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#695: Saving Bricks, Cut and Cobble Insulation, and Waterproofing Foundations

⏱️ 43:29 🎀 Patrick McCombe, Ian Schwandt, Brian Pontolilo, Cari Delahanty
AUDIO EPISODE
#695: Saving Bricks, Cut and Cobble Insulation, and Waterproofing Foundations
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Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Anderson 100 Series Windows
    The hosts promote Anderson 100 Series products as a strong and affordable alternative to vinyl windows.
  • 0:53
    Fine Homebuilding Summit
    Details are shared about the upcoming Fine Homebuilding Summit in Massachusetts, inviting listeners to attend and use a discount code.
  • 3:38
    Weather and Resilience
    The team discusses recent severe weather events and the concept of resilient homebuilding, particularly in relation to budget constraints and mass-produced homes.
  • 2:07
    Resilience vs. Budget
    Discussion centers on balancing resilience in homebuilding with practical budget considerations, especially in the context of custom versus production homes.
  • 26:40
    Paint Stripper Test
    Patrick shares insights from testing various paint strippers for an upcoming article, noting the different performances on wood versus masonry.
  • 35:03
    Chicago Bricks Resale
    A listener shares information about the resale value of old bricks, known as 'Chicago bricks,' and their potential for reuse.
  • 42:09
    Podcast Volume Feedback
    The hosts address listener feedback about podcast volume, making adjustments to improve audibility for listeners in noisy environments.
  • 46:52
    Unvented Roof Insulation
    Jen asks for advice on insulating a low-slope, unvented roof from the interior, seeking alternatives to spray foam like cut and cobble insulation.
  • 1:15:25
    Foundation Waterproofing Benefits
    A listener asks for arguments to convince their builder to use proper waterproofing instead of damp proofing, discussing the issue of concrete drying.
  • 1:33:20
    Cost of Quality Waterproofing
    Ian details the material and labor costs for his high-quality foundation waterproofing, emphasizing its long-term value and peace of mind.

Speakers

P
Patrick McCombe
Host β€” Senior Editor
I
Ian Schwandt
Host β€” Fine Homebuilding Contributing Editor and Production Manager for TDS Custom Construction
B
Brian Pontolilo
Host β€” Fine Homebuilding Editorial Director
C
Cari Delahanty
Host β€” Producer

Key Takeaways

✦

Consider Anderson 100 Series products as a cost-effective, stronger alternative to vinyl windows, especially for durability in high heat.

✦

Attend industry summits like the Fine Homebuilding Summit to gain insights from leaders and network with peers.

✦

Integrate data loggers for monitoring environmental conditions in your home, as they are now affordable and provide valuable information.

✦

When building a resilient home on a budget, prioritize air sealing and consider the long-term savings from reduced insurance rates or energy costs.

✦

For unvented roof assemblies, ensure a robust interior air barrier and consider monitoring moisture levels, as some alternative insulation methods (like cellulose) are showing promise.

✦

Invest in quality foundation waterproofing, even if it adds to initial costs, as it prevents long-term moisture issues and is difficult to correct later.

✦

When using paint strippers, especially newer eco-friendly versions, allow ample time for the product to work as they are generally slower than older formulations.

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