Season 7

1996-09-02

Bob Vila prepares to restore his own home by inspecting it inside and out. Also: a tour of Harvard Square with architectural historian Brian Pfeiffer provides a look at the influences on area builders.

1996-09-09

As work begins on the project, Bob Vila offers tips on demolishing a structure. Also: a look at the architect's renovation plans and a tour of historic houses in the neighborhood.

1996-09-16

As reconstruction begins, the crew corrects a structural flaw with a new beam and starts overhauling the plumbing. Also: a tour of what remains of the house after the demolition.

1996-09-23

As structural changes to the roof are planned, Bob Vila presents a guide to shingles. Also: a look at shingles being made in Vancouver factory.

1996-09-30

Work begins on turning the basement into a combination exercise room and workshop, with Bob Vila sharing tips on concrete slab floors. Also: a trip to a Georgia sawmill to see lumber being prepared.

1996-10-07

Bob Vila evaluates progress on the Cambridge, MA, project. Also: a tour of the historic Longfellow House, onetime residence of George Washington and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

1996-10-14

Roofers replace the shingles and install copper lining to rebuild the gutters. Meanwhile, an electrician explains the project's extensive rewiring. Also: examples of fine woodwork and stained glass.

1996-10-21

Framing begins on the backyard deck, chimney repair gets underway, and the Palladian window is installed in the third-floor family room.

1996-10-28

Bob Vila explores the various uses of insulation products, including noise reduction. Also: building a deck with proper drainage.

1996-11-04

Bob Vila oversees the installation of a heating, air-conditioning and ventilation unit. In the bathroom, radiant heat is installed, and around the house, the electrical work is inspected.

1996-11-11

Bob Vila offers tips on plastering and window installation. Also: a tour of a Stanford White-designed house in Stockbridge, MA.

1996-11-18

Bob Vila discusses ceramic tile, from design choices to installation. Also: tile shopping in New York City; digging the trench for a water main.

1996-11-25

Work begins on the grounds as a landscape architect helps formulate plans. Meanwhile, the new deck takes shape and a parking pad is laid out near the back door.

1996-12-02

The crew installs a staircase, then begins repairing plaster and laying in tile. Also: glass is replaced in the doors of the dining-room hutch.

1996-12-09

Workmen start paneling the dining room and entryway. Also: a visit to the Isaac Bell House in Newport, RI.

1996-12-16

A hardwood floor is installed; work is done on the dressing rooms in the master bedroom; and a water-purification system is installed in the basement.

1996-12-23

The exterior paint color is chosen and the necessary prep work needed for the job is assessed. Windows are restored, and in the kitchen, cabinets are installed. Also: a trip to the Pennsylvania factory where the cabinets were manufactured.

1996-12-30

In conjunction with the installation of the toilet and vanity at the Cambridge, MA, project site, Bob Vila tours the Wisconsin factory where the bath fixtures are made. Also: the master suite gets new closets.

1997-01-06

Bob Vila demonstrates the right way to install tile. Also: a look at the prep work needed for the yard landscaping.

1997-01-13

The landscaping begins. Retaining-wall materials are used to create an elevated terrace and the backyard patio is paved. Also: a profile of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.

1997-01-13

Landscapers begin planting on the terrace. In the kitchen, new countertops are installed before the sink and a faucet are put in. Also: a vist to the Burpee Seeds gardens.

1997-01-28

Built-in bookshelves are added to the library. Also: a period light fixture is refurbished, a dimmer-switch system is installed, and a stairway balustrade is reconstructed.

1997-01-13

Storm windows are installed, a faux paint finish is applied to walls in the master bedroom, and planting in the yard is completed. Also: landscape architects explain changes that were made to meet city requirements.

1997-02-10

Bob Vila meets with the interior designers and discusses the choice of color schemes. Also: a look at the updated basement workshop.

1997-02-17

An armoire is converted into an entertainment unit, while the kitchen and family room are completed.

1997-02-24

A look at the fabrics, colors, and furnishings inside the completed house. Also: a lockset is installed in the powder-room door and shower doors are added in the master bathroom.