This Old House Season 27 Episode 19 Washington, D.C. 01

This Old House season 27 episode 19, titled "Washington, D.C. 01," follows the renovation of a historic row house located in the heart of Washington, D.C. As the team of experts tackles this once-grand but now rundown property, they must navigate through its complex history and unique challenges.

The episode starts with the team surveying the property and discussing their plans for the renovation. They quickly discover that the home has been inhabited by a long line of tenants and owners, each leaving their mark on the property. The team must work carefully to preserve the historic features of the home while also modernizing it for contemporary living.

The first challenge arises when the team realizes that the foundation of the home is sinking on one side. They bring in an engineer to assess the damage and come up with a plan to stabilize the home. The team decides to install helical piles to support the foundation, which involves digging deep holes and installing steel shafts. The process is complex and time-consuming, but it is necessary to prevent further damage to the home.

Next, the team tackles the electrical system, which is outdated and not up to code. They replace the main panel and rewire the entire house, bringing it up to modern standards. They also install smart features, such as lighting and thermostat controls, that can be controlled through a smartphone app.

The team also renovates the kitchen, which is cramped and outdated. They install new cabinets and appliances and expand the space by removing a wall. The new kitchen is modern and functional, with plenty of storage and workspace.

Throughout the episode, the team discusses the history of the home and its significance to Washington, D.C. They talk about the architectural style of the row houses in the area and the role these homes played in the city's history. They also discuss the challenges of renovating historic properties and the importance of preserving them for future generations.

In addition to the renovation work, the team also helps the homeowners navigate the permitting and zoning process, which can be complicated in a historic neighborhood like this one. They work closely with the city officials to ensure that the project is in compliance with all regulations and requirements.

The episode ends with the team reflecting on the progress they have made and the challenges that still lie ahead. They comment on the importance of teamwork and communication in a project like this and express their excitement for the next phase of the renovation.

Overall, This Old House season 27 episode 19 is an engaging and informative look at the renovation of a historic property in Washington, D.C. The episode offers valuable insights into the challenges of renovating historic homes while also showing the rewards that come with preserving these important pieces of our collective history.