The This Old House Makers Channel brings together some of the most talented craftspersons, woodworkers, welders, and inventors working today. Built on the trusted foundation of the This Old House brand, this free streaming channel offers a front-row seat to the maker movement. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or someone just picking up a […]
Few workshop hazards are as surprising as a stack of oily rags bursting into flames on their own. Spontaneous combustion from oil-soaked rags is a real danger that has caught many experienced contractors off guard. Tom Silva, the general contractor on This Old House, once experienced this firsthand and now emphasizes the importance of proper
Tile installation has evolved far beyond simple thinset and grout. Modern projects demand integrated systems that handle waterproofing, floor warming, edge finishing, and drainage as part of a cohesive assembly. The selection of tile flooring materials now goes hand in hand with choosing the right substrate, uncoupling membrane, and finishing profiles to ensure long-term performance.
White cedar shingle siding is a hallmark of Cape Cod architecture, prized for its natural beauty and durability. Installing it, however, has traditionally required careful measuring, leveling, and precise alignment to achieve a professional finish. Modern techniques and prefinished materials have transformed this process, making it far more accessible for homeowners and contractors alike. In
A window that is not installed correctly will leak air and water, leading to rot, mould, and higher energy bills. The principles behind a proper installation have been refined by professionals like Tom Silva of This Old House, who emphasises that preparing the rough opening and sequencing the flashing matters more than speed. The window
Installing shingle siding is one of the most rewarding exterior finishes a builder or homeowner can undertake. Whether you are working on a coastal cottage or a modern suburban home, the timeless appeal of cedar shingles adds texture, durability, and natural beauty to any structure. Drawing inspiration from the shingle siding installation techniques used by
A well-planned garden remodel transforms an ordinary yard into a vibrant extension of your home. When Lidy and John Baars purchased their 1960s Pueblo Revival ranch in Huntington Beach, California, they fell in love with the back garden space and immediately envisioned its potential. Over two decades, they carved colorful garden rooms out of a
Renovating a pantry space presents unique challenges that separate an organized, functional room from a constant source of frustration. When a family of five opens their pantry doors and finds chaos instead of convenience, the problem runs deeper than simple clutter. A well-planned pantry renovation begins long before the first cabinet arrives, and the decisions
Starting with a bare patch of soil can feel overwhelming, but it offers a rare opportunity: building exactly the garden you want without undoing someone else’s mistakes. Whether facing a new construction lot or a neglected backyard, transforming empty ground into a lush landscape requires careful planning. Much like repairing a damaged shower pan membrane
Installing a gas clothes dryer in your home is a practical project that many homeowners can handle themselves with the right preparation. Unlike electric dryers that require a dedicated 240-volt circuit, gas dryers need only a standard 120-volt outlet for the motor and controls, but they also demand careful connection to both a gas supply
