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Build Across America
Build Across America | Episode 4 - One Size Fits None: Adaptable Building in the Pacific Northwest
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Matt visits the Pacific Northwest to explore adaptable homebuilding in a wet, mild climate. He meets up with 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.
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Episodes
Build Across America | Episode 1 - South Dakota Perfect Wall
Episode 1
Matt launches a brand-new Build Original Series®, Build Across America, far away from his home base in Austin, TX . Hop on a plane to Mitchell, SD—where spring feels like winter and the wind never stops—for the first stop on Matt’s journey to build better from sea to shining sea. He’s joined by builder Josh Stange and architect Steve Baczek to explore one of the most advanced residential wall assemblies in the country. Whether you're a builder, designer, or homeowner, this episode offers real-world lessons in building airtight, resilient, and comfortable homes built to thrive in punishing climates.
Build Across America | Episode 3 - Panelization in the Northeast and Beyond
Episode 3
Build Across America visits Bensonwood in Walpole, NH, which showcases panelization for high-performance, energy-efficient homes. Collaboration with Mason in Connecticut demonstrates efficiency and quality control.
Build Across America | Episode 5 - FORTIFIED Building on the Texas Coast
Episode 5
Matt journeys from ATX to Rockport, TX to visit builder Jason Harmon of CDK Coastal Homes. Jason offers an in-depth tour of a high-performance coastal home in Rockport, emphasizing durability, moisture control, and hurricane resilience.
Build Across America | Episode 8 - Resilient Western North Carolina
Episode 8
Matt visits Asheville, NC, to explore how Alair Asheville - Red Tree Builders designs for performance, resilience, and wellness in a temperate rainforest climate. Builder Brandon Bryant showcases innovations like precast concrete walls, advanced insulation, ERVs, dehumidifiers, and geothermal systems that support energy efficiency, durability, and healthy indoor air.