This Old House Hour Season 17 Episode 5 Ramp Up the R Valuel Crown Molding

In season 17 episode 5 of This Old House Hour, titled Ramp Up the R Value Crown Molding, the team is working on improving the energy efficiency of a home in Newton, Massachusetts.

The homeowners have already made updates to the windows and insulation, and now they want to tackle the drafty attic space. The crew starts by addressing the air leaks from the attic to the living space below, sealing up gaps and adding insulation to the attic floor.

Next, Tom Silva works on installing a new type of insulation that's perfect for tight spaces - spray foam. This insulation expands to fill every hole and crevice, creating an airtight seal that's hard to achieve with traditional insulation. The team also installs baffles to ensure proper ventilation and prevent moisture buildup.

While the crew is working on the attic, Kevin O'Connor and electrician Heath Eastman are down in the basement, installing a smart thermostat that can be controlled from anywhere with a smartphone. This will allow the homeowners to save on their heating and cooling bills by adjusting the temperature based on their schedule and preferences.

As the Friday deadline approaches, the team also starts working on the finishing touches of the home's renovation. Norm Abram and Tom work together to install crown molding in the living room, adding a touch of elegance just in time for the homeowners to move back in.

Overall, this episode of This Old House Hour focuses on the importance of energy efficiency in home renovation, from the insulation to the thermostat to the finishing touches. The team proves that even small changes can make a big impact on a home's comfort and energy bills.