THE REALITY OF RENOVATING A ROOM BY YOURSELF | DEMO + SUBFLOOR

Get started right away without the need for shipping, plus $10 off by going to StoryWorth.com/...
This is going to be interesting! I've never taken a room down to the studs before and gone back to basics. Hope you enjoy this May series xx.
Episode 1: Power of Paint • Starting My Outdoor Ba...
Episode 2: Shade Room Makeover • DIY Backyard Makeover ...
Episode 3: Clean Up My Property • Relax + Clean My Prope...
00:00-00:34 Intro + Before
00:34-02:08 Let’s Chat About It
02:08-04:53 Demo, Termite Poop + More
04:53-05:07 Treasures I Found
05:07-05:45 Demo of Rock Wall
05:45-06:05 Cleaning Up Mold, Demo + Debris
06:05-07:54 Storyworth Commercial Break
07:55-08:17 Weather + Bunny Update
08:17-08:52 Rethinking Things
08:52-09:28 Ripping Up The Floor
09:28-10:04 More Unexpected Findings
10:04-12:15 THE DRAMA + GAMEPLAN
12:15-14:06 Leveling My Base
14:06-14:55 Me Being Dramatic (Again) Per Usual
14:55-15:35 Installing Subfloor
15:35-16:22 You Have To Laugh At Yourself
16:22-17:49 Fine Tune + Current Stage
17:49-19:13 Close Out Chat
Connect with me outside this KZbin bubble...
Instagram / rachel_metz
Pinterest / rachel_metz
Facebook / rachelmetzblog
Business inquiries: [e-mail]

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

LOOK AT ME FOCUSING ON ONE PROJECT/ROOM THIS MONTH! Someone give me a gold star xx.

[@sandy.cheekz]

I really love your house renovation videos! Thank you for bringing this content. 🌟

[@lechatbotte.]

Brownie badges, gold stars, kudos, congrats shout outs.

[@trick351]

Girl, Laissez les bons temps rouler!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@lisanieh6441]

Wow you're getting it done one step at a time, truly love all your creations, love you so much,

[@monaeclarkson7734]

can we get 2 videos a week 😊?

[@jill1190]

Hey babe! Please don't compare yourself to your friends, or anyone else for that matter. We're here for you and whatever you do! Just take your time and do what's right for you. P.S. I've loved every ep in the new place, try not to overthink

[@jenp28467]

What she said haha 😆 we love to see it

[@Leila_3]

I fully agree! Your content is phenomenal. Love how genuine and honest you are ❤️

[@nymphsandshepherds]

Halleluuu--

[@j.castino7585]

GEEZ!....It's a darn good thing you did this for us as I would have shit canned the whole project once I ripped up the floor! You have showed how not to give up early and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Can hardly wait for # 2 on this. Thanks Rachel.

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🤍🖤🤍🖤

[@judyshallstrom415]

As a general rule after dealing with several houses of varying ages, I now multiply my time estimate by 4.

[@UnclejHolio]

Realistically you are not a TV home make over show where they tear an entire house down to the studs and rebuild it in an “hour” You are an amazing woman who is showing the reality of a makeover. It’s organic, challenging, informative, and inspiring to watch. Thank you for sharing your journey. 🥰

[@mamaliciouscupcakes]

OMG EARLYYY!! Rachel is so underrated and she put SO MUCH effort into her remodels and her videos. Love you Rachel!!! 🖤🖤

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Love you xx.

[@cristinaflogerzi647]

Honestly! How it goes is how it goes...like life...it's why so many of us are here. Be real. Be you...We love some realness. You got this!

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🤍🖤🦋

[@MorganScheer]

You're normalizing projects not going perfectly every time and not being finished in a day. You seem so down to earth. It's refreshing. Good job tackling this project. You're a badass.

[@danmcgowan4691]

I hope Rachel realises how inspirational she is. I have loved this series getting to know her and her vision more. Loving the reality and honesty of everything, seeing mistakes and frustrations just adds to feeling the accomplishments with her more. Keep up the cool work and keep being you.

[@harley69210]

been having a terrible couple of days, but something about that sunset is just so grounding, even if i'm not there. like that beauty exists out there - WHAT?!

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

It's so pretty. Love stepping outside n

[@lechatbotte.]

Doggie LOVE YES!!! Rachel drama the only drama I need in my life. Can’t get enough. I can barely wait for the next episode.

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Haha you're the best!

[@lifelover1]

I actually really appreciate seeing the reality of these big projects- the drama, the OVERCOMING, the need to push through and move forward and adapt. And lots of other channels have entire teams/companies of people helping them or at least contractors doing some of the heavy lifting- you’re taking so much of the process on by yourself, and you’re showing us that it’s possible! 😭😭😭😭😭

[@Kat_eyyyyy]

Love seeing independent women thriving 🙌🏼

[@TheRoseLensLifestyle]

Not sure what your neighbourhood/community situation is there but facebook market place is a good spot to find used building materials! Also take your time with projects - honestly seeing the full indepth step by step is also content GOLD. :D lots of love!

[@jennyshaw509]

The first one if your videos that I watched, was fairly recently, and it was you first shot sitting on the carpet talking about your break up and buying your house. I've watched every one since. Look forward to each one. Woman to woman...so proud of you. Keep chasing your joy and creating your peace.

[@virginiatolles1664]

One gold star coming up! I like how you're paying attention to detail, filling the gaps to keep out the critters, leveling the floor, etc. This is a space you and your friends will really enjoy!

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🥰

[@janetwalker3541]

Hi Rach, you're doing a great job! Just want to mention that if you put out a small bowl of scraps with carrot shavings and lettuce ends that could keep your bunny from eating your flowers. Also if you did a pot or two filled with clover bunny would love that too. We have wild ones in our condo complex and this is how we feed them so they leave my flowers alone. Now the squirrels, that's another story!!

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Yup! Doing whole critter garden beds for them xx. Stay tuned.

[@mathildevonthun]

In all the craziness of this year and the last, these videos and your calm demeanor provide so much peace for me. It's so healthy to tackle your problems head-on and I love your philosophies regarding all the issues that arise. Thank you for providing this insight into your life with us- I think we all are learning a lot from you and your approach.

[@tkylm2243]

Rachel are you so talented and humble, but you are so beautiful, you literally could have done modeling.

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

I appreciate that xx.

[@Autism_Forever]

I think she actually did do modeling before she started doing DIY :)

[@Slgn990]

Said with love... please stop apologising about the videos being neat and tidy and linear and scheduling. This is a huge undertaking on its own, and you’re filming while you do it. It’s going to take longer than you think, and that’s okay! We’re along for the ride, let’s just ride! Be unapologetic about your journey. It’s yours.

[@olbird7647]

Was about to say similar! There's always going to be weather constraints and the unexpected to deal with in building projects. You live there now, so it's not going anywhere 😊

[@erindetka7712]

1. Doesn't a sunset just calm all things! 2. Thank you for sharing the reality of this project taking 7 days. I appreciate your tenacity to keep moving forward, documenting, and sharing. 3. The right pup is coming. ❤️ ⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Thank you xx.

[@soffiegirl1027]

Thank you for posting this. It’s so helpful and comforting to see you struggle bus your way through a project. So much of that usually gets edited out and for newer diy-ers it feels extra shitty when we hit that wall in our projects of everything going wrong at once. You’re the best. 🙏🏽

[@wandadelacruz2486]

I love how genuine you are. Remodeling is not always perfect. Take your time, we are here for the journey.

[@nottheone582]

ooooh I can totally see a sunset viewing platform on top of the trailer! with a couch and cozy bean bags, maybe a hidden cooler for drinks that you can stock from inside? I'm so envious of this property - its freaking gorgeous and you're making amazing progress with your updates!

[@denises9426]

Please don’t be hard on yourself. You are amazing!!! Who cares how long it takes. You’re the boss baby. 🥰❤️ I could watch a whole video of you just playing with your puppy! I adore my babies too. 🐶🐶 Love all your content Ms Beautiful.

[@Lil_cajun_cafe]

I absolutely love how persistent you are. I cried and struggled with having to clean up my sons poopy paint party yesterday, and you rebuilt a whole room while constantly running into issues. It’s honestly amazing

[@thatsmalltowngirl4]

YESSS! My day isnt complete without a Rachel Metz video, you made my day dear! Also, thank you, you just being you and showing us what it takes to do what you do, is so appreciated. Do not compare yourself to others, you are special and amazing. Love you and Cali.

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Thank you for the love xx.

[@shirleycarter2451]

Wow girl your achievement so far is mind blowing, try to be kinder to yourself and that's coming for someone who has had to learn the hard way. You are doing great,so many people wouldn't know even know what a saw and hammer were for. Sending big hugs to you and Kelly xxx

[@annaabernathy2094]

I am obsessed with your attitude and your spirit. You are unstoppable!

[@NoraDesmond897]

Hey Warrior, I'm gonna call you Zena the construct queen. Don't you worry about us. Your honest and genuine so this channel speaks volumes. Always remember there are no ups without Arrrrrgggģgs.

[@gwendolyn7504]

Go at your own pace, even if all you did that week was hammer a nail in! I'm here for the Metz personality :)

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🤍🖤🦋

[@rleal5167]

**Gold Star**. I am intrigued by the nitty gritty of what you are doing with what you have. That is my motto, " Use what you have ".

[@lisanathan8764]

You are so inspiring. Seeing you do things that are hard and maybe even scary at times gives me courage to try things I want to do but I’m afraid of messing it up. Like laying floor in my attic. I really want that extra storage for my kids to store there things that they can’t take with them right now. Thank you for being you!

[@buddyholly4672]

Im glad you were honest about your frustrations about this project. I always feel like its just me and i suck

[@bellakinzttv]

Can't wait for part 2!!! Also, the three "poles" from the Treasures I Found section would be STUNNING as like a side table's legs!

[@patti2870]

Thank you Rachel for sharing your journey with us! You are my favorite KZbinr and am always hoping for a new video from you when I refresh my page :D Your videos are inspirational, honest, fun and creative, what a combo! I wish you all the best, you are having to conquer so many obstacles but look at you and how much you have accomplished! Creating a home in the desert is such a crazy and cool adventure! Lots of love from Germany ❤️

[@cynstarthia]

Hi from your friend in Alaska again! Just popping in to say that you’re videos are my favorite! Even when they aren’t a makeover from start to end. Most of the time I like to see a full makeover when I watch other KZbinrs. But you’re just so enjoyable to watch that I watch all your videos anyways. Your desert back drop doesn’t hurt either 😉. I hope you never stop creating content.

[@erikalouwrens3992]

Wow Rachel! Your courage! Really something to behold...I so admire you, to all intents and purposes totally alone, tackling all the things.

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Thank you!

[@ellison2024]

This is NOT boring. It is very helpful. Keep them coming

[@traceyc130]

Wish I could like this more than once. Great job keeping it real. I've cried in a middle of a reno when working with plaster walls and ceilings got the better of me. Literally dusted myself off, went to my parents' place, got a hug from my mom and advice from my dad, had lunch, and headed back to start again. Don't know what helped me more.

[@yeneka713]

I love the pace of these videos. So much more honest and informative when it's delivered a couple steps at a time. Also, seeing the pitfalls and how you recover is sooooo helpful.

[@lulypintor]

This is soooo real and I love it! 😃 ... I know, I know. Maybe Love is not the right word 😆 but I just keep watching this amazing renos where there isn't any problem, just renovating for the sake of it, which is amazing and lovely to watch too, but you dealing with a floor that isn't leveled, mold, termite just makes it sooo real! Annoying hell, but you got this! 😘💪😃

[@samanthamaeong7842]

Hi Rachel. :( Lots of hugs to you!! We know about the recent struggles but we're here for you!

[@vanessaleighl7093]

I haven't taken the time to comment on your vides in a minute but loving every bit of your journaling this adventure. The process is fabulous and I am so excited to see every step. Love your vision woman. Be well!

[@ScorpioWomanMoon]

I can't wait to see the roof portion. I've always been interested in the process. Also excited about the electrical, I like the way you break electrical down for us and try to simplify it.

[@katp6272]

Every notification I click so fast! Thank you for sharing. Also, I'm so sorry about the puppy you were going to bring into your home 💜

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🤍🖤🦋

[@sashac7002]

Man I clicked so fast. You're doing something so amazing here. I am loving being right here with you.

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Thank you xx.

[@chelseascreatures]

Bunny: "naw Rachel, I'm just a moving lawn ornament... nope not a bunny, not me." ;) and don't stress about your DIY process. I honestly prefer your videos over other DIY-ers. Yeah their video are all put together in one video BUT that one video is so deserving. I like watching the process, makes the reveal so worth it.

[@styh06]

Miss Rachel M. I truly hope you're not fretting about your series like all us subbies aren't in a corner Tyrone Biggums-style waiting on your updates!!! My body is ready to receive ALL the series/parts/subparts/chapters/etc!

[@mamabear9646]

I'm very impressed with these videos. Sometimes it's intimidating to tackling handiwork as a woman but you make it look so easy! Thank you!

[@holymags2495]

Never commented on a ad/sponsor before but that book is a wonderful idea and would make a very good gift!

[@TheJenicaLyn]

Desert sunsets hit different💜🌵.... definitely a nice distraction from lumber prices 🙃

[@jenniphertobar]

Ughh watching you complete all the demo definitely is encouraging

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🤍 next episode of roof and electrical!

[@alidalessard]

You are seriously so impressive. The fact you can take on such large jobs, have the confidence in yourself and not get overwhelmed to the point of quitting is amazing.

[@JaimeDrewatWoodenU]

I wouldn’t worry about the structure of your videos. I enjoy them because you get a lot of work done so we get to see satisfying results in each video.

[@mael2039]

seeing you doing all of this on your own really makes me feel like you're some kind of superwoman because damn girl you're amazing!! I looove seeing the demo parts of these videos, so satisfying! Omg those skeletons tho, creepy, one looked like a cat? Also, all the sneak peaks of landscaping and the flowers you've planted and that gorgeous sunset is so so breathtaking, you're really living in a most beautiful place and making it into something completely amazing and it's so so cool to be allowed to watch that transformation. I'm always so excited about your videos! Sending lots of love as always

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Thank you love xx.

[@vanda218]

So glad Callie is alright. Almost had a heart attack. You were getting a new puppy! Ok. Sorry for that. Yes, the perfect pup will come. Love your videos. Love love love the way you tackle your projects. Keep moving forward girl! Inspire us.

[@jada_allison]

Mama Metz! I could feel your frustration when you found those termites and the project just kept getting larger and larger but I love seeing your process and how much of a badass you are doing this by yourself, even when you get frustrated. You’re such an inspiration & I love your videos-even when you’re not doing some crazy huge makeover. Thanks for sharing your journey 🥰

[@diva420xxx]

I love the way you've been editing the videos lately! and don't worry about the videos being unorganized... no one pays attention to that when they're all so informative...

[@brujita_flora5527]

Thank you for doing this series, it's so helpful and reassuring to see you taking the time to do it properly

[@bnp2bnp]

Yay!! The bamboo roof withstood the wind! Awesome!!

[@xojslyn]

Wow, the progress! You make it look so easy!

[@user-eq2kx8jv3r]

Clicked as soon as I saw the notification✨

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Thank you for the love xx.

[@charlottefleming6235]

BIG GOLD STAR!!! Literally ur the biggest inspo. Ur the best Rachel!!!! And cali is so sweet

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Loving you xx.

[@anjelicagames]

Every one of these videos despite it being demo or design, gets me excited to work on my own house one day. I love seeing your journey

[@4evayoung533]

I take a break from your channel for a few only to come back and you’ve moved to Joshua Tree, Ca?!?! Where has the time gone?! A beautiful city (if the desert life is your thing) and you are rocking out with the Reno’s per usual! It’s amazing to see the support in your comments as well. Let me add to it! You are doing an amazing job! Both with the work and it’s bumps and bruises and the transparency of thought process and how to worm through just anything really. We truly love to see it! 🤙🏾🤙🏾🤙🏾 s/n the rabbits and other wild life out there gets so real…please take care but more importantly get footage 🤣 We want to see all of the madness. Again, keep rocking it!! Inspo is on 100!

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Thank you!

[@jessicaehirsch9557]

I didn’t hesitate to click this notification! I’m laid up with a teething baby today and I’m vicariously through you. 🤣

[@jessicaehirsch9557]

*living (also, need more coffee 🤣)

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

I hope you have a lovely day!

[@rebeccalitardo6250]

I hope all goes well with your baby and teething. Was not an easy journey with my daughter but she finally has all her baby teeth.

[@jessicaehirsch9557]

@@rebeccalitardo6250 thank you 😊

[@jessicaehirsch9557]

@@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz thank you, same to you! 😁

[@atlasphere]

That level of demo and cleaning is so much work. You are amazing and your effort is determined and focus AF. Bravo!

[@gerihenry2261]

You're very helpful in my family's cabin in the woods, thank you for all you share! You Rock!

[@melcerra2375]

You are amazing! Such an inspiration. I am glad you show the ups and downs of projects. BTW, I ordered 3 storyworths for my 3 moms for Mother's Day. Love the idea.

[@maciemartin3437]

Hello! Bunny owner here, bunnies LOVE flowers, or any type of greenery 😂 I think only fences will help your problem! My grandparents used to put a Hotwire around their gardens to keep creatures away

[@snoopy6867]

Thank you for filming the complete process. Much love and lots of prayers on this journey -Joel Beasley

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🤍🖤

[@elleemehnopi5004]

I hope you take today and every day in stride ❤️❤️ we will be here for you all the hurt and pain and remember that as stupid as it is, all the is supposed to be in our life will be. You and Cali baby will have another pup running around soon I promise ❤️

[@kleinesren7064]

Any content you put put there is appreciated! No matter if it is part x of y, an episode, a vlog, or whatever else. Don't compare yourself to other tubers, please, and just do you. Hugs if you want them!

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Thank you!

[@elleturnip]

We love to see a good conflict resolution!! Cool to see how to do subfloor!

[@chescaalston1454]

Love seeing the process and how you face challenges. ❤❤ An inspiration in every way.

[@smkhorshidian]

Thank you for starting this series. I really want to build an art barn and want to start from scratch since I don't have an extra structure to start from. Love u 💕

[@sherryg1838]

When my husband redid our Arizona room and ripped off the roof, it rained, a real downpour. And we live in Phoenix. I enjoy your videos, it’s looking great.

[@teemanem]

My boyfriend doesn't understand my excitement about your videos 😂

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Haha he doesn't need to xx.

[@arealmoviefan]

You are amazing. I love how you show the emotions of what you are going through during the process.

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Appreciate you watching!

[@rokdahwashere]

Love you girl! "That's okay!" Thank u for being you! Sending love from PH 🇵🇭

[@ArtemisScribe]

Honestly Rachel, I don't think you've ever worked harder on something than you have on this! Of course it's gonna feel a bit tougher when you're putting so much more of yourself into it.

[@cherrylee327]

You are such an inspiration!!! I love this new series. & your nail design is bomb📏!

[@vanessalagrange7388]

I don't usually comment, but with how many times you said "level" I have to say, everytime you say it, I instantly flashback to you working with your dad and him saying "level" and you guys laughing. It cracks me up!! 🤣 so glad to see your perseverance!! Sending positivity! 💖

[@mickyshell]

Girl you work harder than like everyone! Im sure no one is worried about the organization of when you get your projects done at least they shouldn’t be, it is just so fun to watch you transform everything! It all flows and makes sense to me so just keep at it how you can handle it! It would take me months to do what you do in one session! 😂 Id rather see you having a good time during this process and not get burned out than trying to have a lot done for one video anyway! ❤️

[@AnnaYV]

You are doing amazing! I’m always so grateful to you when you show the good and bad of D.I.Y. So thankyou. Your adjusting to a completely new area and have just moved house. Your doing amazing and we don’t mind how long these things take, it’s your pace not ours 😘 you got this 💪🏼 x

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🤍🖤🦋

[@brookebraun561]

Hi Rachel, I had a mold problem before and unfortunately, vinegar does not kill mold spores in wood. You need to scrub bleach into the wood with a brush, let that soak, and then rinse off with a hose or very wet rag. Otherwise, the mold will just keep coming back.

[@joyous2theworld]

I’m so excited about learning about foundations and sub-floors. It’s all new to me and it’s amazing. So impressed with your hard work and can do attitude.

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

Yay!

[@dimiaslan1870]

Thanks for explaining your thinking behind each choice like with the rocks. Not good to recycle a small tin can but throw away actual tons of building stuff you can reuse.

[@KatarinaP81]

Aw, bunny! :D We have a hazelnut plantation and when we were preparing our xmas ornaments one year, my kid, 4 at the time, said "Look, here's the squirrel!" of course thinking of my old ornament, hubby went nuts, "WHERE?! WHERE'S THE SQUIRREL?"

[@arfielding4495]

I'm obsessed with this series. I've binged most of your videos. Do you know of any other KZbinrs that are also doing whole-property makeovers in episodes like this?

[@Sarah_C68]

loving the Desert Diaries ! Thanks for posting. Youre doing great x

[@vickilewis1002]

The room looks great! Taking your time to do it right is always best! You live in such a beautiful place. 🌟🌟💝

[@heidy3131]

Love you Rachel I love coming to see your videos they make my day. Thank you for being you. You’re awesome!

[@Eleese__]

You’re just an impressive talented woman! I admire your patience and skills! Sending good vibes all the way from Boston! 👋🏻

[@danikittie]

Thank you so much for showing how to handle these sort of situations. I am taking notes!

[@tanyab78]

We are gonna need 3 videos a week for the month of May. I can't get over your place. I'm in love!

[@mermaiddiyartist8119]

That sunset 🌅 is amazing 😻

[@louisesalg7762]

your choice in flowers is superior. I am obsessed, going to buy me some flowers asap

[@LivingtoDIYwithRachelMetz]

🥰🖤🤍

[@sosubmiss]

Good girl for pushing through xxx hardest part most of my days!