Ask This Old House Season 4 Episode 6 Raised Garden Bed; Bathtub Drain

In season 4 episode 6 of Ask This Old House, titled "Raised Garden Bed; Bathtub Drain," the show's experts tackle two common household projects: creating a raised garden bed and fixing a clogged bathtub drain.

The episode begins with host Kevin O'Connor visiting a homeowner in Boston to help him build a raised garden bed. The homeowner is eager to start gardening but has limited space in his backyard, so he needs a solution that will allow him to grow vegetables and herbs without taking up too much room. Kevin is joined by horticulturist Roger Cook, who offers advice on soil and plant selection.

Together, they build a simple raised garden bed using pressure-treated lumber. They first lay down a weed barrier to prevent grass and weeds from growing up into the bed, then assemble the frame using galvanized screws. Kevin and Roger fill the bed with a mixture of topsoil and compost, which provides the nutrients plants need to thrive.

The homeowner is thrilled with the finished product and can't wait to start planting. Kevin and Roger offer some tips on how to maintain the garden, including watering and fertilizing. They also recommend adding mulch to help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing.

Next, the show's plumbing expert Richard Trethewey tackles a clogged bathtub drain at a home in Providence, Rhode Island. The homeowner has been dealing with slow drainage in his bathtub for weeks and has tried various solutions, including pouring drain cleaner down the drain, but nothing has worked.

Richard uses a specialized tool called a drain snake to clear the clog. He starts by removing the overflow plate and using a wrench to loosen the drain stopper. He then feeds the drain snake down the drain and rotates it to break up the clog. As he pulls the snake back out, he clears away any debris.

After clearing the clog, Richard replaces the drain stopper and tests the bathtub to ensure it's draining properly. He also offers tips on how to prevent future clogs, including using a hair catcher to trap loose hair and soap scum before it can build up in the drain.

As always, the experts on Ask This Old House provide clear, easy-to-follow instructions for viewers who want to tackle similar projects in their own homes. Whether you're a gardening novice or a seasoned DIY enthusiast, this episode offers plenty of helpful advice and tips to help you get the job done right.