Ep 21. Water Filter, Fire Pit, Wood

Ask This Old House season 15 episode 21 tackles three different projects in one single episode. The experts delved into the installation of a water filtration system, building a fire pit, and tips for working with wood.

In the first segment, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey assists a homeowner who had been struggling with the quality of their water. He walks the homeowner through the process of choosing a water filtration system and installs it on site. Richard explains the reasons behind the variability in water quality and the different types of filters available in the market. He also emphasizes the importance of identifying the exact issue with water before deciding on any particular filtration system. The segment concludes with Richard demonstrating how to install the chosen system and providing helpful tips for maintenance.

Next up, landscape contractor Roger Cook builds a fire pit for a homeowner who wanted to add some ambiance to their outdoor space. Roger explains the essential steps for building a fire pit, starting with a proper design plan and safety considerations. He then demonstrates how to mark and dig out the pit dimensions, form the base layer, and finally stack the fire pit walls. Roger also advises on the materials to use for the fire pit walls and offers alternative design ideas based on the homeowner's preference. The bookends of the segment involve the final cleaning and decoration of the setup.

Last but not least, in the final segment, general contractor Tom Silva shares his expert tips for working with wood. He educates on the different types of woods available in the market and the unique properties they possess, such as texture, flexibility, and strength. Tom explains how to measure and cut wood correctly, using both hand and power tools. He also provides detailed guidance on how to properly glue and clamp wood and how to finish it with coatings. The segment concludes with Tom demonstrating how to repair a wooden staircase using the techniques he discussed earlier.

Overall, Ask This Old House season 15 episode 21 offers a diverse and insightful trifecta of projects, from water filtration to fire pit building to working with wood. The experts share their vast knowledge and experience in each field, providing in-depth information and valuable tips that even the most novice of DIY enthusiasts can understand and apply.