the problem is not the footing, but rather under-structured framing from two previous renovations.

George Mabry moves out and general contractor Tom Silva moves in. With a building permit in hand, Tom starts with the carport, dismantling it piece by piece on order to gain better access to the house.