Ep 17. Cedar Shingles; Vegetable Garden

In the season 18 episode 17 of Ask This Old House, the team tackles two outdoor projects - replacing cedar shingles and building a vegetable garden.

First up is Tom Silva, who visits a homeowner who wants to replace the old cedar shingles on his cape-style house. After assessing the job, Tom starts by ripping off the old shingles, revealing some rotting wood underneath. He explains that the best way to prevent this in the future is by using a quality underlayment, which he installs. Tom then demonstrates how to properly install cedar shingles, starting with a starter strip at the bottom and working his way up to the ridge. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper ventilation in the attic to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rot and decay.

Next, Roger Cook teams up with a homeowner to build a raised vegetable garden. The homeowner is new to gardening and has limited space, so Roger recommends using a raised bed to maximize growing space and provide better drainage. He starts by clearing the area and building a frame from pressure-treated lumber. Roger then fills the frame with a mixture of compost, topsoil, and peat moss to create a nutrient-rich growing medium. He also demonstrates how to add supports for the plants and a trellis for vertical growing. Finally, Roger and the homeowner plant a variety of vegetables and herbs in the garden.

Throughout the episode, the hosts offer tips and advice for DIYers who want to tackle similar projects. For example, Tom recommends using pneumatic nailers for shingle installation and provides safety tips for using the tool. Roger stresses the importance of choosing the right location for a vegetable garden based on sunlight and soil conditions. Overall, the episode offers practical advice for homeowners who want to improve their homes and outdoor spaces.