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E17 | Lead Testing, Hillside Steps | Ask This Old House

Season 24 Episode 17 | 23m 42s

Richard Trethewey breaks down why sink clogs happen, how to prevent them, and why chemical drain cleaners can do more harm than good-offering safer maintenance alternatives. Mauro Henrique demonstrates how to test for lead-based paint, comparing at-home rapid tests to a professional XRF analyzer. Then, Mark McCullough installs granite hillside steps, creating safer access to a backyard fire pit.

Aired: 03/25/26 | Expires: 04/09/26
Funding for Ask This Old House is provided by The Home Depot, Renewal By Andersen, and ChipDrop.
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Turning a flower vase on the lathe; upgrading a garage door opener to have smart control.
Running power to an outbuilding; basic tools for painting a room; compost versus disposal
Nathan installs top-down bottom-up shades. Jenn landscapes a steep front yard.
Painting an arch accent wall; debunking plant myths; installing a pea gravel patio.
New Orleans shutter installation; choosing a fertilizer; hardwired smoke detectors.
How turf grass seed is harvested and cleaned; how to install a porch swing.
"Toys and Colors" kids help build a dress-up closet. Richard installs a garbage disposal.
How to clean up spilled paint; 3-way switches 101; Installing a split rail fence.
Installing a split heat pump water heater; houseplant pests; installing an attic ladder.
How to paint a ceiling; comparing siding material; a DIY fix for a squeaky floor.