This Old House Hour Season 16 Episode 16 An Old Fire Place will house a new stove

In episode 16 of season 16 of This Old House Hour, titled "An Old Fireplace Will House a New Stove," the team takes on a unique challenge. With winter fast approaching, homeowners in a historic house in Massachusetts are looking to upgrade their fireplace to a more efficient and modern heating solution. The plan is to install a new stove within the existing fireplace structure.

To start the process, the crew begins by assessing the current state of the chimney. They work to remove the old tiles, which are in poor condition, and replace them with new ones. The team also inspects and repairs any other issues with the chimney to ensure that it is sturdy and safe.

Next, the homeowners have chosen a Vermont Castings stove as the centerpiece for their new heating system. In order to install it within the fireplace, the team valiantly works to remove the hearth and widen the opening of the fireplace. This not only allows the larger stove to fit in, but it also improves the overall aesthetic of the fireplace as a focal point in the room.

Once the stove is in place, it becomes clear that some custom work is needed to finish the look. The team creates a custom surround for the stove out of brick and tiles. They carefully lay out each piece to create an attractive and functional space that seamlessly integrates the stove into the room.

In addition to the work on the fireplace, the team also takes on a few smaller projects around the house. They install a new light fixture in a bathroom, provide tips for reducing energy usage through insulation, and even show how to properly prune an apple tree.

Throughout the episode, the This Old House team provides detailed explanations of the work they're doing and the materials they're using. They also offer advice and tips for those looking to take on similar projects in their own homes. As always, the crew works diligently and with skill to provide the homeowners with the upgrades they're looking for.

In the end, the finished product is a beautiful and functional heating system that seamlessly integrates a historic fireplace with a modern stove. The homeowners are thrilled with the results, and the This Old House team has once again provided viewers with an expert demonstration of how to take on challenging renovations with skill and care.