Ep 5. Tree Dr. House Call

This Old House season 44 episode 5, titled "Tree Dr. House Call," focuses on a restoration project at a 1920s Tudor home in Newton, Massachusetts. The homeowners, Max and April Sallee, have been living in the house for 15 years but have been struggling with a dying tree on their property. The show's team of experts, which includes general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, landscape contractor Jenn Nawada, and architect Jeremiah Eck, arrive at the property to assess the situation and come up with a plan to save the tree.

The episode begins with Tom Silva inspecting the exterior of the home, which includes stucco walls, half-timbering, and a slate roof. He notes that the stucco is in good shape but that the half-timbering needs to be repaired, as there are some areas where the wood has rotted. He also discusses the importance of maintaining the roof's slate tiles, as they can last for over 100 years with proper upkeep.

Next, Richard Trethewey examines the home's heating system, which is a mixture of baseboard heating and radiators. He explains that the radiators are more efficient but also more expensive to install. He recommends adding a new boiler and converting the system to all radiators, which would provide better heat distribution throughout the home.

Meanwhile, Jenn Nawada meets with the Sallees to discuss their landscaping concerns. They explain that their tree, a 60-foot American Elm, has been struggling for years and that they fear it may be dying. Jenn inspects the tree and notes that there are several issues, including a fungal disease called Dutch Elm Disease and some root damage. She consults with her team and comes up with a plan to remove the diseased parts of the tree and stabilize it with a steel cable.

Jeremiah Eck focuses on the interior of the home, which has an open floor plan and some unique architectural features, including curved walls and a barrel-vaulted ceiling. He explains that the curved walls were a popular design element in the 1920s and that they are still challenging to build today. He also notes that the barrel-vaulted ceiling was likely added in the 1930s when the home was remodeled.

As the episode progresses, the team begins the restoration work. Tom Silva repairs the half-timbering and also works on the front door, which has been warped by years of exposure to the elements. Richard Trethewey installs the new boiler and radiators, which will provide more efficient and consistent heating throughout the home. Jenn Nawada's team removes the diseased parts of the tree and installs the steel cable to stabilize it.

Throughout the episode, the homeowners are actively involved in the restoration process. They express their gratitude for the team's expertise and dedication to preserving their home's history. They also share some of their own ideas for future renovations, such as updating the kitchen and bathrooms.

In the end, the restoration is a success, and the team is able to save the tree and restore the home to its former glory. The Sallees are thrilled with the results and grateful for the team's hard work. The episode concludes with a tour of the finished project, showcasing the restored half-timbering, updated heating system, and stabilized tree.