Ask This Old House

Replacing an Old Storm Window
Tom removes an old, inefficient storm window to make way for a new, efficient one. After removing the old window, Tom scrapes the old paint off the window casing and primes all bare wood. He then applies a bead of butyl caulk to the top and sides and screws on the new storm window.

Where to Find It
Triple-track storm window: manufactured by Harvey Industries, Inc.
800-9HARVEY (800-942-7839)

Butyl caulk is available at your local lumberyard or home center.

Winterizing Shrubs
Roger shows Kevin how to prepare shrubs for winter survival. He says to water up until the ground freezes. He also shows how to create a physical barrier against the wind by wrapping with burlap. He also shows an anti-desiccant that is sprayed on shrubs, giving them a waxy, protective coating. Roger also shows how to tie branches together using jute to prevent heavy snow from damaging them.

Where to Find It
Anti-desiccant: Wilt-Pruf Products
800-972-0726

Burlap and jute can be purchased at your local nursery, garden center or home center.
What Is It?
The guys try to guess the intended purpose of an unusual-looking product.

Where to Find It
Roger showed a wooden shoe worn by paving crews:
O'Sullivan Kennedy
157 Bedford Street
Burlington, MA 01803
781-273-3055

Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Richard visits two homeowners in New York city, where they meet with an expert on carbon monoxide safety. They discuss the dangers of carbon monoxide and how to prevent accidental deaths by using carbon monoxide detectors. They also show several types of carbon monoxide detectors and discuss their advantages.

Where to Find It
Carbon monoxide detectors manufactured by:

KIDDE
Consumer Hotline: 800-880-6788

First Alert
630-851-7330

Home inspector Steve Gladstone advised Richard and the homeowner about the importance of carbon monoxide detectors:
Steve Gladstone
Stonehollow Home Inspection
800-356-9611

The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) also provided assistance with this project:
American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc.
800-743-2744