What Should I Use? – Foundation Details

From The Build Show. The four control layers discussed in this video regarding the foundation are crucial to ensuring the long-term integrity and performance of the building. Jake Bruton talks about how water management is key to preventing water intrusion and damage. Air control may be simple with concrete, but still plays a role in…

Top 5 Mini-Split Myths

From The Build Show. In recent years, mini-split systems have gained popularity as an energy-efficient solution for heating and cooling homes. However, as adoption increases, so do the myths surrounding their design, functionality, and effectiveness. In today’s episode of The Build Show, Matt Risinger teams up with experts like Steve Baczek, a renowned architect, and…

What Should I Use? – Ventilation

From The Build Show. In this episode, Jake goes over ventilation in buildings, specifically the use of ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators) to provide balanced ventilation. He discusses the importance of controlling the air quality in buildings, filtering and tempering the air, and meeting code requirements for mechanical ventilation. By using a high-quality ERV system like…

The Risinger Build Ep 17 – Soundproofing, Drywall & Wall Penetration

From The Build Show. In this episode of The Risinger Build, Matt introduces a groundbreaking construction material that’s transforming how homes are built. Joined by experts Kyle Flondor & Breton Betz of USG, they explore the remarkable capabilities of fire resistant and high STC STRUCTO-CRETE® Brand Structural Panels, originally designed for commercial applications but now…

Let’s Renovate a Bathroom: Episode 4 – Closing up the Walls – Insulation, drywall and waterproofing

From The Build Show. In this episode of Let’s Renovate a Bathroom, Zack Dettmore guides DIYers through the essential steps of closing up walls during a bathroom remodel. He explains how to install insulation to prevent frost in cold climates, choose the right drywall for easy finishing, and use Schluter Systems’ innovative tile backer boards…

4 Soundproofing Cheap Tricks

From The Build Show. Matt provides cheap tricks for soundproofing, such as staggered stud construction, using putty pads to seal outlets, and adding layers of 5/8 drywall with acoustic sealant. These simple and inexpensive methods can make a significant difference in reducing noise levels in a home. By implementing these tricks, you can effectively keep…

The Best New Water Heater? Rinnai’s KILLER Electric Heat Pump

From The Build Show. Matt Risinger in the mechanical room of a stunning new home under construction to learn about one of the most efficient, beautifully installed water heaters on the market. This state-of-the-art unit combines heat pump technology with sleek design, offering incredible energy savings—up to 75% less electricity than traditional electric tanks. Matt…

Can A House Be Too Tight – ERV Fresh Air Experiment

From The Build Show. Airtight houses are all about energy efficiency, but what about air freshness? In this fun and quirky experiment, I test how quickly my home’s advanced ventilation system clears the air. From fog machines to, well, ‘other emissions,’ we’ll see if an ultra-sealed house really traps everything—or if smart design wins the…

Top 5 Build Show Live Moments and a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT

From The Build Show. Build Show Live 2024 was nothing short of incredible! Hosted in Austin, Texas, this year’s event brought together over 800 attendees, 130+ top-notch manufacturers, and the full Build Show Network crew for an unforgettable experience. From hands-on tours of my own build projects to expert-led sessions on building science, the energy…

The Risinger Build Ep:16 – Pre-Drywall Checklist & Blocking

From The Build Show. In this episode of The Risinger Build, Matt and partner Tim Hill explore essential blocking details in walls and ceilings to ensure durability, functionality, and future-proofing in a home. Starting with the shower area, they demonstrate the benefits of early Schluter®-KERDI board installation, enabling smooth drywall prep and flexible shower door…

3 Non-Negotiables For A Well Built House

From The Build Show. In this video, Matt Risinger delves into the three non-negotiable principles of a well-built home that ensure longevity, safety, and comfort. He starts by emphasizing water management, the cornerstone of durability, detailing the essential control layers behind your home’s exterior. From proper sheathing materials to best practices for sealing windows, doors,…

What Should I Use? – Framing & Fastening

From The Build Show. Jake Bruton discusses the history and benefits of advanced framing, specifically focusing on the debate between 16 inches on center and 24 inches on center. He explains how the Department of Housing initially promoted advanced framing to make housing more affordable by using less lumber and more insulation. However, he notes…

Monopoly Framing – 4 Ways

From The Build Show. Discover the future of roofing with this in-depth exploration of cutting-edge construction methods. From advanced framing techniques to the use of innovative materials like Hunter panels and Atlas rooftop foam, this guide offers practical strategies for optimizing thermal performance, reducing costs, and enhancing durability. Join Matt Risinger on *The Build Show*…

This Simple Trick Makes Fresh Air More Affordable

From The Build Show. Matt shares one affordable trick for bringing fresh air into a tight modern house is to use an energy recovery ventilator (ERV). These units, like the Zehnder and Life Breath systems, provide filtered fresh air by exchanging heat and moisture between incoming and outgoing air streams. To enhance filtration and reduce…

The Risinger Build Ep:15 – Insulation & Proper Installation

From The Build Show. In this episode of The Risinger Build, we dive deep into home insulation techniques with Owens Corning insulation products, exploring the most efficient insulation choices for a showpiece home built in partnership with Builders FirstSource. We break down the differences between closed-cell and open-cell spray foam, highlighting how each type suits…

Let’s Renovate A Bathroom: Episode 1 – Project Review & Demo

From The Build Show. In the first episode of the Build Show original series, "Let’s Renovate a Bathroom," we dive into the step-by-step process of transforming an outdated bathroom into a modern, functional, and beautiful space. Remodeling pro Zack Dettmore walks through each stage of the renovation planning, from initial demolition to selecting fixtures, addressing…

How To Do Thick Exterior Insulation

From The Build Show. On the Build Show today, we apply a thick exterior insulation blanket to optimize energy efficiency and durability for this home. Using two layers of Atlas Energy Shield XL polyiso insulation over ZIP System sheathing, we demonstrate each step of this process, ensuring a continuous R-20 insulation layer that significantly reduces…