Archives
15 Milestones That Changed Housing
A century's worth of technology, legislation, and plain old capitalism made our homes what they are today
Knots Homeowners Should Know
Unless you're a sailor or Boy Scout, there are only five knots you need to know how to tie.
This New Radiator
HVAC expert Richard Trethewey warms to the topic of the McCues' new European-style heating system in Manchester.
The Inglenook: A History of Hearth & Home
Manchester architect Stephen Holt explains the origins of this cozy little room within a room.
High-tech Craftsman
New software has helped custom cabinetmaker Tom Perkins improve the competitive edge of his small business.
How Long Stuff Lasts
How long materials, systems and appliances will last—and how much it will cost to replace them.
Former Dormers Revived
Putting back these "little houses" wasn't a simple task, but it's had a transformative effect on the Manchester project.
A Pair of Homeowners Take Window Renovation Into Their Own Hands
No pane, no gain: restoring a set of beautiful old windows on the first floor, Janet McCue and friends have learned some satisfying new skills.
Taking the Long Way Home
A new driveway helps the Manchester house make a great first impression.
Making a Grand Entrance
Expert painter John Dee walks us through his restoration of the McCues' handsome front portico.
How to Make the Most of Your New Sound System
Acoustic designer John Storyk gives up the details on the McCues' new hi-fi living room.
Comfortable Construction: Temporary Heat in a Cold Climate
HVAC specialist Richard Trethewey explains how he used a portable heating system using a material called PEX to keep the This Old House team warm while working in Massachusetts.
Fast Fixes for Vinyl Floors
Repairing your damaged resilient flooring is easy if you follow the tips outlined here.
Selecting a Cedar Shingle
Red or white? Re-shingling their house in Manchester, the McCues have ended up with the best of both colors.
Electrical Upgrades, Part 2
The second home wiring project in our series can make your workshop projects a lot easier. Add outlets in the garage to get the power where you need it.
Installing a Floodlight: An Electrical Upgrade for DIYers
Wiring projects are not for everyone, but there are some basic upgrades most homeowners can handle. First up: installing a floodlight.
Taking a Look at Aluminum-Clad Windows
The new windows look historic and will stand up well to a tough seaside climate.
A Newfangled Shingle
Despite a preference for the tried and true, our This Old House team has undertaken a promising experiment in roofing material for the Manchester house.
S14 E10: Wooden Bowls
Norm takes a spin at turning three wood bowls, one each from walnut, maple and ash
How to Install a Prehung Door
Tom Silva does a plumb job installing a prehung interior door.
How to Install Baseboards
Installing baseboard trim serves as a visual anchor for any room. Tom Silva shows how to install baseboard trim that becomes visual anchors for any room. Learn about joint requirements, cap molding, and what size nails you’ll need in this helpful guide.
How to Lay Engineered Wood Floors
Flooring expert Jeff Hosking shows how easy it is to install this tough man-made flooring
How to Get Rid of Grease Stains
Don't let those grease and oil stains on your cement or concrete floor just sit there.
New Life for a Dented Door
An unlikely material can make any banged-up steel door look good as new.