Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Episode 3 of Build Science™ 401 details a crawlspace or “short basement” foundation using real 2D and 3D drawings to show how water, air, vapor, and thermal control layers must align and remain continuous. Matt Risinger and Steve Baczek explain how elements like sub-slab insulation, drainage, closed-cell spray foam, and exposed foundation work together to manage moisture, air leakage, energy performance, durability, and region-specific risks like termites and frost depth. A major theme is continuity—tracing each control layer from below grade up through the wall assembly—and understanding how different insulation types and permeance levels affect drying and risk. They emphasize that these details are not theoretical but taken from an active, under-construction project, reinforcing the importance of learning from real-world, proven assemblies.
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Huge thanks to our Show sponsors Builders FirstSource, Huber, Pella & Viewrail for helping to make these videos possible! These are all trusted companies that Matt has worked with for years and trusts their products in the homes he builds. We would highly encourage you to check out their websites for more info.
bldr.com
Huberwood.com
pella.com
Viewrail.com
Episode 3 of Build Science™ 401 details a crawlspace or “short basement” foundation using real 2D and 3D drawings to show how water, air, vapor, and thermal control layers must align and remain continuous. Matt Risinger and Steve Baczek explain how elements like sub-slab insulation, drainage, closed-cell spray foam, and exposed foundation work together to manage moisture, air leakage, energy performance, durability, and region-specific risks like termites and frost depth. A major theme is continuity—tracing each control layer from below grade up through the wall assembly—and understanding how different insulation types and permeance levels affect drying and risk. They emphasize that these details are not theoretical but taken from an active, under-construction project, reinforcing the importance of learning from real-world, proven assemblies.
Get your BUILD SHOW Gear Here -
build-gearstore.com
Subscribe and follow my Podcast on Apple or Spotify!
Apple: apple.co/32AOwgU
Spotify: spoti.fi/3FXNg4X
Sign up for our twice-weekly newsletter:
buildshownetwork.com/newsletter
To sponsor a video or advertise with us visit:
buildproductions.com
Want to learn more about building? thebuildshow.com
The Build Show on Instagram: instagram.com/thebuildshow
Huge thanks to our Show sponsors Builders FirstSource, Huber, Pella & Viewrail for helping to make these videos possible! These are all trusted companies that Matt has worked with for years and trusts their products in the homes he builds. We would highly encourage you to check out their websites for more info.
bldr.com
Huberwood.com
pella.com
Viewrail.com
