Ep 24. Charleston: singular single house

In season 39, episode 24 of This Old House, the team travels to Charleston, South Carolina to restore a historic "single house" located in the heart of the city's historic district. The single house, a style unique to Charleston, is characterized by a long, narrow structure with its narrow side facing the street and a side porch leading to a small courtyard or garden.

The team begins by assessing the structural stability of the house, which was built in the early 1800s. They discover significant damage caused by moisture and termites, particularly in the home's foundation and framing. To fix the moisture issues, the team decides to install a new drainage system, which involves excavating a portion of the courtyard and installing a sump pump. They also replace damaged framing and add additional supports where needed, ensuring the home's structural integrity is restored.

Next, the team focuses on restoring the home's exterior to its original grandeur. They remove layers of old paint to reveal its original color scheme, and repair or replace any damaged moldings and architectural details. The team also cleans and restores the home's brick, which had been covered with stucco in the past.

Inside the home, the team works to restore its historic details while also updating it for modern living. They remove a wall separating the kitchen from the rest of the home to create an open-concept space, and install custom cabinets to match the home's historic aesthetic. They also restore the home's original heart-pine floors and moldings, and add new fixtures and appliances that blend seamlessly with the home's historic charm.

Throughout the episode, viewers learn about the unique history and architecture of Charleston's single houses, as well as the challenges involved in restoring a historic home to its original beauty. With careful attention to detail and a commitment to preserving the home's character, the This Old House team successfully restores the single house to its former glory.