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R-Value Podcast

Bringing our industry-leading knowledge even closer to our dedicated contractors.

As your partner in insulation, we want to provide every possible resource to you and your crew to help you grow your business and become more profitable. We’ll be sitting down with industry experts to discuss new products, techniques, best practices and insider details on insulation and much more. We’re covering anything from pro-tips to running a business, technical processes every contractor should know, and even seasonal topics that can reduce any (and all!) downtime. Have a topic you want to discuss? A person you want on the show? Contact Us!

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Getting Other People to Do Your Bids For You & Other Wisdom for Bidding Insulation and Spray Foam Projects with Shad Wall of ICDZ Insulation Construction Drawings – Episode 55

Getting Other People to Do Your Bids For You & Other Wisdom for Bidding Insulation and Spray Foam Projects with Shad Wall of ICDZ Insulation Construction Drawings

Getting Other People to Do Your Bids For You & Other Wisdom for Bidding Insulation and Spray Foam Projects with Shad Wall of ICDZ Insulation Construction Drawings

In the latest episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI’s Ken Allison sits down with Shad Wall of ICDZ Insulation Construction Drawings to discuss innovative approaches to bidding for insulation and spray foam projects. Shad shares his journey from field work to establishing a service that empowers contractors to delegate the complex, time-consuming task of take-offs. This episode unpacks Shad’s unique model of outsourcing bids to skilled architects and engineers, enhancing bid accuracy and enabling sales teams to focus on relationship-building and project understanding.

The conversation also explores the challenges contractors face with project specifications and how to handle discrepancies in commercial drawings effectively. Shad offers advice on the often-overlooked areas of bid preparation, including the importance of accurate roof and wall measurements and the advantages of professionally branded proposal packets. This episode is packed with valuable strategies for contractors aiming to streamline their bidding process and set themselves apart in a competitive market.

 

Main topics discussed:

Shad Wall’s unique approach to outsourcing bid take-offs and improving bid accuracy
The importance of clear, branded insulation construction drawings for winning bids
Tips on addressing discrepancies in project specifications for commercial jobs
Common pitfalls in bid preparation and how to avoid them
How to leverage project presentations for an edge in the bidding process

The Hidden ROI of Insulation and Air Sealing: Expert Tips from Rick Hall, Building Science Professional Training – Episode 54

The Hidden ROI of Insulation and Air Sealing: Expert Tips from Rick Hall, Building Science Professional Training

The Hidden ROI of Insulation and Air Sealing: Expert Tips from Rick Hall, Building Science Professional Training

In the latest episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI’s Ken Allison welcomes Rick Hall, a seasoned expert in HVAC, insulation, and building codes, to share his extensive knowledge on how proper training and understanding can elevate efficiency in the industry. Rick Hall, from Building Science Professional Training, has been training HVAC and insulation contractors since 2008 and has a wealth of experience in building load calculations and energy efficiency.

During this episode, Ken and Rick dive into the importance of proper HVAC sizing, the long-term benefits of insulation and air sealing, and the critical role of accurate data and performance metrics. Rick emphasizes how many contractors overlook key changes in building loads, leading to inefficient HVAC installations and missed opportunities for energy savings. They also explore the growing integration of insulation in HVAC systems and why focusing on air sealing and ductwork is essential for both contractors and homeowners.

Main topics discussed:

The importance of correct HVAC load calculations and system sizing
How insulation and air sealing offer significant long-term ROI
The challenge of over-relying on defaults and outdated methods in the HVAC industry
The role of new BPI certifications in improving contractor training and safety awareness
The potential impact of AI on HVAC practices and technician roles

Innovative Dehumidification Technologies: What’s New in the Market? with Nikki Krueger, Santa Fe – Episode 53

Innovative Dehumidification Technologies: What's New in the Market? with Nikki Krueger, Santa Fe

On today’s R-Value podcast, IDI’s Ken Allison welcomes Nikki Kruger from Santa Fe dehumidifiers. As the industry grapples with the challenges of increasingly airtight homes, Nikki sheds light on the latest innovations in dehumidification technology and their role in maintaining healthy, comfortable living spaces.

Nikki brings over 20 years of experience in the indoor air quality (IAQ) industry to her role as Director of Marketing & Business Development at Santa Fe Dehumidifiers. A RESNET certified home energy rater and member of various industry committees, including the ACCA Manual Low Load Homes (LLH) Advisory Committee, Nikki is at the forefront of developing effective and sustainable solutions for ventilation and moisture control in buildings.

Ken and Nikki debunk dehumidification myths and reveal surprising insights about current technologies. Nikki’s expertise shines as she explains why some popular solutions may not be as effective as commonly believed. As she pointedly states, “Everybody wants to use a technology to dehumidify that’s not a dehumidifier… The reality of keeping our mechanical systems separate in order for them to focus and being able to deliver what we actually need is the simplest solution for the HVAC community.”

In this episode:

The impact of tighter building envelopes on indoor air quality and the need for mechanical ventilation
Strategies for managing humidity in energy-efficient homes, including whole-house dehumidifiers
The importance of proper HVAC system sizing in modern, well-insulated buildings
Challenges with exhaust-only ventilation systems and the benefits of supply ventilation
Discussion of dehumidification needs in various climate zones and building types, including Passive Houses
The role of occupant behavior in managing indoor humidity and comfort
Sizing considerations for dehumidifiers in different applications, such as crawl spaces and living spaces

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