Ask This Old House Season 2 Episode 16 Testing Water Quality; What Is It?; Replacing a Damaged Floorboard

In season 2 episode 16 of Ask This Old House, the experts tackle three different home improvement projects. First up, they test the water quality in a homeowner's well to ensure it's safe for drinking. Next, they explain the different types of insulation and demonstrate how to properly install it in a house. Finally, they replace a damaged floorboard in an old building using traditional techniques.

The episode begins with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey visiting a homeowner in rural Massachusetts to test their well water. The homeowner is concerned about potential contaminants and wants to make sure the water is safe for drinking. Richard explains the importance of testing water quality and the different tests that can be done. He collects water samples and sends them to a laboratory for analysis. When the results come back, Richard returns to the home to explain the findings and offer advice on how to improve the water quality if necessary.

Next, general contractor Tom Silva visits a homeowner in suburban Boston who is preparing to install insulation in their attic. Tom explains the different types of insulation available, including fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam. He demonstrates how to properly install fiberglass batt insulation, taking care to seal any gaps or spaces where air could escape. Tom also explains the importance of ventilation in an attic to prevent moisture buildup and roof damage.

The final project of the episode involves replacing a damaged floorboard in an old building. Carpenter Norm Abram visits a historic home in Newport, Rhode Island and explains the process of replacing a floorboard using traditional techniques. He notes that the house's wide pine boards were likely harvested from local forests and milled on-site. Norm carefully removes the damaged board and replaces it with a new one using hand tools and techniques that would have been used during the house's original construction.

Throughout the episode, the experts offer tips and advice on how to tackle common home improvement projects. From testing water quality to installing insulation and repairing old floors, Ask This Old House provides useful information for homeowners looking to maintain and improve their homes.