This Old House Season 1 Episode 7 The Dorchester House - 7

This Old House is a long-running home improvement and renovation television series that has been on the air for over four decades. Each season focuses on a different set of homes in need of restoration, renovation, or other types of improvements. Season 1 of the show, which premiered in 1979, features a wide variety of projects and homes, from historic properties to more contemporary dwellings. In episode 7 of season 1, titled "The Dorchester House - 7," the team takes on a unique and challenging project in a home that has fallen into disrepair.

The Dorchester House is a large 19th-century home located in one of Boston's oldest and most historic neighborhoods. The team is called in to help restore the home to its former glory, which means tackling a long list of repairs and upgrades. The home has many original features that need to be preserved, including ornate millwork, crown moldings, and hardwood floors. The team must also address some more pressing issues, such as a leaky roof, outdated electrical and plumbing systems, and a crumbling foundation.

The episode begins with a tour of the home, led by the team's master carpenter, Norm Abram. Norm points out some of the home's most impressive features, including the grand staircase and the ornate fireplace mantels. It's clear that the home has a lot of potential, despite its current state of disrepair.

One of the first projects tackled by the team is the roof. The home's existing roof is leaking in multiple places, which has caused damage to some of the interior finishes. The team determines that a complete roof replacement is necessary, and begins the process of removing the existing shingles and installing a new roof. This is no easy task, as the roof has many angles and peaks that require careful attention to detail.

Another major project for the team is the electrical system. The home's wiring is outdated and not up to code, which is a safety hazard. The team brings in an electrician to completely rewire the home, which involves running new wires and installing new outlets and switches throughout the house. They also install a new electrical panel to ensure that the home's electrical system is safe and functional.

The team also tackles the plumbing system, which is in need of some major repairs. The home's pipes are old and corroded, which has led to leaks and water damage. The team brings in a plumber to replace the old pipes and install new ones, which will ensure that the home's plumbing system is reliable and efficient.

In addition to these major projects, the team also addresses some smaller issues throughout the home. They repair some of the damaged millwork and trim, refinish the hardwood floors, and paint the interior rooms. These small touches help to breathe new life into the home and make it feel more inviting.

Throughout the episode, the team faces a number of challenges and setbacks, but they work together to overcome them and keep the project moving forward. They also demonstrate their expertise and skill as they tackle the home's many complex issues.

Overall, "The Dorchester House - 7" is a fascinating episode of This Old House that offers a glimpse into the world of home renovation and restoration. The team's dedication to preserving the home's original features while also upgrading its systems and finishes is inspiring, and the finished product is a testament to their hard work and expertise. Fans of home improvement and renovation shows will surely enjoy this episode, as well as the rest of the first season of This Old House.