Ep 27. Summer Special

In Ask This Old House season 19 episode 27, titled Summer Special, the crew focuses on making the most of the summer season, starting with Tom Silva as he travels to a homeowner's backyard to plan and build a custom outdoor kitchen. The client requests a space to grill and cook with family and friends. Tom and the team work to create a sturdy, functional kitchen with ample counter space and a built-in grill. Along the way, they offer tips on selecting materials and tools to build an outdoor kitchen, as well as the best ways to maintain the kitchen throughout the year.

Next up, Jenn Nawada travels to a homeowner's garden to plan and install easy-to-maintain landscaping that will brighten up the space and require minimal upkeep. Jenn offers practical advice on selecting the right plants for a garden, including low-maintenance varieties that are drought-resistant and disease-free. She also demonstrates how to lay inside and trim the bushes, and how to deal with weeds and pests without using harmful chemicals.

Meanwhile, Richard Trethewey cuts down on energy costs by installing an energy-efficient mini ductless air conditioning system in a home. He explains heat pumps, how they work to cool the home, and how they are different from traditional air conditioning systems. Richard also offers tips on selecting the right size system for your home, as well as the best ways to maintain it to ensure it runs efficiently and lasts a long time.

Last but not least, Mauro Henrique visits a homeowner's summer cabin to fix up and upgrade an outdoor shower that has seen better days. Mauro replaces the old and worn-down showerheads with new, stylish fixtures, and also installs a rainfall showerhead to enhance the shower experience. Mauro offers tips on upgrading an outdoor shower, using the right tools and materials, and the best ways to maintain it throughout the year.

Overall, Ask This Old House season 19 episode 27 is a great resource for homeowners looking to improve their outdoor spaces this summer season. With helpful tips and practical advice, Tom, Jenn, Richard, and Mauro offer insights on how to build custom outdoor kitchens, install energy-efficient air conditioning systems, and upgrade outdoor showers, while also sharing tips on maintaining these features to ensure they last season after season. If you're looking to improve your home this summer, this episode is not to be missed!