Matt Risinger sits down with James Bourget and Dan Edelman to explore exterior insulation, with a focus on mineral wool and stone wool assemblies for high-performance homes. The conversation looks at how continuous exterior insulation affects durability, moisture management, vapor permeability, fire resilience, insect resistance, and long-term building performance. James shares building science insights from his work with RDH, while Dan discusses practical installation methods, material characteristics, and real-world applications across different climate zones. Matt, James, and Dan also challenge common assumptions about wall assemblies, discuss the “perfect wall” concept, and examine how exterior insulation can support energy efficiency, resilience, and healthier building envelopes. 

Huge thanks to our episode sponosr, NuvoH2O. Learn more at: https://nuvoh2o.com/

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On this episode of the Build Show podcast, host Matt Risinger sits down with James from RDH Building Science to unpack what a building science consultant actually does. Rather than focusing on litigation and failure investigation, the conversation centers on bringing consultants in early to prevent problems before they start. They cover building enclosures as systems, condensation and dew point analysis, climate-specific design strategies, and how risk management benefits both builders and homeowners. The discussion also touches on wildfire-resistant window testing, including tempered glass and frame performance under fire conditions.

Huge thanks to our sponsor, Huber Engineered Woods. Learn more at: https://www.huberwood.com

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On this episode of the Build Show podcast, host Matt Risinger sits down with Jim Gunn of South Pass Design Build in San Antonio, Texas — the builder behind the Build Show's live tour house. The conversation centers on the newly developed Build HD standard, a streamlined framework that builds on code to prioritize water management, air control, structural performance, and durability. Jim explains how the standard helps translate complex building science into clear expectations for trades and design decisions, from mechanical room placement to monopoly framing using Huber ZIP System sheathing. The two dig into why building to code alone isn't enough, and how thoughtful systems thinking from the design phase forward leads to homes built to last. 

Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Pella. Learn more at: https://www.pella.com/

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In this episode of the Origin Series, Matt Risinger sits down with architect and builder Jim Gunn of SouthPass Design | Build to explore the path that led him into the design-build world. Gunn reflects on growing up around engineering and construction, his winding route through college, architecture school, and early career experiences, and how those influences shaped his approach to residential design and building. The conversation examines the relationship between architects, builders, and homeowners, highlighting the advantages of integrating design and construction under one roof. Risinger and Gunn also discuss budgeting, project management, and the value of involving builders early in the design process while previewing the upcoming Build Show Live demonstration home. 

Huge thanks to our podcast sponsor, Arclin for supporting this episode and showcasing its Firepoint fire-resistant structural sheathing technology. 

To learn more visit: https://www.Firepoint.Arclin.com

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Matt Risinger sits down with Jordan Smith of Smith House Co. to discuss the evolving role of inspections, permitting, and building codes in custom residential construction. Smith explains how code compliance impacts everything from framing and mechanical systems to scheduling and client expectations, especially as energy codes and inspection requirements become more demanding. The conversation explores the relationship between builders and inspectors, the importance of documentation and communication on site, and how experienced builders navigate gray areas between minimum code standards and higher-performance construction practices. They also touch on regional differences in enforcement, inspection delays, and the challenge of balancing craftsmanship, efficiency, and compliance throughout the building process. 

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In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt Risinger sits down with Jordan Smith to work through the full spectrum of residential HVAC mechanical systems — from the bare minimum to the over-engineered. The conversation moves quickly from what not to do (single-stage compressors with flex duct in unconditioned attics) to what actually performs: separate air handlers per floor, dedicated dehumidification, and ERV systems for continuous fresh air. For two-story homes, both agree that zone dampers are a dead end and that two independent systems are the only real solution. The middle-ground sweet spot they land on is dual single-stage units paired with at least one dehumidifier and a basic fresh-air intake strategy. A recurring theme is that equipment brand matters far less than installer quality — a well-installed Goodman beats a poorly installed premium unit every time. 

Huge thanks to our episode sponsor,  JELD-WEN. Learn more at: https://www.jeld-wen.com/en-us

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Matt Risinger welcomes Kristof Irwin of Positive Energy for a deep discussion on the relationship between HVAC design, moisture management, and high-performance construction. Irwin explains how modern homes require a systems-based approach, where airtight enclosures, ventilation, and properly sized mechanical equipment all work together to improve comfort and indoor air quality. The conversation also covers humidity control, energy modeling, and the growing need for testing and verification as building standards evolve. Matt and Kristof discuss how builders, architects, and HVAC professionals coordinate early in the design phase to avoid performance issues later in construction. 

Huge thanks to our episode sponsor,  JELD-WEN. Learn more at: https://www.jeld-wen.com/en-us

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Matt Risinger sits down with Kristof Irwin of Positive Energy to discuss how mechanical systems, enclosure design, and building science work together in high-performance homes. Irwin explains how HVAC design impacts comfort, humidity control, indoor air quality, and long-term durability, especially in challenging climates. The conversation explores right-sizing equipment, balancing ventilation with airtight construction, and using data-driven testing to verify performance. They also touch on homeowner expectations, evolving energy standards, and the importance of integrating architects, builders, and mechanical designers early in the process. 

Huge thanks to our episode sponsor JELD-WEN. Learn more at: https://www.jeld-wen.com/en-us

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Matt Risinger talks with Jason Todd of TimberHP about the growing role of wood fiber insulation in high-performance construction. Todd explains how wood-based insulation products fit into modern wall assemblies, offering vapor-open performance, thermal control, and compatibility with airtight building strategies. The discussion covers manufacturing, supply chain challenges, and how these materials compare to foam and mineral wool in durability and environmental impact. They also touch on prefabrication, evolving building codes, and the shift toward low-carbon materials in residential construction. 

Huge thanks to our episode sponsors, Huber Engineered Woods and Pella Windows.  Learn more at: 

https://www.huberwood.com/

https://www.pella.com/

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Matt Risinger sits down with Bill Graber and Steve Rogers of The Energy Conservatory to explore how diagnostic testing informs high-performance construction. The conversation centers on blower door testing, pressure mapping, and airflow measurement as tools to verify airtightness and identify leakage pathways. They discuss how builders and energy raters use data to refine building enclosures, improve indoor air quality, and coordinate HVAC system performance. The group also touches on evolving codes, training, and the growing expectation for measurable results in residential construction. 

Huge thanks to our podcast episode Huber Engineered Woods.  Learn more at: https://www.huberwood.com

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