It seems that everything old is new again on television. This is
both literally and figuratively true for a popular genre of home
improvement and home renovations shows.
Beginning with the landmark 1970s PBS series "This Old
House," all sorts of spin-offs, imitators and remakes have
come in its wake. Television audiences apparently can't get
enough of programs that chronicle do-it-yourself success stories
and (more often) disasters and they are flipping out over home
flipping shows where investors buy outdated or rundown property
that they fix up in hopes of making a tidy profit.
The popularity of these shows combined with rising real estate
prices have led to a surge in renovations, remodelling and building
additions in recent years. But while they may inspire you to get
your hands dirty as you tear up tiles and tear down walls, be aware
of the hazards that you may encounter as you work on your home.
