Ep 13. Rot Repair, Heat Pumps

Ask This Old House season 20 episode 13 features two home improvement projects that tackle different issues - rot repair and heat pumps. The episode is hosted by Kevin O'Connor, Tommy Silva, Richard Trethewey, and Roger Cook.

The first segment of the episode revolves around rot repair, a common issue in wooden structures. Kevin O'Connor and Tommy Silva visit a homeowner who needs to fix extensive rot damage in their porch columns. In this segment, the experts explain the different types of rot, how to assess the extent of the damage, and how to prevent future rot issues.

Tommy demonstrates how to use epoxy to repair the columns, a technique that involves replacing the missing and damaged wood with an epoxy fill. The experts also provide tips on how to prepare the surface before applying the epoxy and how to finish it to match the existing porch columns.

The second segment focuses on heat pumps, an energy-efficient alternative to traditional HVAC systems. Richard Trethewey visits a couple who wants to upgrade their heating and cooling system with a heat pump. They also want to add ductwork in their home to improve the airflow.

Richard explains the advantages of a heat pump, which can transfer heat from the air outside to warm the interior of the house in the winter and vice versa in the summer. He also discusses the different types of heat pumps and their performance, as well as how to calculate the size of a heat pump for a given home.

Richard and the homeowners visit a manufacturer who explains how a heat pump works and shows them the different components of the system. They also discuss the cost and installation process of adding ductwork to the home.

The episode concludes with Roger Cook visiting a homeowner who wants to create a butterfly garden in their backyard. Roger provides tips on how to choose the right plants that attract butterflies and how to create a healthy environment for them.

Overall, Ask This Old House season 20 episode 13 offers practical DIY advice and showcases innovative solutions for common home improvement issues such as rot repair and HVAC upgrades. The episode also highlights the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability in home improvement projects.