The engineering behind the beach: from hurricane labs to clambakes

Building a Clambake! | The Barrington House | Episode 3 (2012) · 23:48 · Video: This Old House · Watch at the source

In short: This episode of This Old House balances high-stakes structural engineering with the culinary traditions of the coast. Watch as builders tackle complex window flashing and experience the raw power of a hurricane firsthand.

The episode highlights the precision required in residential construction, specifically featuring builder Andy Tiplady demonstrating how to install windows using a custom copper pan for flashing. This ensures the structure remains weather-tight against the elements.

Kevin travels to the University of Florida's Hurricane Research Lab, moving the focus toward atmospheric science. There, he experiences the physical intensity of a Category 3 hurricane to better understand the forces that impact coastal structures. The day concludes with a traditional beachside clambake.

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