Ep 20. Shower Cartridge; Turning a Bowl

In season 18, episode 20 of Ask This Old House, the show tackles two different home improvement projects. The first project involves fixing a leaky showerhead by replacing the shower cartridge. Kevin O'Connor and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey head to a homeowner's house to diagnose the problem and provide a solution. They discuss the various types of shower cartridges available on the market and review the tools and materials required to complete the task. Trethewey then demonstrates the steps involved in replacing the shower cartridge, which includes removing the handle, cover plate, and old cartridge before installing the new one. Through clear and concise explanations, viewers will learn how to diagnose and resolve similar showerhead issues in their own homes.

In the second segment of the episode, woodworker and host of The Woodwright's Shop, Roy Underhill, teaches Kevin O'Connor how to turn a wooden bowl using a lathe. Underhill starts by selecting the right piece of wood, explaining that the direction of the grain is important to achieve the best results. He then walks O'Connor through the steps involved in preparing the wood and using the lathe to shape and carve the bowl. Underhill also shares tips on how to use different gouges and chisels to create different curves and patterns in the wood. O'Connor follows along with Underhill's guidance and creates his own wooden bowl, demonstrating how viewers can also create unique and personalized wooden bowls for their homes.

Both the plumbing and woodworking segments of this episode provide practical and informative insights into two very different home improvement topics. By following the step-by-step instructions, viewers will gain the knowledge and confidence to tackle similar plumbing and woodworking projects in their own homes. From leaky showerheads to beautiful wooden bowls, Ask This Old House provides the tools and expertise needed to make any house a better home.