Ep 6. Masonry Lessons

In season 44 episode 6 of This Old House, titled "Masonry Lessons," the team tackles a major renovation project in Charleston, South Carolina. The homeowners, a young couple with a growing family, have purchased a nineteenth-century home in need of serious repairs, including extensive masonry work.

The episode begins with the team assessing the damage to the home's chimney, which has been crumbling due to water damage and neglect. The crew begins by carefully removing the damaged bricks and rebuilding the chimney from the ground up. Master mason Mark McCullough takes the lead on this project, sharing his expertise and offering tips on how to properly lay bricks and achieve the perfect mortar mix.

As the team works on the chimney, they discover other areas of the home that require masonry repairs, including a sagging brick wall on the side of the house. McCullough explains how to properly brace and repair the wall, and the team gets to work restoring it to its former glory.

Throughout the episode, the crew also works on smaller masonry projects around the house, including repairing a cracked brick walkway and creating a stunning new brick patio in the backyard. McCullough offers tips on how to create visually interesting patterns with different colored bricks and shares his expert opinion on which materials are best for different applications.

In addition to the masonry work, the team also tackles other aspects of the renovation project, including repairing damaged plaster walls and replacing outdated plumbing and electrical systems. The homeowners are thrilled with the progress of the project, and the team works hard to complete the project on time and within budget.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to expert advice on all aspects of home renovation, from basic masonry repairs to more complex electrical and plumbing upgrades. The team is knowledgeable and approachable, making the process of home renovation seem less intimidating and more manageable for viewers at home.

Overall, "Masonry Lessons" is a fascinating look at the art of masonry and how it can be used to transform a rundown home into a beautiful and functional living space. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, there's something to learn from this episode of This Old House.