It's a very, very, very fine house ...

New programs and specials usually get most of the attention from television stations. But, at WPT, we are lucky to have a strong foundation of trademark programs on which the network and much of public television nationwide is built.

For 27 seasons, This Old House (airing Thursdays at 8 p.m.) has steadily built its own foundation as one of public television's important programs as it has invited viewers into a collection of full-scale revitalizations of homes across the United States. The show has also spawned Ask This Old House (airing Thursdays at 8:30 p.m.), a program for folks whose homes don't need a massive overhaul, but might just need to learn how to install an exhaust fan in their bathroom or kitchen. Norm Abram's overly stocked and power tool-outfitted New Yankee Workshop (Sundays at 3:30 p.m.) has made wannabe woodworkers drool for years.

Yes, This Old House's projects have become more extravagant over the years and some of the program hosts have changed, but all of the shows still strive to give homeowners an opportunity to expand their own visions as they work toward turning their own houses into homes.

As the shows have evolved, so have their online companion resources. For folks who want to get their own hands dirty and are looking for further information beyond what they see on television, the Web is a great place to learn how to make simple home fixes, chat with other home renovators or, if you're in a procrastinating mood, check in on Norm in real time via this Web cam. For resources closer to home, the UW-Extension offers numerous downloadable publications with tips for homeowners - both old and new.