Ep 17. Chimney, Exhaust Fan, Shingle

In season 14 episode 17 of Ask This Old House, the crew tackles three different home improvement issues: a chimney, an exhaust fan, and shingle repairs.

First, the team helps a homeowner with his chimney. The homeowner had some water damage in his home and suspects that the chimney might be the culprit. Kevin O'Connor joins him on the roof to inspect the chimney and determine whether it needs repairs. They find that the chimney cap is damaged and needs to be replaced, and they also discover some masonry damage that needs to be addressed. Kevin explains the various components of a chimney and how they work together to keep water out of a home. He also discusses the importance of hiring a professional to do any chimney repairs, as they can be dangerous and complex.

Next, the crew helps another homeowner with an exhaust fan that's not working properly. Tom Silva explains how exhaust fans work and why they're important in a home. He then helps the homeowner remove the old fan and replace it with a new one that's more efficient and quieter. Tom demonstrates how to properly install the fan and make sure that it's vented correctly.

Finally, the team tackles some shingle repairs on a roof. Richard Trethewey explains how to identify damage to a roof and why it's important to fix it promptly. He then helps the homeowner make some minor repairs to damaged shingles. Richard demonstrates how to remove the damaged shingles and install new ones correctly, ensuring that they're properly sealed and won't leak in the future.

Throughout the episode, the crew provides helpful tips and tricks for DIY home improvement projects, while also stressing the importance of safety and hiring professionals for more complex jobs. The homeowners are thrilled with the results and grateful for the expert advice and assistance provided by the Ask This Old House team.