Matt is solo this week for an in-depth discussion on spray foam insulation, focusing on the differences between closed-cell and open-cell foam and the benefits of creating a conditioned attic space. Traditionally, HVAC systems and ductwork are placed in unconditioned attics in the South, leading to energy loss, duct leakage, and humidity issues. By using spray foam insulation at the roofline, homeowners can effectively seal and condition their attic, improving efficiency and reducing moisture problems.

Matt highlights Owens Corning Ultra-Pure Natural Polymers closed-cell spray foam as his preferred insulation choice, citing its high R-value (~R7 per inch), low VOC emissions, excellent air sealing, and moisture resistance. Unlike open-cell foam, which can allow vapor to pass through, closed-cell acts as a Class II vapor retarder, preventing moisture accumulation at the roof deck. This is crucial in humid climates where improper insulation can lead to condensation issues, a phenomenon known as "ping pong water" that can cause long-term damage to the roof structure.

For humidity control, Matt advises builders to install dehumidifiers or controlled air supply in conditioned attics to maintain proper moisture levels. He also stresses the importance of hiring experienced spray foam contractors, ensuring the correct thickness and installation quality.

Another key topic is roof durability and leak prevention. Matt recommends using full peel-and-stick underlayment beneath metal or tile roofs for long-term water protection. He debunks the myth that spray foam prevents leaks, explaining that small, intermittent leaks can go undetected, leading to hidden rot over time.

Tune in for everything you need to know (and more!) about spray foam insulation.

Thank you to our episode sponsor Aquor Water Systems. Learn more at aquorwatersystems.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://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/ 

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

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Live from the ROCKWOOL studio, Matt and Steve explore how to design and construct homes optimized for extreme health, focusing on mold resistance, superior indoor air quality (IAQ), and moisture control. They discuss essential strategies such as building tight, well-ventilated homes to prevent mold growth, using high-performance dehumidifiers, and implementing advanced HVAC systems with MERV 13+ or HEPA filtration. Matt and Steve highlight the importance of managing bulk water through proper site grading, overhangs, and pitched roofs while also considering leak detection systems and waterproofed mechanical rooms.

For improved air quality, Matt and Steve emphasize eliminating duct board, minimizing flex duct, and opting for metal ductwork, which is easier to clean and prevents microbial growth. They also discuss alternatives to standard drywall, such as fiberglass-faced drywall, American clay plaster, or traditional lath and plaster to reduce mold risk. Additionally, ductless HVAC systems, like mini-splits, can further enhance IAQ by eliminating dust-collecting ductwork.

The episode also touches on cost considerations, with case studies showing how clients with severe allergies or mold sensitivities have significantly benefited from controlled indoor environments. Whether you're a builder, architect, or homeowner looking to create a healthier home, this episode provides expert insights into mold-resistant construction, high-IAQ design, and smart moisture management. Listen now for a deep dive into building science solutions for extreme health.

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

Find Steve on the Web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/stevebaczek
• Instagram: @stevenbaczekarchitect
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevenbaczekarchitect9431
• Website: https://stevenbaczekarchitect.com/info/

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 Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

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

Find Jeremy on the web:

• Instagram: @rishermartin
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RisherMartin/ 
• Houzz: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/rishermartin-fine-homes-pfvwus-pf~2046903330? 
• Website: https://www.rishermartin.com/ 

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

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Matt does a deep dive into foundations and why one foundation might be a better choice than another, depending on your location.

Many foundation styles came about because of frost-line differences. Northern builders might have a 3-foot frost line, which means it's necessary to dig below the frost line to avoid freeze-to-thaw issues in the wintertime. In other parts of the country, there might be a 1-foot frost line so a crawlspace makes the most sense. Finally, in the South and parts of the country with almost no freeze-to-thaw issues, slab on grade works great with a foundation embedded 12 - 18 inches into the existing soil.

Matt considers how a foundation should be done when keeping ducts inside the conditioned space of a home. He focuses on crawlspaces versus slab on grade, with an emphasis on HVAC systems inside the conditioned envelope.

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

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

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

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

This week, Matt goes solo to highlight five common construction mistakes made by Texas builders and offers practical solutions to improve building quality.

1. Ductwork in Hot Attics
   Placing ducts in unconditioned attics leads to inefficiency, mold growth, and energy loss. Builders should relocate ducts into conditioned spaces using techniques like closed-cell foam insulation or innovative Rheia duct systems.
2. Cardboard Sheathing
   Flimsy, paper-based sheathing lacks durability and fails to resist air and water infiltration. Durable materials like plywood, OSB, or Huber ZIP-System sheathing offer superior performance and longevity.
3. "Houses Need to Breathe" Myth
   Air leaks degrade indoor air quality and cause microbial growth. Builders should create airtight homes with proper ventilation systems, such as ERVs or HRVs, and incorporate dehumidifiers for moisture control.
4. Poor Stucco Installation
   Improper stucco systems fail when exposed to irrigation. Using resilient materials and ensuring proper drainage can prevent structural degradation and water damage.
5. Steel Windows and Doors
   Non-thermally broken steel frames cause condensation, leading to damage. Thermally broken frames, wood-clad windows, or triple-glazed options are better choices for Texas’s climate.

Matt emphasizes sustainable building practices and learning from past mistakes to Know Better. Build Better.™ He encourages builders to adopt modern techniques to improve energy efficiency, durability, and customer satisfaction.

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @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 Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, host Matt Risinger is joined by Lydia Crowder, better known as "Drywall Shorty," a seasoned second-generation drywall contractor from Bozeman, Montana. Together, they dive into the secrets of achieving flawless drywall results, focusing on the critical details that set high-quality builders apart from the competition. Lydia emphasizes the importance of proper framing, noting that uneven or crooked framing creates challenges that cannot be fully corrected with shims or mud. Climate control is another essential factor, as drywall and its compounds are highly sensitive to changes in moisture and temperature. Without consistent conditions, builders risk issues like swelling, shrinkage, or screw pops that compromise the finish.

The conversation also explores the growing demand for modern architectural designs, such as floor-to-ceiling windows and clean, minimalist interiors, which leave little room to hide imperfections. Matt and Lydia discuss the value of temporary jobsite conditioning, such as using air conditioning in hot, humid climates or dehumidifiers in wet conditions, to ensure materials remain stable and perform as expected. Lydia shares practical advice on pre-drywall inspections, framing techniques, and the use of engineered lumber, all aimed at producing high-quality, lasting results.

The episode highlights Lydia’s extensive expertise and her role as an educator in the construction industry, where she has built a significant online following. Matt also promotes the upcoming Build Show Live event in Austin, Texas, where industry experts and educators will gather to share insights and foster growth within the building community.

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Matt teams up with master plumber Eric Aune, aka @mechanicalhub, to explore the “art” of value engineering plumbing systems. They dive right into cost-effective strategies that don’t compromise quality.

Matt and Eric cover the shift from traditional materials like copper to modern solutions such as PEX and PERT, highlighting their affordability, durability, and ease of installation. They also discuss the evolution from cast iron to PVC for drainage, weighing the pros and cons of each.

For homeowners and builders, they stress the importance of investing in high-quality fixtures from trusted brands like Kohler, Moen, and Delta, to avoid costly replacements. They also explore the long-term benefits of durable options like cast iron tubs versus fiberglass alternatives.

They wrap-up with practical tips for designing plumbing systems with maintenance and accessibility in mind, such as using removable walls behind washers and adding floor drains to prevent water damage.

Whether you’re a builder, plumber, or homeowner, this episode offers practical advice on creating efficient, reliable plumbing systems. Don’t miss this engaging discussion with two industry pros!

Find Eric on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/ericaune
• Instagram: @mechanicalhub
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mechanicalhub
• YouTube: https://www.tiktok.com/@mechanicalhub_eric
• Website: https://mechanical-hub.com/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @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 Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Live from the ROCKWOOL studio, Matt discusses the pros and cons of fixed-price and cost-plus construction contracts with guest Jeremy Martin, co-owner of Risher Martin, a leading custom homebuilder in Austin. Jeremy shares his firm’s unique approach to fixed-price contracts, emphasizing rigorous pre-construction planning and detailed specifications to ensure predictable budgets and schedules. This method fosters trust and minimizes change orders by clearly defining project scopes, materials, and allowances upfront.

Jeremy explains that fixed-price contracts work even for large-scale renovations by incorporating allowances for potential issues like structural damage. Pre-construction, often a nine to fifteen-month process, includes site inspections, constructability reviews, and close collaboration with architects and designers. While these efforts are treated as a "loss leader," they set the stage for efficient, on-time construction. 

Matt contrasts this with his cost-plus model, which offers clients transparency through access to detailed invoices and flexible budgeting. However, he acknowledges that cost-plus often involves making decisions during construction, increasing the potential for delays or unexpected costs.

Both agree on the importance of peer-to-peer collaboration and continuous learning to navigate industry challenges. They highlight how thoughtful planning and communication can lead to client satisfaction and successful project execution, making it a valuable listen for builders, homeowners, and industry professionals. 

Thank you to episode sponsors:

• Viewrail: learn more at https://www.viewrail.com/
• Benjamin Obdyke: learn more and request your sample kit at buildbetter.com

Find Jeremy on the web:

• Instagram: @rishermartin
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RisherMartin/
• Houzz: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/rishermartin-fine-homes-pfvwus-pf~2046903330?
• Website: https://www.rishermartin.com/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @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 Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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This week, Matt chats with fellow Build Show Expert, Zack Dettmore, about his brand-new Build Original Series “Let’s Renovate A Bathroom.” The series follows Zack through a bathroom renovation, offering practical advice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. They discuss balancing tasks homeowners can tackle, such as framing, trim, and using accessible materials like Schluter KERDI-BOARD, with jobs best left to licensed pros, such as complex plumbing and electrical work. The goal is to empower listeners with the confidence to take on manageable projects while ensuring high-quality results. 

The featured project is an 8x9 bathroom remodel, blending functionality and timeless design. Zack explains how to maximize space with a freestanding shower, bathtub, toilet, and vanity, while preserving the home’s 1910 charm through subway tiles and hexagonal patterns. His approach prioritizes practical, durable choices, such as using self-leveling compounds for flooring instead of intricate structural adjustments and a curb shower design to simplify waterproofing for DIYers. 

Beyond technical advice, Zack frames bathroom renovations as an excellent gateway for mastering construction skills like tiling, carpentry, and drywall. He stresses the importance of craftsmanship, using durable materials, and respecting the home's history. 

Find Zack on the Web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/zackdettmore
• Instagram: @dettmore101
• Website: https://www.dettmore.com/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @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 Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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Live from the Rockwool studios, Matt talks with Brian Long to explore the challenges and advancements in the custom home building industry. They emphasize the need for higher standards in construction, including licensing for general contractors and increased education through trade schools. Their conversation highlights strategies to compete against lower-cost builders by focusing on detailed budgets, premium materials, and superior waterproofing, offering long-term value to clients. 

Matt and Brian delve into the importance of proper budgeting, explaining how missing line items, such as rain screens or high-end windows, often lead to underestimated costs. They discuss cutting-edge products like Illuma Flash waterproofing systems and Brombal’s Italian-made windows, showcasing how modern innovations enhance durability, efficiency, and aesthetics. In an industry where building science evolves rapidly, these materials are crucial for creating homes that withstand environmental challenges, especially in modern architectural designs with minimal tolerance for error. 

Additionally, they underscore the importance of professionalism and client education. Brian shares how he walks clients through construction details, showcasing the craftsmanship and thoughtfulness behind each element. Both Matt and Brian advocate for greater respect for tradespeople, urging builders to pursue continuous learning and excellence in their work. 

Find Brian on the web:

• Instagram: @brianlongcustomhomes & @brianlongatx2024
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brianlongcustomhomes/
• Website: https://brianlongcustomhomes.com/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @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 Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

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