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

In season 8, episode 8 of This Old House, the team travels to Massachusetts to restore a 125 year old Victorian home in Reading. The house is a three-story structure that has been standing for over a century and has seen better days. The exterior of the house is in disrepair, with the roof sagging, the siding peeling, and the paint faded and cracked. Inside, the house is dark and dreary, with outdated fixtures, cramped rooms, and an inefficient layout.

The team starts by assessing the damage to the roof and siding. They discover that the roof has several areas of rot and needs to be replaced entirely. They also find that the siding has been poorly maintained and has rotted in some areas. The team spends several days removing the old roof and siding and replaces it with new, high-quality materials that will last for decades.

Next, the team turns their attention to the interior of the house. They work with an architect to redesign the layout of the first and second floors, creating a more open and functional space. They remove walls and create larger doorways to allow for more natural light and better flow between rooms. They also upgrade the wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems to make the house more energy efficient.

One of the most challenging aspects of the renovation is restoring the original features of the house, including the elaborate woodwork, stained glass windows, and decorative plasterwork. The team works with skilled craftsmen to restore these features to their original splendor, using traditional techniques and materials. The result is a beautiful and timeless interior that honors the history of the house.

Throughout the renovation, the team encounters unexpected challenges, including a leaky chimney, a crumbling foundation, and a faulty heating system. But they persevere, using their expertise and experience to solve each problem and bring the house back to life.

The Reading House - 8 is a fascinating episode that showcases the skill and dedication of the This Old House team. They take on a challenging project and transform a rundown Victorian house into a beautiful and functional home. The episode is a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage and the value of skilled craftsmanship in creating a beautiful and enduring home.