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Executive Mansion > Episode 9: Mantelpiece Restoration

Restoring the Mantel

Project: Executive Mansion, Episode 9, Part 1

General contractor Sam Daniel talks with Bob about the process of preserving certain historical features of the mansion-- specifically, one of the mantelpieces. In Fredericksburg, carpenter Bob Ryley visits Tidewater Preservation, the shop where the mantelpiece restoration is being done. Gregory Cowan demonstrates the delicate techniques involved in this type of project. In Williamsburg, Bob learns more about the tools and carpentry techniques of the time.

Part 1: Restoring the Mantel: Carpenter Bob Ryley and Greg Cowan (from Tidewater Restoration) discuss the process of restoring the mantelpiece from the ballroom in the Virginia governor's mansion.
Part 2: Installing the Restored Mantelpiece

In Richmond, Virginia, the oldest continuously occupied governor's mansion in America is in need of serious repairs, and Bob Vila's team is there to help. Projects include the complete overhaul and modernization of the basement to include a state-of-the-art caterer's kitchen for official functions, all new mechanical systems, and updates for handicapped accessibility.

Also from Executive Mansion

Episode 1 - Governor's Mansion Tour
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Description:
The governor's mansion in Richmond, VA is under major renovation. After touring some of Richmond's sights and sounds, Bob joins Roxane Gilmore, the erstwhile first lady of the state. Preservationist Fred Ecker removing the mantel for restoration and talks about how innovation and historic preservation are both part of the design of the plan.
Episode 2 - Restoring the Floor
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Description:
Bob tours the exterior of the main house and carriage house with architect John Paul Hanbury and general contractor Sam Daniel. The plans are reviewed, before Bob takes a tour of Virginia House. Once an English Abbey, this historic home was shipped to Richmond, stone by stone, in the 1920s. Back at the mansion, floor restoration is progressing, thanks to an acrylic injection technique designed to preserve the floor and prevent the joints from squeaking.
Episode 3 - Preparing to Pour a Concrete Floor
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Description:
Project manager Mike Westcott joins Bob in the basement, where rebar and vapor barriers are being laid down in preparation for the concrete pour. Bob also visits Agecroft Hall and its luxurious gardens. Back at the mansion, general contractor Sam Daniel is on-hand to summarize the work being done on the North Addition, where a new, accessible entry way is being built.
Episode 4 - Removing Windows for Restoration
Episode 5 - Framing New Walls
Episode 6 - Installing a Dumbwaiter
Episode 7 - Installing Baseboards
Episode 8 - Basement Kitchen
Episode 10 - Technology Systems Tested
Episode 11 - Finishing the Kitchen
Episode 12 - Interior Decorating
Episode 13 - Mansion Final Tour

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