Ep 17. Ipswich: Prep-Work

In the 17th episode of season 45 of the long-running home improvement series This Old House, the team visits Ipswich, Massachusetts, where they embark on a new project. The episode is titled "Ipswich: Prep-Work."

The show begins by introducing the project homeowners, a couple who have lived in their 1870s-era home for over 20 years and have decided to embark on a major renovation. The couple is looking to improve the layout of the home, as well as update the electrical and plumbing systems. They also hope to fix some of the home's architectural problems, such as the lack of storage space and limited natural light.

To begin the renovation, the team of experts needs to do some prep work. They get started by assessing the home's current situation, noting its size, layout, and design features. The experts take measurements and survey the area to determine the best way to proceed with the renovation.

One of the biggest challenges the experts face is dealing with the home's existing roof structure, as it is quite complicated. They need to first remove any existing shingles and identify any weak areas that need to be addressed before they can begin to restructure the roof to improve its functionality and allow more natural light into the home.

Another important aspect of the renovation involves updating the home's electrical and plumbing systems. The team checks the current systems and determines which parts of the system need to be replaced or updated. They then work to rewire and replumb the home to ensure that it is up to modern safety standards and functions properly.

The team also works to improve the home's insulation, adding new layers of insulation to the walls and ceiling to improve the home's energy efficiency. They also replace any old windows and doors with new, energy-efficient models to further reduce the home's energy consumption.

Throughout the episode, the team works closely with the homeowners to ensure that the renovation meets their needs and stays within their budget. They provide regular updates on the progress of the renovation and help the homeowners make important decisions about design elements and materials.

Overall, "Ipswich: Prep-Work" is an informative and engaging episode that provides viewers with a glimpse into the challenging and rewarding process of renovating an older home. The show's experts offer valuable insights and advice on everything from insulation and plumbing to design and layout, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in home improvement and renovation.