Temporada
Episodio
Servidor del reproductor
This Old House

This Old House

19796
DocumentalReality
Estreno
01 ene 1979
País
Estados Unidos
Producción
This Old House Productions
El programa original de mejoras del hogar de la televisión, que sigue una renovación completa de la casa a lo largo de varios episodios.

About

Quick guide

PBS’s original home‑improvement series that follows a single house’s complete makeover over several episodes.

This Old House premiered in 1979 as a 13‑part series that followed the renovation of a single property, from planning and budgeting to finishing and unveiling. Each episode breaks down the work into clear, step‑by‑step segments, showcasing the expertise of builders, designers, and homeowners. The show emphasizes practical, hands‑on solutions, detailed craftsmanship, and the collaborative spirit of a renovation team. Viewers gain insight into the challenges and rewards of restoring a historic or aging home, making the series a timeless resource for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

What to know

  • Each episode covers a week of progress in a single house’s makeover.
  • The show is produced by PBS and airs on both public and syndicated stations.
  • Hosts have included Bob Vila, Steve Thomas, and current host Kevin O'Connor.
  • Expert cast members feature carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and landscape designers.
  • Episodes often include a homeowner’s ‘sweat‑equity’ contributions.
  • The series began as a one‑time project but evolved into a long‑running format.
  • Tools, materials, and budgeting tips are highlighted throughout.
  • The show is family‑friendly with a light, educational tone.

Watch if

If you enjoy practical, step‑by‑step home renovation guidance, love seeing a project unfold over several weeks, and appreciate expert advice delivered in an accessible, family‑friendly style, This Old House offers a rewarding viewing experience.

Skip if

If you prefer fast‑paced reality shows, dramatic conflict, or fictional narratives, this slow‑burn, documentary‑style program may feel too measured and instructional for your tastes.

family friendlylight toneslow burn
Episode Format
Each episode focuses on one stage of the house’s transformation, from initial assessment to final reveal. The team breaks down tasks into manageable chunks, highlighting key decisions and expert input while keeping the pace steady and educational.
Hosts and Cast
The show began with Bob Vila, followed by Steve Thomas, and currently features Kevin O'Connor. Alongside the host, master craftspeople like Norm Abram, Tom Silva, and Richard Trethewey bring specialized skills that guide viewers through the renovation.
Project Selection
Hosts choose houses that represent a mix of architectural styles and budget ranges. The selection process considers the potential for educational value, homeowner enthusiasm, and the feasibility of a comprehensive makeover.
Production History
Originating in 1979 on Boston’s WGBH-TV, the series has evolved from a single 13‑episode launch to a long‑running PBS staple, earning numerous Emmy Awards and inspiring spin‑offs like Ask This Old House.
Viewing Options
Episodes are available on PBS, the This Old House website, and streaming services such as Roku and the PBS app. Fans can watch entire seasons or select individual projects that interest them.
Legacy and Spin‑Offs
Beyond the original series, The New Yankee Workshop and Trade School expand the brand’s reach, offering deeper dives into building techniques and educational content for younger audiences.

FAQ

40 Q&A
Who watches This Old House?
People who like home improvement and history watch the show.
How long has This Old House been on TV?
This Old House has been on TV since 1979.
What is the style of houses they usually work on?
They often work on older homes with historical character.
How do they plan the renovations?
The team plans renovations by assessing the house's condition and discussing the homeowner's needs.
What happens if they find something dangerous?
If they find something dangerous, they call in experts to handle it safely.
What happened in the latest part of This Old House?
Information about the latest part of This Old House is not available.
Who are the main people on This Old House?
The main people include the host, general contractor, and various experts.
What tools do they use?
They use a variety of tools for construction, repair, and restoration.
Where is This Old House filmed?
The show is filmed in different locations as they work on various houses each season.
Who was the first host of This Old House?
The first host of This Old House was Bob Vila.
Do they ever find surprises in the old houses?
Yes, they often find unexpected issues or hidden features in old houses.
How much does it cost to fix a house on the show?
The cost varies greatly depending on the project size and complexity.
What happens to the houses after the show is done?
The houses are typically renovated and sold or kept by the homeowners.
What do the designers do on the show?
Designers help with the aesthetic and functional aspects of the renovation.
Can I get help fixing my own house from the show?
The show provides ideas and demonstrations, but not direct personal assistance.
What do the builders do on the show?
Builders perform the actual construction and repair work.
What is This Old House about?
This Old House is about renovating and restoring old houses.
What does the host do on the show?
The host guides viewers through the renovation process and interviews the crew.
Is This Old House educational?
Yes, the show teaches viewers about home renovation and historical building techniques.
What are some common problems they fix?
Common problems include outdated systems, structural issues, and cosmetic wear.
What kind of houses do they fix?
They fix a variety of older homes, from cottages to large historic residences.
What materials do they like to use?
They often use materials that are appropriate for the house's age and style.
How do they decide what to keep and what to change?
Decisions are based on historical significance, structural integrity, and homeowner preferences.
Do they ever build new houses?
The show primarily focuses on renovating existing structures.
How do they pick the houses they fix?
Houses are chosen based on their potential for renovation and historical interest.
What was the hardest house they ever fixed?
The hardest house 'This Old House' ever fixed was the "Eyre Estate" in Massachusetts. It was a large, historic home with many complex problems that required extensive restoration work. The project took a long time and involved many skilled craftspeople to bring it back to its former glory.
Who are the main designers?
While 'This Old House' features many talented designers and architects who contribute to each project, there isn't one single set of main designers. Different projects often bring in specialists for specific design needs, focusing on historical accuracy and modern functionality.
How do they deal with old plumbing and electrical systems?
When dealing with old plumbing and electrical systems, 'This Old House' typically replaces them entirely. This ensures the house is safe, up to code, and has modern conveniences. They carefully plan the new systems to be efficient and reliable for years to come.
How do they find old houses to work on?
The show finds old houses to work on through a variety of ways. They often work with local historical societies, real estate agents specializing in historic properties, and sometimes homeowners reach out to them directly when they have a significant renovation project planned.
What are some of the most famous houses they've fixed?
Some of the most famous houses 'This Old House' has fixed include the Victorian house in Concord, Massachusetts, the historic farm in Newfield, Maine, and the colonial revival home in Atlanta, Georgia. Each project highlighted unique challenges and restoration techniques.
Who is the current host?
The current host of 'This Old House' is Kevin O'Connor. He has been with the show for many years, guiding viewers through the renovation process and interviewing the experts involved in each project.
How do they make sure the house is safe?
To make sure a house is safe, 'This Old House' follows strict safety protocols. This includes addressing structural issues, updating electrical and plumbing to meet current codes, testing for and safely removing hazardous materials like lead paint or asbestos, and ensuring proper ventilation.
What are some tips for making an old house energy efficient?
To make an old house energy efficient, 'This Old House' often suggests adding insulation, sealing air leaks around windows and doors, upgrading to energy-efficient windows, and installing modern, efficient heating and cooling systems. Proper weatherstripping and caulking are also key.
What is the goal of This Old House?
The goal of 'This Old House' is to show viewers how to restore and renovate old houses, preserving their historic character while making them functional for modern living. It aims to educate and inspire homeowners to take on their own projects.
What are some common mistakes people make when fixing old houses?
Common mistakes people make when fixing old houses include not properly budgeting for unexpected problems, neglecting to get professional advice, altering historic features without understanding their significance, and not addressing fundamental issues like the foundation or roof first.
Are there spin-off shows from This Old House?
Yes, there are spin-off shows from 'This Old House.' The most well-known is 'Ask This Old House,' where the show's experts answer viewer questions and tackle smaller home improvement projects.
Who are the main contractors?
The show features a team of skilled general contractors who oversee the day-to-day work on the renovation projects. While specific contractors may rotate depending on the project and location, familiar faces often return, bringing their expertise in managing complex restorations.
How do they preserve the history of the house while updating it?
To preserve history while updating, they carefully research the house's past to understand original materials and design. They often restore original features like woodwork or windows and use materials that match the historic period. When modern updates are necessary, they are integrated thoughtfully to complement, not detract from, the original character.
What is lead paint and how do they handle it?
Lead paint is a type of paint that contains lead, which can be harmful to health, especially to children. 'This Old House' handles lead paint by testing for it, and if found, they take special precautions during removal or encapsulation. This often involves protective gear, containment of the work area, and proper disposal methods to ensure safety.
What's the difference between the regular show and the "Ask This Old House" show?
The main 'This Old House' show focuses on complete renovations of entire houses, often over a long period. 'Ask This Old House' is a spin-off where experts answer specific homeowner questions and demonstrate how to do smaller DIY projects, repairs, and maintenance tasks.

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