Parents' Guide to

Building Wild

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Pro-recycling construction show has some salty language.

TV National Geographic Channel Reality TV 2014
Building Wild Poster Image

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What's the Story?

BUILDING WILD is a reality series featuring the work of the Cabin Kings, a construction company dedicated to building custom hunting and camp cabins at a great price. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition designer Paul DiMeo and backwoods inventor and professional excavator Pat "Tuffy" Bakaitis work with folks to build cabins in the woods, but to keep the costs low they rely on their clients to come up with building materials and additional labor. They also keep to strict, short deadlines. From repurposing old wood planks, to building structures using time-honored Amish traditions, these guys make sure that their clients' dream cabins go above and beyond their expectations.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Building Wild offers an interesting look at the different ways that things like wood salvaged from barns and old trucks can be repurposed to build and outfit sturdy and fun cabins designed to be used for hunting trips and other events. It also shows how structures like outhouses and bunks can be reengineered to be more efficient and comfortable.

Most of the show is dedicated to the engineering and construction of these structures, but there are some humorous moments, especially when Paul's desire to use old-fashioned building techniques clash with Tuffy's desire to use big machines to do the job. If you enjoy building shows, you'll find it worth watching.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the different ways that resources can be repurposed or recycled to build new things. What are the benefits of doing this? Do you think TV shows like this one will help encourage other builders to do the same?

  • Why do you think these builders were given their own reality show? Is it because of their skills? Their personalities? Paul Dimeo's celebrity status? Do you think the way they act towards each other is the same when the cameras are off?

TV Details

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