Ask This Old House Season 7 Episode 6 Repairing Laminate Countertops; Rebuilding a Brick Walkway

In Ask This Old House season 7 episode 6, the experts tackle two projects: repairing laminate countertops and rebuilding a brick walkway.

In the first project, the homeowners have noticed that their laminate countertops are starting to lift at the seams and show signs of wear and tear. Host Kevin O'Connor enlists the help of contractor Tom Silva to show viewers how to repair these issues. Tom explains that the problem is often caused by water damage, but can also be due to poor installation or a lack of proper maintenance. He recommends using a router to remove the damaged area, adding a filler strip, and then adhering a new laminate surface on top. Kevin and Tom walk the homeowners through these steps, providing helpful tips along the way, such as the importance of using a straight-edge guide when cutting the countertop and using a J-roller to ensure proper adhesion.

The second project tackles a crumbling brick walkway, which has become a tripping hazard for the homeowners. Kevin brings in landscape contractor Roger Cook to help rebuild the walkway. Roger explains that the first step is to remove all of the damaged bricks and level out the ground. He then demonstrates how to mix mortar and lay the bricks, using plastic spacers to maintain the desired distance between each brick. He also shares expert advice on how to ensure the walkway remains level and even, even when working with sloped terrain. To finish off the project, Roger shows the homeowners how to add a layer of sand on top of the bricks and use a plate compactor to ensure everything is locked in place.

Throughout the episode, Kevin and the experts emphasize the importance of safety and caution when tackling these types of home projects. They also provide helpful advice on how to troubleshoot common issues and techniques to achieve professional-level results. Both projects are geared towards homeowners who want to take their DIY skills to the next level and improve the functionality and beauty of their living space. The episode provides viewers with a solid foundation for tackling similar home improvement projects on their own.