Ep 13. Season 8, Episode 13

In Ask This Old House season 8 episode 13, the team returns to a previously visited home to check on the progress of a homeowner's DIY projects. With the help of host Kevin O'Connor and contractor Tom Silva, the homeowner puts finishing touches on a new patio and fire pit, while also seeking advice on how to add a hot tub.

The episode kicks off with Kevin meeting with Tom to discuss the projects at hand. They begin at the patio, where the homeowner has laid a brick foundation for a fire pit. Tom suggests finishing the pit with a metal insert and creating a grill grate to make it more functional. The homeowner is excited to get to work and tackle the project with Tom's guidance.

Next, Kevin and Tom meet with the homeowner to check out his newly laid patio. The homeowner opted for a paver design and has done an impressive job laying them himself. Tom gives him some tips on how to continue the pattern and add a border to give the patio a more finished look.

With the patio and fire pit complete, the homeowner turns his attention to a new project: adding a hot tub. He explains that he's already dug the hole and poured a concrete pad, but he's not sure how to go about building the structure to house the hot tub. Tom suggests building a simple wooden frame and covering it with slats to create a modern, clean look that will complement the patio and fire pit.

As they work on the hot tub structure, the homeowner admits that he's nervous about tackling electrical work to power the hot tub's jets and heater. The team reassures him that it's a relatively simple task and walks him through the process, from wiring the electrical panel to connecting the hot tub itself.

Finally, the team puts the finishing touches on the hot tub structure, adding a lip for easy access and creating an opening for the hot tub cover. The homeowner is thrilled with the finished product, and Kevin and Tom are impressed with his DIY prowess. They remind viewers that with a little bit of guidance and some elbow grease, even seemingly daunting projects like building a hot tub can be tackled by the average homeowner.

Overall, season 8 episode 13 of Ask This Old House is a satisfying and educational watch for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners looking for inspiration and tips on outdoor living spaces. With its focus on practical, achievable projects and expert guidance from the Ask This Old House team, the episode is sure to leave viewers feeling empowered and motivated to tackle their own home improvement projects.