Ep 12. Belmont Victorian - This Old Tree House

Belmont Victorian - This Old Tree House is the twelfth episode of the thirty-seventh season of the popular home improvement show, This Old House. In this episode, the team tackles a unique challenge: building a treehouse for the family's children in the backyard of a beautiful Belmont neighborhood Victorian home, while preserving the 100-year-old tree.

The episode starts with the team surveying the tree and deciding on a design for the treehouse that would not only be functional but also blend seamlessly with the home's Victorian architecture. The team includes Tom Silva, Kevin O'Connor, Richard Trethewey, and Mark McCullough. Tom, a master carpenter, takes the lead in this episode, and his experience and expertise come in handy as the team sets out on the challenging project.

The episode highlights the importance of preserving the tree, which is not only a beautiful centerpiece but also provides invaluable shade to the house. The team works with the University of Massachusetts Amherst's Department of Environmental Conservation to ensure that the tree's health is not compromised during the construction process. They also seek the services of an expert arborist to trim and maintain the tree.

The team then sets about erecting the treehouse, starting with the foundation, which is built around the tree. They use a combination of pressure-treated lumber and steel brackets to create a stable base, ensuring that the tree has enough room to grow. The structure is then framed, and the team installs the walls, roof, and windows, paying close attention to the details to ensure that the final product is both functional and visually stunning.

Throughout the episode, the team faces a series of challenges, from dealing with a wonky measurement to figuring out how to haul materials up the tree. However, they tackle each obstacle with determination and creativity, showcasing their skills and expertise in the process.

One of the exciting highlights of this episode is the use of a special crane that is brought in to lift the heavier materials up high into the tree. The crane helps to make the work easier and safer, and the team marvels at the benefits of using modern technology in an otherwise traditional project.

The team then focuses on finishing touches, such as adding electrical wiring, creating a pulley system for lifting materials up to the treehouse, and adding a railing to ensure safety. The final product is a beautiful, unique, and functional treehouse that the family's children will undoubtedly love.

As the episode draws to a close, the team reflects on the joys of treehouse building and the adventure it evokes. They discuss the importance of preserving nature while also creating something beautiful and functional. The episode is a testament to the ingenuity, creativity, and craftsmanship that the This Old House team is known for and highlights the essential role they play in educating and inspiring homeowners around the world.