Are you ready to nerd out? This week on the Build Podcast, Matt welcomes Deputy Building Official of Beaumont, TX and Host of The ICC Pulse Podcast, Beau Hansen, to explore updates in the 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) and International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) compared to the 2021 version. 

Key changes include tighter blower door score requirements, enhanced moisture management, evolving energy compliance, and more flexible emergency escape provisions. They highlight the importance of builders owning and understanding the code book to improve accountability, reduce job site errors, and improve build quality. Matt & Beau delve into wall and ceiling R-values, exterior insulation strategies, and improvements for mass walls, floors, and windows, emphasizing continuous insulation as a game-changer. 

They conclude with a discussion around inspection challenges and builder responsibilities in unregulated jurisdictions. Both Matt and Beau advocate for broader builder engagement in code development processes. 

Thank you to episode sponsors Huber & Pella. Learn more at huberwood.com & pella.com.

Resources:

• ICC Pulse Podcast on Spotify / Apple Podcasts / YouTube
• Free ICC Resource: https://codes.iccsafe.org/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://buildshownetwork.com/

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Matt continues with Part 2 of  “Ask the Experts” to answer YOUR questions on high-performance homebuilding. Topics range from the feasibility of geothermal HVAC systems in Mississippi to the benefits of pairing ICF foundations with monopoly framing in Michigan. Matt also shares insights on exterior insulation, including ZIP-R sheathing and air sealing strategies for cold climates. He critiques vinyl siding, explains the evolution away from traditional house wraps, and emphasizes the importance of durable, airtight envelopes using modern materials like Huber's ZIP System and fluid-applied barriers. Tune in for practical advice, lessons learned from personal experience, and technical know-how. 

Thank you to our episode sponsors Pella and Therma-Stor (Santa Fe). Learn more at pella.com and thermastor.com/our-brands/santa-fe.

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://buildshownetwork.com/

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Matt goes solo this week to share hard-earned wisdom from his 30-year construction. He outlines three foundational principles that have shaped his success—and helped him recover from serious setbacks.

1. Understand Building Science
Matt emphasizes the importance of knowing how climate, materials, and design affect building durability. Lessons from Portland’s mold crises taught him that “if it can’t dry, it’s going to die.” Builders must master rain control and moisture management to prevent failure and reduce liability.

2. Stop Bidding
He shares a cautionary tale of a low-bid roofing contractor whose shoddy work and fake insurance cost him over $30,000. Instead of free estimates and competitive bidding, Matt now uses pre-construction agreements to ensure clients are committed—and to get paid for his time.

3. Avoid Debt
Matt recounts going hundreds of thousands of dollars into debt during the 2008 recession, even struggling to pay for groceries. He urges builders to stay lean, avoid speculative projects, and budget personally AND professionally. Matt’s advice: “Fire Chuck”—his nickname for the debt he couldn’t get rid of for years.

Matt concludes with a reminder that profit is essential, not shameful. Builders must prioritize long-term sustainability, financial health, and client trust to thrive in a competitive industry.

Thank you to our episode sponsors Rockwool & Pella. Learn more at rockwool.com and pella.com.

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://buildshownetwork.com/

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Matt is joined by Risinger Build Executive Project Manager Daniel Glauser to discuss pre-construction service agreements (PSAs), emphasizing the importance of getting paid for the extensive time and effort builders invest before actual construction begins. They explain how PSAs help weed out unserious clients, foster transparent collaboration with architects and homeowners, and ultimately ensure a smoother, more efficient building process. 

Matt and Daniel outline Risinger Build’s current process, which includes an initial discovery phase, a high-level estimate based on preliminary plans, and a formal PSA requiring a $20,000 deposit billed against their time. This allows them to guide clients early on, avoid surprises, and align budget expectations. They encourage other builders—even those working on smaller projects—to adopt similar practices, advocating for industry-wide change through local builder networks. 

Both Builders encourage others to value their time and expertise and move away from outdated bidding practices that devalue the work they do. By doing so, builders can cultivate better client relationships, make more informed decisions, and improve outcomes for everyone involved in the building process.

Thank you to episode sponsors Huber & Truss. Learn more at huberwood.com & trusspayments.com.

Find Daniel on the Web:

• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/
• Instagram: @risingerbuild_atx & @glauserbuilding

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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The Build Podcast tackles a very timely and top-of-mind topic: tariffs. This episode dives deep into the current (as of April 28, 2025) and forecasted state of the U.S. housing and remodeling industry, with a spotlight on tariffs, economic uncertainty, and demographic trends. Matt is joined by two experts from Zonda (a leading housing data and insights company), Matt & Todd, to discuss how global tariffs are expected to raise material costs by up to 9%, even for companies that don’t directly import goods. The conversation covers how these pressures are reshuffling market share among building product brands, highlighting the rise of private labels and the shifting loyalty to names like Kohler and Moen.

They explore how an aging, wealthier homeowner demographic is driving demand for higher-quality, longer-lasting products—especially in remodeling. They also emphasize a growing labor shortage, suggesting that skilled contractors will become more valuable, with fewer available by 2030.

Zonda’s Matt & Todd unpack the revolution in supply chains: contractors are increasingly purchasing materials via e-commerce and direct-from-manufacturer channels. Digital fluency has become an essential in building materials sourcing and distribution.

Thank you to episode sponsors Huber & Midea. Learn more at huberwood.com & midea.com.

Resources:

• ZondaHome.com

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Welcome to the first official “Ask The Experts” edition of Build. Matt answers real questions from builders, architects, and fans of the show. This episode covers a wide range of high-performance building topics that every pro should consider. 

First, Matt breaks down unvented attic assemblies in LA’s dry climate, offering insulation recommendations and best practices for staying code-compliant without overcomplicating the build. Then, he dives into the hot topic of venting dryers in airtight homes—exploring options like heat pump dryers and makeup air systems.

Next up, a thoughtful discussion on HVAC design in energy-efficient, all-electric homes, especially when working with contractors who size systems by square footage instead of proper Manual J calculations. Matt shares practical advice for builders working in high desert climates and explains the value of multi-stage and VRF equipment. Finally, he addresses one of the most overlooked but crucial areas of waterproofing: sill pans. From stainless steel to PVC, Matt discusses materials, back dam design, and how to prevent rust or water intrusion under doors.

Have a question for Matt (or any of the Build Experts)? Send an email to [email protected] and it might get featured on the next show!

Thank you to episode sponsors Mbrico & Pella. Learn more at mbricotiledecks.com & pella.com.

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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What makes a great project manager in the residential construction world? Matt and Risinger Build business partner, Tim Hill, sit down to discuss what they’ve come to define as a GREAT project manager. Drawing on years of experience, they identify five essential qualities: 

1. Leadership
2. Collaboration
3. Communication
4. Work Ethic
5. People Management

Great project managers earn the respect of their teams through fairness, transparency, and deep knowledge. They must also collaborate effectively with everyone involved—from clients and design professionals to subcontractors and suppliers. Strong communication skills are key, with an emphasis on sharing updates early and often, especially when things go wrong. Weekly written progress reports, regular client meetings, and proactive problem-solving help keep projects on track. A solid work ethic is another cornerstone: successful PMs do whatever the project demands, even if that means working late or on weekends. They’re not just clocking hours—they’re taking ownership. People management, the fifth trait, ties everything together. PMs need emotional intelligence, adaptability, and the ability to influence and motivate a wide range of personalities. 

Matt and Tim also discuss the value of critical and logical thinking, which underpins all five qualities. They recommend using tools like PSP testing to evaluate applicants’ soft skills and cognitive strengths. Tune in for practical guidance for builders aiming to grow exceptional teams.

Thank you to episode sponsor Viewrail! Learn more at viewrail.com.

Find Tim on the Web:

• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/
• Instagram: @risingerbuild_atx & @tim_risingerbuild

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://buildshownetwork.com/

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Matt welcomes fellow Build Expert, Travis Brungardt, back to the studio for a “back to basics” conversation: HVAC 101, which includes foundational concepts, practical advice, and common mistakes in residential HVAC systems. Emphasizing the importance of proper planning, they stress starting with accurate manual J load calculations to avoid outdated “rules of thumb” like sizing based solely on square footage. 

Matt & Travis also break down the crucial roles of manuals D (duct design), S (equipment selection), and T (terminations). Both champion rigid metal ductwork for optimal airflow, using minimal flex duct only at final connections to reduce noise. Also, they warn against unconditioned attic duct runs and advocate for dedicated return ducts in each major room to maintain balanced airflow and comfort. The conversation explores the pros and cons of two-stage and variable-speed systems, promotes ductless mini-splits for additions, and strongly advises against zone damper systems due to reliability issues.

They also highlight the importance of user education: set thermostats and forget them, avoid "fan on" mode, and design systems for future maintenance access. Matt and Travis remind builders that a well-designed and properly installed HVAC system not only improves energy efficiency but also delivers lasting comfort and better indoor air quality. 

To see a practical application of the strategies outlined in today’s episode, check out Prairie Sun & Timber, a Build Original® series hosted by Travis.

Thank you to episode sponsors Pella & Huber! Learn more at pella.com and huberwood.com.

Find Travis on the Web:

• Build Original Series®: Prairie Sun & Timber
• Travis’ Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/travisbrungardt
• Travis’ Instagram: @catalystbuilt
• Travis’ Website: https://www.catalystbuilt.com/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Websites: https://risingerbuild.com/ & https://buildshownetwork.com/

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Matt and his business partner, Tim Hill, dive deep into the realities of profitability in the construction industry. Recorded in the brand-new Risinger Build studio, Matt & Tim share a candid conversation about the challenges general contractors, home builders, and remodelers face when it comes to profit margins, client expectations, and project planning. Despite the common misconception that builders are highly profitable, they reveal that average net profits hover around just 5–6%. This low margin—combined with high risk—requires smart planning, detailed pre-construction processes, and disciplined financial management to ensure long-term sustainability.

Matt and Tim stress the importance of transparency in pricing and standing firm on realistic budgets, even if it risks losing a job. They warn against chasing "portfolio projects" that look good on paper but lead to financial losses and client frustration. A major theme is the need for builders to carefully align with clients, architects, and budgets before contracts are signed to avoid scope creep and misaligned expectations.

Not only do Matt & Tim discuss the “what” and the “why” of profit margins but also share the “how” to manage profit and loss statements effectively, including separating direct costs, indirect costs, and overhead.

Thank you to episode sponsor Arclin! Learn more about their brand-new product, Firepoint: https://firepoint.arclin.com/.

Find Tim on the Web:

• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/
• Instagram: @risingerbuild_atx & @tim_risingerbuild

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://buildshownetwork.com/

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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It’s an IAQ Deep Dive…part two! Matt welcomes Sean Harris back to the studio to continue their discussion indoor air quality improvements for existing homes, focusing on mold prevention, HVAC upgrades, filtration, and dehumidification—especially in hot, humid climates like Texas. Sean emphasizes that mold issues often stem from leaky ductwork in unconditioned spaces, poor ventilation, and high humidity, leading to compromised air quality. Instead of cleaning mold, he recommends removing contaminated materials and improving source control.

For HVAC systems, Sean suggests keeping ductwork in conditioned space, using MERV 13+ filters, and installing a ventilating dehumidifier to maintain humidity below 50%. He warns against running HVAC fans continuously, as this can pull humid air into the system, worsening mold issues. He also recommends in-room HEPA filtration (isuch as IQAir or Austin Air) over whole-home air purifiers.

They discuss (and advise against) gimmicky air purification methods like UV lights and ionizers, which can create harmful byproducts. Instead, homeowners should monitor IAQ with smart sensors, track humidity, and optimize their home’s ventilation and filtration. Sean emphasizes "optimization over maximization"—cost-effective solutions like air sealing, replacing moldy ductwork, and using high-quality air filters rather than full HVAC overhauls.

Both Matt & Sean encourage homeowners to prioritize practical, science-backed IAQ improvements for a healthier living environment.

Thank you to episode sponsor Mbrico. Learn more at mbricotiledecks.com.

Find Sean Harris on the Web:

• Website: https://iaqtexas.com/
• Instagram: @aerosealofaustin
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IAQTexas/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.