Matt does a deep dive into foundations and why one foundation might be a better choice than another, depending on your location.

Many foundation styles came about because of frost-line differences. Northern builders might have a 3-foot frost line, which means it's necessary to dig below the frost line to avoid freeze-to-thaw issues in the wintertime. In other parts of the country, there might be a 1-foot frost line so a crawlspace makes the most sense. Finally, in the South and parts of the country with almost no freeze-to-thaw issues, slab on grade works great with a foundation embedded 12 - 18 inches into the existing soil.

Matt considers how a foundation should be done when keeping ducts inside the conditioned space of a home. He focuses on crawlspaces versus slab on grade, with an emphasis on HVAC systems inside the conditioned envelope.

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

This week, Matt goes solo to highlight five common construction mistakes made by Texas builders and offers practical solutions to improve building quality.

1. Ductwork in Hot Attics
   Placing ducts in unconditioned attics leads to inefficiency, mold growth, and energy loss. Builders should relocate ducts into conditioned spaces using techniques like closed-cell foam insulation or innovative Rheia duct systems.
2. Cardboard Sheathing
   Flimsy, paper-based sheathing lacks durability and fails to resist air and water infiltration. Durable materials like plywood, OSB, or Huber ZIP-System sheathing offer superior performance and longevity.
3. "Houses Need to Breathe" Myth
   Air leaks degrade indoor air quality and cause microbial growth. Builders should create airtight homes with proper ventilation systems, such as ERVs or HRVs, and incorporate dehumidifiers for moisture control.
4. Poor Stucco Installation
   Improper stucco systems fail when exposed to irrigation. Using resilient materials and ensuring proper drainage can prevent structural degradation and water damage.
5. Steel Windows and Doors
   Non-thermally broken steel frames cause condensation, leading to damage. Thermally broken frames, wood-clad windows, or triple-glazed options are better choices for Texas’s climate.

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.

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @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!

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, host Matt Risinger is joined by Lydia Crowder, better known as "Drywall Shorty," a seasoned second-generation drywall contractor from Bozeman, Montana. Together, they dive into the secrets of achieving flawless drywall results, focusing on the critical details that set high-quality builders apart from the competition. Lydia emphasizes the importance of proper framing, noting that uneven or crooked framing creates challenges that cannot be fully corrected with shims or mud. Climate control is another essential factor, as drywall and its compounds are highly sensitive to changes in moisture and temperature. Without consistent conditions, builders risk issues like swelling, shrinkage, or screw pops that compromise the finish.

The conversation also explores the growing demand for modern architectural designs, such as floor-to-ceiling windows and clean, minimalist interiors, which leave little room to hide imperfections. Matt and Lydia discuss the value of temporary jobsite conditioning, such as using air conditioning in hot, humid climates or dehumidifiers in wet conditions, to ensure materials remain stable and perform as expected. Lydia shares practical advice on pre-drywall inspections, framing techniques, and the use of engineered lumber, all aimed at producing high-quality, lasting results.

The episode highlights Lydia’s extensive expertise and her role as an educator in the construction industry, where she has built a significant online following. Matt also promotes the upcoming Build Show Live event in Austin, Texas, where industry experts and educators will gather to share insights and foster growth within the building community.

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.