Structure Talk

In this conversation, Reuben and Tessa interview Joshua Kerber to discuss the optimization of radon systems in homes. Joshua shares a case study of optimizing a radon system in a new home, highlighting the importance of properly sizing and selecting fans for radon mitigation. To follow along with the case study, check out our slide deck here:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TRrkv4r9vtVqFs_jLNJ8cszgMtj793WZ1cRwTTr7lOY/edit?usp=sharing. They also discuss the impact of household activities on radon systems and the need for proper optimization to reduce operating costs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sealing the sub slab area and the potential use of damper valves to control airflow. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for knowledgeable and skilled radon contractors to ensure effective and efficient radon mitigation. In this conversation, Joshua Kerber discusses various aspects of radon mitigation systems. He explains the installation of ball valves and dampers to control airflow in the system. He also discusses the placement of valves in radon mitigation systems and the potential freezing issues with radon system pipes. The comparison of operating costs between radon fans and continuous run bath fans is explored. The conversation also highlights the inaccurate specifications of commonly installed bath fans and the issues with kitchen exhaust fans. The importance of avoiding cheap DIY radon mitigation systems is emphasized, along with questions to ask radon mitigation contractors and resources to find licensed contractors.

Takeaways

Properly sizing and selecting fans for radon mitigation is crucial for optimizing radon systems in homes.
Sealing the subslab area is an important step in reducing the amount of conditioned air wasted by radon systems.
Household activities can impact the performance of radon systems, and proper optimization is necessary to ensure effective mitigation.
The use of damper valves can help control airflow and reduce operating costs in radon systems.
Knowledgeable and skilled radon contractors are essential for effective and efficient radon mitigation. Ball valves and dampers can be used to control airflow in radon mitigation systems.
Valves are typically installed below the fan and near a suction point location.
Freezing issues can occur with radon system pipes, and dampers should be installed on the inside to prevent freezing.
Radon fans may have higher operating costs compared to continuous run bath fans.
Commonly installed bath fans often do not operate at their specified airflow rates.
Kitchen exhaust fans can have issues with internal dampers and improper installation.
It is important to avoid cheap DIY radon mitigation systems and hire qualified contractors.
Homeowners should ask contractors about their optimization methods and what is needed for the system.
Resources such as government websites can help homeowners find licensed radon mitigation contractors.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Christmas Light Fail
03:08 Introducing Joshua Kerber and His Role at the Minnesota Department of Health
05:45 National Issues in Radon Programs
11:26 Case Study: Optimizing a Radon System in a New Home
17:34 Optimizing Radon Systems with Adjustable Speed Fans
22:11 The Importance of Sealing the Subslab Area
25:00 The Impact of Household Activities on Radon Systems
30:28 The Need for Proper Optimization and Cost Considerations
36:59 Discussion on Damper Valves
39:13 Installation of Ball Valves and Dampers
40:25 Placement of Valves in Radon Mitigation Systems
41:36 Freezing Issues with Radon System Pipes
41:49 Location of Dampers to Prevent Freezing

In this episode, Reuben and Tessa do a year-end wrap-up, discussing their favorite episodes and guests from 2023. They also share personal and professional highlights from the year and give a sneak peek into what's coming up in 2024. The top five most popular episodes of the year are revealed, and the importance of annual planning retreats is discussed. The hosts express their gratitude to the listeners and encourage them to leave ratings and reviews.

Takeaways

Reflecting on the past year and setting goals for the future is important for personal and professional growth.

Favorite episodes and guests can provide inspiration and valuable insights.

The popularity of certain episodes can indicate the interests and needs of the audience.

Personal and professional highlights can include new ventures, accomplishments, and lessons learned.

Annual planning retreats can help set priorities and ensure focus and success in the coming year. Here's the guide Reuben and his wife follow every year: Guide to Couples Goal-Setting Retreat

Gratitude and appreciation for listeners and supporters is essential.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Year-end Wrap-up

01:16 Favorite Episodes and Guests of 2023

03:05 Top Five Most Popular Episodes

07:46 Personal and Professional Highlights of 2023

12:05 Looking Forward to 2024

22:25 Annual Planning Retreat

25:30 Thank You and Closing

In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa interview Jeff May, an expert in indoor air quality and mold. They discuss various topics related to indoor air quality, including whole-house humidifiers, furnace filters, UV filters, standalone air purifiers, heat recovery ventilators, mini-split systems, and carpet cleaning. Jeff provides valuable insights and recommendations for improving indoor air quality and reducing allergens in homes. In this conversation, Jeff May discusses various aspects of indoor air quality and mold issues. He shares tips on cleaning and treating rugs, as well as testing indoor air quality. He also provides insights on finding qualified professionals and using homeowner testing kits. Jeff shares interesting and unusual cases related to indoor air quality, including the impact of sound and pressure. The conversation concludes with closing remarks and information on how to contact Jeff for more information.

Takeaways

• Use trickle-type humidifiers to maintain proper humidity levels in the home.
• Choose disposable filters with higher MERV ratings for better air filtration.
• Avoid using electronic air filters and UV filters as they are less effective.
• Consider using a DIY air purifier with a high-efficiency filter for targeted air filtration.
• Regularly clean and maintain heat recovery ventilators to prevent mold growth.
• Remove carpets or use steam vapor machines for effective carpet cleaning and allergen reduction. Regularly clean and treat rugs to remove dust and allergens.
• Testing indoor air quality involves taking air samples and identifying the source of mold or other contaminants.
• The Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) is a helpful resource for finding qualified professionals.
• Homeowner testing kits are available for testing dust mite allergens, mold, and VOCs.
• Indoor air quality issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including mold, VOCs, and particulate matter.
• Unusual cases of indoor air quality issues can include vibrations from flooring and changes in air pressure.
• Sound and pressure can have an impact on indoor air quality and human health.
• Contact Jeff May at mayindoorair.com for more information on indoor air quality.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction of Jeff May
03:49 Whole House Humidifiers
07:31 Furnace Filters
17:29 UV Filters
20:31 Standalone Air Purifiers
25:24 Heat Recovery Ventilators and Ventilation Strategies
29:13 Mini Split Systems and Mold Growth
33:11 Low Hanging Fruit for Improving Indoor Air Quality
36:56 Carpet Cleaning and Maintenance
37:57 Cleaning and Treating Rugs
40:02 Testing Indoor Air Quality
42:42 Finding Qualified Professionals
43:23 Homeowner Testing Kits
45:18 Identifying Indoor Air Quality Issues
46:38 Unusual Indoor Air Quality Cases
49:28 Effects of Sound and Pressure
51:09 Closing Remarks

In this episode of the Structure Talk Podcast, Reuben and Tessa delve into the world of basement waterproofing companies and the often-misunderstood use of moisture meters. Reuben shares a frustrating experience with installing permanent LED lights, highlighting the challenges and lessons learned. The hosts discuss the common misconception that drain tile systems are a universal solution for all basement water issues, emphasizing the importance of addressing exterior water management. They express the need for a comprehensive approach, envisioning a service that combines various solutions instead of a one-size-fits-all fix. The episode provides valuable insights for homeowners facing basement water problems and encourages a more holistic perspective on waterproofing.

In this insightful podcast episode, Reuben and Tessa delve into an array of technical terms crucial in the realm of home inspection. They elucidate terms such as GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter), AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter), mold, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), crawl space, R-value, efflorescence, and flashing, providing valuable explanations and sharing practical experiences. They underscore the significance of these concepts in the context of home inspections, offering both professional insights and relatable anecdotes. The hosts navigate challenges encountered in the industry, particularly in effectively communicating sensitive issues like mold to homeowners. The conversation expands to include terms like in-slab ductwork, sub-slab ductwork, and transite ductwork. Throughout the discussion, Saltzman and Murry foster audience engagement, encouraging listeners to share feedback and propose topics for future episodes. This podcast segment serves as an informative and engaging exploration of essential terminology in the field of home inspection.

In today’s episode, Reuben and Tessa discuss garage door opener safety and inspection practices. They emphasize key aspects like the proper height of the wall button to prevent children from operating the door, ensuring the electrical connection is directly plugged into an outlet, and inspecting the auto-reverse sensors within six inches of the floor. The hosts share experiences, including the impact test for older garage door openers and the importance of an emergency release kit for garages without alternative entry points. They also touch on potential issues like power outages and tripped GFI outlets that can leave homeowners locked out of their garages. The episode provides valuable insights for home inspectors and homeowners alike.

In this podcast, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry host Kyle Miller from All Around, exploring the nuances of home inspections within Homeowners Associations (HOAs). Kyle emphasizes the critical importance of understanding the division of responsibilities between homeowners and the association, shedding light on financial obligations, liabilities, and the prevalence of water intrusion issues during exterior renovations in multi-family buildings. The discussion covers the need for potential buyers to assess the external maintenance standards of HOA-managed properties, the necessity of inspecting exteriors despite being assumed to be covered by the association, and the challenges of outdated construction methods leading to water-related problems in almost every renovation project. Practical insights on roofing, siding, and window selection offer valuable guidance for potential homebuyers navigating HOA-managed properties.

In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry delve into the unique challenges of home inspection in Arizona with Home Inspector Paul Staron. Their exploration encompasses the distinct nuances of newer constructions, the prevalence of unvented attics, and the transitioning trend towards electric heat pumps within the region. They emphasize the influence of extreme heat on inspections, address air quality concerns in energy-efficient homes, underscore the significance of adhering to safety standards for pools, and stress the value of performance-driven assessments over rigid code compliance. Despite these distinct challenges, the inspection landscape in Arizona exemplifies a remarkable degree of adaptability when compared to colder climates. The discussion sheds light on how these factors contribute to the intricacies of home inspection in the state.

In today’s episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry are joined by Chad Fabry from StructureSmart. The discussion focuses on the unique challenges and characteristics of home inspections in Western New York, particularly in areas with historic homes dating back to the 1700s and 1800s. Chad Fabry shares his expertise in dealing with older houses, highlighting issues related to basements, and crawl spaces, and finishing these spaces. The importance of understanding building science and relying on reliable sources of information for home inspections is emphasized. Chad also discusses his role in teaching continuing education classes for home inspectors in New York. The conversation provides valuable insights for both home inspectors and homeowners dealing with older homes and regional differences in home inspections.

In this podcast episode, Reuben Saltzman of the Structure Talk podcast is joined by Jon Bolton from Inspectagator, a Florida-based home inspection company. They delve into various aspects of home inspections in Florida's unique climate and construction landscape. Florida's hot and humid climate presents distinct challenges, from stucco problems to moisture management. They emphasize the importance of understanding building science principles and the need for proper building materials to withstand weather conditions. Inspectors in Florida must pay close attention to issues related to moisture infiltration, fungal growth, and insulation, especially in hot attic spaces. The conversation also touches on insurance-driven inspection requirements in Florida and how copper water piping can impact coverage. Overall, the discussion sheds light on the intricacies of home inspections in the Sunshine State.