This Old House Season 12 Episode 2 The Jamaica Plain House - 2

In This Old House season 12 episode 2, entitled "The Jamaica Plain House - 2," the team continues their renovation journey on a historic home in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts. Hosts Tom Silva, Richard Trethewey, and Roger Cook are once again joined by architect Rick Bechtel as they tackle the next phase of the project.

The episode kicks off with Tom and Rick discussing the logistics of the project, which involves gutting the interior of the home while still preserving its historic charm. The team needs to install new electrical and plumbing systems, but they must also be careful not to damage the home's original woodwork and plaster walls.

Next, Richard and Roger get to work on the HVAC system. The home currently has a radiant heating system that is inefficient and outdated, so the team is installing a new high-efficiency boiler system that will also provide hot water. Richard explains the benefits of the new system, which includes improved comfort and lower energy bills for the homeowners.

Meanwhile, Tom is working on the home's exterior. He is tasked with restoring the historic trim details around the home's windows and doors. He also needs to replace some of the rotted wood on the exterior of the home, which he does using custom-milled lumber that matches the original wood.

As the team continues their work, they run into unexpected problems, as is common in old homes. For example, they discover that the home's chimney is in need of extensive repairs due to water damage. They also encounter issues with the home's foundation, which they must address before moving forward with the project.

Throughout the episode, the team also makes time to showcase some of the unique features of the historic home. They take a closer look at the home's original leaded glass windows, which are in need of some TLC. They also examine the home's plaster walls, explaining how they were made and why they are a valuable feature in historic homes.

In addition to showcasing the home's unique features, the team also highlights their commitment to sustainable building practices. They discuss the importance of using materials that are environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, such as the high-efficiency boiler system they installed.

As the episode comes to an end, the team reflects on the progress they've made and the challenges that lie ahead. They are confident that their efforts will result in a beautiful, functional home that will continue to be a cherished historic landmark in the Jamaica Plain community.

Overall, "The Jamaica Plain House - 2" is an informative and engaging episode of This Old House that showcases the complexities and rewards of renovating a historic home. Viewers will come away with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship of old homes and the importance of preserving their unique features for future generations to enjoy.