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#677: Live from the Builders’ Show-Part 1

⏱️ 1:02:18 🎤 Randy Williams, Emily Matrum, Travis Rungard, Ben Bogey, Matt Blumquist, Joe Cook
AUDIO EPISODE
#677: Live from the Builders’ Show-Part 1
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Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Titebond Adhesives
    The episode begins with a sponsored message about Titebond construction adhesives for various building applications.
  • 0:37
    Welcome to IBS
    The host welcomes listeners to the special live edition of the podcast from the International Builder Show, recorded in partnership with the BS & Beer Show.
  • 1:50
    Panel Introductions
    The panelists introduce themselves, share their backgrounds, and explain what they hope to gain from attending the Builder Show.
  • 22:09
    BS & Beer Show Origins
    Ben provides a detailed history of the BS & Beer Show, highlighting its community-driven, non-profit approach to sharing building science knowledge and supporting trades education.
  • 33:50
    Next Big Trends
    The panelists discuss what they believe will be the next major trends in home building, including air-to-water heat pumps and panelized construction systems.
  • 40:34
    Aesthetic vs. Performance
    The discussion shifts to balancing aesthetic desires, such as large windows and doors, with building performance and durability, emphasizing that beautiful homes are cared for and last longer.
  • 48:36
    ERV vs. HRV & Moisture
    The team debates the increasing prevalence of ERVs over HRVs, the challenges of moisture management in high-performance homes, and the critical role of dedicated dehumidification.
  • 1:03:35
    Responsible Home Design
    Travis and Emily advocate for smaller, more responsible homes that truly serve occupants' needs, discouraging unnecessary features and promoting education for clients.
  • 1:15:49
    Vapor Control & IAQ
    The conversation addresses vapor control in modern airtight homes, the limitations of computer modeling, and the critical importance of indoor air quality, particularly regarding kitchen ventilation.
  • 1:29:09
    Fire Resistance Products
    Ben highlights new fire-resistant building products, including intumescent-treated siding and fire stops for rain screen assemblies, showcasing innovations in fire safety.
  • 1:32:29
    Teaching High Performance
    Matt discusses his experience teaching high school students high-performance building techniques, emphasizing the simplicity and accessibility of these methods for future builders.
  • 2:52:35
    Golden Age of Info Sharing
    Travis and Ben praise the current era of generous information sharing in the building industry and the importance of supporting reliable journalistic sources like Fine Homebuilding.
  • 3:11:48
    Makeup Air Systems
    The discussion turns to solutions for managing persistent negative pressures from exhaust fans in airtight homes, with emphasis on makeup air systems and their role in maintaining indoor air quality.

Speakers

R
Randy Williams
Green Building Advisor editor
E
Emily Matrum
Host — architect in Maine, co-host of The BS & Beer Show
T
Travis Rungard
Catalyst Construction
B
Ben Bogey
high performance builder in Western Connecticut and Eastern New York
M
Matt Blumquist
building trades instructor in Taylerville, Illinois
J
Joe Cook
high performance builder out of Kansas City

Key Takeaways

✦

Prioritize performance when selecting building materials and systems; look for products that improve efficiency and durability in specific climate zones.

✦

Actively participate in industry communities like the BS & Beer Show to connect with peers, share knowledge, and learn about new building science practices.

✦

Educate clients on the long-term benefits of high-performance building and question the necessity of features that add significant cost or energy load for infrequent use.

✦

Implement comprehensive ventilation strategies, including ERVs and dedicated makeup air systems, to manage moisture, ensure fresh air, and mitigate negative pressures in airtight homes.

✦

Understand that all mechanical systems in high-performance homes require proper design and commissioning to function effectively, particularly for humidity and air quality control.

✦

Stay informed through reputable sources like Fine Homebuilding and Green Building Advisor, as they provide fact-checked information crucial for navigating evolving building codes and technologies.

✦

Consider panelized construction systems to save time and labor on projects, leveraging factory precision for faster, potentially higher-quality framing.

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