Ep 14. Newburyport: Bed Race

In season 45, episode 14 of the iconic home renovation show This Old House, the team gathers in the historic town of Newburyport, Massachusetts for an unexpected event: a bed race. But before the fun begins, the crew sets to work renovating a nearby 1915 Dutch colonial house that's seen better days.

Leading the team is general contractor Tom Silva, who oversees the demolition of the home's dilapidated front porch and stairs. With the help of apprentice Nathan Gilbert, Tom rebuilds the porch from the ground up, using classic design elements that stay true to the home's original style.

Meanwhile, master carpenter Norm Abram and electrician Heath Eastman take on the task of rewiring the entire house with new electrical wires and outlets, as well as installing a new panel in the basement to accommodate the upgraded system.

Plumber Richard Trethewey, ever the expert on plumbing systems, tackles a particularly tricky problem: a basement that continuously floods during rainstorms. Richard devises a solution using a sump pump that will divert water away from the house and prevent any future damage.

But it's not all work and no play for the This Old House crew. The town of Newburyport is hosting its annual bed race, and the TOH team is participating with a customized bed on wheels. With team captain Kevin O'Connor at the helm, the team races against other teams from the community in an exciting display of teamwork and camaraderie.

As the episode comes to a close, the home renovation is well underway, and the This Old House team leaves Newburyport with memories of a fun-filled community event and the satisfaction of taking part in revitalizing a piece of local history.