BUILD BETTER HOMES

PLIRIS
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The Build Better Homes Podcast is where construction expertise meets real-world experience. Co-hosted by Royal Mortier (President of PLIRIS) and John O’Shea (COO of PLIRIS), the show dives into the tools, strategies, and lessons that help builders, designers, and homeowners create smarter, stronger, and more efficient homes. With decades of combined experience in engineering, contracting, and operations, Royal and John bring unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s construction industry. Each episode features insights into building science, team structures, design processes, and the practical details that separate successful projects from costly mistakes. Whether you’re a builder just starting out, an industry professional looking to scale, or simply passionate about better homebuilding, this podcast will give you actionable knowledge, candid stories, and proven strategies to help you build better, every time.

  1. 6 FEB

    2024 IRC Updates That Actually Matter in 2026 | Royal & John

    In this episode of Build Better Homes, Royal Mortier and John O’Shea break down 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) updates that are actively impacting projects in 2026.   While the code cycle is labeled 2024, many jurisdictions are adopting and enforcing these changes now, making their real-world implications more relevant than ever. Royal and John focus on the updates that actually affect builders, designers, and homeowners today, not theoretical changes buried in the book.   The conversation covers how extreme cold events are exposing weaknesses in regions not historically designed for freezing conditions, how frost depth and soil assumptions are being challenged, and which code updates offer real flexibility versus added complexity.   A key highlight is the expanded allowance for using USDA soil classifications as an alternative path to higher allowable bearing pressures, a change that can reduce concrete volumes, shorten schedules, and avoid unnecessary geotechnical reports when applied correctly.   Key TakeawayThese may be called the 2024 IRC updates, but their consequences are being felt now. Knowing how to apply them in 2026 is what separates compliance from competence. 🔗 Learn more at https://plirisco.com!

    44 min

  2. 30 JAN

    HDU vs HDU-E Hold Downs Explained (Technical Topics) | Royal

    In this solo episode of Build Better Homes, Royal Mortier introduces a new recurring segment called Technical Topics, focused on engineering-related changes that directly affect residential construction.   This first Technical Topics episode breaks down a major hardware shift many builders and designers are already encountering in the field: Simpson’s transition from the HDU hold-down series to the new HDU-E series, along with the introduction of SABR (Saber) anchor bolts.   Royal walks through how and why the HDU-E series delivers higher tensile capacity with fewer screws and thinner gauge steel, what has changed in screw orientation, and how these updates affect real-world design decisions, pricing, and installation tolerance. He also explains where retrofit options disappear at higher capacities, and why anchor bolt placement accuracy becomes critical as loads increase.   The episode closes with a practical design tip that has dramatically reduced misplaced anchor bolts across thousands of homes: dimensioning hold-down anchor locations directly on foundation plans.   This is a highly technical, field-driven episode aimed at engineers, designers, framers, and builders who want fewer surprises during construction and inspections. Topics CoveredWhy the HDU series is being phased outKey differences between HDU and HDU-E hold downsHorizontal vs angled SDS screw installationHow geometry increases tensile capacityCapacity comparisons (HDU2 → HDU-E3, HDU4 → HDU-E5, HDU5 → HDU-E7, HDU8 → HDU-E9, HDU11 → HDU-E13, HDU14 → HDU-E17)Gauge changes and reduced screw countsRetrofit limitations at higher hold-down capacitiesSB vs SABR anchor bolts (Grade 36 vs Grade 55 steel)Why SABR bolts simplify design and sourcingPricing differences and where savings still existA proven method to reduce anchor bolt retrofits by over 90%Key TakeawayHardware keeps evolving. The builders who stay ahead are the ones who understand why it changed, not just what changed.

    22 min

  3. 23 JAN

    Manufactured & Panelized Construction Explained | Royal & John

    In this episode of Build Better Homes, Royal Mortier and John O’Shea dive into manufactured, modular, and panelized construction and clear up the confusion around what these terms actually mean. They break down the key differences between manufactured homes, panelized wall systems, modular construction, and pre-cut framing packages, while sharing real-world examples from residential, multifamily, commercial, and even hospital projects. The conversation explores where manufactured construction shines, where it creates challenges, and why planning, precision, and early decision-making matter far more in these systems than in traditional stick-built construction. This episode also tackles common misconceptions around quality, cost, perception, and design flexibility including why many people still associate manufactured construction with outdated ideas that no longer reflect reality. Topics CoveredManufactured homes vs manufactured constructionPanelized framing vs traditional stick-built framingSpeed, precision, and quality control benefitsWeather-related advantages of off-site constructionShipping, logistics, and scheduling challengesWhy foundations must be more precise with panelizationCost realities and barriers to entryChange management and why late changes cause chaosPerception issues around quality and framing methodsAdvanced framing vs conventional framing explained Key TakeawayManufactured and panelized construction aren’t shortcuts but actually, they’re systems. When planned correctly, they improve speed, consistency, and quality. When rushed or misunderstood, they create expensive problems. Learn more at https://plirisco.com!

    52 min

  4. 16 JAN

    2026 Design Trends | Royal & John

    In this episode of Build Better Homes, co-hosts Royal Mortier and John O’Shea kick off the year by diving into how home design is shifting in 2026, away from surface-level aesthetics and toward long-term livability, flexibility, and real-world use.   Drawing from decades of experience across production, custom, and high-performance residential construction, Royal and John unpack how economic pressure, remote work, multi-generational living, and lifestyle changes are reshaping the way homes are planned.   This conversation explores why the most successful homes aren’t defined by trends or paint colors, but by how well they support people through every stage of life. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy “designing for how people actually live” matters more than everHow aging-in-place and multi-generational living are driving floor plan changesThe growing role of ADUs for flexibility, income, and family needsWhy single-story living is making a comeback (without the old ranch-house feel)How indoor–outdoor living is evolving with large openings and collapsible wallsThe importance of early planning to avoid expensive structural mistakesWhy purpose-built spaces (coffee nooks, pet washes, flex rooms) are becoming standardHow builders can balance profitability with long-term homeowner satisfaction  This episode sets the foundation for a year-long conversation about smarter, more thoughtful residential design and why planning ahead is always cheaper than fixing later.   🔗 Learn more at https://pliris.co

    1h 7m

  5. 9 JAN

    ADUs, ACUs & Live-Work Units Explained | Royal

    In this solo episode of the Build Better Homes Podcast, Royal Mortier dives into one of the most timely and misunderstood topics in residential development: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Accessory Commercial Units (ACUs), and Live-Work Units. Royal breaks down where these concepts came from, why they’re gaining traction across the U.S., and how they’re being used as practical tools to address housing pressure, affordability, walkability, and mixed-use community design.   Drawing from real-world projects across California, Florida, Oregon, Lake Tahoe, and coastal vacation communities, this episode walks through: What ADUs really cost and why price per square foot is higherWhen ADUs make sense financially and when they don’tThe regulatory realities most people overlookHow ACUs support walkable neighborhoods and local businessWhy Live-Work Units are becoming more common in modern developmentsLessons from European towns, Seaside / 30A, and coastal planned communities  This episode is both educational and practical, offering builders, developers, and homeowners real context instead of hype.   Topics Covered What qualifies as an ADU vs illegal conversionsZoning, fire separation, egress, and energy code considerationsReal cost breakdowns for ADU plan sets and constructionRental income vs equity benefitsACUs and neighborhood-scale commercial integrationADA implications when converting residential to commercialLive-Work Units and modern work-from-home realitiesTownhouse density and walkable community planningWhy condos are the exception to “real estate never goes to zero” Key Takeaway ADUs, ACUs, and Live-Work Units aren’t shortcuts, they’re tools. When applied thoughtfully, they increase flexibility, density, and long-term value. When misunderstood, they create expensive mistakes. Connect Learn more about planning, feasibility, and jurisdictional guidance at https://pliris.co!

    32 min

  6. 19/12/2025

    How Land Deals Really Work | Royal ft. PJ Reilly

    In this episode of the Build Better Homes Podcast, Royal Mortier sits down with PJ Riley, a real estate investor who has quietly built a successful business buying and selling vacant land across the U.S. PJ shares his unconventional path into real estate, starting with almost no money, no formal background in land development, and a willingness to learn by doing. From buying $550 quarter-acre parcels to structuring owner-financed land deals, PJ breaks down how land investing actually works behind the scenes, without the hype often pushed by coaches and online gurus. The conversation dives deep into land wholesaling, seller financing, response rates, capital constraints, entitlement challenges, and why land remains one of the most misunderstood entry points into real estate. Royal and PJ also discuss the rising cost of development fees, why builders make their money on land (not houses), and how to vet real expertise in an industry crowded with “experts.” This episode is an honest look at land investing, entrepreneurship, and the discipline required to build something real over time. Topics CoveredPJ Riley’s background and path into land investingBuying vacant land with little upfront capitalWhy land wholesaling works for beginnersOwner financing strategies for land dealsReal response rates from direct mail campaignsWhy capital, not deals, is the biggest constraint todaySelling land via Facebook, signs, brokers, and direct outreachFailed developments and learning from past mistakesRising jurisdiction fees and their impact on housing affordabilityWhy most coaching programs miss the real workHow to vet who you should (and shouldn’t) learn fromParallels between martial arts, discipline, and entrepreneurship Key TakeawayLand investing isn’t fast, flashy, or passive, but for those willing to do the work, it remains one of the most accessible and flexible paths into real estate. Real success comes from experience, patience, and understanding the fundamentals, not chasing shortcuts. GuestPJ Reilly - Real Estate Investor Connect With PLIRISWebsite: https://pliris.co Podcast: Build Better Homes

    43 min

  7. 12/12/2025

    Modern Building Science | Royal ft. Nate MacIntyre

    In this episode of the Build Better Homes Podcast, Royal is joined once again by building envelope expert Nate McIntyre for one of the most comprehensive building-science deep dives of the season. Nate shares 25+ years of experience diagnosing failures, reviewing assemblies, and consulting for architects, engineers, contractors, and developers. Together, he and Royal unpack the real reasons buildings succeed — or fail — across spray foam installations, WRBs, compatibility issues, exothermic reactions, continuous insulation systems, product failures, and the unintended consequences of airtight construction. They also explore the rise of digital twins, 360 capture, Matterport models, drone documentation, and how these tools are transforming inspections, forensics, and QA/QC across the industry. Key Topics Covered Nate’s path from commissioning and mechanical systems to building envelope forensicsWhy product incompatibility is one of the top causes of failuresThe real pros, cons, and risks of spray foam (including exothermic reactions)Why “tight homes” require smarter ventilation and building scienceCommon failures with continuous insulation & ZIP systemsWhen WRBs are required — and why many builders misunderstand themWhy mockups matter (and how they prevent major failures)How digital twins, drones, and Matterport models are reshaping construction QA/QCReal case studies: moisture traps, incompatible sealants, shrinkage failures, and membrane issuesWhy retrofits are often riskier than new constructionThe coming wave of defect claims tied to energy-code-driven assemblies TakeawayModern construction requires more than “following the plan.” It requires understanding how materials interact, testing assemblies, calling manufacturers, documenting work, and using the right experts at the right time. The best builders aren’t guessing — they’re verifying. Connect With PLIRISPlans • Engineering • Envelope Support 👉 pliris.co

    49 min

  8. 05/12/2025

    Financing Short-Term Rentals the Right Way | Royal ft. Jeff Chisum

    In this episode of the Build Better Homes Podcast, Royal sits down with Jeff Chisum, one of the nation’s top STR financing experts, to break down the real strategies behind acquiring, scaling, and protecting short-term rental investments. Jeff shares his personal journey, from getting into the mortgage industry during the 2008 crash to becoming a top 1% loan originator and STR financing specialist. He walks through the 10% second-home loan, DSCR loans, self-directed IRA investing, and the powerful All-In-One mortgage, explaining how each tool works and when investors should consider using them.   Packed with real stories, actionable advice, and insights most investors never hear, this episode is essential for anyone looking to grow a rental portfolio or understand the financing side of real estate deeper. Key Topics CoveredHow Jeff got started in lending during the 2008 crashWhy STRs thrive in places people don’t expectThe truth about 10% down second-home loansDSCR loans: what they are — and what lenders get wrongHow to use a self-directed IRA to buy real estateThe All-In-One mortgage and why Jeff calls it “the biggest wealth-building tool in America”How investors choose the right market, lake towns, and year-round STR locationsWhy lifestyle investing often outperforms “math-only” investingTakeawayYou don’t scale a real estate portfolio by guessing, but by using the right financing tools at the right time. Whether you're buying your first STR or planning a long-term portfolio, this episode gives you the roadmap. Guest LinksJeff Chisum – STR Home Financing Website: https://strhomefinancing.com Connect With PLIRISWebsite: pliris.co Podcast: Build Better Homes

    53 min
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About

The Build Better Homes Podcast is where construction expertise meets real-world experience. Co-hosted by Royal Mortier (President of PLIRIS) and John O’Shea (COO of PLIRIS), the show dives into the tools, strategies, and lessons that help builders, designers, and homeowners create smarter, stronger, and more efficient homes. With decades of combined experience in engineering, contracting, and operations, Royal and John bring unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s construction industry. Each episode features insights into building science, team structures, design processes, and the practical details that separate successful projects from costly mistakes. Whether you’re a builder just starting out, an industry professional looking to scale, or simply passionate about better homebuilding, this podcast will give you actionable knowledge, candid stories, and proven strategies to help you build better, every time.

Information

  • Creator
    PLIRIS
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 PLIRIS