Ep 1. Pass Through, New Gate
In season 13 episode 1 of Ask This Old House, titled "Pass Through, New Gate," the show's experts tackle a variety of home improvement projects for homeowners around the country.
The first project involves a family in Austin, Texas, who want to replace their old, sagging gate with a new, sturdy one. Host Kevin O'Connor and general contractor Tom Silva work together to measure and cut the new gate to fit the existing frame. They also install new hinges and a latch system to ensure that the gate stays securely closed. Along the way, they share tips and tricks for making sure the gate is level and plumb, and demonstrate how to use a circular saw and a jigsaw to cut the wood precisely.
Next, Kevin travels to Massachusetts to meet with painter Mauro Henrique, who shows him how to create a "pass-through" space in a room by painting a faux archway on the wall. Mauro walks Kevin through the process step by step, starting with measuring and marking the placement of the arch, then using painter's tape to create a stencil for the border. He then applies several coats of paint, letting each one dry completely before moving on to the next. The end result is a beautiful and functional pass-through that adds character and charm to the room.
In another segment, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey visits a house in Detroit, Michigan, to help a homeowner with a leaky kitchen faucet. Richard first inspects the sink and faucet to diagnose the problem, then shows the homeowner how to take apart the faucet and replace the damaged parts. He also explains the importance of using Teflon tape to seal the fittings and prevent leaks. Through his clear and patient explanations, Richard empowers the homeowner to take on this simple plumbing repair on their own.
Finally, Kevin and Tom return to Austin to help a homeowner with a sinking patio. The patio has settled unevenly, causing the bricks to become unlevel and unstable. Kevin and Tom demonstrate how to jack up the patio and add new gravel and sand to create a firm base for the bricks. They then carefully reposition each brick to ensure that the surface of the patio is level and smooth. Along the way, they show how to use a transit level to check for levelness, and explain why it's important to take the time to get it just right.
Overall, season 13 episode 1 of Ask This Old House offers a wide range of useful tips and techniques for homeowners looking to tackle common home improvement projects. From replacing a gate to creating a faux archway, repairing a leaky faucet, and fixing a sinking patio, the experts on the show demonstrate how to approach each project with confidence and skill.
