This Old House Season 16 Episode 4 The Acton House - 4

The Acton House - 4 is the fourth episode of the sixteenth season of This Old House. This episode follows the renovations of a historic 1720s farmhouse in Acton, Massachusetts.

In this episode, the crew works on restoring the home's original windows, which are circa 1720s. The windows have double-hung sashes and are made of wood, which requires extensive work to bring them back to their original condition. The team takes the windows apart, removes the glass, and sands them down. They also fix any rot or damage to the frames and replace any missing parts before priming and painting.

The team also focuses on the exterior of the house, including a new cedar roof. The crew begins by removing the old asphalt shingles and inspecting the underlying structure for any damage or rot, which they repair as needed. They then install the cedar shingles using a traditional method called "resawn and rebutted," which creates a tight and secure fit. They top off the new roof with a new copper flashing and ridge caps.

Inside the house, the team works on installing insulation in the walls and around the doors and windows. They use blown-in cellulose insulation and spray foam, depending on the area. They also install new electrical wiring and outlets throughout the house.

In addition to the renovations, the show features several segments that offer insights into the history and architecture of the home. Host Kevin O'Connor meets with experts to learn about the restoration process, including the importance of preserving the historical integrity of the house.

Throughout the episode, the homeowners are also an integral part of the process, making decisions about the renovations and providing insights into the history of the home. The homeowner shares that the original owners were English farmers, and the house features a traditional center chimney, which was common in New England homes of this era.

The Acton House - 4 is an excellent episode for viewers who are interested in historic restoration and traditional building techniques. From the intricate work on the windows to the installation of a new cedar roof using time-tested methods, this episode offers insight into the attention to detail required for restoring a home to its former glory.