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Share on LinkedinLive from the ROCKWOOL studio, Matt and Steve explore how to design and construct homes optimized for extreme health, focusing on mold resistance, superior indoor air quality (IAQ), and moisture control. They discuss essential strategies such as building tight, well-ventilated homes to prevent mold growth, using high-performance dehumidifiers, and implementing advanced HVAC systems with MERV 13+ or HEPA filtration. Matt and Steve highlight the importance of managing bulk water through proper site grading, overhangs, and pitched roofs while also considering leak detection systems and waterproofed mechanical rooms.
For improved air quality, Matt and Steve emphasize eliminating duct board, minimizing flex duct, and opting for metal ductwork, which is easier to clean and prevents microbial growth. They also discuss alternatives to standard drywall, such as fiberglass-faced drywall, American clay plaster, or traditional lath and plaster to reduce mold risk. Additionally, ductless HVAC systems, like mini-splits, can further enhance IAQ by eliminating dust-collecting ductwork.
The episode also touches on cost considerations, with case studies showing how clients with severe allergies or mold sensitivities have significantly benefited from controlled indoor environments. Whether you're a builder, architect, or homeowner looking to create a healthier home, this episode provides expert insights into mold-resistant construction, high-IAQ design, and smart moisture management. Listen now for a deep dive into building science solutions for extreme health.
Thank you to episode sponsor MBRICO. Learn more at mbricotiledecks.com.
Find Steve on the Web:
- Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/stevebaczek
- Instagram: @stevenbaczekarchitect
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevenbaczekarchitect9431
- Website: https://stevenbaczekarchitect.com/info/
Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:
- Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
- Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
- YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
- Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/
Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025!
https://www.mbricotiledecks.com
Episodes
Build Podcast | Episode 169: Mold Prevention & Indoor Quality (Part 2)
Episode 169
Matt welcomes Sean Harris back to the studio to continue their discussion indoor air quality improvements for existing homes, focusing on mold prevention, HVAC upgrades, filtration, and dehumidification—especially in hot, humid climates like Texas. Both Matt & Sean encourage homeowners to prioritize practical, science-backed IAQ improvements for a healthier living environment.
Build Podcast | Episode 168: Prairie Sun & Timber
Episode 168
Matt welcomes fellow Build Expert, Travis Brungardt, to discuss the brand-new Build Original Series® Prairie Sun & Timber, which follows Travis as he builds a hybrid high- performance home blending Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and traditional framing. Travis outlines the project, noting that the upper level utilizes SIPs for insulation and strength, while the walkout basement level is conventionally framed with ZIP-R9 panels for flexibility.
Build Podcast | Episode 167: Mold Prevention & Indoor Air Quality in New Construction
Episode 167
Matt welcomes indoor air quality (IAQ) expert Sean Harris to explore mold prevention strategies for new construction. They discuss key building science principles, including air sealing, moisture management, and proper dehumidification to prevent mold growth in hot, humid climates like Texas.
Build Podcast | Episode 166: Building Generational Wealth, Literally
Episode 166
Matt interviews Paul Atherton, CEO of Highspire, about building (pun intended) generational wealth with a blueprint for builders looking to transition into real estate development. Construction company owners are uniquely positioned to succeed in real estate; with real estate offering long-term appreciation and cash flow, builders who reinvest wisely can secure financial freedom for future generations.
Build Podcast | Episode 165: Are Model Homes Dead?
Episode 165
Matt welcomes Justin Pratt from Builders Firstsource (BFS) to explore the future of home sales, particularly whether traditional model homes are becoming obsolete. Rising construction costs and changing buyer expectations have made 3-D digital tools a cost-effective and efficient alternative.
Build Podcast | Episode 164: We Need to Talk about Spray Foam
Episode 164
Matt is solo this week for an in-depth discussion on spray foam insulation, focusing on the differences between closed-cell and open-cell foam and the benefits of creating a conditioned attic space. He covers everything from installation best practices and building codes to fire safety and humidity control.
Build Podcast | Episode 162: Reduce Construction Time & Boost Profitability
Episode 162
Matt kicks off Season 5 of The Build Podcast with Jeremy Martin of Risher Martin Fine Homes, discussing strategies to reduce construction time while maintaining quality and profitability. They emphasize meticulous planning, minimizing change orders, and streamlining workflows. Jeremy highlights how fixed-price contracts require precise pre-planning, while cost-plus contracts offer flexibility but higher risks. His team boosts efficiency through pre-ordering materials, dedicated project coordinators, and lean construction techniques.
Build Podcast | Episode 160: Top 5 Mistakes Builders Make (and how to fix them)
Episode 160
This week, Matt goes solo to highlight five common construction mistakes made by Texas builders and offers practical solutions to improve building quality. Matt emphasizes sustainable building practices and learning from past mistakes to Know Better. Build Better.™ He encourages builders to adopt modern techniques to improve energy efficiency, durability, and customer satisfaction.
Build Podcast | Episode 158: Value Engineering Your Plumbing Systems
Episode 158
Matt teams up with master plumber Eric Aune, aka @mechanicalhub, to explore the “art” of value engineering plumbing systems. They dive right into cost-effective strategies that don’t compromise quality. Whether you’re a builder, plumber, or homeowner, this episode offers actionable advice on creating efficient, reliable plumbing systems. Don’t miss this engaging discussion with two industry pros.
Build Podcast | Episode 157: Mastering Construction Contracts: Fixed-Price vs. Cost-Plus
Episode 157
Matt discusses the pros and cons of fixed-price and cost-plus construction contracts with guest Jeremy Martin, co-owner of Risher Martin, a leading custom homebuilder in Austin. Jeremy shares his firm’s unique approach to fixed-price contracts, emphasizing rigorous pre-construction planning and detailed specifications to ensure predictable budgets and schedules. This method fosters trust and minimizes change orders by clearly defining project scopes, materials, and allowances upfront.