Ep 7. Chimney Straightener

In season 43, episode 7 of This Old House titled "Chimney Straightener," the team takes on a challenging renovation project in a 1906 Victorian-era home in Arlington, Massachusetts. The house, owned by a couple named George and Melissa, is in dire need of renovation, particularly the chimney which has become a safety hazard due to its structural instability.

The project begins with the masonry team evaluating the chimney and deducing that it needs to be straightened and rebuilt. In order to achieve this, they use a hydraulic jack to slowly lift the chimney and carefully straighten it out before rebuilding it with new bricks. The team works tirelessly to ensure the safety and stability of the chimney.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the house, the electricians are busy replacing the outdated wiring and updating the electrical panel. They make sure to take extra precautions to ensure their safety as well as the safety of the home by installing new smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

In addition, the carpentry team is tasked with rebuilding the back porch which has deteriorated over time. They match the new porch to the existing design and carefully choose the type of wood and stain to make sure it blends in seamlessly with the original architecture of the home.

The team also tackles the problem of the old heating system, which is outdated and inefficient. The HVAC team replaces the old system with a modern one that not only heats the house more efficiently but also reduces the clients' energy bills.

Throughout the episode, the team faces several challenges as they uncover unexpected issues with the house, such as a hidden chimney in the wall that needs to be removed and asbestos insulation that needs to be properly removed and disposed of. But they do not lose heart nor relent, and they work together to overcome these challenges and complete the renovation project to the clients' satisfaction.

In the end, the renovations bring the house back to its former glory, with the addition of modern amenities that add comfort and convenience to the clients' daily lives. The clients express their gratitude for the team's effort and dedication, and the team leaves the home with a sense of pride in having restored a beautiful old home to its former glory.

Overall, This Old House season 43 episode 7 "Chimney Straightener" showcases the dedication and hard work of the team as they undertake a challenging renovation project. The episode highlights the importance of thorough evaluation, careful planning, and teamwork in ensuring a successful renovation project.