Ep 22. Ask TOH | Cedar Shingles, Vegetable Garden

In the eighteenth episode of the twenty-second season of Ask This Old House, the team tackles two home improvement projects - installing cedar shingles and building a vegetable garden.

First, contractor Tom Silva arrives at a house in Cape Ann, Massachusetts, to help homeowners apply cedar shingles to their home's exterior. He begins by measuring the wall and calculating the amount of shingles needed. He then shows the homeowners how to prepare the surface of the wall by removing old shingles, applying building paper, and installing wood sheathing.

Next, Tom demonstrates how to apply the shingles in a pattern that maximizes their weather resistance and aesthetic appeal. He uses a chalk line to ensure that the rows of shingles are straight and cuts the shingles to size using a miter saw. He also explains the importance of proper ventilation to prevent water damage and shows how to install a vent strip at the roof's edge.

In the second segment, landscaper Jenn Nawada visits a home in Rhode Island to build a raised vegetable garden. She explains the benefits of raised beds, which include improved soil quality, better drainage, and reduced pest damage. She first assesses the site and measures out the dimensions of the raised bed.

Jenn then shows how to build the raised bed using composite boards, which are durable and resist rot and insects. She also explains how to install a weed barrier, fill the bed with soil, and add compost to enrich the soil. Finally, she plants a variety of vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini, and gives tips on how to care for them throughout the season.

In the third segment, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey travels to San Francisco to help a homeowner fix a leaky faucet. He shows how to diagnose the problem and replace the faulty cartridge, which controls the water flow. He also explains the importance of choosing the correct replacement part and demonstrates how to install it.

Finally, in the "Ask This Old House" segment, the team answers questions from viewers about eliminating moss from a lawn, repairing a squeaky staircase, fixing a sagging gate, and replacing a cracked tile. They offer step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for each project.

Overall, this episode of Ask This Old House offers a wealth of practical advice for homeowners looking to improve their homes and gardens. From installing cedar shingles to building a raised vegetable garden to fixing a leaky faucet, the team demonstrates the skills and expertise needed to tackle a wide range of home improvement projects.