This Old House Season 8 Episode 5 The Reading House - 5

The Reading House - 5 is the fifth episode of the eighth season of the popular home improvement television series This Old House. The episode features the renovation of a historic home located in Reading, Massachusetts. The 1920s Colonial-style house is in need of extensive repairs and upgrades to bring it up to modern standards while preserving its historical charm.

The episode begins with an introduction to the house and its history. The house was built in the 1920s and was last renovated in the 1950s. It has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a small attic. The current owners purchased the house with the intention of restoring it to its former glory while making it more functional for modern living.

The first task for the crew is to remove the old plaster and lath walls from the first floor. This is necessary to update the electrical wiring and plumbing as well as to insulate the walls. The crew carefully removes the old walls while preserving the original trim and molding.

Next, the crew moves on to the kitchen. They remove the old cabinets and countertops and begin installing new ones. The new cabinets are made of solid wood and feature modern conveniences such as soft-close drawers and doors. The new countertops are made of quartz and are much more durable than the old ones.

The crew also installs new appliances in the kitchen, including a new refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher. The new appliances are energy-efficient, which is important in an older home like this one to reduce energy bills and improve overall efficiency.

In addition to the kitchen, the crew also focuses on the bathrooms. They remove the old fixtures and replace them with new ones, including a new bathtub, toilet, and vanity. The new fixtures are modern and stylish and provide better functionality than the old ones.

Throughout the episode, the crew encounters various challenges and setbacks. One of the biggest challenges is dealing with the old electrical wiring. The crew has to carefully remove and replace the old wiring while preserving the original plaster walls.

Another challenge is dealing with the old plumbing. The crew has to replace the old galvanized pipes with new copper pipes to prevent leaks and improve water pressure. They also have to carefully route the pipes to preserve the original walls and floors.

Despite the various challenges, the crew persists and is able to complete the renovations to the homeowner's satisfaction. The finished product is a beautiful and functional home that preserves the original charm of the 1920s while providing modern conveniences and energy efficiency.

Overall, The Reading House - 5 is a captivating episode of This Old House that showcases the challenges and rewards of renovating an older home. The crew's expertise and attention to detail are on full display as they navigate the complex process of updating an older home while preserving its historical significance.