BUILD BETTER HOMES

In Episode 24 of the Build Better Homes Podcast, Royal Mortier and John sit down with Mindy Lepp of LEPPDESIGN to talk about marketing in the homebuilding and construction industry.

Mindy shares how LEPPDESIGN evolved from a general marketing firm into an outsourced marketing department for builders, contractors, remodelers, and other construction businesses across the country. The conversation explores what happens when a company reaches the point where word of mouth is no longer enough to support where it wants to go.

They discuss why a strong reputation still needs a credible online presence behind it, how builders can approach websites, social media, SEO, and advertising without trying to do everything at once, and why marketing strategies need to be built around the specific goals and audience of each company.

The conversation also gets into the importance of relationship building within the industry. Mindy shares her experience joining her local Home Builders Association and how consistently showing up, volunteering, teaching, and building trust eventually created opportunities that simply would not have happened overnight.

Royal and John bring their own experiences into the discussion, including how much of PLIRIS' growth still comes from builders recommending PLIRIS to other builders and John's experience growing his framing business almost entirely through word of mouth.

Word of mouth is still one of the most powerful forms of marketing in construction, but growth requires more than waiting for the next referral.

A strong online presence gives potential customers a way to validate what they have already heard about your company, while consistent relationship building keeps your business visible and trusted within the industry.

The best marketing strategy is not necessarily the loudest one. It is the one that supports where your business is today and where you want it to go next.

Want to learn more about building better homes, improving your process, and navigating the changing residential construction industry?

Connect with PLIRIS and explore more episodes of the Build Better Homes Podcast: https://plirisco.com

This episode dives into the real problem behind house plans and how the industry typically operates.

Why Most House Plans Aren’t Build-Ready

• Plans are often not code-compliant
• Missing structural engineering
• Not adapted to site-specific conditions

The Fragmented Process

• Multiple vendors (designers, engineers, consultants)
• Long timelines just to coordinate services
• Increased costs and inefficiencies

The PLIRIS Approach (Vertical Integration)

• One platform handling plans, engineering, and permitting
• Streamlined workflow for builders and homeowners
• Reduced coordination and faster timelines

PLIRIS Plans Relaunch

• Option 1: Complete plan packages (fully build-ready)
• Option 2: Purchase plans only (with option to complete later)
• Tiered royalty system supporting designers

Supporting Designers

• Designers receive fair compensation
• Marketing exposure through PLIRIS platform
• Ability to scale without managing their own sales channels

Industry Insight

• Many buyers purchase plans without understanding limitations
• Permitting issues often arise after purchase
• Education gap in the homebuilding process

Most house plans aren’t ready to build as-is. Understanding the difference between a basic plan and a complete, build-ready plan set can save time, money, and major frustration during permitting and construction.

If you're a builder, homeowner, or designer looking for a more streamlined way to handle plans and engineering, connect with us at PLIRIS.

Designers interested in joining the platform can reach out directly to be part of the upcoming launch.

Learn more or start a conversation: https://plirisco.com!

If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode, reach out through our social platforms.

PLIRIS Socials

Company Website: https://plirisco.com

Facebook: @plirisco

Instagram: @pliris_plans

YouTube: @plirisplans

In this episode, Royal and John take a deep dive into fire-rated assemblies and how they apply across different types of residential construction. From single-family homes to multifamily and townhomes, understanding the differences between fire-rated systems is essential for both safety and project execution.

Rated Walls (Single-Family Homes)

• Garage-to-living space separation
• Under-stair protection
• Slowing fire progression within a home

Fire Barriers (Plexes & Multifamily)

• Separation between units
• Not structurally independent
• Role of fire sprinklers in modern designs

Firewalls (Townhomes / Area Separation Walls)

• Structurally independent systems
• Designed so one unit can collapse without affecting the other
• Higher cost but enables individual ownership

Code Interpretation Challenges

• Differences between code intent vs application
• Real-world examples of delays and disputes
• Impact on permitting timelines

Modern Solutions (Shaft Liner Systems)

• Faster installation
• Reduced coordination between trades
• Better performance in wet environments

Material Considerations (ICF & CMU)

• Using concrete walls for fire separation
• Benefits in high wind / seismic zones
• Trade-offs in labor and coordination

Builder Considerations

• Impact on construction sequencing
• Roof framing and structural layout constraints
• Importance of getting permits approved quickly

Understanding fire-rated assemblies isn’t just about code compliance-it directly impacts cost, construction timelines, and overall project success.

Choosing the right system and executing it correctly can prevent delays, reduce complexity, and ensure both safety and long-term performance.

If you're a builder, contractor, or developer looking for support with residential plans or structural engineering, connect with us at PLIRIS.

If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode, reach out through our social platforms.

Learn more or start a conversation: https://plirisco.com

#BuildBetterHomes #ConstructionIndustry #FireSafety #ResidentialConstruction #HomeBuilding

In this technical episode, Royal dives into how structural engineers analyze and resolve loads in residential construction and why different engineers may produce different structural designs for the same home. We highly advise viewers to also watch the episode on YouTube.

The discussion begins with the core principles of structural engineering which are determining loads and resolving loads using the ASCE 7 standard and material-specific design codes.

From there, the episode explores several methods used to resist lateral forces such as wind and seismic loads in wood-framed construction.

Engineering Design Fundamentals

• Determining loads using ASCE 7
• Resolving loads using material design codes
• The importance of constructability review

Segmented Shear Walls

• Traditional method used in most residential designs
• Requires full-height wall segments with no openings
• Often results in multiple hold-downs and higher construction costs

Perforated Shear Walls

• Uses the entire wall system despite openings
• Applies reduction factors based on window and door openings
• Can reduce the number of hold-downs required

Force Transfer Around Openings (FTAO)

• Uses straps and collectors to redistribute forces around windows and doors
• Allows narrower wall segments to perform structurally
• Can significantly reduce foundation and hold-down requirements

Portal Frames

• Performance-based system commonly used around garage doors
• Developed through extensive lab testing
• Allows large openings with narrow wall segments

Prescriptive Path vs Engineered Design

• Prescriptive path uses standardized tables to design structures
• Often limits architectural flexibility
• Engineered designs can be more efficient for custom homes

Additional Engineering Considerations

• Using gypsum drywall to contribute to shear resistance in wind design
• Material selection and constructability
• Value engineering opportunities between builders and engineers

Structural engineering isn’t about “over-engineering” a home but about determining the load, resolving it efficiently, and ensuring the design can be built in the real world. By understanding the different shear wall systems available (segmented, perforated, FTAO, and portal frames) builders and engineers can work together to reduce unnecessary hardware, simplify construction, and control project costs.

If you’re a builder, developer, or contractor who would like to guest in an episode, feel free to reach out. If there’s a technical topic you’d like us to discuss in a future episode, send us a message through our social media channels.

🔗 Learn more at https://plirisco.com!

Follow us for more discussions on construction engineering, building science, and practical solutions for better residential construction.

Facebook: @plirisco

Instagram: @pliris_plans

YouTube: @plirisplans

In this episode, Royal and Shaun Carpentier explore the world of insurance restoration, breaking down how it differs from traditional construction and why understanding both sides is critical for long-term success in the industry. Shaun shares his journey from carpet cleaning into full-scale restoration, offering insight into how the industry operates behind the scenes especially during high-pressure disaster events.

Mitigation vs Reconstruction

• The difference between stopping damage and rebuilding
• Why mitigation decisions impact reconstruction efficiency
• Common mistakes that create problems downstream

Restoration vs Construction

• Key differences in workflow, urgency, and planning
• Why restoration lacks the lead time of traditional construction
• How project timelines and expectations differ

Insurance & Documentation

• Why restoration estimates are highly detailed and line-item driven
• The role of insurance adjusters, desk reviewers, and auditors
• How paperwork can determine project approval and payment

Scaling During Disasters

• Rapidly expanding teams during hurricane and emergency events
• Logistics challenges including labor, equipment, and housing
• The importance of relationships and resource networks

Business Fundamentals

• Why technical skill alone isn’t enough to run a successful company
• Common reasons construction businesses fail when scaling
• The importance of systems, financial management, and leadership

Homeowner & Builder Insights

• Why having the right insurance coverage matters
• The value of trusted relationships with restoration professionals
• How preparedness can impact response during emergencies

Restoration is not just another branch of construction it’s a completely different system driven by urgency, documentation, and insurance requirements. Understanding both mitigation and reconstruction, along with the business and operational side of the industry, is essential for builders, contractors, and homeowners alike.

If you're a builder, contractor, or developer looking for support with residential plans or structural engineering, connect with us at PLIRIS.

If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode, reach out through our social platforms.

PLIRIS Socials

Company Website: https://plirisco.com

Facebook: @plirisco

Instagram: @pliris_plans

YouTube: @plirisplans

Shaun Carpentier's Socials:

Company Website: https://teamcadenceconsulting.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-carpentier-61983bb7/

In this episode, Royal and John step away from purely technical construction topics to discuss federal housing policies that may influence the future of home affordability in the United States. While the podcast typically focuses on engineering and building science, the regulatory environment surrounding construction plays a major role in how homes are built and how much they cost.

IECC Energy Code Requirements

• Overview of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code
• HUD and USDA loan requirements tied to energy code standards
• Potential cost increases associated with new energy efficiency mandates
• Why some builders argue the ROI of certain efficiency measures may take decades to realize

Supply Chain and Code Adoption Challenges

• Real-world examples of energy code implementation issues during COVID
• Material shortages and delayed construction caused by sudden regulatory changes
• The importance of industry buy-in when implementing new building standards

Housing for the 21st Century Act

• Federal proposals aimed at increasing housing supply
• Deregulation and reduced barriers to construction
• Incentives for higher-density housing and accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
• Potential benefits for first-time homebuyers

Road to Housing Act

• Intended goals of improving housing affordability
• Concerns surrounding provisions that limit how long builders can hold rental properties
• Possible impacts on rental supply and housing affordability
• How policy changes can influence investment decisions in residential construction

Housing Supply Reality

• The United States is estimated to be millions of homes short of current demand
• The role of builders, developers, and policymakers in addressing the housing shortage
• Why supply constraints remain one of the biggest drivers of housing costs

Housing affordability is influenced by far more than construction costs alone. Regulations, financing programs, energy codes, and federal housing policies all interact with the homebuilding industry in complex ways. While many policies are designed to improve affordability or sustainability, their real-world impacts depend heavily on how they are implemented and how the construction industry can adapt to them.

Understanding these dynamics is essential for anyone involved in housing, from builders and developers to homeowners and policymakers.

If you're a builder, contractor, or developer looking for support with residential construction plans or structural engineering, reach out to our team at PLIRIS.

If there’s a topic you’d like us to discuss on a future episode of the Build Better Homes Podcast, send us a message through any of our social media platforms.

Facebook: @plirisco

Instagram: @pliris_plans

YouTube: @plirisplans

In this technical episode, Royal dives into how structural engineers analyze and resolve loads in residential construction and why different engineers may produce different structural designs for the same home. We highly advise viewers to also watch the episode on YouTube.

The discussion begins with the core principles of structural engineering which are determining loads and resolving loads using the ASCE 7 standard and material-specific design codes.

From there, the episode explores several methods used to resist lateral forces such as wind and seismic loads in wood-framed construction.

Engineering Design Fundamentals

• Determining loads using ASCE 7
• Resolving loads using material design codes
• The importance of constructability review

Segmented Shear Walls

• Traditional method used in most residential designs
• Requires full-height wall segments with no openings
• Often results in multiple hold-downs and higher construction costs

Perforated Shear Walls

• Uses the entire wall system despite openings
• Applies reduction factors based on window and door openings
• Can reduce the number of hold-downs required

Force Transfer Around Openings (FTAO)

• Uses straps and collectors to redistribute forces around windows and doors
• Allows narrower wall segments to perform structurally
• Can significantly reduce foundation and hold-down requirements

Portal Frames

• Performance-based system commonly used around garage doors
• Developed through extensive lab testing
• Allows large openings with narrow wall segments

Prescriptive Path vs Engineered Design

• Prescriptive path uses standardized tables to design structures
• Often limits architectural flexibility
• Engineered designs can be more efficient for custom homes

Additional Engineering Considerations

• Using gypsum drywall to contribute to shear resistance in wind design
• Material selection and constructability
• Value engineering opportunities between builders and engineers

Structural engineering isn’t about “over-engineering” a home but about determining the load, resolving it efficiently, and ensuring the design can be built in the real world. By understanding the different shear wall systems available (segmented, perforated, FTAO, and portal frames) builders and engineers can work together to reduce unnecessary hardware, simplify construction, and control project costs.

If you’re a builder, developer, or contractor who would like to guest in an episode, feel free to reach out. If there’s a technical topic you’d like us to discuss in a future episode, send us a message through our social media channels.

🔗 Learn more at https://plirisco.com!

Follow us for more discussions on construction engineering, building science, and practical solutions for better residential construction.

Facebook: @plirisco

Instagram: @pliris_plans

YouTube: @plirisplans

IBS 2026 Recap–Innovation, Engineering, and What’s Next in Residential Construction

In this episode, Royal and John recap their experience at the 2026 International Builders Show (IBS) in Orlando and break down the innovations, trends, and structural advancements shaping the future of homebuilding.

With over 87,000 attendees and more than 2,000 exhibitors across 1.15 million square feet of exhibition space, IBS 2026 showcased the scale and direction of today’s construction industry.

• 87,000+ attendees
• 2,250 exhibitors
• 1.15 million square feet of exhibit space
• Growing focus on technology and AI integration

Bottom-Supported Large Format Sliders

• Improved water management systems
• Integrated drainage channels
• Fully bottom-supported assemblies
• Reduced structural header requirements

Fleetwood & Panoramic Systems

• Advanced track integration
• Flush thresholds
• Miami-Dade rated performance

Nudura & Tremco Integration

• Expanded waterproofing systems
• Higher R&D investment
• Larger format ICF blocks

HercuWall System

• Concrete grid design
• Wind resistance up to 235 MPH
• R31 insulation performance

LightForm Systems

• LightDeck engineered floor systems
• Tilt-up insulated wall assemblies
• Retail-level accessibility of ICF components

• Lighter than traditional steel rebar
• Higher tensile strength
• Rust-free alternative
• Field-friendly handling and cutting

• Pre-cut MEP routing openings
• Reduced need for manufactured trusses
• Increased field flexibility
• Improved integration with evolving energy codes

• Magnesium oxide fire-rated assemblies
• Expanded continuous insulation options
• Integrated water management demonstrations

• AI-driven material takeoffs
• 30+ page detailed outputs in seconds
• Cost comparisons and vendor sourcing
• Why professional oversight still matters

Vacuum Elevators

• Plug-and-play systems
• No pit required
• Minimal structural modification
• Practical solution for multi-story homes

Innovation in residential construction is accelerating, but execution still requires expertise.

From ICF systems and fiberglass reinforcement to AI-driven takeoffs and engineered floor assemblies, IBS 2026 made one thing clear: materials are evolving, and builders who understand integration will lead the next phase of the industry.

If you’re bringing innovation to residential construction and would like to be featured on the Build Better Homes Podcast, reach out.

🔗 Learn more at https://plirisco.com!

Follow us across social platforms for on-site product highlights, interviews, and field insights from IBS 2026.

In this episode of Build Better Homes, Royal Mortier and John O’Shea break down 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) updates that are actively impacting projects in 2026.

While the code cycle is labeled 2024, many jurisdictions are adopting and enforcing these changes now, making their real-world implications more relevant than ever. Royal and John focus on the updates that actually affect builders, designers, and homeowners today, not theoretical changes buried in the book.

The conversation covers how extreme cold events are exposing weaknesses in regions not historically designed for freezing conditions, how frost depth and soil assumptions are being challenged, and which code updates offer real flexibility versus added complexity.

A key highlight is the expanded allowance for using USDA soil classifications as an alternative path to higher allowable bearing pressures, a change that can reduce concrete volumes, shorten schedules, and avoid unnecessary geotechnical reports when applied correctly.

These may be called the 2024 IRC updates, but their consequences are being felt now. Knowing how to apply them in 2026 is what separates compliance from competence.

🔗 Learn more at https://plirisco.com!

In this solo episode of Build Better Homes, Royal Mortier introduces a new recurring segment called Technical Topics, focused on engineering-related changes that directly affect residential construction.

This first Technical Topics episode breaks down a major hardware shift many builders and designers are already encountering in the field: Simpson’s transition from the HDU hold-down series to the new HDU-E series, along with the introduction of SABR (Saber) anchor bolts.

Royal walks through how and why the HDU-E series delivers higher tensile capacity with fewer screws and thinner gauge steel, what has changed in screw orientation, and how these updates affect real-world design decisions, pricing, and installation tolerance. He also explains where retrofit options disappear at higher capacities, and why anchor bolt placement accuracy becomes critical as loads increase.

The episode closes with a practical design tip that has dramatically reduced misplaced anchor bolts across thousands of homes: dimensioning hold-down anchor locations directly on foundation plans.

This is a highly technical, field-driven episode aimed at engineers, designers, framers, and builders who want fewer surprises during construction and inspections.

• Why the HDU series is being phased out
• Key differences between HDU and HDU-E hold downs
• Horizontal vs angled SDS screw installation
• How geometry increases tensile capacity
• Capacity comparisons (HDU2 → HDU-E3, HDU4 → HDU-E5, HDU5 → HDU-E7, HDU8 → HDU-E9, HDU11 → HDU-E13, HDU14 → HDU-E17)
• Gauge changes and reduced screw counts
• Retrofit limitations at higher hold-down capacities
• SB vs SABR anchor bolts (Grade 36 vs Grade 55 steel)
• Why SABR bolts simplify design and sourcing
• Pricing differences and where savings still exist
• A proven method to reduce anchor bolt retrofits by over 90%

Hardware keeps evolving. The builders who stay ahead are the ones who understand why it changed, not just what changed.