The Fine Homebuilding Podcast
- Episodes
- 794
- Released
- weekly
- Latest episode
- Nov 13, 2026
About the podcast
The Fine Homebuilding Podcast is all about answering YOUR construction, design, and building science questions. From foundation waterproofing to roof flashing, we take on your building, remodeling and design challenges with the know-how of North America's most-trusted home building brand. -- Every Friday, we discuss listener questions and offer advice following best-practice building techniques and principles. We love hearing from you, so if you have a question or project you want us to dig into, please send an email to [email protected] or ask your question on social media. -- Want more from Fine Homebuilding? Check out our website, finehomebuilding.com. -- Instagram: @FineHomebuilding Facebook: @FineHomebuildingMagazine YouTube: @FineHomebuildingMagazine TikTok: @FineHomebuilding Pinterest: @FineHomebuilding -- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
Episodes 794
#763: Living in a Small Space, LED Lighting, Favorite House Features
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Kerry describes living in a small house. Architect Chris Briley motivates a discussion about line versus low-voltage lighting …
Show notes
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Kerry describes living in a small house. Architect Chris Briley motivates a discussion about line versus low-voltage lighting. The crew talks about favorite house features and problematic construction details.
Tune in to Episode 763 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The advantages of small-house living
- Should we rethink how we wire houses
- Favorite house features and amenities
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 763
➡️ Sign up for Myron Ferguson's eLearning course, Drywall: Start to Finish ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
A Special PRO TALK Edition of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Welcome to this special Pro Talk edition of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast. This is senior editor Patrick McCombe. Today I'm joined by Chris Urlaub, Product Manager—Fiberglass, for Marvin Windows and Doors in …
Show notes
Welcome to this special Pro Talk edition of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast. This is senior editor Patrick McCombe. Today I'm joined by Chris Urlaub, Product Manager—Fiberglass, for Marvin Windows and Doors in Warroad, Minnesota, Fine Homebuilding contributing editor and operations manger for TDS Design Build in Madison, Wisconsin Ian Schwandt, and producer Cari Delahanty.
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: A Special PRO TALK Edition of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast
➡️ Sign up for Myron Ferguson's eLearning course, Drywall: Start to Finish ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#762: Off-Site Construction, Quiet Roof Assemblies, and a Fix for Attic AC
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Kevin shares a Boston Globe opinion piece on manufactured housing as a way to build more houses. Kieth asks about using mineral …
Show notes
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Kevin shares a Boston Globe opinion piece on manufactured housing as a way to build more houses. Kieth asks about using mineral wool insulation to help control sound in an expansive space. Rob considers building an insulated box around his attic air handler to boost its efficiency.
Tune in to Episode 762 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The feasibility of building more houses by using manufacturing techniques
- Using soft materials in a ceiling assembly to reduce sound reflection
- Enclosing an attic air handler to keep it cool in a hot attic
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 762
➡️ Get all the perks of an FHB All-Access Membership today ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#761: Moldy Minisplits, Wet Bathroom Walls, and Roof Repair Coatings
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Guy is wondering if minisplits are a good idea. Matt ask how to build a bathroom that stands up to humidity. Patrick asks if roof …
Show notes
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Guy is wondering if minisplits are a good idea. Matt ask how to build a bathroom that stands up to humidity. Patrick asks if roof coatings made to extend the life of shingle roofs are snake oil.
Tune in to Episode 761 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- What's lurking inside your minisplits
- The best way to deal with high humidity from long showers
- Do liquid rubber roof coatings increase a roof's longevity
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 761
➡️ Sign up for Myron Ferguson's eLearning course, Drywall: Start to Finish ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#760: Flammable Water, Framed Floor over Concrete, and Moving vs. Adding On
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Greg says you can make hydrogen gas with the wrong water heater anode. Nicki says you should go to the next Fine Homebuilding …
Show notes
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Greg says you can make hydrogen gas with the wrong water heater anode. Nicki says you should go to the next Fine Homebuilding Summit. A podcast listener asks for help framing a wood floor over a concrete slab. Bob wonders whether his family should move or add on to their existing house.
Tune in to Episode 760 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Water heater anodes creating hydrogen gas in hot water
- Preventing condensation on a cool concrete slab
- The pros and cons of moving versus adding on to your home
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 760
➡️ Get all the perks of an FHB All-Access Membership today ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#759: Bath Floor Framing, Conditioned Crawlspace, and Little Roofs over Garage Doors
Ian and Mike help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Jonathan provides an update on his stained siding. Austins suggests cleaning a stinky sink's overflow drain. Gray asks how to best …
Show notes
Ian and Mike help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Jonathan provides an update on his stained siding. Austins suggests cleaning a stinky sink's overflow drain. Gray asks how to best condition a crawlspace in Climate Zone 7. Conor asks about building little roofs over his garage doors to shed water.
Tune in to Episode 759 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Rebuilding a floor system compromised by previous remodeling
- Conditioning a crawlspace so it's safe for plumbing in climate zone 7
- Adding architectural elements that shed water from doors and windows
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 759
➡️ Sign up for Myron Ferguson's eLearning course, Drywall: Start to Finish ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#758: HVAC Complexity, Affordable and Well-Built, and Flashing with Vertical Siding
Ian and Mike help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Richard shares some insider knowledge of modern HVAC compressors. Listeners write in with theories about Mike's stinky sink …
Show notes
Ian and Mike help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Richard shares some insider knowledge of modern HVAC compressors. Listeners write in with theories about Mike's stinky sink. Sebastian asks how to build good-looking and affordable multi-family housing. Zak wonders about the right way to flash windows under vertical shiplap siding.
Tune in to Episode 758 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Making sense of modern HVAC systems
- Why a drain, waste, vent system might smell like sewer
- How to build high-performance affordable housing
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 758
➡️ Get all the perks of an FHB All-Access Membership today ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#757: Window Condensation, Dark Matter on Siding, and What is Affordable?
Ian and Mike help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Vic thinks we could have brought additional value to a porch roof redo. Erik from Sweden solved his wintertime foggy windows …
Show notes
Ian and Mike help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Vic thinks we could have brought additional value to a porch roof redo. Erik from Sweden solved his wintertime foggy windows. Jonathan wonders what is oozing from his siding. Richard shares what kind of house you get in Central Texas for $368k.
Tune in to Episode 757 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Lowering indoor humidity in cold climates
- What's causing a dark stain on lap siding
- What are the factors that decide new home quality
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 757
➡️ Sign up for Myron Ferguson's eLearning course, Drywall: Start to Finish ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#756: Builders Encouraging Best-Practice, Unconditioned Crawlspaces, and the FHB Summit
In episode Episode 756 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast, Mike and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Mario says a good developer helped him become better at installing …
Show notes
In episode Episode 756 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast, Mike and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Mario says a good developer helped him become better at installing windows. Marv likes a big right-angle drill for rough-ins. Brit wonders how to treat a storage area that's neither inside nor outside. Mike, Randy, and Patrick talk about the Fine Homebuilding Summit.
Tune in to Episode 756 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- How good developers can advance building science and best-practice
- The best way to insulate ducts in unconditioned spaces
- Takeaways from the FHB Summit according to attendees and presenters
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 756
➡️ Get all the perks of an FHB All-Access Membership today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#755: A Talk with Tedd Benson at the FHB Summit
High-performance builder Ben Bogie interviews Tedd Benson about a life spent building houses. Tedd shared how moving from substandard housing to a well-built house changed his family's life and how it steered …
Show notes
High-performance builder Ben Bogie interviews Tedd Benson about a life spent building houses. Tedd shared how moving from substandard housing to a well-built house changed his family's life and how it steered his path to becoming a home builder. He also discussed the evolution of his businesses and the importance of innovation in the construction industry.
Tune in to Episode 755 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Creating high-quality homes and finding tradespeople who care about their craft
- Being innovative in a business where change comes slowly
- Effectively delegating while staying involved in the business
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 755
➡️ Get all the perks of an FHB All-Access Membership today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#754: Making Humidity, Adding Exterior Insulation, and Extreme DIY
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Tom says the podcast got it wrong when discussing the energy use of evaporative versus steam humidifiers. Tim likes IKEA cabinets …
Show notes
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Tom says the podcast got it wrong when discussing the energy use of evaporative versus steam humidifiers. Tim likes IKEA cabinets and asks about exterior insulation for a rehabbed house in New Hampshire. Cari asks if the trend of DIYers taking on extremely ambitious projects is new or is it something that's always existed.
Tune in to Episode 754 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The energy needed to humidify dry air in cold places during winter
- Choosing the right wall assembly for a historic rehab
- What is driving DIYers to take on huge projects
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 754
➡️ Get all the perks of an FHB All-Access Membership today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#753: Self-Leveling Compound, Housing Affordability, and Stinky Water
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. David asks if there's a secret to effectively using self-leveling compound. Another David wonders if it's better to be a …
Show notes
Ian and Randy help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. David asks if there's a secret to effectively using self-leveling compound. Another David wonders if it's better to be a specialist or generalist carpenter. Patrick asks what's been driving the rapid increase in home prices over the last two decades. Mike and Teresa say their bathroom sink stinks and they are hoping for a solution.
Tune in to Episode 753 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- How to use self-leveling compound so it actually levels floors
- What is driving housing unaffordability and scarcity
- What is that rotten-egg smell that sometimes comes from tap water
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 753
➡️ Get all the perks of an FHB All-Access Membership today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#752: Grass-Fed OSB, Alabama Fixer-Upper, and Adding a Porch Roof
Ian and Grant help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Scott is sharing some old Taunton books with his kids. Jim alerts us to panel sheathing made from grass. Daniel is contemplating …
Show notes
Ian and Grant help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Scott is sharing some old Taunton books with his kids. Jim alerts us to panel sheathing made from grass. Daniel is contemplating buying a fixer-upper in Alabama. An FHB Forum participant needs help designing a porch roof that won't be a problem later.
Tune in to Episode 752 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The development of structural sheathing made from grass instead of wood
- How much work is too much when it comes to buying a fixer-upper
- What is a dead valley and how to avoid them when adding on
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 752
➡️ Get all the perks of an FHB All-Access Membership today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#751: Disaster Mansion, Drippy Ceilings, and Insulating Existing Walls
Producer Cari asks for advice on how to tactfully educate your contractor about best practice. Robert shares a story about an ambitious couple saving a dilapidated Civil-War Era house they bought in an auction …
Show notes
Producer Cari asks for advice on how to tactfully educate your contractor about best practice. Robert shares a story about an ambitious couple saving a dilapidated Civil-War Era house they bought in an auction. Jim shows us how early 20th Century builders bragged about insulation. John wonders why his bathroom ceiling is wet in the summer. Travis asks about insulating walls and adding a thermal break to studs. Tune in to Episode 751 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Over-the-top DIY home renovation
- What is going on with a wet bathroom ceiling in summer
- The right sequence for making home repair and energy improvements
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 751
➡️ Buy tickets for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit — use code "Podcast15" for 15% off
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#750: Flashing and Effective Water Management Techniques
In this special edition of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast, the crew discusses effective roof, wall and deck flashing techniques to celebrate Flashing Awareness Day. Special guest Aron Jones of Big Dog …
Show notes
In this special edition of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast, the crew discusses effective roof, wall and deck flashing techniques to celebrate Flashing Awareness Day. Special guest Aron Jones of Big Dog Construction joins the Podcast to talk about good and bad flashing techniques and why it's so important to keep bulk water out of buildings. Aron builds houses on Grand Manan Island in Canada's Bay of Fundy. Tune in to Episode 750 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The reasons behind celebrating Flashing Awareness Day
- A checklist for exterior details that require flashing
- What happens when you forget or ignore basic water management
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 750
➡️ Buy tickets for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit — use code "Podcast15" for 15% off
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#749: IKEA Cabinets, Insulating Post-Frame Buildings and Double Sheathing
Randy and Ian help Patrick address listener feedback about RTA cabinets and shim screws before talking about the best way to insulate a post frame building that's being converted to living space and the pros …
Show notes
Randy and Ian help Patrick address listener feedback about RTA cabinets and shim screws before talking about the best way to insulate a post frame building that's being converted to living space and the pros and cons of an extra sheathing layer under steel siding. Tune in to Episode 749 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- How IKEA cabinets hold up in the real world
- The best way to insulate a formerly unconditioned outbuilding
- Should you have another sheathing layer on top of exterior insulation
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 749
➡️ Buy tickets for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit — use code "Podcast15" for 15% off
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#748: A-Frame Scaffolding, Leaky Stucco, and Garage Floor Insulation
Dan Kolbert says to use the tools that work best. Mike Guertin offers advice for site-built scaffold. Jordan asks about fixing leaks behind stucco exteriors. Greg wonders if he should insulate the floor of his …
Show notes
Dan Kolbert says to use the tools that work best. Mike Guertin offers advice for site-built scaffold. Jordan asks about fixing leaks behind stucco exteriors. Greg wonders if he should insulate the floor of his garage shop. Tune in to Episode 748 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Altering the size and height of Mike Guertin's A-frame scaffold system
- How to track down a leak behind stucco and how you fix it
- Should you insulate a concrete shop floor and how
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 748
➡️ Buy tickets for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit — use code "Podcast15" for 15% off
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#747: Lab Grown Lumber, Controlling Humidity, and Exterior Insulation
Matt Puntin says that helical piers are a game-changer. Patrick and Greg alert us to lab-grown lumber. Brad asks about controlling humidity in a beautiful, old brick house. D_Dart wonders which is the right …
Show notes
Matt Puntin says that helical piers are a game-changer. Patrick and Greg alert us to lab-grown lumber. Brad asks about controlling humidity in a beautiful, old brick house. D_Dart wonders which is the right exterior insulation.
Tune in to Episode 747 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The potential benefits of lab-grown lumber
- How to control humidity in an old brick house in a mixed climate
- Which rigid insulation is right for adding exterior continuous insulation
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 747
➡️ Get tickets for the Fine Homebuilding Summit today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#746: Steam Humidifiers, Hydraulic Drivers, and Changes in Construction
Ken describes the efficiency of common residential humidification systems. Bob reminds us about concrete igloos. Miranda asks the Podcast what has changed in residential construction since the first episodes …
Show notes
Ken describes the efficiency of common residential humidification systems. Bob reminds us about concrete igloos. Miranda asks the Podcast what has changed in residential construction since the first episodes. Grant talks about a new category of quieter impact driver called hydraulic or oil-impulse drivers.
Tune in to Episode 746 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The energy consumption of steam humidifiers
- The pros and cons of hydraulic impact drivers
- Changes in residential construction over the last 10 years
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 746
➡️ Get tickets for the Fine Homebuilding Summit today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#745: Gaseous Water, Garage Insulation, and Using AI for HVAC Sizing
Dack says we should reconsider our endorsement of LP SmartSide. Josh suggests we come up with a better name for water vapor. John wonders how to insulate his concrete garage ceiling. Keegan shares a tale sizing …
Show notes
Dack says we should reconsider our endorsement of LP SmartSide. Josh suggests we come up with a better name for water vapor. John wonders how to insulate his concrete garage ceiling. Keegan shares a tale sizing a heating and cooling system using AI.
Tune in to Episode 745 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The environmental tradeoffs of engineered wood siding
- How to insulate a garage ceiling that's made from poured concrete.
- The challenges of sizing heating and cooling equipment
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 745
➡️ Get your tickets for the FHB Summit!
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#744: The Best of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast, Volume 11
Welcome to the Fine Homebuilding podcast, our weekly discussion of building, remodeling, and design topics aimed at anybody who cares deeply about the craft and science of working on houses. In Episode 744, our …
Show notes
Welcome to the Fine Homebuilding podcast, our weekly discussion of building, remodeling, and design topics aimed at anybody who cares deeply about the craft and science of working on houses. In Episode 744, our best-of show, the Podcast crew revisits some of their favorite segments.
Tune in to Episode 744 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- How to asses leaks behind stucco
- Building a "fine" home on a tight budget
- The difference between cabinet saws and portable job-site saws
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 744
➡️ Get tickets for the Fine Homebuilding Summit today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#743: Building Science Overload, Old Bricks, and Shim Screws for Doors and Windows
John says that listening the FHB Podcast has him mildly terrorized. Bob wonders about using a post and manufactured earth anchor for raising his bat house. Paul is concerned that his old building's bricks are …
Show notes
John says that listening the FHB Podcast has him mildly terrorized. Bob wonders about using a post and manufactured earth anchor for raising his bat house. Paul is concerned that his old building's bricks are unsound. Zak asks if we know about Top Star shim screws. Special guest Josh Edmonds and Ian Schwandt discuss Josh's Fine Homebuilding Summit class before helping help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Tune in to Episode 743 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Getting overwhelmed with Building Science
- Do dusty bricks in a masonry building mean trouble
- The pros and cons of Top Star shim screws for doors and windows
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 743
➡️ Get tickets for the Fine Homebuilding Summit today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#742: Clear Finishes, Site-Built Scaffolding, and Foundation for a Wet Site
David describes an audacious tool thief and shares insights into the best clear finishes. Tom asks Ian if he can provide sources to further his research about trade craft and guilds in Colonial America. Anna …
Show notes
David describes an audacious tool thief and shares insights into the best clear finishes. Tom asks Ian if he can provide sources to further his research about trade craft and guilds in Colonial America. Anna wonders is she can safely change the design of Mike Guertin's scaffold. Chris seeks advice about building a modular house on a wet site in Texas.
Tune in to Episode 742 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Durable, easy-to-renew clear finishes
- Mike Guertin's A-frame scaffolding
- Building a modular home on a wet site using helical piers
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 742
➡️ Learn about Right Sizing Mechanicals with Allison Bailes
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#741: Stolen Tools, Ducts in Plenum Trusses, and Bowing Foundation Walls
Randy and Ian help Patrick address listener feedback about rampant tool theft and softening hard water without brine. They answer questions about running ductwork in a slab-on-grade ranch house and foundation …
Show notes
Randy and Ian help Patrick address listener feedback about rampant tool theft and softening hard water without brine. They answer questions about running ductwork in a slab-on-grade ranch house and foundation fixes for bowed block walls. Tune in to Episode 741 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- How new tools don't necessarily have the appeal of old favorites
- Using plenum trusses to keep HVAC ductwork in the conditioned space
- Fixes for cracked and bowing block foundation walls
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 741
➡️ Get tickets for the Fine Homebuilding Summit today
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#740: Wooden Nails, Strengthening Joists and Rebuilding Squeaky Stairs
Casey Knips joins Grant and Patrick to talk about his FHB class on hanging complex interior doors before the whole crew addresses listener feedback and answers their home building questions. Austin alerts the …
Show notes
Casey Knips joins Grant and Patrick to talk about his FHB class on hanging complex interior doors before the whole crew addresses listener feedback and answers their home building questions. Austin alerts the FHB Podcast team about nails made from wood fiber and nailers made for driving them. Seth wonders if plywood laminations can be used instead of dimensional lumber to sister rotten floor joists. Scott asks for advice on rebuilding squeaky stairs in an 1880's brick rowhouse.
Tune in to Episode 740 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The applications and cost of nails made from wood
- Can plywood laminations do the job of sistering joists
- What's the best way to rebuild a staircase without replacing it
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 740
➡️ Learn about Installing Double, Pocket, and Concealed Doors
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#739: Igloos, Detailing Masonry Bump-Outs, and Oddly-Framed Walls
Vince says we spent a lot of time not answering his question. David thinks it has been too long since FHB covered igloos. Steve wonders how to insulate and air-seal the bump-out breakfast nook that's showing …
Show notes
Vince says we spent a lot of time not answering his question. David thinks it has been too long since FHB covered igloos. Steve wonders how to insulate and air-seal the bump-out breakfast nook that's showing signs of water entry. Grant was shocked to learn a current project is framed without studs.
Tune in to Episode 739 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Controlling humidity for comfort without window condensation
- Where is the water coming from above a bump-out in a masonry wall
- Are old walls built without studs common or safe?
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes:
➡️ Submit a project to be considered for FHB's 2026 Houses Awards
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media: Episode 739
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#738: DIY Spray-Foam Kits, Affordable Siding, and Second-Floor Load Paths
Ian, Randy, and Patrick address listener feedback about training to be a GC and the safety and sustainability of two-part DIY spray foam kits. They answer a builder in North Carolina who's considering SmartSide …
Show notes
Ian, Randy, and Patrick address listener feedback about training to be a GC and the safety and sustainability of two-part DIY spray foam kits. They answer a builder in North Carolina who's considering SmartSide engineered siding as an alternative to fiber-cement and FHB Forum poster who is adding an LVL beam to strengthen his second-floor floor system.
Tune in to Episode 738 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- The secrets of DIY spray-foam kits and cautionary tales about them
- The durability of SmartSide siding and how to work with it
- Creating a load path to the basement through multiple house levels
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 738
➡️ Get Early-Bird Ticket Pricing for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#737: Interior Doors, Affordable Exterior Doors and Ikea Cabinets
Grant, Ian and Patrick address listener feedback about felt WRBs and building your own interior doors. Then they tackle questions about affordable entry doors and installing and living with Ikea kitchen …
Show notes
Grant, Ian and Patrick address listener feedback about felt WRBs and building your own interior doors. Then they tackle questions about affordable entry doors and installing and living with Ikea kitchen cabinets.
Tune in to Episode 737 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Building your own interior doors for odd-sized openings
- Options for affordable entry doors
- Pros and cons to Ikea and other ready-to-assemble cabinets
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 737
➡️ Submit a project to be considered for FHB's 2026 Houses Awards
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#736: Tool Theft, Durable Clear Finishes, and Cracked Foundations
Brian and Ian help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Brian talks about interesting things happening at FHB and Ian describes what he'll be covering at his class during the fine …
Show notes
Brian and Ian help Patrick address listener feedback and answer their questions. Brian talks about interesting things happening at FHB and Ian describes what he'll be covering at his class during the fine Homebuilding Summit.
Tune in to Episode 736 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Tool theft in the US, UK, and Canada and its effect on trade workers
- The pros and cons to clear finishes
- Cracks in a concrete foundation and who fixes them
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 736
➡️ Submit a project to be considered for FHB's 2026 Houses Awards
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
#735: FHB Summit, Slab Foundation Insulation, and Flipper Fixer-Upper
Brian, Ian and Patrick talk about plans for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit. James shares his advice for insulating and air-sealing attic knee walls. Chris wonders if window manufacturers should be teaching …
Show notes
Brian, Ian and Patrick talk about plans for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit. James shares his advice for insulating and air-sealing attic knee walls. Chris wonders if window manufacturers should be teaching installers how to flash windows. Heather asks how to detail a slab on grade foundation with interior stem wall insulation. Ian seeks advice on addressing a previous owners questionable upgrades.
Tune in to Episode 735 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:
- Barrier versus drainage methods of flashing windows
- Insulating a slab on grade foundation
- Sizing up and undoing a previous owners questionable repairs
Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].
➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 735
➡️ Join us for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit
➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:
Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.
These are the latest 40 of 794 episodes. You’ll find older episodes in the podcast’s feed.
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