Ep 6. Jamestown: net zero blanket

In season 40, episode 6 of "This Old House," entitled "Jamestown: Net Zero Blanket," the imaginative team takes on an extraordinary project in picturesque Jamestown, Rhode Island. Known for their expertise in transforming aging homes into modern living spaces, the crew undertakes an ambitious mission to remodel a beautiful but outdated house into a net-zero energy home.

As the episode begins, the "This Old House" team arrives in Jamestown and is greeted by the homeowners, Christine and Rod. Passionate about sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint, the couple has long dreamed of transforming their home into an energy-efficient oasis. Now, with the help of the skilled professionals, their aspiration is about to become a reality.

The episode kicks off with host Kevin O'Connor meeting up with Tom Silva, master carpenter, on the roof of the house. They discuss the crucial goal of achieving net-zero energy, which means the home must generate as much energy as it consumes over a year. To accomplish this, the building envelope and energy-efficient equipment must be carefully installed and meticulously crafted.

Tom and Kevin then make their way inside to meet up with Richard Trethewey, plumbing and heating expert, and Norm Abram, master carpenter. Together, the group analyzes the home's current energy consumption, looking for areas that can be improved. They discover outdated insulation, inefficient windows, and an antiquated heating and cooling system – all of which contribute to unnecessary energy loss.

Next, Norm and Richard explore the basement, an essential area for achieving net-zero energy in the home. They examine the current heating and cooling setup, which consists of an old furnace and poorly insulated ductwork. The team determines that a geothermal heat pump, along with a radiant heating system, will be the most efficient and environmentally friendly solution for this home.

Meanwhile, Tommy Silva and apprentice Bailey are upstairs, focused on updating the home's outdated infrastructure. They skillfully remove walls to create an open floor plan, as requested by the homeowners. The transformation starts to take shape as the team works diligently to preserve the original charm of the house while simultaneously modernizing it.

Throughout the episode, Kevin visits the off-grid and net-zero energy home of a local architect. The visit provides the team with inspiration and crucial insights into sustainable building techniques. From solar panels to efficient insulation, they gather valuable information that will later be implemented in Christine and Rod's home renovation.

With construction in full swing, the homeowners face the challenges of living in a construction zone. Christine shares her excitement about the design plans, while Rod, an engineer, maintains his curiosity regarding the technical aspects of the project. Together, they look forward to the day when they can move into their dream home, knowing they've made a positive impact on both their lives and the environment.

As the episode draws to a close, the crew continues to work diligently on the home, ensuring that every detail aligns with their net-zero energy goals. From the exterior envelope to the mechanical systems, no aspect of the project is overlooked. The combination of expert craftsmanship, innovative technologies, and sustainable materials will soon result in a stunning and energy-efficient transformation.

Join the "This Old House" team on their captivating journey as they strive to achieve net-zero energy in the beautiful Jamestown home. Witness the dedication, expertise, and ingenuity of the professionals, who are committed to creating a space that not only meets the homeowner's needs but also demonstrates the power of sustainable living. Don't miss this exciting episode filled with stunning transformations, valuable insights, and the pursuit of a greener future.