Build Across America | Episode 4 – One size fits none: Adaptable building in Pacific Northwest

From The Build Show.

In this episode of Build Across America, Matt visits the Pacific Northwest to explore adaptable homebuilding in a wet, mild climate. He meets the Uhler brothers from Pioneer Builders, second-generation builders near Seattle who self-perform half their construction work. They discuss site prep on glacial soils, crawlspace foundations adapted to the region’s frost depth, and robust framing with shear walls for seismic safety. Touring an in-progress build, they highlight innovative details like treated LVL deck framing, durable precast concrete stairs, triple-glazed windows, and advanced waterproofing beneath garage slabs. Inside, the basement design features tall ceilings, mini-split heating, energy-efficient ventilation with ERVs, and moisture-smart construction details. The Uhlers also share their company’s history of adapting to market cycles by renting or selling homes creatively, demonstrating both craftsmanship and sound financial strategy in a region demanding thoughtful, resilient building practices.

Truss Payments
https://www.trusspayments.com/build?utm_source=Build+Show&utm_medium=Influencer&utm_campaign=2025+Build+Sponsorship&utm_id=001&utm_content=YouTube

Builders FirsSource
https://www.bldr.com

Arclin
https://www.arclin.com/

Huber
http://www.Huberwood.com

Pella
https://www.pella.com/

Viewrail
https://www.viewrail.com/floating-stairs/
REGISTER FOR BUILD SHOW LIVE 2025 HERE –
https://utm.io/uiCOC

Get your BUILD SHOW Gear Here –
https://build-gearstore.com/

Subscribe and follow my Podcast on Apple or Spotify!
Apple: https://apple.co/32AOwgU
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3FXNg4X

Sign up for our twice-weekly newsletter:
https://buildshownetwork.com/newsletter

To sponsor a video or advertise with us visit:

Home

Want to learn more about building? http://thebuildshow.com/
The Build Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebuildshow/

Huge thanks to our Show sponsors Builders FirstSource, Huber, Pella & Viewrail for helping to make these videos possible! These are all trusted companies that Matt has worked with for years and trusts their products in the homes he builds. We would highly encourage you to check out their websites for more info.

https://www.bldr.com
http://www.Huberwood.com
https://www.pella.com
https://www.Viewrail.com