This Old House

S29E15 Newton: Grout, Closets, and a Clawfoot Tub

In this episode, host Kevin O’Connor visits general contractor Tom Silva's temporary workshop on the front porch. Inside, countertop expert Paul Grothouse arrives from Pennsylvania to install a stunning end grain teak island top and deliver a custom teak farmhouse table for the breakfast nook. Plumbing and heating specialist Richard Trethewey showcases the updates in the second-floor bathroom before meeting tub refinisher Jack Donaruma, who is busy stripping and refinishing an antique clawfoot tub on the third floor. Kevin also checks out the newly painted master closet, where designer Brian McSharry is setting up a custom storage system. Finally, tile contractor Mark Ferrante demonstrates his technique for achieving precise grout lines on a handcrafted tile backsplash, while Tom shows master carpenter Norm Abram how to use a portable lathe to craft a new walnut newel post finial.