Richard Trethewey: This Old House Plumbing Expert

Richard Trethewey: A Plumbing Legacy

Richard Trethewey is a name synonymous with plumbing and home improvement, thanks to his decades-long presence on the iconic television series This Old House. Since the show’s debut in 1979, Richard has been a central figure, sharing his expertise and passion for the trade with millions of viewers. His journey is not just about television fame but also about a deep-rooted family legacy in plumbing and heating.

Family Roots in Plumbing

Richard Trethewey was born into a family with a rich history in plumbing. His great-grandfather and great-uncle founded Trethewey Bros. Inc. in 1902, a company that has served the Boston community for over a century. The business quickly gained a reputation for excellence, becoming one of the largest non-union plumbing shops in the Boston area.

From a young age, Richard was immersed in the world of plumbing. Every summer from around the age of 11, he would work alongside his father, Ron Trethewey, sweeping floors, cutting pipes, and learning the intricacies of the trade. This hands-on experience laid the foundation for his future career and instilled in him a deep respect for the profession.

Early Career and Television Debut

Richard’s entry into the world of television was somewhat serendipitous. In 1978, Russell Morash, the creator of This Old House, approached Ron Trethewey with the idea of a home improvement show. Ron, recognizing the potential to pay it forward and share knowledge with the community, agreed to participate. However, the pressure of filming before cameras proved too much for Ron, and he asked his son Richard to take over.

At the age of 22, Richard stepped in front of the cameras, and his natural talent and enthusiasm quickly made him a fan favorite. “I guess I was just too young to be nervous,” Richard recalls of his TV debut. His ability to explain complex plumbing and heating concepts in an accessible way resonated with viewers, and he has remained a key figure on the show ever since.

Professional Achievements and Advocacy

Richard Trethewey is a licensed master and journeyman plumber in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. His commitment to professionalism in the building trades is evident in his work and advocacy. He is the founder of RST Thermal, a manufacturer’s representative company that provides training to the skilled trades. Through RST Thermal, Richard continues to support and educate the next generation of plumbers and heating professionals.

Richard’s sons, Ross and Evan, have followed in his footsteps. Ross, a professional engineer, is the president of TE2 Engineering, while Evan is the president of RST Thermal. This family legacy extends beyond the business, as Richard is proud to see his sons carry on the tradition of excellence in the industry.

Television and Media Presence

Richard Trethewey’s influence extends beyond This Old House. He is also a regular on the Emmy Award-winning show’s sister series, Ask This Old House, and the podcast Clearstory. His ability to connect with audiences and provide practical advice has made him a trusted voice in the home improvement community.

On Ask This Old House, Richard tackles a wide range of plumbing and heating challenges, from fixing leaky faucets to installing advanced HVAC systems. His problem-solving skills and attention to detail are hallmarks of his approach, making him a valuable resource for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Personal Interests and Family Life

Outside of his professional life, Richard Trethewey has a variety of interests. He is an avid sailor and has raced to Bermuda several times, covering a distance of 600 miles. Sailing provides him with a unique engineering challenge and broadens his horizons, much like his work in plumbing and heating.

Richard is also deeply committed to his family. He enjoys spending time with his four grandchildren, whom he describes as “well above average.” His connection to his family and the new generation of Tretheweys is a source of pride and inspiration.

Impact on the Building Trades

Richard Trethewey’s impact on the building trades goes beyond his television appearances. He is a strong advocate for professionalism and continuous learning in the industry. His work with RST Thermal and his involvement in training programs have helped to elevate the standards of plumbing and heating professionals.

Richard believes that the industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging all the time. He is excited by the challenge of using these advancements to ensure that homes are comfortable and efficient year-round. This forward-thinking approach has made him a respected leader in the field.

FAQs

• How did Richard Trethewey become a plumber?
  Richard grew up in a family of plumbers and began working in the trade at a young age. He took over his father’s role on This Old House in 1980, becoming a plumbing and heating expert.
• What is RST Thermal?
  RST Thermal is a manufacturer’s representative company founded by Richard Trethewey that provides training to the skilled trades.
• What are Richard Trethewey’s sons doing in the industry?
  Richard’s sons, Ross and Evan, are both active in the industry. Ross is the president of TE2 Engineering, and Evan is the president of RST Thermal.
• What are Richard Trethewey’s hobbies?
  Richard is an avid sailor and enjoys racing to Bermuda. He also loves spending time with his family and grandchildren.
• What is Richard Trethewey’s role on Ask This Old House?
  Richard is a plumbing and heating expert on Ask This Old House, where he helps homeowners with a variety of home improvement projects.

Conclusion

Richard Trethewey’s journey from a family plumbing business to a national television icon is a testament to his passion, expertise, and dedication to the building trades. His legacy continues to inspire and educate, making him a true legend in the world of home improvement.