Ep 18. Move Baseboard, Cooler Bench
- April 8, 2021
- 23 min
In season 19 episode 18 of Ask This Old House, titled Move Baseboard, Cooler Bench, the team sets out to help homeowners with two home improvement projects: moving a baseboard heater and building a cooler bench for outdoor entertaining.
First up, host Kevin O'Connor meets with a homeowner who wants to move a baseboard heater that is currently blocking a doorway. Kevin brings in plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey to help with the task. Richard explains that moving a baseboard heater can be a little tricky because of the way the heating loop is set up.
To start, they shut off the power to the heater and drain the water from the pipes. Richard then cuts the pipes and fittings and removes the baseboard heater from the wall. He then uses sharkbite fittings to reconnect the pipes and fittings and extend them to the new location. Once the pipes are in place, Richard reinstalls the baseboard heater and turns the power back on.
Next, the team heads outside to help a homeowner who wants to build a cooler bench for outdoor entertaining. Kevin meets with the homeowner to discuss the design, which includes a bench with a built-in cooler. The homeowner has already built the bench frame, so Kevin brings in carpenter Nathan Gilbert to help with the finish work.
Nathan starts by adding the decking to the bench and cutting out a hole for the cooler. He then installs the cooler and builds a frame to surround it. To finish off the bench, Nathan installs a railing and adds some decorative elements.
Throughout the episode, the team provides helpful tips and advice for DIYers looking to tackle similar projects. They also highlight some key tools and materials that can make the job easier and more efficient.
Overall, Move Baseboard, Cooler Bench is a great episode for anyone looking to improve their DIY skills and tackle some common home improvement projects. With clear instructions and plenty of expert advice, viewers are sure to walk away feeling confident and inspired to tackle their own projects.