David: This Old House - Episode #3109
General contractor Tom Silva installs new red cedar clapboards on the oldest part of the house using a story pole to match the coursing of a later addition. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey arrives to help remove some existing plumbing that's in the way of the new kitchen. Meanwhile, landscape contractor Roger Cook installs a new horseshoe-shaped asphalt driveway that will later be topped with a rustic finish to make it look like a stone driveway, without the mess or the maintenance. Then, Richard shows host Kevin O'Connor how he's solving a rough plumbing problem by using a wet vent in the downstairs powder room.

Plumbing Contractor
Contractor:
Bilo Plumbing and Heating
tel. 978-468-4389

Driveway Contractor
Contractor:
Nashoba Paving Company
tel. 978-264-0044



Ask This Old House - Episode #1009
General contractor Tom Silva helps two homeowners build a railing for their porch. Then Tom, along with host Kevin O'Connor, landscaping contractor Roger Cook, and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey ask "What Is It?" Afterward, Roger and Kevin visit a stone yard to learn about stone used to build walls.



Building a Porch Railing
Tom helps two homeowners build a railing for their porch.

Where to find it?
Most of the materials for this project, including fir handrails & balusters and solid-body stain, are available at lumber yards. The elastic that Tom used to space the balusters is available at fabric stores.

What is it?
The guys try to guess the purpose of an unusual-looking product.

Where to find it?
Kevin demonstrated a device that is used to prevent an airline seat from reclining. The Knee Defender is manufactured by Gadget Duck:

Stone Yard
Roger and Kevin visit a stone yard to learn about stone used to build walls.

Where to find it?
Roger and Kevin visited Martignetti Enterprises
781-935-6677

For information on the different types of stone, including field stone, veneer stone, and manmade stone, visit your local hardscape dealer.