Sweat Equity Season 3 Episode 5 Wasteland to Wonderful

In season 3 episode 5 of Sweat Equity titled "Wasteland to Wonderful," hosts Amy Matthews and John DeSilvia help a couple transform a neglected backyard into a beautiful outdoor living space. The episode begins with the homeowners explaining their vision for the space, which includes a new deck, pergola, and fireplace. However, the backyard is currently overrun with weeds and debris, and there is a large, unsightly concrete slab that needs to be removed.

Amy and John get to work, starting with the demolition of the existing concrete slab. They use a jackhammer to break it up into manageable pieces, then load it onto a trailer and haul it away. Next, they clear out all of the overgrown vegetation and level the ground in preparation for the new deck.

Once the area is cleared, the team starts building the deck. They use pressure-treated lumber for the frame and composite decking material for the surface, which is durable and requires very little maintenance. They also install a built-in bench and attached planter boxes to add some extra seating and greenery to the space.

With the deck complete, Amy and John move on to building the pergola. They construct a simple frame using pressure-treated lumber and add decorative details like wooden trellises and copper caps on the posts. The pergola provides some shade and adds a visual element to the space.

Finally, the team tackles the fireplace, which will serve as the focal point of the outdoor living area. They start by pouring a concrete pad for the foundation, then build a frame out of cinder blocks and fill it with pea gravel for drainage. They use natural stone veneer to cover the exterior and add a custom-built mantle made from a reclaimed piece of wood.

With the fireplace in place, the backyard starts to take shape. The team adds some finishing touches like outdoor lighting and furniture, and the homeowners are thrilled with the results. The outdoor living space is now a beautiful and functional area where they can relax and entertain.

Throughout the episode, Amy and John offer tips and advice on everything from choosing the right materials to tackling the various construction challenges. They also showcase some of the latest trends in outdoor living, such as low-maintenance decking materials and natural stone veneer. Overall, "Wasteland to Wonderful" is an inspiring and informative episode that demonstrates how a neglected backyard can be transformed into a beautiful oasis with the right design and construction techniques.