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S3E9 Installing Metal Soffit and Fascia
Fascia and soffit play vital roles in house construction. The journey starts with an overview and the use of durable 29 gauge steel. Proper ventilation is ensured by blocking spaces between rafters. Installation involves pre-cut soffit panels and metal fascia, with a focus on safety and precision...
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S3E10 Start-to-Finish Radiant Floor System
The installation of radiant floor heating starts with laying Pex tubing beneath the slab, followed by setting up the manifold and boiler for water heating. Rockwool insulation is used for thermal regulation, and the total installation cost is around $2,800. Key techniques for connecting pipes and...
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S2 E2: The Ranch Project - Classical Planning and Design
The Ranch Project showcases updates on organization and framing, inspired by UK landscapes and historic homes. It aims to create a welcoming entry experience with views of the house, referencing Monticello for garden organization. The design features changing entry points, pavilions, and a purpos...
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S2E15 Framing & Lifting Walls
The project kicks off on July 2nd, 2022, as the team eagerly frames their plans. They install sill plates and prepare for the first floor walls, collaborating with an Amish crew for the second floor. After confirming the foundation's dimensions, they lay out the sill plates and drill for anchor b...
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S1E5 Transforming a Character Home: The Downtown Darling Project
The Downtown Darling project in Ottawa showcases a stunning remodel of a 2200 square feet Dutch revival home. The design emphasizes open spaces and beautiful focal points, enhancing natural light. Key features include a cozy living room with an updated fireplace, a transformed kitchen with a larg...
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S1E12 Site-building Our Roof Trusses
The team focuses on constructing gable walls and trusses for the roof in Needham. They decide to prefabricate trusses on-site for a proper fit. Emphasis is placed on the importance of wall and roof structure, ensuring parallel walls and correct floor placement. Ventilation strategies are outlined...
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S1E2 New Build Site Prep
A new construction project in Needham begins with collaboration from architect Steve Teak. The project starts with demolition, including erosion control and fire department oversight. Site preparation involves tree protection and designated contractor parking. Neighbors are kept informed about co...
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S3E8 Painting our entry doors was a huge failure
Painting entry doors requires careful material selection and technique. Common mistakes include using flat paint, which attracts dirt. Proper preparation, like sanding and using the right tools, is essential for a quality finish. Attention to detail during installation ensures doors are level and...
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S1E26 Laser Scanning residential new construction
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S1E4 The Amazing Borneo Garden
Discover the world of tropical plants through a private garden tour led by owner Ong. Learn about essential plant care techniques, including potting media and the impact of weather. Explore current trends in plant buying, with a focus on single cuttings and fluctuating prices. Gain insights into ...
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S2 E3: The Ranch Project— the Coolest Stair Treads We've Built
The ranch project highlights various building techniques and design elements. It covers vertical slots, HVAC systems, and fire-safe siding materials. A geothermal heating and cooling system is explained, along with solid oak stair designs. The interior blends modern and traditional styles, while ...
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S2 E23 Panic at the Chateau!
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S3E3 Wood Grain Garage Doors
Garage door installation day is filled with excitement as the area is prepped for Clopay doors. A site check confirms measurements and installation details, while electrical wiring for door openers is planned. The Door Imagination System helps select door styles and colors. The professional team ...
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S1E14 Understanding Structural Detail Walls and Shear Walls
The project introduces structural detail walls, defining shear walls and their role in construction. It discusses the first floor layout, including design surprises and wall framing details with plywood for strength. The installation of a continuous vapor retarder is highlighted for improved perf...
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S2E18 Who Needs a Blacksmith
Gardening activities lead to wallpapering in the dining room. There are challenges with curtain installation due to a missing pole. Precise wallpaper measurements are necessary, along with cost considerations. Finding a matching wallpaper design takes months of searching. Room preparation include...
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S2E20 Finishing Framing!
Day three highlights the installation of rafters and wall construction. The kitchen is designed with large windows for natural light. The roof design considers slant and space for aesthetic appeal. Framing tasks involve checking window openings and ensuring carpentry standards. Material procureme...
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S2E18 Framing the Floor with I-Joists
Construction starts on the floor platform with a two-day timeline before the Amish crew arrives. Lumber is moved, and materials cost under $6,000. Temporary scaffolding aids in laying the floor system. A telehandler is introduced for lifting heavy eye joists, which are doubled for strength. Mid-s...
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S2E16 Building Garage Door Headers
The project starts with an introduction to garage door headers, covering necessary materials like two by 12s and insulation, and the use of a skid steer for heavy lifting. It explains the construction process, including dimensions and installation. Challenges with lumber quality and squareness ar...
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S2E14 The Ultimate Surprise Proposal
A special proposal unfolds for Elena, featuring a surprise party with friends. The couple embarks on their first adult camping experience, setting up a tent and sharing moments with friends from Michigan. The emotional proposal captures heartfelt love and a marriage request, followed by a celebra...
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S2E13 Buying $30k in Lumber - Getting Ready to Frame
Mason Dixon Acres introduces Elena and Alex, who share their self-building journey. They focus on the framing process, highlighting the need to purchase materials early due to fluctuating lumber prices. The framing plans include wall specifications and engineered lumber details. They discuss stru...
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S2E12 Concrete Slab Cost
Explore the costs involved in building a slab foundation, including a detailed budget tracking system. Key expenses range from excavation to materials, with bartering used to save on excavation costs. Significant labor and material costs are outlined, totaling just under $25,000. Tools for the pr...
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S2E11 The Slab Pour was a Disappointment
Rain complicates the concrete pour, requiring a tarp over the foundation. Slab work is prepared with specific materials for drainage, but the resulting slab quality is poor, prompting an epoxy application. The contractor does not meet expectations, emphasizing the need for a signed contract. Key ...
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S2E10 Radiant Heat Tubing in Slab (installing on rebar)
Concrete installation starts with preparing PEX tubing, which is secured to rebar and the slab. A DIY coiler simplifies uncoiling. PEX A tubing is selected for its flexibility. The Loop CAD program helps design the circuit layout, addressing challenges in tubing placement. Proper positioning enha...
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S2E9 Slab Prep for Radiant Heat
Insulation is placed outside to prevent mice and is distributed under the concrete slab for thermal efficiency. A vapor barrier and rebar grid are added for moisture control and support. Insulation panels are carefully cut around plumbing. Water is removed from the sump pit, and rebar is installe...