Ep 7. Paint Bathroom Tile, Hot Water Tank Replacement

In season 21 episode 7 of Ask This Old House, titled "Paint Bathroom Tile, Hot Water Tank Replacement," the team of experts tackle two very different home improvement projects: painting bathroom tile and replacing a hot water tank.

First, host Kevin O'Connor travels to Rhode Island to meet with homeowner Christine, who wants to update her outdated pink and blue bathroom tile without completely gutting the space. To achieve the look she wants, master painter Jim Clark walks Christine through the steps to properly clean and prime the tile before applying a coat of paint. He also demonstrates how to create a stencil to add a decorative design to the newly painted tile. The end result is a fresh and modern bathroom without the high cost of a complete renovation.

Next, Tom Silva and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey head to Burlington, Vermont to help homeowner Stanton replace his old hot water tank with a more energy-efficient model. The two explain the process for draining and removing the old tank, and then installing the new one. Richard also shares his knowledge on different types of hot water tanks and the importance of proper maintenance to ensure longevity.

Throughout the episode, the experts offer valuable tips and insights, such as the importance of using a paint with a high gloss finish for bathroom tile to ensure durability and easy cleaning, and the benefits of a heat pump hot water tank for energy efficiency.

Overall, "Paint Bathroom Tile, Hot Water Tank Replacement" is a useful and informative episode for homeowners looking to tackle these common household projects themselves. The experts provide clear and concise instructions, making both tasks seem achievable for even the most novice DIYer.