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#676: Drywall Sanders, Collapsing Foundations, and Post-Frame Posts

⏱️ 43:43 🎀 Patrick McCombe, Travis Brugard, Randy Williams, Nate Groka
AUDIO EPISODE
#676: Drywall Sanders, Collapsing Foundations, and Post-Frame Posts
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Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Titebond Adhesives
    The episode opens with a commercial for Titebond construction adhesives, highlighting their variety and performance for building projects.
  • 0:46
    Podcast Introduction
    Patrick McCome introduces special guests Travis Brugard and Randy Williams, along with producer Nate Groka, welcoming listeners to the Fine Homebuilding podcast.
  • 3:05
    Travis's Background
    Travis Brugard shares details about his high-performance custom home building business, Catalyst Construction, and his involvement in building science initiatives.
  • 5:22
    Randy's Background
    Randy Williams discusses his transition from general contractor to energy auditing and building investigation, focusing on home energy assessments.
  • 11:26
    Building Science Symposiums
    Travis and Randy explain the origins and expansion of the Building Science Symposium series, emphasizing its partnership with Fine Homebuilding and its community-focused approach.
  • 20:11
    Drywall Sanders
    The hosts and guests discuss the benefits of using drywall sanders, with Travis highlighting their efficiency and cleanliness, and Randy sharing his experience with professional drywall work.
  • 30:01
    Collapsing Foundations
    Adam from Chitango's question about replacing a collapsing foundation with a permanent wood foundation sparks a discussion on potential solutions and challenges, including ICFs and soil pressure.
  • 47:30
    Post-Frame Posts
    Paul from Stanford, Vermont, suggests using utility pole preservation techniques for Barnaminium posts, leading to a conversation about the pros and cons of burying posts versus above-grade solutions.
  • 53:45
    Final Thoughts & Plugs
    Travis and Randy offer final words of wisdom, with Travis reiterating the value of the Building Science Symposiums and Randy encouraging contributions to GBA and Fine Homebuilding.

Speakers

P
Patrick McCombe
Host β€” senior editor
T
Travis Brugard
contractor, FHB contributor, host of the BSN Beer show on GBA, Catalyst Construction
R
Randy Williams
contractor, FHB and GBA contributor, building scientist
N
Nate Groka
Host β€” producer

Key Takeaways

✦

For any drywall project larger than a small bathroom, invest in a dedicated drywall sander for improved cleanliness and reduced labor.

✦

Consider an energy audit before making significant home modifications, as even minor changes can impact a home's air tightness and safety, potentially leading to issues like backdrafting appliances or attic condensation.

✦

When tackling extensive renovation work, especially involving drywall, prepare clients for the inevitable spread of fine dust, despite robust dust control measures.

✦

For foundation repairs, especially in challenging soil conditions, explore alternatives to permanent wood foundations like Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) or Perfect Block for potentially faster and more durable results.

✦

When building post-frame structures (Barnaminiums), prioritize keeping posts above grade using steel saddles and concrete piers to avoid rot and potential chemical exposure in residential spaces.

✦

Participating in community events like the Building Science Symposiums offers valuable networking, learning opportunities, and supports trade education, providing a high return on a modest investment.

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