Ep 3. Solid Foundation

In season 44 of This Old House, episode 3 titled "Solid Foundation," the team takes on a new project in Newton, Massachusetts. The homeowners, Hill and Maria, have a beautiful historic home that needs major renovations and updates to make it usable for modern living. Before they can tackle the interior, the team must address a crucial aspect of any construction project: the foundation.

The team starts by removing the old foundation of the home, which is cracked and unstable. They then excavate the area around the house to create a new foundation that is deep enough to provide stability for the house. The new foundation is made of concrete and rebar, which provides strength and durability that the old foundation lacked.

Once the new foundation is in place, the team moves on to other exterior renovations, such as replacing the roof and adding new windows. They also add insulation to the walls and replace the old wiring and plumbing systems, making the house more energy-efficient and functional for modern living.

The team then moves on to the interior of the house, where they work on restoring and preserving many of the historic features of the home, including the beautiful woodwork and original decorative details. They also update the kitchen and bathrooms, adding modern amenities while maintaining the home's historic charm.

Throughout the episode, the homeowners and the team work together to make sure that the updates and renovations meet the needs of the family while staying true to the original character of the home. The team also makes sure to use sustainable and environmentally-friendly materials whenever possible, ensuring that the home is not only beautiful, but also eco-friendly and efficient.

Overall, "Solid Foundation" showcases the many challenges and rewards of renovating an old home, and highlights the importance of preserving historic architecture while also updating homes to meet the needs of modern families. With its expert team of designers and builders, This Old House continues to inspire and educate viewers about the art and science of home renovation.