Mason Dixon Acres
4 Seasons
Join Alex and Elaina as they transform raw land into a thriving homestead. From constructing their own home to raising chickens and cultivating gardens, they share the triumphs and trials of sustainable living. Experience their journey of self-reliance, financial freedom, and the pursuit of a simpler life—one DIY project at a time.
This is more than a how-to series—it’s a love story, a lifestyle, and a reminder that you don’t need a million bucks to build a dream. Whether you're renovating your first place or just dreaming of wide-open spaces, their warmth, hustle, and humor make every episode a feel-good escape into intentional living.
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S3E1 Main Electrical Service Panel Installation
Episode 1
A rainy day sets the stage for installing a 200 amp main electric service panel. The process includes setting up the panel, installing conduit, and following NEC code for guidance. A heat gun bends the conduit, and ground wire is connected. Wiring connections are made, including neutral and hot w...
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S3E2 Metal Garage Door Trim | Install & Details
Episode 2
A beautiful fall morning sets the stage for garage door trim installation. The process includes sanding and painting wood, followed by installing cost-effective sheet metal. Key construction techniques involve moisture protection and precise measurements for metal cutting. The final assembly secu...
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13:20Episode 3
S3E3 Wood Grain Garage Doors
Episode 3
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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13:37Episode 4
S3E4 Trenching for our Well Water Line
Episode 4
A team digs a trench for a waterline from the well to the house while celebrating Alex's 27th birthday. They face challenges with rocks and soil, using a mini excavator for excavation. Confusion arises over pipe measurements, but progress continues despite tough conditions. As they prepare to ins...
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10:37Episode 5
S3E5 Installing Our Well Pump
Episode 5
Preparing a water well involves installing a well pump and connecting it to a pressure tank, often with professional assistance. Key considerations include choosing between DIY and hiring experts, understanding pump specifications, and addressing installation challenges like pitless adapters. Mai...
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07:02Episode 6
S3E6 Framing Cost Breakdown
Episode 6
Framing a garage apartment involves various expenses and procurement techniques. Stick frame construction is chosen for its structural benefits over post frame. Key material costs include dimensional and engineered lumber, sheathing, metal, and fasteners. Labor and tool expenses are also consider...
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10:19Episode 7
S3E7 Are We Builders?
Episode 7
Attendees arrive in Las Vegas for the International Builders Show, eager to explore the vast convention center. First-time visitors share their thoughts on the city's luxury and costs. They meet key figures from social media and the building industry, enhancing their experience. The Kohler Booth ...
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S3E8 Painting our entry doors was a huge failure
Episode 8
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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08:07Episode 9
S3E9 Installing Metal Soffit and Fascia
Episode 9
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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40:38Episode 10
S3E10 Start-to-Finish Radiant Floor System
Episode 10
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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15:28Episode 11
S3E11 Heated Slab Tests
Episode 11
The radiant heating system installation requires careful coordination among various trades and thorough preparation. After extensive work, the system is filled with water and tested. Initial leaks lead to adjustments, and once the boiler and pump are activated, flow and temperature are monitored....
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S3E12 Pouring a Small Concrete Slab for HVAC Equipment
Episode 12
The project starts with installing an HVAC system for both upstairs and downstairs. A concrete slab is prepared for outdoor units, with careful attention to dimensions and securing methods. A concrete mixer is used to achieve the right consistency for the pour. Challenges during pouring include t...
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35:16Episode 13
S3E13 Ductless Install & Start Up
Episode 13
The installation of Mr Cool ductless HVAC systems for garages and living spaces is detailed, starting with an overview of the products and planning phase. Key steps include preparing a concrete slab, using software for layout design, and highlighting the benefits of ductless systems like energy e...
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S3E14 Installing a Very Efficient Ducted Heat Pump
Episode 14
The installation of the Mr Cool Universal System, a ducted split heat pump, starts with planning the duct work and line sets using specialized software. Concrete pads are prepared for stability, and the air handler's build quality is highlighted for its efficiency. Insulation materials are discus...
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24:28Episode 15
S3E15 Drain & Vent Pipe Rough-In
Episode 15
Plumbing installation starts with understanding gravity and pipe routing. It includes drain plumbing for heating and main stacks, integrating radon and toilet stacks. A PowerPoint plan addresses venting with air mittens valves. Proper gluing and clean joints are crucial. Challenges in fitting and...
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S3E16 Pressure Testing Our Drain-Waste-Vent Pipes
Episode 16
A drain piping system undergoes a pressure test to check for leaks. The inspector evaluates the system under pressure using components like bushings and gauges. Two methods are available: air pressure, which is easier for inspection, and water, which is more rigorous. Leak detection focuses on jo...
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29:27Episode 17
S3E17 Water Supply Piping
Episode 17
A plumbing project showcases the installation of a Viega manna block manifold for radiant floor heating. The process involves connecting Pex A and B pipes to fixtures, starting with the laundry circuit and planning for the upstairs bathroom and kitchen. Water testing checks for leaks, and careful...
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12:35Episode 18
S3E18 These are NOT your average hose bibs
Episode 18
The project focuses on installing hot and cold house hydrants, emphasizing their easy installation and frost-free designs. These hydrants are ideal for outdoor kitchens and showers. The assembly process includes detailed drainage and sealing mechanisms, ensuring no leaks. After a month of use, th...
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25:14Episode 19
S3E19 Will We Regret This Decision?
Episode 19
Elena showcases their 2006 Sunline Solaris RV, highlighting its features and the reasons for their purchase. The couple discusses the setup, including the porch and utility connections, and provides an interior tour of the kitchen, dining area, and living space. They share their RV living experie...
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S3E20 Framing Lifting Staircase Solo Aside From The Deck
Episode 20
Stair construction experiences an eight-month delay as other tasks take priority. The builder uses stringers, measuring rise and tread accurately with tools like stair gauges and a framing square. A mock-up ensures proper fit, and stringers are cut with precision. Installation addresses challenge...
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S3E21 Deck Ledger Attachment Critical Deck Building Step The
Episode 21
Preparation for deck ledger involves selecting the right boards and following code regulations to avoid failure. Traditional attachment methods include through bolts and head flashing, with careful planning for bolt and joist locations. Tension ties are mandated by code, requiring specific instal...
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S3E22 Starting The Exterior Flashing Furring Strips Save Yourself
Episode 22
Learn how to prepare and install exterior finishes on a house, including corner boards, trims, and flashing techniques. Discover the importance of selecting the right materials for various cladding types and effective drainage solutions. Understand fastening methods, safety measures for ladder wo...
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S3E23 Our Process For Zero Caulk Windows Door Trim
Episode 23
Preparing for siding installation involves focusing on exterior door and window trims. Various materials like Hardy, vinyl, and PVC Borden Batten are explored. A unique window trim assembly is designed for effective water management, featuring drainage techniques. Versatex PVC is selected for dur...