Ep 4. Dormer Day

In the season 44 episode 4 of This Old House titled "Dormer Day," the team takes on a major renovation project in a 1920s bungalow located in the Boston suburbs. The homeowners want to add more living space and natural light to their home, and the solution is to add dormers.

As the episode begins, the team surveys the roof which is in need of some serious repair work. After discussing their plan of action, the team puts up scaffolding and begins removing the shingles and damaged wood from the roof. The next step is to frame the new attic space where the dormers will be built.

The hosts explain that dormers are a popular addition to homes because they add both curb appeal and interior space. In addition to more natural light, dormers can also provide ventilation and extra headroom in rooms where the roof slopes.

Once the framing is complete, the team installs new windows and begins working on the roof. They add flashing and new shingles to ensure the new dormers are completely sealed and water-tight.

Meanwhile, the homeowners make a trip to a local salvage yard to find materials for a custom-built storage unit. They want the unit to match the existing woodwork in their home, so they search for old pine boards that can be sanded and finished to match. They also find an antique medicine cabinet that will be repurposed as a spice rack.

Back at the house, the team installs insulation and drywall in the new attic space. They also take care to ensure the new dormers match the style and character of the home by carefully selecting trim and moldings.

As the episode comes to a close, the team continues to work on the storage unit and the homeowners begin painting the interior of the new space. The homeowners are thrilled with the results and the added living space the dormers provide. The This Old House team delivers yet another successful renovation project, showcasing the power of a well-planned and executed home improvement project.

Overall, "Dormer Day" is an episode that showcases the importance of attention to detail and careful planning in a renovation project. The team's focus on quality materials and design ensure that the addition of dormers is seamless and matches the original character of the home. Homeowners looking to add natural light and living space to their homes may find inspiration and practical tips in this episode.