Ep 17. Foundation Repointing; Textured Ceiling

In season 17 episode 17 of Ask This Old House, the team tackles two projects in one episode. The first project involves foundation repointing, which is a preventable measure that can help prevent significant water damage to a home's foundation. Kevin O'Connor and mason Mark McCullough explore the common signs of foundation wear-and-tear, such as crumbling joints and a buildup of moisture inside the basement.

To tackle the repointing, Mark first removes the old crumbling mortar, then uses a repointing tool to carefully match the replacement mortar to the existing brickwork. He emphasizes the importance of not only using the correct type of mortar but also using the right techniques for application. In the end, the repointing project restores the foundation to pristine condition and ensures no future water damage.

The second project involves textured ceiling repair. Kevin visits a homeowner who noticed a crack in her textured ceiling. Drywall expert, Brian Santos, joins Kevin to discuss the most common types of textured ceilings and the best methods for repair. Brian explains that the common types of textured ceilings include popcorn, knockdown, and swirl.

Brian then demonstrates the process of repairing a knockdown textured ceiling. He first sands down the damaged area and then applies a light mist of water to help the new texture adhere. Using a special hopper, Brian sprays the new texture onto the ceiling in a pattern that matches the existing texture. He also explains that knockdown texture can be smoothed out with a trowel to achieve a desired look.

Overall, this episode of Ask This Old House offers plenty of useful tips and tricks for both foundation repointing and textured ceiling repair. With expert guidance and straightforward techniques, viewers can easily take on similar projects around their own homes.