Ep 2. Concord: Fix the Foundation

This Old House is an American TV series that focuses on home renovation and construction. In season 44 episode 2 titled Concord: Fix the Foundation, the team is faced with a challenging project. The episode is set in Concord, Massachusetts, where a homeowner is struggling with a faulty foundation that is causing significant damage to her home.

The team of experts, led by general contractor Tom Silva, arrives at the property to assess the damage and come up with a plan to fix the foundation. One of the first things they notice is that the foundation is sinking, which is causing cracks in the walls, floors, and ceiling. The homeowners are worried that the damage is beyond repair and that they may have to rebuild the entire house.

To get a closer look at the damage, the team uses a digital scanner to take detailed measurements of the foundation. This allows them to identify exactly where the foundation is sinking and develop a plan to fix it. Next, they use a mini-excavator to dig a trench around the perimeter of the house, down to the footings of the foundation.

Once the trench is dug, the team installs hydraulic jacks beneath the foundation. The jacks are used to lift the foundation back into its original position. This is a delicate process that requires the team to work slowly and carefully to avoid causing further damage to the house.

Once the foundation is lifted, the team installs new concrete footings to support the structure. They also install steel beams to reinforce the foundation and prevent it from sinking again in the future. The team works tirelessly to ensure that the foundation is solid and secure before moving on to other repairs.

With the foundation fixed, the team turns their attention to other areas of the house that have been damaged by the sinking foundation. They remove the damaged drywall, repair the cracks in the walls and ceilings, and install new flooring. They also replace the windows and doors that were damaged by the shifting foundation.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of home renovation. They see the expertise and craftsmanship required to fix a foundation and restore a damaged home. The homeowners are thrilled with the results, and the team is proud of another successful renovation.

Overall, season 44 episode 2 of This Old House offers an inspiring look at the power of expert craftsmanship and the dedication required to take on challenging renovation projects. Viewers will walk away with a newfound appreciation for the importance of a solid foundation and the value of a well-constructed home.