Why Every Custom Builder Needs a Building Science Consultant

Why Every Custom Builder Needs a Building Science Consultant

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 [https://www.huberwood.com]   Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.  https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork [https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=p85zv0QbIImAqwD7&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BQctGL1Ht%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#] https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/ [https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/] https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger [https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger]   Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter [https://buildshownetwork.com/newsletter#mc_embed_signup].

Why Building to Code Isn't Enough — The Build HD Standard Explained

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/ [https://www.pella.com/] Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.  https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork [https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=p85zv0QbIImAqwD7&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BQctGL1Ht%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#] https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/ [https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/] https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger [https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger]   Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter [https://buildshownetwork.com/newsletter#mc_embed_signup].

The Origin Series: Jim Gunn, Architect/Builder of Southpass Design | Build

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 [https://www.firepoint.arclin.com/] Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.  https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork [https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=p85zv0QbIImAqwD7&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BQctGL1Ht%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#] https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/ [https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/] https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger [https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger]   Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter [https://buildshownetwork.com/newsletter#mc_embed_signup].

Inspections and Codes, What Do You Really Need?

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.  Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, NuvoH2O. Learn more at: https://nuvoh2o.com/ Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.  https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork [https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=p85zv0QbIImAqwD7&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BQctGL1Ht%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#] https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/ [https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/] https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger [https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger]   Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter [https://buildshownetwork.com/newsletter#mc_embed_signup].

Cheapest Good Mechanicals

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 [https://www.jeld-wen.com/en-us] Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.  https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork [https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=p85zv0QbIImAqwD7&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BQctGL1Ht%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#] https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/ [https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/] https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger [https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger]   Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter [https://buildshownetwork.com/newsletter#mc_embed_signup].