This Old House (1979)

Episode Overview

Steve checks out the progress on the new addition, noting the 1 x 12 LVLs used for the roof joist system, which is necessary due to the high ceiling. Inside, Tom and the master carpenter demonstrate how they’re reinforcing the bouncy third floor by attaching 1/8” steel sheets to the floor joists from underneath. Richard Trethewey explores a software tool that calculates heat loss for the building and estimates heating and cooling expenses with different insulation types, windows, and HVAC systems. One striking result shows that, with the current heating plant and standard insulation, costs over 30 years could reach $220,000, while using advanced foam insulation, low-e windows, and high-efficiency heating would drop it to $75,000. The master carpenter also visits a couple in Portland, Oregon, who have turned their love for restoring Victorian homes into a budding business. The episode wraps up with the installation of the new sliding glass doors.