Ep 24. Dorchester Triple Decker: Roof University

This Old House season 43 episode 24, titled "Dorchester Triple Decker: Roof University," follows the This Old House crew as they tackle the project of replacing an old, leaky roof on a triple-decker home located in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston. The episode begins with expert carpenter Norm Abram and general contractor Tom Silva discussing the history and importance of triple-decker homes in the city of Boston, which were originally built to provide affordable housing for working-class families. Today, many of these homes are in need of renovations and updates, and that's where the This Old House team comes in.

The episode then moves to the roof of the triple-decker home, where Tom Silva and his team are busy removing the old shingles and preparing for the new roof installation. Tom explains the importance of proper roof ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and damage to the roof and attic, which can lead to costly repairs down the road. The team also uses a special roofing product called Grace Ice & Water Shield to provide an extra layer of protection against ice dams and leaks.

Throughout the episode, Tom and his team explain the various steps involved in installing a new roof, including measuring and cutting the shingles, installing flashing around vent pipes and chimneys, and sealing the edges of the roof to prevent water infiltration. They also explain the importance of safety on a roofing job, including the use of harnesses, safety ropes, and proper footwear to prevent falls.

In addition to the roof replacement, the episode also features updates to the exterior of the home, including the installation of new gutters and downspouts to help prevent water damage to the foundation and basement. The team also installs new energy-efficient windows to help improve the home's insulation and reduce heating and cooling costs.

Throughout the episode, the This Old House crew emphasizes the importance of proper home maintenance and regular updates to prevent costly repairs and make homes more energy-efficient. They also highlight the importance of preserving the history and character of older homes, such as the triple-decker homes located throughout Boston.

Overall, "Dorchester Triple Decker: Roof University" is an informative and engaging episode that offers a detailed look at the process of replacing a roof and updating the exterior of an older home. With its focus on energy efficiency, safety, and historic preservation, this episode is a must-watch for homeowners and fans of This Old House alike.