I bought a 100 year old Rowhome (Its in bad shape)(EP.1)

[@ChrisHytha]

What have I got myself into... Should I tear down the house? 🏠

[@DisheveledSuccess]

I hope you can make it work. Maybe partial demo and rebuild it in the same spirit?

[@stuff4826]

dont know how much you paid but youre fked. but its a good fking, you can learn alot from this mistake. gl, welcome to hell.

[@beingblack]

Nooooo! This happens to everyone who buys an old house. Take one project at a time.

[@mtlmn1971]

It can become overwhelming especially with an older home. Mine is 105 and it's been a love/hate process. Every project involves having to do other projects in order to do the initial project. You got this. Just found this series so I'm a bit late and will be watching them all. Take care.

[@phillyarchdad]

Watch ‘Mr. Blanding’s Builds His Dream House’ for the answer.

[@sadjaxx]

The total lack of panic and fear in your voice is impressive. I would be in tears by now!!!

[@GyandhiWorkshop]

I know, I don't know if he realises how much work, time and money this will cost, or if he does but he's that focused and determined that he's just taking it in his stride

[@elemenopycuaress7454]

As a fellow architect this was an absolute horror show. Some of the structural damage is beyond repair. I'd have walked in and walked back out immediately. However, if this is competently renovated then it'll be a great journey to watch, and I hope this young man can bring in enough revenue from filming the process to make it worth it because this is a MASSIVE undertaking. I only hope he got the place for a steal.

[@GyandhiWorkshop]

@@elemenopycuaress7454 Yeah true words, I can only imagine what you think being qualified. I would think that bulldozing the entire house and rebuilding it would be cheaper and quicker, but that's just my hunch

[@ChrisHytha]

@@elemenopycuaress7454 the house was cheap for the city, in a good location. The video views are just a perk! Also, a house this small could never be a "massive" undertaking. It's only like 1,000sf! Even if the whole back structure has to be rebuilt, it's not the end of the world, and still a small project for most contractors.

[@ChrisHytha]

@@GyandhiWorkshop we will see, but I think I can save it! There is no way all the floors will be perfectly level, or that some boards won't squeak, but I think it will be safe, livable, and my own. Iv lived in old houses my whole life, so I don't know any other way!

[@lexycorreia]

As an architect, you may already know this, but, you can go to the city and request information on previous permits for renovations and sometimes that includes drawings and blueprints, so you can see what has been done to the house and possibly even see the original plans.

[@exstacc1886]

this is what im assuming is a shitty house flipper trying to make some youtube bread by riding on good editing but in turn reveals his shitty business practices to anybody who knows what they're looking for (im not one of those people)

[@ethankli]

@@exstacc1886 he literally states in the beginning he's an architect and has been at a firm for the past 7 years with some construction experience as well

[@bellagirlgirl8827]

@@exstacc1886 such negative energy - have another cup of coffee

[@TheRealSykx]

@@exstacc1886 ya i'mma have to side with bella here, everything is not always nefarious

[@IdalisisPR]

@@exstacc1886 Why do you do this? You're projecting.

[@TJMartinek]

Just like the good old KZbin days. Getting in on day one of a young channel renovating a house. Love it!

[@papaquonis]

Right? I'm so ready to follow this project.

[@Zenifx-0]

Love theses channels

[@xHarpyx]

Hell, yes! I’m so excited for this 🎉

[@ChrisHytha]

Thanks for being along for the ride!

[@debarmhartigesamaritaan4621]

We are the chosen ones

[@Eddie71529]

I did this type of work on a couple of rowhouses 20 years ago in Passyunk Sq. You may qualify for the City's 10 year tax abatement program, assuming its still around. You apply for this soon after you get your building permit approved. It requires replacing the 'knob & tube' wiring so you will need to remove all interior walls, but you seem to be doing that already. This removal will allow for a thoro plumbing inspection, too, and you can add A/C ductwork at the same time. If you add A/C you can use the same ductwork for forced air heating, getting rid of the radiators.

[@ChrisHytha]

@@Eddie71529 thanks for the tip, I will definitely be looking into this!

[@RobbyJHope]

Contrary to popular belief, knob and tub wiring removal does not require removing all interior walls! Just a few well-placed access cuts are needed.

[@bjdefilippo447]

@@RobbyJHope Came to say just this. Reno'd my house, about the same age, and was able too keep all interior walls.

[@JohnDoe-nh7bb]

You don’t want to get rid of the radiators! They are far superior to forced air

[@gothicanimeangel96]

@@JohnDoe-nh7bb Yeah, especially if the radiators are already there and in working shape.

[@max_archer]

Just a small protip that I recently learned in the course of doing some work on my house - the big box hardware stores sell big two-layer waxed paper trashbags, I think they're really billed as yard waste bags and are usually in the garden center but they're MUCH stronger and more puncture-resistant than regular plastic bags, so great for demo debris, and they can also stand upright on their own which is really handy. They're also way more efficient to pack into the back of a pickup truck when hauling stuff to the dump.

[@northwestkathleen1124]

Midlife stockman uses those from Ace

[@julieduchek2969]

Just can’t wait to see what the structural engineer says . This is so exciting. I am a 77 year old woman and I love watching these projects. Please keep the music calm for us old ladies. With your partner you two will have a wonderful life.

[@buttmankun]

Get some N95 masks or a p100 respirator. Those little face masks dont do a damn thing. Your lungs will thank you.

[@ChrisHytha]

Already got a proper one! I had it ordered when I started the work, but I just couldn't wait to see what was in the walls. Breathing safe now!

[@buttmankun]

@@ChrisHytha Very nice. Good luck to you in your project.

[@abr5873]

And eye protection!

[@benjaminmellingen5340]

@@ChrisHytha that is good to hear. I hope you bought one for your girlfriend as well. And glasses!

[@AMVH2012]

@@abr5873 Eye protection is super important. A scratched cornea is not fun.

[@jwall6006]

This is a fun project to watch. Please wear all your PPE. Glasses, respirators, and gloves at least.

[@PaoYong]

It’s always the random

[@PaoYong]

Ok after watching the whole video you got a whole lot ahead of you. Jesus this house is crazy bad

[@ChrisHytha]

@@PaoYong Also above 1000 views now! And yes, this is not your typical flip, lots to be redone here.

[@renownwulf636]

I didn't realise till you said it

[@simply_flo]

@@ChrisHytha I'm jumping on the boat here at 89k views. Greetings from Germany and good luck with your beautiful house!

[@vimsi]

@@ChrisHytha 100k and going!

[@matthewkyle9872]

DIY Demo tip. When you remove the plaster, get a bunch of moving boxes line them up along the walls, and direct the trash into the boxes. Once they are full, tape them up and carry them out. Don't use huge boxs, they get to heavy, and don't store them where they will get wet while you wait to dispose of them. I'm excited for you this will be fun to follow along.

[@johnwayne3904]

Dang, now that's a good idea!

[@superawesomefreak46]

and if you dont want to pay for moving boxes you can go to your local grocery store as ask if they have boxes for free! when my husband moved he used all banana boxes xD

[@jeffrobodine8579]

Old 5 gallon buckets are not shaped as good for catching debris but are stronger and have a handle.

[@julien2912]

@@jeffrobodine8579 But I think Matthew's idea with the boxes is better because you can just tape up the boxes, drag then out and just throw the whole box away.

[@robbieMAX]

Exploratory holes, excellent detective work & termites long gone - on the edge of my seat for the next episode!

[@ChrisHytha]

Exploratory holes are the best type of holes! Mic'd up my structural engineer for ep. 2

[@roofchees9]

the termites are gone because they have seemingly eaten all of the wood. :-/

[@ChrisHytha]

@@roofchees9 the 2nd floor is all good, but what holds up the second floor 🤔

[@clacicle]

What a beautiful house and I can’t wait to see more videos. Good luck!😊

[@GyandhiWorkshop]

When he started peeling off that plaster and all the wood was just crumbling like soft cheese I felt that. You are a braver man than I, the best of luck with this project

[@BennyNeptune]

Hey, just an fyi, the west philly tool library is an amazing resource for one-time-use tools, and knowledge. Also good luck! This has been a dream of mine and my girlfriend’s since we moved to philly last year. If you ever need helping hands, just shout out! Philly row-homes deserve another 100 years!

[@ChrisHytha]

@@BennyNeptune hey! Thanks for following along, living the dream! Once I get into the finishes I could use help, but I need a GC for this large stuff

[@phillyvoodoo]

I'm in Philly renovating a duplex now ...... Definitely want to help when you need it ..... I will trade my labor hours for what the kids call exposure..... Lol..... Let me know

[@ChrisHytha]

@@phillyvoodoo Send me an email! my address is in my profile info.

[@phillyvoodoo]

@@ChrisHytha absolutely.....

[@phillyvoodoo]

@@ChrisHytha Sent you a detailed email and a Facebook request... Awesome video series by the way!!!!

[@maxhartford3416]

Matt Risinger has a great video on why changing insulation dynamics / airflow and moisture exchange mediums on houses this age can be touchy. Sometimes the moisture exchanging / wicking capacity of old brick and plaster construction w/an air pocket in the wall; is in itself the reason that the building has lasted so long, despite being drafty in winter. Definitely consult w/someone who specializes in 100 year old construction in your area, and don't get tricked by an insulation contractor who's only familiar w/new insulation techniques. Tightly sealing these older buildings isn't always the right move. Insulation bats or foam might not be the right choice for this house.

[@twatts1523]

I’ve been advised by several inspectors and contractors not to insulate the walls in these old houses.

[@kylieharrison3782]

Real lime plaster and lime paint would be gorgeous. Modern day wallpapers contain plastic.

[@shanew899]

1 Home restoration/renovation 2 In my city, only a few neighborhoods away 3 Partially knows what he is doing but learning along the way All together = great series I'm hooked on now.

[@h2energynow]

A wonderful book to help you rehab this house is Reader's Digest Complete Do-it-Yourself Manual (C)1973 Gives you an in depth understanding how old houses were put together. Also most cities have a group that gets together and talks about the homes they restored. They will give you leads where to go and get some missing parts you will need. From someone who did this. Good luck. Sonya

[@nimblybimbly4002]

My wife and I agree this house deserves the full “This Old House” treatment. (Strip the finished surfaces, repair & level the structural components, build it back how you like). It’s going to be great!

[@PrimarchEldarAutarch]

PLASTER has to breath behind it - can't have stuff touching back of it it'll get moist etc ***********drywall is BAD! might want to get masks that work and eye protection (if roach infested house, a suit would be good idea along with masks) be careful jacking up floor to replace joists and sill plates - probably get floor jacks with footers throughout basement joists need hangers and perhaps jointed ******if redoing plaster, might be able to break down old plaster and get the horse hair out of it to reuse (lath is still easy to buy- can't usually do plaster in summer) if in bad neighborhood might need to put the special screens over the windows you fix so they don't get busted check to make sure termites/ants aren't still in there - if are, replace OR inject termite stuff into them then sister (not prof adv)

[@sharpie6136]

That was the same thing I was thinking as he was checking all the damage (This Old House) Where is Bob Vila when you need him lol

[@ddjohnson9717]

@@PrimarchEldarAutarch drywall is BAD?

[@KreaLab-gc2vt]

My dog and I agree!😄

[@DaroriDerEinzige]

As a German I'd say; "wtf, wtf, wtf - that ain't a house, is it?"

[@panpsychism_]

This is a labour of love. Also you’re contributing to preserving heritage.

[@adacskipper]

Oooo, a new old house renovation!! I love these. I hope you're able to hang onto and recycle a lot of the floorboards and historical parts that aren't destroyed! Wishing you the best of luck!!

[@ChrisHytha]

I am so excited to refinish these floors, I think they will be great! I have a long way before I get to that though.

[@Wannes_]

@@ChrisHytha Yeah, worry about the structure first and foremost ! Make a system for numbering the planks when you take 'm off though, it helps a lot later It's a largely wooden house, so use breathable insulation and building & finishing materials all around, down to the paint on the plaster You don't want to trap water / moisture around wood ... If it held up for as long as it did, it's because they used breathable materials back in the day and didn't really insulate or try to build airtight

[@johnlorrieboskovic2836]

Good Luck and may The Goddess protect you, young Human! My first house was in Pittsburgh and was about 60 years old at the time my ex and I purchased it. Aside from the usual issues you get with homes built without the use of a level or a T square, there's all of the little home-cooked mods that the builders used to make things work. Our electrician spent a morning trying to figure out why when he turned the basement light out all power to the kitchen was cutoff. He didn't believe me when I told him the switch was designed to continue the circuit for power to the kitchen! Side note, I helped my sis and her husband gut their row house, which was wood frame and built (quickly and with minimal material) to house mill workers. When we removed the plaster and lathe in the dining room the wall studs could be moved - along with the rest of the house. The bathroom was built onto the back of the house. The drain for the tub emptied directly onto the ground below it...Fun Times!

[@chrisl1873]

As a guy working for a mechanical plumbing contractor. Architects and engineers know way less than they think they do about actual construction. You seem better than most! Wishing you the best of luck man! KZbin will be your friend

[@AstroNope1]

I think the distinction lay on the difference between an architectural designer and an actual architect. Structural engineers on the otherhand are wizards getting yelled at by the client, contractors, and architects ahahaahahaha

[@mamajudesays6912]

As another owner of a 100 year old property, I am thrilled to see your video and I'm really looking forward to following this project!

[@TuningMedia]

Very cool project. I suggest testing several materials for asbestos. Insulation, adhesives, especially tile adhesives, etc. Greetings from Germany

[@silmarian]

Yeah, and any wrapped pipes are likely asbestos as well.

[@einSAMen]

Ich hab nur auf den Deutschen gewartet der das schreibt

[@TuningMedia]

​@@einSAMen?

[@eily_b]

@@einSAMen 😄😄

[@alexven92]

Oh god those rotten beams. All I can say is, good luck!!

[@themollygrove]

The West Philly tool library is going to be your best friend! An incredible resource to use. I lived in a row house on 38th & Lanc with a yard a quarter of that size and we thought we'd won the lottery lol definitely so much room to have a nice little yard!

[@Maitreya0208]

My house is 154 years old. I feel your pain…the struggle is real!

[@lisamccloughry2335]

I was born in Philadelphia in 1949. My husband studied architecture also. He became a construction specifications writer which he enjoyed a lot. I look forward to following your work on the house 🚪

[@g.n.6471]

Your architectural education and experience in construction is evident in the way you speak. I look forward to more videos.

[@newkkl]

I hope you take that hideous stucco away and let that brick shine out. It’s heartbreaking when beautiful old buildings have had half-assed repairs done in the past, but you sound determined to make it right. It’s such a shame about the lathe and plaster walls, I hope you can save some of them. I also wonder if the chimneys are still in place and can be recovered and new fireplaces put in. Many discoveries and plenty of hard work ahead. Your structural engineer is going to be your new best friend. Can’t wait to see how it goes,

[@sparrowhawk3422]

This is the earliest Ive been to a restoration project. Cant wait to follow along in real time, hope one day I can have my own project like this!

[@trulsdirio]

*cries in still having to catch up more than 100 Tally Ho episodes*

[@tmspica]

Solidarity, my friend. I discovered termites in my house the first week as well. The treatment is relatively inexpensive, but fixing the damage they do is not. Good luck from MI!

[@ArquivosHinter]

Architect student from Brazil here! Wishing good luck to you both!

[@Marie-lf8ut]

I am so happy for you and the house. I am 75 years old and live in Bucks County. A transplant from Southern California 40 years ago. My goal was to buy an old house and restore it just like you are doing. It was worth every minute, even though sometimes very hard. We didn't have money so we did all the work ourselves. I have a very large collection of Old House Journals that we used to guide us through old building techniques. They are yours if you care to contact me.

[@karenvaranauskas6122]

OHJ is an outstanding resource for old house renovators! Take Marie up on her offer! They got me through the reno of a hundred year old two-flat in Chicago 40-some years ago, and a Michigan house of similar vintage in the past decade. Best wishes.

[@Indianadixon]

I love how you’re taking every issue with the house as just a challenge to overcome and a learning opportunity

[@wwgbert]

Subscribed as many others have mentioned it is always cool to find a channel in the early stages of a gut remodel. Honestly though once you have the structural engineer look at it and give you a stamped plan for solutions the work is doable especially since you have a basement. Mine rotted seal plate in my 1952 was in a crawlspace, not fun at all but I saved almost 5k doing it myself and learned a ton. Getting the stucco reinstalled correctly along with making sure the gutters are draining away from the house is a very important step in the early stages. For a boiler I would look into the Navien Tankless Boiler, super efficient 96%, plus a massive amount of support. Well I think you've the right attitude for this, a little laid back but also aware when you need to get a professional involved.

[@ChrisHytha]

Cheers! Thanks for your feedback. Props for dealing with it yourself, I am on the fence right now about it, just would like to get the structural stuff done ASAP. Had a good chat with an engineer earlier this week, seemed promising

[@zaphoidbeeblebrox1809]

@@ChrisHytha Your Correct, Take it all out and replace it. One section at a time. Good Luck with it. Subscribed Come along for the Trip, Just have some Fun, You will learn a lot along the way. All the Neighbours houses are the same or worse.

[@zaphoidbeeblebrox1809]

@@ChrisHytha I would get a keen Carpenter involved ASAP

[@ChrisHytha]

@@zaphoidbeeblebrox1809 Iv walked through the place with at least a dozen tradesman this week. I will need to work with a GC, need to find a good one.

[@ecoomber]

I don't know why the algorithm suggested this video, but I'm excited to subscribe and eagerly await to hear what the engineer says!

[@1834RestorationHouse]

Welcome to the exciting world of historic preservation! A couple of observation from watching your tour...Stucco is death for historic brickwork. You should remove it ASAP. Insulation is also bad for historic structures because they need to breath. They get wet and then they dry out but insulation traps moisture, leading to rot. Plaster is far better than gypsum board. Consider learning the skills to install new plaster. Carry on!

[@ChrisHytha]

Cheers, thank you for your feedback! Worries about taking stucco off brick facade, as they may have nailed the metal lath into the brick leaving a bunch of holes. Hopefully the nailed into mortar!

[@TheIdiotPlays]

Insulation can be done but it requires some amount of work.

[@kismypencek6185]

I agree Plaster is ideal when possible

[@3tI8P-lj2lo]

Best wishes for your adventure. I've been restoring a rowhouse in DC for 20 years. The rot in your lath might be beetles, not termites. Usually that happens when an area has been damp. You can look for signs of current activity (do a web search), but often it could a long since inactive infestation and won't cause you further problems.

[@barnabyaprobert5159]

As an old married guy, hang onto Morgan! A girlfriend willing to do that grunt work is worth her weight in gold!

[@barbarahaines7661]

Didn't see her doing much,perhaps by today's standards she's a work horse.lol

[@mybabba]

@@barbarahaines7661Haha…maybe he was being sarcastic.

[@Pokismom]

Maybe she just needs a warm up.

[@johnwayne3904]

She's definitely a keeper bc most these days have their phone in their face every time they stop for a second, and that's even IF they'll lift a finger to help you do anything in the smallest amount in the first place.

[@Amy87366]

This is a very negative and generalised idea of women you have!

[@mercoid]

Get a high capacity shop vac with bags. The bags are convenient, act as a second filtration for your health and will prolong the life of the machine. One of many “must have” items in your situation. Congratulations. You can make a beautiful place of it.

[@newkkl]

This ☝️ I can’t believe you guys sweeping with that tiny broom. You don’t know what’s in that dust. Eye protection, real masks for asbestos, and the young lady needs clothing to protect her skin from chemicals, splinters, etc.

[@trexneb]

Harbor Freight has shop vacs at good prices

[@InertiaCreeps]

17:45 That looks like water damage. If it was termites you’d see a ton of frass falling out. Frass is termite droppings which are essentially just wood pulp. They’re usually reddish-brown and turn black with age. So as you open wood with termites you get what looks like dirt pouring out. That’s the frass. So hopefully it’s _old_ water damage.

[@eighthu]

Literally laughed out loud at the pile of shims in the basement. Holy shit, man. Wishing you the best of luck, the place looks beautiful regardless. Also, the part with the stucco blew my mind

[@florianboon4738]

Im so happy youtube recommendations knows exactly what i want to see 🤩

[@dabo7021]

@8:00 This is a woodslats and plaster style wall. Those are also very common in some of the older Montreal neighborhoods ( which were built around the 1900s, including the building where i live)

[@jamesdellaneve9005]

How exciting for you. That’s how I started 40 years ago. You’ll look back with satisfaction on building a home for yourself.

[@dmwi1549]

Ah the good ol days of anything can be fixed with enough time and sweat equity. Reminds me of early This Old House. Norm would be proud.

[@uuuultra]

time sweat and alot of money

[@Mariohenri90]

I seriously can not wait to see how this turns out.

[@ChrisHytha]

It's going to take some time but I can't wait to show you!

[@argusfleibeit1165]

God love ya, honey-- You are in for an adventure, for sure. I grew up in Levittown, but now live in the South. Those row-homes never appealed to me, driving around Philly. But it will be people like you who sustain the city into the future. Best of luck to you (your girlfriend and you need to get safety glasses when you work. Her getting dirt in her face when you took the dropped ceiling down was not fun for her, I'm sure).

[@rustyaxelrod]

I have no idea why I enjoy seeing old things brought back to life. New construction would probably be easier but I guess it’s the history behind something like this that’s so satisfying. Good luck young man, ya got your work cut out for you but the end result will be very cool! Think I’ll hang around and see how it goes 👍

[@mm9773]

I’m a 128 year old retired culvert pipe engineer and I love watching these young bucks take on projects like this. Good luck, and don’t forget to sprinkle everything with holy water!

[@ChrisHytha]

The priest is on their way!

[@northwestkathleen1124]

You mean you worked 28 yrs as a pipe engineer, because surely you yourself are not 128 YEARS OLD??

[@henryreinach8328]

Dude I’ve loved your photos for years, so cool to see this as a series now!! Can’t wait

[@ChrisHytha]

Glad you found the youtube videos! Iv been doing photos for years, but newer to videos.

[@abbysalem7719]

i just bought a 100+ year old rowhome in philly! I literally remember seeing this listing!! suuuuch a good area congrats! also, a fun document is the Philadelphia Rowhome Manual. it's how I found out my house was not built in 1920 like the listing said and really is a late 19th century Workingman's House!

[@lag3rgren]

Hey! Fun project, as someone mentioned before, and from my own experience DIYing my own house now for 3 years. Invest in good PPE (Proper filter mask, protective goggles, glioves and nail proof shoes) i promise its worth it 😁 good luck!

[@abuzaidkhan99]

Dude, I was a big fan of your row house project. It inspired my roommate to get into photography. I'm excited for this project. Best of luck.

[@daaara]

What an adventure! That joist situation is terrifying :o One suggestion: Unless you're really set on keeping the radiators, I would recommend looking into a heat pump system. You could take out all the radiators, the cast iron tubing, the boiler - eliminate a ton of complexity. Instead, a heat pump can take care of both the heating and the cooling for the house. The new ones are more than capable of handling Philly winters. You might even be able to get away with an air handler in the basement and another one in the attic, avoiding the need for bulkheads.

[@ChrisHytha]

I figure I might as well keep some because they work fine. Likely will remove them in the back of the house, like in the small 2nd flr bedroom to make space, and will remove a few in kitchen / dining room to accommodate a new layout. I have heard good things about radiator heat, more comfortable and more efficient

[@daaara]

@@ChrisHytha More comfortable vs. forced air is definitely true. There's no gusts, and the air doesn't feel as dry. One thing to keep in mind though is that, because there's no air circulation, the radiator really only heats up the room it's in - so you could run into swings in temperature between rooms if each room doesn't have appropriately sized & spaced heating. If you keep the radiators and run into that issue, a multi-zone system is a pretty good fix. Also, if you're keeping the radiant heat, adding radiant heated floors (either between floor joists or above subfloor install) is a nifty and relatively straightforward upgrade. One thing though: Heat pumps are definitely more efficient. Because they "move" heat from the outside into the indoor space, you usually get >1W heating per watt of electricity used.

[@grayrabbit2211]

They make heat-pump water heaters if you want to keep them. At the same time, I'd probably go with mini-splits and call it a day.

[@samadamms3432]

If you’re gutting the house, look into under floor radiant heat. Pex tubing is reliable and inexpensive. And the heating is extremely comfortable.

[@annhopper6959]

I love that old bathroom cabinet! Keep that and redo it. Even if you just repaint it. It will add charm to your home. Keep the newspapers and frame different pages of them. Would make some interesting wall art going up your staircase. Those floors will probably look amazing once they have been refinished!

[@patrickdennis7041]

Get rid of the tub. Walk in shower.

[@mysterioanonymous3206]

Man man man.... 😂 Thats a lot of work. I hope you realise what you're in for? I wouldn't reuse any lines, both water and electrical. Make a central hub and a vertical, fire proof distribution shaft instead. Much easier. I'd strip all cables and pipes completely before yo start any structural work and again, use a new distribution shaft. Ill be following ✌️

[@austin_boos]

Have followed your photo series since my days at Temple back in 2016-2020, glad you finally got your own rowhome, i miss living in one! The city has a rowhome manual all about those awesome houses!

[@InertiaCreeps]

13:39 *YIKES* Now _THAT_ is definitely termite damage! They must have been chewing on the high beam for a couple years!

[@SirAdamMeek]

I bought a 1916 Craftsman with ZERO building experience and turned it into a masterpiece, all from watching This Old House and HGTV for decades. You got this!

[@daymoncleveland0622]

As a contractor, out of all the damage/malpractice you showed us, 10:24 made my butt pucker 😬

[@kaisailor1]

I love home projects, I just bought a house that was built in 1932. It's surprisingly nice and solid, on a 50'x150' lot, with an underground garage in the back for 40k, free and clear. No loan payments, no 30 year mortgage. It's in a small town which I like. I could never live in a city or a suburb.

[@an.american.in.norway]

Greetings from Norway, Philly! Excited to follow this renovation. You've definitely got your work cut out for you, but you're clearly up to the task. Great detective work!

[@YOLO-yx2nz]

My dad fixed up quite a bit of rowhomes in Philly he would always bring back something old or antique that he would find in them! It was also so cool to visit the houses every once and awhile to see the progress

[@hsimpson6581]

It said that you have to take the plaster off. It works with the boiler heat to make your house more efficient that’s why it doesn’t need insulation. The plaster soaks up heat and then it radiates it back into the home to save you money. It also cleans the air because plaster breaths

[@phillyarchdad]

Love that the tradition of young architects buying neglected houses and learning what design and construction are really all about first hand lives! Did the same thing, with my fellow architecture grads, about 40 years ago and wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

[@silmarian]

I live in an old house as well, and I strongly suggest you leak check your radiator system before you need it this winter.

[@ChrisHytha]

Very good idea. It's going to get chilly in here

[@NitaCostello]

Great investigation and assessment!! I bought a foreclosure 18 years ago, and i found that a quarter of the house had bad termite damage. Yep, the supports, wood, and insulation need to be replaced. As a fellow renovator, as others have said, get work glasses, better respirators, gloves,etc. Also, as Martha Stewart recommends, use the right tool for the job. Invest in tools. Also, be sure to get a good shop vac to vacuum that dust so it doesn't get in your lungs. Great job, yall!! Can't wait to see what happens next!!! ❤🎉😊

[@harmlessgrey]

Nice rowhouse. I especially like the side windows, the gorgeous floorboards, and the staircase. And that backyard is fab. I lived Fishtown-adjacent for five years recently. It's a awesome area.

[@BoudicasQuest]

excited to follow your journey! CONGRATULATIONS!

[@TheSaltyLord]

I’m also an architecture student in Philly, it’s inspiring to see you able to create your dream home (even if it’s got a few structural ‘quirks’ haha). I hope to do this someday too, looking forward to more updates!

[@JohnDoe-nh7bb]

You’re going to LOVE radiator heat. My 1908 home has the original and I will always keep them in working order. Much cheaper than any other heat, no dry air and no static electricity

[@PiercingSight]

For the first time in my life, I didn't recognize a single one of these songs. Thank goodness.

[@ltully4961]

Love these historic projects. It’s a labor of love. Thank goodness you’re an arquitect. Please make sure you wear a proper mask, goggles, gloves, long sleeves and long pants.

[@akorzan]

In regards to lack of insulation: I would be weary adding insulation to a brick and mortar row home without addressing the lack of a vapor barrier, otherwise the framing is likely to get moldy/rotten. The lack of insulation allows moisture to escape from the vapor drive--bricks absorb moisture, and the sun drives that moisture into the house.

[@ChrisHytha]

Yes! Iv been doing lots of research. Not sure if there is a way to add a vapor barrier without entirely resheathing from the exterior which I am trying to avoid. Haven't found a solution to that problem yet.

[@BBlair-if8tj]

Wary. For sure.

[@trokt2]

@@ChrisHytha I've done a little research and looks like there are insulations that offer huge vapor permeability. Where I live, it's also common to have recuperation installed in new houses or renovated. That helps with moisture also. Good luck.

[@mekomckracken2358]

I am so sorry I keep making comments but I'm so very excited for you! I love the way you're doing your vlog. Please don't change that. It literally feels like a friend talking to a friend very very casual very comfortable it's amazing.

[@LilGinge05]

I would be so in over my head. When you showed the buckling stucco I gasped.

[@ChrisHytha]

We got some issues here. I will not be doing all the work myself, required to have a GC to get permits!

[@craigwheller]

​@ChrisHytha really? You're the home owner, in Florida you can pull permits.

[@SharonM-f5v]

Wear a mask and safety glasses, vacuum the radiators, don’t breathe that dust. Hit some flea markets for the glass or brass knobs for the closer doors.

[@DDDPEE]

This is fascinating content. Can’t wait to see the fixes

[@Madfattdeeb]

Oh wow. That is a big project. I am looking forward to following your progress. I love how positive you seem about it all. Thanks for sharing this video with us.

[@kittykat490]

Subbed, so excited to see you work on this! It was really fascinating to have you show from multiple angles and spots what the house sinking looks like, I have no real knowledge of or eye for structural architecture so being shown from inside, outside, above, and below multiple views of the same problem area was really cool

[@ChrisHytha]

Glad you enjoyed that walk through! Thanks for following along

[@GregoryCooper-eh6yk]

You seem so calm. Will follow along with your progress.

[@EndlessSummer486]

I was suggested your video and realized I actually toured the house you're renovating but it was too much work for us. I look forward to watching the entire process

[@ChrisHytha]

It was on the market for nearly a year! The price kept dropping. I offered 20K under asking and got it.

[@jntd4160]

You're so well spoken, I just love listening to you talk!!!

[@robatfairchild]

The termites were pretty smart. They knew when to leave.

[@-KlimpeN-]

I love it!!! Im looking forward watching you renovate this house. Subscribed!!!!

[@ZX-mt2dg]

Those newspapers should be archived! Would be awesome to get them digital scanned, or put in a binder sealed with plastic

[@brad3499]

I look forward to seeing how the termite damage is repaired. Good luck!

[@johndoesen1718]

That's a helluva job you've committed yourself to young man. So much structural damage - yiks! - I'm pretty sure that the structural engineer will say: "Tear the pile of shite down, and build a new house!" lol This is not going to be easy, or cheap, but I'm looking forward to follow this monumental project further on, so I subscribed.

[@benjaminhawthorne1969]

My father lived in "Philly" in the 1950's. He didn't speak too much about it but to say, "Philly's a TOUGH town!" I am a home mechanic, Tool Rental Technician at The Home Depot, and a professional "Handyman" & deck builder. I learned everything that I know by reading books, using the internet and watching "This Old House." You seem to have a good attitude and that elusive, "Can-Do Spirit!" 😉 Best of luck to you, my friend.

[@talltom1129]

Wow,that's gonna be a money pit. Every time you start a project, think big. You won't fool yourself that way. I'm subscribing to help your channel, because you're gonna need all the help you can get.

[@Kielace7]

I bought an 1890s row home in Cincinnati last year and have been renovating it too!

[@ChrisHytha]

Good luck with your project!

[@Kielace7]

@@ChrisHytha Thanks refinishing floors next week!

[@ElvynBliss]

good luck with the structural damage. Reminds me a bit of Laura Kampfs house 🙈

[@mhks68]

She should have bulldozed that house. I kind of understand the salvation aspect but that house was near collapse. Jenna Phipps series on her house is worth a watch too.

[@juliealtenburg9671]

Wow, you really have your hands full.little at a time,take a breath,and keep going.im sure it will be beautiful when you're done.😊

[@iimoreno29]

Great music to work to.

[@deplumbing7255]

I grew up under a design build carpenter/general contractor before I became a plumber. We were old school and we did everything ourselves. When I bought my first house at 21 I was filled with ideas and optimism (but no money). After spending years rebuilding the structure, adding support and beams and completely renovating the inside (new wiring, insulation, plumbing, floors, walls trim, windows, mechanicals, tile, fixtures, cabinets.. I still have an old roof, siding and foundation. This project taught me countless things.. the biggest one is to pay a little more and pick a better starting point. After this project I am sure you will have the experience to choose more shrewdly in the future. From someone who has been there.. Good luck!

[@ChrisHytha]

Thanks for sharing your experience! All this structural work is definitely eating into my furniture budget, or lack there of... Facebook Marketplace will be my friend! It will take me at least 5 years living there to get it all looking the way I want, then it is an ever changing process

[@alexdagenhart]

Not sure if you check these comments with regularity, but if so, welcome to the neighborhood (or well, one neighborhood over in Fishtown). If you need any inspiration/tools, I have a renovated but not fully gutted row home from the 1850s over here that I'm constantly working on. Feel free to send a message for any advice/otherwise.

[@ChrisHytha]

Hey! Thanks for the note. Nice to know I've got some neighbors going through a similar thing!

[@ChathamFireDeptfan]

As a firefighter it is fascinating watching this, considering how we end up operating in these homes while they’re on fire I’m almost surprised more injuries haven’t occurred considering how age, weather, bugs just wreck havoc upon an older building’s structural integrity

[@sweetlikehoney5216]

Oh yeah baby!!! A new DIY Home Reno channel, we hit the jackpot yall!! 🎉🎉