The Build Show Podcast

Spray Foam Insulation Pt 2 Myths Busted

Matt Risinger continues his deep dive into spray foam insulation, part two, sorting the genuine benefits from the marketing hype. He unpacks common myths—claims that foam pays for itself, blocks sound, or solves every building problem—and explains why cavity insulation alone doesn't guarantee air sealing. He covers the real risks of open cell foam in humid attics, addresses whether spray foam is banned in Europe (it isn't, though regulations are tightening), and shares practical hybrid approaches combining closed cell foam with other insulation types for cost and performance balance.  This episode is a continuation of our discussion on spray foam insulation. If you haven't seen Part 1: "Spray Foam Insulation: Hype vs. Reality," be sure to watch it first for the full context: https://buildshownetwork.com/contents/8214 [https://buildshownetwork.com/contents/8214] 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 Future of Home Building: AI, Digital Twins & Smarter Workflows

Matt Risinger is joined by Ryan and Ty from Digs to explore practical ways artificial intelligence is improving residential construction. Rather than focusing on AI hype, the conversation centers on how builders can use connected project data, digital twins, and construction-specific tools to streamline estimating, organize documentation, simplify homeowner handoffs, and improve warranty support. The discussion also looks at how better information management can strengthen the client experience, support long-term home maintenance, and create lasting value for builders and homeowners alike. Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Pella. To learn more visit: 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].

Spray Foam Insulation Hype vs Reality

Matt Risinger takes a balanced, evidence-based look at spray foam insulation, separating common misconceptions from practical building science. He compares open-cell and closed-cell spray foam, explains where each performs best, and discusses topics including air sealing, vapor control, indoor air quality, installation risks, and long-term durability. Matt also explores how spray foam compares with fiberglass, mineral wool, and other insulation options, while outlining situations where hybrid insulation assemblies make more sense. Rather than promoting or dismissing spray foam, he focuses on proper installation, climate-specific design, and choosing the right insulation strategy for high-performance homes. This episode is presented without a sponsor to provide an unbiased discussion. 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].

Building Science 101: Understanding Vapor Control

Matt Risinger explores one of the most misunderstood topics in building science: vapor control. Sponsored by Huber Engineered Woods, the episode explains why managing moisture is less about stopping vapor and more about preventing condensation inside building assemblies. Using a replay from the Building Science 101 series with Steve Baczek, Matt breaks down how vapor moves through walls, roofs, and floors, why climate and material selection matter, and how builders can make smarter decisions about vapor retarders and air barriers. The conversation focuses on practical building science principles that improve durability, moisture management, and long-term building performance rather than relying on outdated rules of thumb. Huge thanks to our episode sponspr, 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].

Three Keys To Winning In The GC Business | The Build Podcast Friday Flashback

Happy 4th of July Build Show Friends! This week, we’re throwing it back to one of the greatest hits of Season 5. Matt will be back next week with an all-new episode. Enjoy! —— Matt goes solo this week to share hard-earned wisdom from his 30-year construction. He outlines three foundational principles that have shaped his success—and helped him recover from serious setbacks. 1. Understand Building Science Matt emphasizes the importance of knowing how climate, materials, and design affect building durability. Lessons from Portland’s mold crises taught him that “if it can’t dry, it’s going to die.” Builders must master rain control and moisture management to prevent failure and reduce liability. 2. Stop Bidding He shares a cautionary tale of a low-bid roofing contractor whose shoddy work and fake insurance cost him over $30,000. Instead of free estimates and competitive bidding, Matt now uses pre-construction agreements to ensure clients are committed—and to get paid for his time. 3. Avoid Debt Matt recounts going hundreds of thousands of dollars into debt during the 2008 recession, even struggling to pay for groceries. He urges builders to stay lean, avoid speculative projects, and budget personally AND professionally. Matt’s advice: “Fire Chuck”—his nickname for the debt he couldn’t get rid of for years. Matt concludes with a reminder that profit is essential, not shameful. Builders must prioritize long-term sustainability, financial health, and client trust to thrive in a competitive industry.  Thank you to our episode sponsors ROCKWOOL & Pella. Learn more at: rockwool.com [https://www.rockwool.com/north-america/]and 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].