Ep 1. 1913 Beach Bungalow Restoration

Two Texas natives, Michael and Ashley Cordray, take on an ambitious project of restoring a 1913 beach bungalow in Galveston, Texas. The dilapidated bungalow was built by a wealthy family as a second home, but with years of neglect, it was in dire need of a complete overhaul.

As the couple walks through the property, Michael and Ashley take in the extent of the damage, including holes in the roof, broken and sagging floors, and outdated plumbing and electrical systems. However, they are determined to bring the house back to its former glory while still retaining its historic charm.

The first step in the restoration process is to clear out the debris and investigate the structure's foundation. The bungalow was built on stilts to withstand flooding, but years of humidity and moisture had caused significant damage. Michael and Ashley bring in a team of engineers to assess the situation and come up with a plan to reinforce the foundation.

As work begins on the foundation, Michael and Ashley start sourcing materials that will match the bungalow's original design. They visit an architectural salvage yard to find original fixtures and fittings, including period-style light fixtures, authentic moldings, and vintage doorknobs. The couple is passionate about retaining as much of the original character as possible.

Throughout the restoration process, the couple faces a myriad of challenges, including dealing with contractors, finding and fixing hidden issues, and managing their budget. However, with perseverance and determination, they push forward, aware of the bungalow's historical significance.

As the restoration progresses, Michael and Ashley uncover some remarkable surprises, including original murals under layers of paint and beautiful stained glass windows. They also face unexpected setbacks, like the discovery of asbestos and lead paint.

Despite the challenges, the Cordrays remain undaunted, putting in long hours and hard work to ensure a successful outcome. In the end, they deliver a stunning transformation, honoring the bungalow's rich history while updating it for modern living.

Viewers of Big Texas Fix are treated to a captivating once-in-a-lifetime experience, as they follow the journey of Michael and Ashley Cordray as they transform a 100-year-old bungalow into a showstopping masterpiece. The episode presents an excellent storyline that showcases the importance of retaining historical structures and how it's possible to adapt them to modern-day lifestyle without losing their charm.