Ep 11. Belmont Victorian - Grinding Out the Details

This Old House Season 37 Episode 11, titled "Belmont Victorian - Grinding Out the Details," is a must-watch for those who love to watch restoration and renovation projects. The episode chronicles the continued work on the stunning Belmont Victorian, a gorgeous 1890s-era Queen Anne-style home in Massachusetts that the This Old House team has been working on for several episodes now.

The episode begins with the This Old House team working on the home's master bathroom, which sits on the third floor. The crew is working to install a custom vanity and a beautiful marble countertop, while also repairing damage to the original hardwood floors. The team walks viewers through the process of measuring and installing the vanity's sink and faucet, while also adding finishing touches like reclaimed wood backing for the vanity's mirror. Next, the team moves on to the master bedroom, where they are installing custom built-ins that will provide ample storage space. The team also adds custom crown molding to the room, giving it a polished and finished look.

From there, the episode moves downstairs to the home's first floor, where the team is working on a number of different projects. First up is the installation of a new, multi-paned front door, complete with a gorgeous arched transom. The team explains how they go about installing the door and its hardware, and how they reinforce the door frame for added security.

Next, the team moves on to the home's library, where they are installing custom bookcases and shelving. The library is one of the home's most charming rooms, with original wood paneling and ceiling tiles that date back over a century. The team takes viewers through the process of cutting, sanding, and staining the shelves, as well as adding custom moldings to the tops of the bookcases.

The episode then moves outside, where the This Old House team is working on the home's wraparound porch. The porch is one of the home's most striking features, with intricate gingerbread detailing and an abundance of outdoor seating. The team is working to restore the porch to its former glory, by repairing damaged woodwork and repainting and staining the surfaces as needed. They also take the time to explain the importance of waterproofing and sealing the porch's floorboards, to ensure longevity and prevent damage from the elements.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a segment on the home's custom windows. The Belmont Victorian features a number of ornate windows, each of which has been painstakingly restored by the This Old House team. They take viewers through the process of stripping and sanding the windows, as well as repairing broken glass and installing new weatherstripping. The team also explains how they go about replacing window weights, which are necessary to ensure that the windows can be opened and closed easily.

Overall, This Old House Season 37 Episode 11 is a fascinating look at the intricate and often time-consuming work that goes into restoring and renovating a historic home. Whether you're a fan of restoration projects or just appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of a bygone era, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire.