Episode Overview
The final shipment of ipe decking has arrived, and Steve, along with our master carpenter, examines the installation technique for the front deck. They plan to use pressure-treated sleepers anchored to the concrete slab, securing the ipe with marine adhesive and some stainless steel finish nails. The wood's density makes it challenging to absorb oil, so leaving it unfinished is perfectly acceptable. Meanwhile, our master carpenter checks in with homeowner Janet McCue about her progress on stripping the diamond-paned curved sash from the historic bump-out. It has proven to be a tough job, and while sending them out for stripping is an option, it would require reglazing and repainting the entire sash despite only the exterior needing attention. Steve also observes the installation of expanded foam insulation and discusses its relatively high price—two to three times that of fiberglass—with the company president, who highlights its impressive performance and environmental benefits. Richard Trethewey introduces our master carpenter to aluminum-clad PEX tubing used for plumbing.