In this episode, Reuben and Tessa discuss the trending topic of cold plunges or cold water exposure. They share their personal experiences with cold plunges and provide insights on creating a cold plunge at home. The benefits and considerations of cold plunges are explored, along with alternative methods for cold water exposure. Reuben shares his affordable and accessible setup for cold plunges. The episode concludes with a discussion on the health benefits of cold plunges and Reuben's personal ...
Jan 22, 2024•31 min•Season 6Ep. 3
In this episode, Reuben and Tessa are joined by Sue Gardner, a retired firefighter, to discuss fire safety. They cover topics such as the causes of house fires, the difference in fire behavior in old and new houses, the importance of smoke alarms and fire escape plans, and the use of fire blankets and fire extinguishers. Sue also shares a story about pre-planning a fire and the importance of following established procedures. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of fire prevention ...
Jan 15, 2024•34 min•Season 6Ep. 2
In this conversation, Reuben and Tessa interview Joshua Kerber to discuss the optimization of radon systems in homes. Joshua shares a case study of optimizing a radon system in a new home, highlighting the importance of properly sizing and selecting fans for radon mitigation. To follow along with the case study, check out our slide deck here: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TRrkv4r9vtVqFs_jLNJ8cszgMtj793WZ1cRwTTr7lOY/edit?usp=sharing . They also discuss the impact of household activities...
Jan 08, 2024•48 min•Season 6Ep. 1
In this episode, Reuben and Tessa do a year-end wrap-up, discussing their favorite episodes and guests from 2023. They also share personal and professional highlights from the year and give a sneak peek into what's coming up in 2024. The top five most popular episodes of the year are revealed, and the importance of annual planning retreats is discussed. The hosts express their gratitude to the listeners and encourage them to leave ratings and reviews. Takeaways Reflecting on the past year and se...
Dec 31, 2023•27 min•Season 5Ep. 43
In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa interview Jeff May, an expert in indoor air quality and mold. They discuss various topics related to indoor air quality, including whole-house humidifiers, furnace filters, UV filters, standalone air purifiers, heat recovery ventilators, mini-split systems, and carpet cleaning. Jeff provides valuable insights and recommendations for improving indoor air quality and reducing allergens in homes. In this conversation, Jeff May discusses various aspects of ...
Dec 18, 2023•52 min•Season 5Ep. 42
In this episode of the Structure Talk Podcast, Reuben and Tessa delve into the world of basement waterproofing companies and the often-misunderstood use of moisture meters. Reuben shares a frustrating experience with installing permanent LED lights, highlighting the challenges and lessons learned. The hosts discuss the common misconception that drain tile systems are a universal solution for all basement water issues, emphasizing the importance of addressing exterior water management. They expre...
Dec 11, 2023•31 min•Season 5Ep. 41
In this insightful podcast episode, Reuben and Tessa delve into an array of technical terms crucial in the realm of home inspection. They elucidate terms such as GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter), AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter), mold, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), crawl space, R-value, efflorescence, and flashing, providing valuable explanations and sharing practical experiences. They underscore the significance of these concepts in the context of home inspection...
Dec 04, 2023•51 min•Season 5Ep. 40
In today’s episode, Reuben and Tessa discuss garage door opener safety and inspection practices. They emphasize key aspects like the proper height of the wall button to prevent children from operating the door, ensuring the electrical connection is directly plugged into an outlet, and inspecting the auto-reverse sensors within six inches of the floor. The hosts share experiences, including the impact test for older garage door openers and the importance of an emergency release kit for garages wi...
Nov 27, 2023•30 min•Season 5Ep. 39
In this podcast, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry host Kyle Miller from All Around , exploring the nuances of home inspections within Homeowners Associations (HOAs). Kyle emphasizes the critical importance of understanding the division of responsibilities between homeowners and the association, shedding light on financial obligations, liabilities, and the prevalence of water intrusion issues during exterior renovations in multi-family buildings. The discussion covers the need for potential buyers...
Nov 20, 2023•24 min•Season 5Ep. 38
In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry delve into the unique challenges of home inspection in Arizona with Home Inspector Paul Staron . Their exploration encompasses the distinct nuances of newer constructions, the prevalence of unvented attics, and the transitioning trend towards electric heat pumps within the region. They emphasize the influence of extreme heat on inspections, address air quality concerns in energy-efficient homes, underscore the significance of adhering to safety st...
Nov 13, 2023•52 min•Season 5Ep. 37
In today’s episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry are joined by Chad Fabry from StructureSmart . The discussion focuses on the unique challenges and characteristics of home inspections in Western New York, particularly in areas with historic homes dating back to the 1700s and 1800s. Chad Fabry shares his expertise in dealing with older houses, highlighting issues related to basements, and crawl spaces, and finishing these spaces. The importance of understanding building science and relying on ...
Nov 06, 2023•50 min•Season 5Ep. 36
In this podcast episode, Reuben Saltzman of the Structure Talk podcast is joined by Jon Bolton from Inspectagator , a Florida-based home inspection company. They delve into various aspects of home inspections in Florida's unique climate and construction landscape. Florida's hot and humid climate presents distinct challenges, from stucco problems to moisture management. They emphasize the importance of understanding building science principles and the need for proper building materials to withsta...
Oct 30, 2023•54 min•Season 5Ep. 35
In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry interview Jim Katen , a seasoned home inspector from the marine climate zone in Portland, Oregon. Jim offers valuable insights into the region's unique housing characteristics and challenges. Notably, he highlights the relatively young housing stock in Oregon, with few homes predating 1890, and the desirability of Craftsman-style houses from the 1920s. Basements, common in older homes, pose occasional water intrusion issues due to the rainy season...
Oct 23, 2023•55 min•Season 5Ep. 34
In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry are joined by Dusty Jameson , a seasoned home inspector of Inspector Cluseau which is based in Knoxville, Tennessee. Together, they delve into the unique challenges posed by the mixed humid climate in their region. Dusty sheds light on critical aspects of home inspections such as heating and cooling systems, crawl spaces, radon detection, and insulation methods. The pervasive issue of humidity in crawl spaces is...
Oct 16, 2023•55 min•Season 5Ep. 33
In this episode of the Structure Talk Podcast, Reuben Saltzman shares a recent experience with a water heater and the importance of installing a leak detection system to prevent potential damage. He recounts a previous incident where a water heater leak caused significant harm to his house, underscoring the necessity of early detection. Reuben also delves into water heater warranties, discussing the warranty process and offering tips for handling warranty claims. The conversation shifts to the m...
Oct 09, 2023•34 min•Season 5Ep. 32
In this podcast, Bruce Stahlberg , an expert in HVAC systems and energy efficiency, highlighted the paramount importance of accurate testing and diagnostics for HVAC performance. He emphasized the significance of static pressure testing over temperature rise testing in assessing furnace performance. Reuben, Tessa and Bruce discussed challenges like sheetrock dust infiltrating A-coils during home renovations, potentially causing efficiency issues. Bruce suggested methods to detect blockages in th...
Oct 02, 2023•40 min•Season 5Ep. 31
In this episode of Structure Talk, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry are joined by Adam Barthel from Rum River Construction Consultants. They explore fire separation standards for homes and townhouses, focusing on the wall between the house and garage. The conversation covers crucial details such as material requirements, gap considerations in drywall, and proper installations. They emphasize the nuances and complexities of fire separation codes and stress the importance of following local b...
Sep 18, 2023•34 min•Season 5Ep. 30
In this engaging podcast episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murray welcome Scott Dorn , owner of BOGO Pest Control , for the second time around as their esteemed guest. Scott shares his invaluable insights into ethical pest control practices and underscores the significance of leadership and integrity in the industry. The discussion spans a multitude of topics, including the responsible use of rodenticide bait and its environmental implications. Scott's expertise shines as he enlightens the audi...
Sep 11, 2023•51 min•Season 5Ep. 29
In this podcast episode, Reuben and Tessa discuss a variety of bathroom upgrades and remodeling tips to enhance both the functionality and luxury of your bathroom space. They delve into the advantages of installing heated floors, particularly in tile-floored bathrooms, for a cozy and comfortable experience, while acknowledging the potential electricity costs. Additionally, the hosts suggest practical additions like shower footrests and benches, timed exhaust fan switches to mitigate moisture iss...
Sep 04, 2023•40 min•Season 5Ep. 28
In today’s episode, Reuben and Tessa engage in an insightful conversation with mortgage expert Mike Louden from Mortgage Avenue . The episode centers on the nuances of the real estate landscape, encompassing mortgage rates and homeownership. Louden stresses the role of advisor over loan officer, drawing from his extensive experience since 1994 and his dedication to guiding clients through the mortgage process. The conversation explores crafting personalized mortgage deals, considering aspects be...
Aug 28, 2023•43 min•Season 5Ep. 27
In this episode, Reuben starts off by sharing exciting news about Structure Tech's recent recognition as the "World's Greatest Home Inspection Company" on a TV show called "World's Greatest." He explains how the company was featured and highlights its focus on providing high-quality services to home inspectors and supporting the industry. Tessa then reveals her new venture, " Your House Coach ," a consulting business aimed at guiding homeowners, home buyers, and even professionals in the buildin...
Aug 21, 2023•28 min•Season 5Ep. 26
In this episode, Reuben and Tessa discuss the factors that can affect the duration of a home inspection. Tessa mentions how complicated houses with multiple additions, large square footage, and older construction can significantly extend the time it takes to complete an inspection. They also talk about the challenges of inspecting attics, crawlspaces, and roofs, which can add to the overall time due to setup, access, and the need to inspect different roof coverings. They emphasize the role of th...
Aug 07, 2023•28 min•Season 5Ep. 25
In today’s podcast, Reuben and Tessa are joined by John Williamson , a retired Chief Electrical Inspector and electrical expert from Minnesota. The main topic of discussion revolves around the adoption of the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) in Minnesota and its impact on residential properties and its date of effectivity. The podcast delves into significant changes, such as the expanded use of GFCI protection in kitchens, now covering all receptacles, including wall outlets. They also highli...
Jul 31, 2023•1 hr•Season 5Ep. 24
In this episode, Reuben and Tessa welcome Eric Houseman , Structuretech Home Inspection’s service manager, as a special guest. They discuss various topics, including truck organization for home inspectors. Eric describes his customized truck setup, making it an efficient and well-organized vehicle for inspections. He utilizes a roof rack to carry his extension ladder, while his collapsing ladder and other inspection tools are stored in ARB drawers in the bed. Eric's truck also features a modular...
Jul 24, 2023•28 min•Season 5Ep. 23
One of Structure Tech's most experienced instructors, George Ury , joins the show to talk about wood foundations. Geoge discusses the preservatives used in wood foundations-these are an integral part of the wood foundation that needs to be protected. He shares his experiences in inspecting wood foundations. They discuss the common reasons why wood foundations fail and the importance of water management. Then they talk about recommendations on how to prevent moisture and mold from damaging the fo...
Jul 17, 2023•35 min•Season 5Ep. 22
It has been a long hiatus! We're back to talk about the importance of gas fireplace safety. Reuben shares that he has been too casual about child safety with fireplaces. They talk about how the fireplace glass surface can get very hot and potentially melt skin very quickly. Would you happen to need a fireplace screen? Reuben discusses how screens can help protect children from injury. They talk about the availability of these products from manufacturers or visit Fireplace Safety Screen • Firepla...
Jun 19, 2023•22 min•Season 5Ep. 21
Reuben and Tessa share some advice, recommendations, and guidance for new home inspectors and business owners. Reuben shares that home inspection certifications and licenses aren't enough to become a good inspector. Tessa mentions shadowing and learning from seasoned practitioners in the industry will help inspectors get good at the job and know what to do. They highlight that it's important to learn from other people's mistakes. They also talk about tips about inspector liabilities and client r...
May 22, 2023•38 min•Season 5Ep. 20
Today we discuss direct and power vents and combustion air. Reuben and Tessa discuss an inquiry about a contractor's advice to install a direct vent for their water heater replacement. Reuben explains that this was extremely unusual. He defines a power vent and a direct vent. Tessa inquires about changes in the building code. They also talk about combustion air. Reuben highlights that combustion air is brought into every Minnesota home. Tessa explains what combustion air is. They highlight that ...
May 15, 2023•29 min•Season 5Ep. 19
Today we talk about the recommended must-have tools from podcast followers. Reuben and Tessa go over the list of suggestions. They talk about Channellock vs Robo Grip pliers, an impact driver vs a drill, electric vs gas-powered saws, as well as various hand saws and reciprocating saws, wet-dry vacuums, pry bars and putty knives, 2ft or 4ft level, stud finders or stud buddies, vice grips, and mallets. They also received suggestions about personal protective equipment such as work gloves, safety g...
May 08, 2023•36 min•Season 5Ep. 18
Reuben and Tessa go over a list of tools every homeowner must have in the house. They talk about flashlights, drills and bit sets, socket sets and wrench adapters, screwdrivers and wrenches, tape measures, utility knives, hammers, pliers, and ladders. Reuben highlights that these tools are very useful for DIY projects while Tessa mentions that the tools are not for everyone. Read Reuben's blog post about these tools here: Must-own tool list for every homeowner - Structure Tech Home Inspections ....
May 01, 2023•41 min•Season 5Ep. 17
