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The Build Show Podcast

Latest episodes

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Dec 20, 2024 • 24min

Slab vs. Crawlspaces

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/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: 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.
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Dec 13, 2024 • 23min

Top 5 Mistakes Builders Make (and how to fix them)

Discover the top five blunders Texas builders often make. Learn why placing ductwork in unconditioned attics leads to inefficiencies and mold. Explore the vulnerabilities of flimsy cardboard sheathing and the superiority of durable alternatives. Unmask the myth that homes need to breathe as better airtight designs enhance air quality. Delve into issues with stucco installation and the benefits of using thermally broken frames for windows and doors. Embrace sustainable practices for improved energy efficiency and customer satisfaction.
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Dec 6, 2024 • 27min

Episode 159: Most Awesome Drywall

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. Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.
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Nov 29, 2024 • 32min

Value Engineering Your Plumbing Systems

Join master plumber Eric Aune, aka @mechanicalhub, as he shares his expertise in value engineering plumbing systems. Discover cost-effective strategies that maintain quality, including the shift from copper to PEX for durability and affordability. Eric compares the pros and cons of cast iron versus PVC for drainage systems and highlights the importance of investing in trusted fixtures. The duo emphasizes practical tips for designing accessible, efficient plumbing, ensuring long-term reliability and ease of maintenance.
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Nov 22, 2024 • 38min

Mastering Construction Contracts: Fixed-Price vs. Cost-Plus

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.comFind Jeremy on the web:Instagram: @rishermartinFacebook: 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/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025! Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.
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Nov 15, 2024 • 35min

Let's Renovate A Bathroom

Zack Dettmore, a Build Show expert and host of the series “Let's Renovate a Bathroom,” shares valuable insights into transforming bathrooms. He covers the balance between DIY tasks and hiring professionals, emphasizing practical strategies for renovations. Zack highlights maximizing space with a freestanding shower and the charm of subway tiles. He discusses the importance of craftsmanship, using durable materials, and preserving a home’s history. Listeners are empowered to tackle manageable projects while mastering essential construction skills.
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Nov 12, 2024 • 33min

Lessons Learned from Big Time Failures

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 & @brianlongatx2024Facebook: 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/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025! Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.
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Nov 1, 2024 • 35min

HBA Membership Empowers Builders & Remodelers

Every builder should explore the benefits of joining the local Home Building Association (HBA). Matt sits down with Taylor Jackson, CEO of HBA Greater Austin; they highlight how HBA membership supports builders and remodelers through networking, advocacy, and educational opportunities.Membership provides valuable connections at local, state, and national levels. These include access to standardized contracts and exclusive industry events, like monthly builder councils and training certifications in green building and aging-in-place. The HBA also offers critical support in government relations, advocating for policies that help builders. Notably, the HOME Initiative in Austin has enabled more affordable housing by reducing lot size requirements. Members also benefit from workforce development initiatives, partnering with schools to train the next generation of builders.Matt strongly recommends HBA membership as an affordable way to gain expertise, make lasting industry connections, and enhance professional credibility. Whether you’re a builder, remodeler, or allied professional, joining the HBA offers invaluable resources to stay competitive in today’s housing market.If you’re in Austin or will be here for Build Show LIVE, be sure to join us at HBA Chili Fest presented by Discount Fence. Get tickets HERE.Resources:Texas Association of Builders: https://www.texasbuilders.org/Find HBA of Greater Austin on the web:Home Builders Association of Greater Austin: https://www.hbaaustin.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HBAGreaterAustin/Instagram: @hbaaustinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hbagreateraustin/Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.
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Oct 25, 2024 • 37min

Drywall Secrets Unveiled: Pro Tips for Bidding and Finishing with @drywallshorty

Matt sits down with Lydia, aka @drywallshorty, to talk about essential tips for bidding drywall projects. The conversation, aimed at builders and contractors, covers drywall specifications, the importance of choosing the right materials, and best practices for achieving high-quality results. Lydia emphasizes the need for early discussions with drywall contractors about drywall thickness (1/2” vs. 5/8”), as this affects both pricing and the quality of the final job, particularly in custom homes. 5/8” drywall is preferred for smoother ceilings and better soundproofing.Lydia also highlights the significant differences between drywall manufacturers and advises against using cheap materials, which often increase labor costs. The podcast explores the importance of selecting appropriate corner beads (metal, vinyl, or paper-faced) based on framing quality.They also focus on the different levels of drywall finish, from Level 0 to Level 5, with Level 5 providing a perfectly smooth surface ideal for homes with raking light, dark colors, or high-sheen paints. Lydia stresses that quality drywall work is crucial to a home’s overall appearance and value, as poorly finished drywall can detract from high-end finishes.The episode wraps up with practical tips, including walking job sites before bidding and requesting samples for texture and corner beads. Find Lydia on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/lydiacrowderYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrywallShortyInstagram: @drywallshortyFacebook: facebook.com/drywallshortyTikTok: @drywallshortyFind Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.
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Oct 22, 2024 • 20min

Build Science™ 201

Matt and Steve sit down to talk about the newest installment in the Build Science™ series, Build Science™ 201 . The conversation covers the importance of both Build Science™ 101 & 201 as educational tools for builders, architects, and contractors, emphasizing how these can help improve the understanding and application of advanced building techniques.They reflect on their experience in the field, sharing how they've learned over the years by educating themselves and seeking guidance from mentors, such as Joe Lstiburek, a building science expert. Steve, for instance, worked closely with Joe at Building Science Corporation, where he gained deep insight into construction techniques, especially concerning water mitigation, flashing, and the control of building layers.Matt and Steve discuss how Build Science series provides quizzes and certificates to validate knowledge, making it a valuable tool for training teams. Overall, they stress lifelong learning in the building profession, the importance of understanding building science, and the value of sharing knowledge within the construction community.Resources:Build Science™ 101: https://buildshownetwork.com/bsn-series/build-science-101Build Science™ 201: https://buildshownetwork.com/bsn-series/build-science-201Building Science Corporation: https://buildingscience.com/Find Steve on the Web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/stevebaczekInstagram: @stevenbaczekarchitectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevenbaczekarchitect9431Website: https://stevenbaczekarchitect.com/info/Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

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