Ep 24. Flood Prevention, Deck Hangers

The nineteenth season of Ask This Old House returns with an informative episode on flood prevention and deck hangers. The host of the show, Kevin O'Connor, welcomes the guests to this episode, who are the home expert Richard Trethewey and the general contractor Tom Silva. In this half-hour episode, the guests focus on two crucial aspects of home renovation: preventing floods in the basement and safely installing deck hangers.

The first segment of the show revolves around preventing floods in the basement. Richard Trethewey, the plumbing and heating expert, visits a homeowner who has recently experienced floods in their basement. He inspects the water damage and assesses the cause of the flood. He explains that flooding can occur due to the accumulation of rainwater or melting snow around the foundation of the house. He suggests installing a sump pump, which will help pump out any excess water that may accumulate around the foundation. He also talks about the importance of having an emergency backup system, which will come in handy if the power goes out during a storm.

Richard also discusses the importance of a proper drainage system, which will divert the rainwater away from the foundation of the house. He shows the homeowner how to install a drainage system, which will prevent water from accumulating around their house.

In the second segment of the show, Tom Silva, the general contractor, visits a homeowner who wants to install a deck in their backyard. He explains the importance of proper deck hangers, which are the metal brackets that support the deck beams. He shows the homeowner how to safely install deck hangers and how to ensure that the deck is level and secure.

Tom also demonstrates how to use the latest technology for installing deck hangers. He uses a high-powered drill to fasten the hangers to the deck joists, which will provide maximum support for the deck.

The episode concludes with a Q and A session, where Kevin, Richard, and Tom answer viewer questions on various home improvement topics ranging from plumbing and electrical problems to carpentry and insulation.

Overall, the nineteenth season of Ask This Old House provides valuable insights into the world of home renovation and improvement. The emphasis on flood prevention and deck hangers in this particular episode highlights the importance of safety and security when undertaking any home renovation project. With its easy-to-follow tips, expert advice, and practical solutions, Ask This Old House continues to be a valuable resource for homeowners who want to improve their homes.