Structure Talk

Reuben Saltzman
  • 4.9 (57)
  • BUSINESS
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Structure Talk is a podcast about houses, home maintenance, home ownership, buying and selling houses, and of course, home inspections.  The show is hosted by Reuben Saltzman at Structure Tech and Tessa Murry, the House Coach. Our podcast is sponsored by Inspector Empire Builder.Email us at podcast@structuretech.com

  1. Thrown under the bus and dragged (with Eric Houseman)

    5D AGO

    Thrown under the bus and dragged (with Eric Houseman)

    To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/c9hch5yyc-U In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry are joined by Structure Tech’s Services Manager, Eric Houseman, for a wild home‑inspection story that starts with a simple missing bath‑fan termination and snowballs into a major discovery. What begins as routine training turns into a dramatic game of telephone between inspectors, agents, sellers, and contractors—and ends with one of the most shocking ventilation mistakes the team has ever seen: a bathroom exhaust fan tied directly into a power‑vent water heater exhaust. Along the way, the trio talked about communication pitfalls, the importance of clear reporting, the routine inspection steps that prevent safety issues, and the unexpected discoveries that even seasoned inspectors don’t see coming. It's an episode filled with lessons, surprises, and plenty of inspector banter. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Check out this link to our new favorite Combustible Gas Detector, the TPI 720b: https://amzn.to/3NgZtv7 Takeaways Clear communication during inspections is essential—verbal explanations can easily be distorted. Always wait for the published report, which is the most accurate representation of the findings. Words matter: “exhaust gas leak” is not the same as “gas leak.” Inspectors should avoid paraphrasing defects; copy the exact language from the report when relaying information. Even “routine” findings require careful verification—small details prevent major hazards. A bath fan must exhaust to the exterior, and improper venting can create serious safety risks. Creativity in home projects isn't always a good thing—especially when it involves exhaust systems and combustion appliances. When something seems off, dig deeper; sometimes the truth is hidden behind drywall. A well‑written report, complete with photos and precise language, is a home inspector’s best protection. Even experienced inspectors learn new things—sometimes in the most unexpected ways. Chapters 00:00  Introduction and Minnesota’s heavy current events 01:07  Shifting to lighter topics and home‑inspection talk 02:35  Combustible gas detectors: retiring the TIFF 8900 05:00  The new winner: TPI 270B 07:21  Show sponsor shout‑out: IEB 08:35  Reuben’s reverse osmosis saga (and user error) 11:35  Tessa’s stinky well‑water updates 13:31  Introduction to Eric’s “thrown under the bus” story 14:25  The inspection setup and counting exhaust points 16:45  The missing basement bath‑fan termination 18:14  The telephone game between clients, agents, and sellers 19:37  HVAC contractor conflicts with the findings 20:55  Re‑inspection and detective work 22:17  The shocking discovery: bath fan tied into water‑heater exhaust 23:59  Why this is dangerous: carbon monoxide risk 25:11  No apology, but valuable lessons 27:33  How communication gaps amplify issues 28:44  Importance of clear reporting and avoiding paraphrasing 30:33  Wrapping the episode; preview of next topic 31:48  Closing remarks

    33 min
  2. Natural Disasters vs Building Codes (with George Siegal)

    JAN 19

    Natural Disasters vs Building Codes (with George Siegal)

    To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/GcQUDCQAgsI In this episode, Reuben Saltzman speaks with film producer George Siegal, known for his documentary Built to Last, Buyer Beware. They explore the hidden risks of home buying, with a focus on insurance coverage, building codes, and purchasing in high-risk areas. Drawing on his background in TV news, George emphasizes how often buyers overlook critical details such as insurance limitations and local hazards. The episode serves as a cautionary discussion, encouraging prospective homeowners to ask the right questions and make informed decisions to protect their investments and families. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Check out George Siegal’s LinkedIn profile here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/ Complete this short form for access to the special offer mentioned on the show: https://pro.speakerhub.com/speaker-feedback/?qr=980babe6-74ff-48c0-b387-83ec6aa6fe38 For the long version of the film, Built to Last: movetheworldfilms.gumroad.com/l/kaywco Takeaways You have to assess your overall situation. Don't think that just because your house burned down, you don't have to still pay the mortgage. You need to understand all this stuff, and it's not fun You have to ask questions and find out as much information as you can. If someone tells you you’re being a nuisance or refuses to answer your questions, don’t buy the house. You should know what they are before you go and ask them the question. You have to dig into that a little bit. You have to become a detective when you're buying a house. If a builder ever looks at you, puffs out his chest, and says, “This house is built to code,” I wouldn’t buy it. You want an inspector who does more than just look at the plug rating and say, “Yeah, that plug’s not connected right.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:55 George Siegal's Background and Career Transition 03:08 Overview of the Documentary "Built to Last" 04:25 Understanding Home Buying Decisions 05:22 The Importance of Insurance Awareness 09:24 Assessing Risks in Home Locations 14:17 Building Codes and Their Implications 18:28 Navigating Insurance Challenges 22:38 The Role of Inspectors in Home Buying 30:23 Key Questions for Home Buyers

    37 min
  3. Humidity problems, snowblowers, and stinky water

    JAN 12

    Humidity problems, snowblowers, and stinky water

    To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/eVsiOW_Ynig In today’s episode, Reuben and Tessa reflect on their holiday experiences and catch up on recent home projects, sharing practical insights on everything from snowblowers to indoor air quality concerns. They dive deeper into the complexities of health issues tied to home environments and discuss water quality challenges in Tessa’s new Florida residence. Along the way, the conversation highlights the difficulties of identifying and resolving these issues while underscoring the importance of family, transitions, and new beginnings. Check this link for my power shovel demo video: https://youtube.com/shorts/FzCBk2Z1jpc?si=9iYfiCXwn88r8GD0 Takeaways Time seems to speed up as we grow older. Spending time with family is invaluable. Snowblowers can be enjoyable to use. Indoor air quality can significantly affect health. Home diagnostics can be complex and frustrating. Water quality issues can arise from various sources. It's important to investigate health symptoms thoroughly. New beginnings can bring both challenges and opportunities. Collaboration in the industry can lead to better solutions. Listening to others' experiences can provide valuable insights. Chapters 00:00 New Year Reflections and Family Time 02:51 Home Projects and Snowblower Insights 05:59 HRV Troubles and Indoor Air Quality 12:01 Mystery Health Issues and Home Diagnostics 23:37 Water Quality Concerns and Solutions 30:02 New Beginnings in Florida

    39 min
  4. Smart homes, energy monitors, and leak prevention devices

    12/15/2025

    Smart homes, energy monitors, and leak prevention devices

    To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/btTlpjM1w2c In this episode, Reuben and Tessa explore practical smart home upgrades and energy-saving tools. They share hands-on experiences with infrared cameras, energy monitoring devices, and water leak prevention systems. The discussion also touches on the challenges of managing multiple smart devices and finding the right balance between convenience and simplicity. If you’ve ever wondered which gadgets are worth the investment for safety and efficiency, this episode is for you. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Takeaways Infrared cameras for mobile devices can be great backups but aren’t ideal for daily home inspections. Smart plugs with built-in energy monitoring (like TP-Link TAPO) are affordable and effective. Energy monitors help track electricity costs and optimize usage. Automatic water leak detection systems can prevent costly damage and insurance claims. Managing multiple smart devices can become overwhelming—simplicity matters. Leak prevention systems like YoLink offer peace of mind for homeowners. Investing in smart home tech should prioritize safety and efficiency over novelty. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 03:45 Infrared Camera Review: TopDon TC002C DUO 08:14 Affordable Alternatives for Android and Apple Users 09:37 Energy Monitoring Devices and Smart Plugs 14:30 Automating Energy Savings with TAPO Smart Plugs 18:00 The Reality of Managing Multiple Smart Devices 27:08 Leak Prevention Systems: Guardian vs. YoLink 32:12 Why Every Home Needs Automatic Leak Detection 35:45 Wrapping Up and Listener Invitation

    37 min
  5. Good contractors are good planners (w/ Nate Mielke)

    12/08/2025

    Good contractors are good planners (w/ Nate Mielke)

    To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/nu1GoDS3z-E In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry welcome Nate Mielke, a general contractor and remodeler. They discuss Nate's journey in the construction industry, the differences between design-build and general contracting, and the importance of building performance in remodeling projects. The conversation also touches on unique business practices that set Nate apart from other contractors, as well as valuable lessons learned from past experiences. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events You can check Nate’s website here: www.skapar.net Takeaways Nate Mielke has been in the construction industry since 1997. The design-build approach allows for better collaboration and project outcomes. Pre-construction planning is crucial for successful remodeling projects. Building performance considerations can impact client satisfaction and comfort. Nate emphasizes the importance of understanding client budgets from the start. Mistakes in contracts can lead to significant issues, including lawsuits. Value engineering helps clients achieve their desired outcomes within budget. Nate's company focuses on high-end remodeling projects, typically ranging from $200,000 to $600,000. The use of technology and AI tools is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Nate's experience highlights the need for good contracts and legal protections in contracting.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 07:17 Nate Mielke's Journey in Contracting 18:20 Understanding Design-Build vs. General Contracting 22:57 Project Scope and Examples 25:48 Cost Insights for Bathroom and Kitchen Remodels 26:48 Optimizing Space: Plumbing and Layout Considerations 27:49 Integrating Building Performance in Remodeling 30:16 Addressing Ventilation and Comfort in Remodels 32:41 Client Concerns: Health and Indoor Environment 34:16 Identifying Mold Issues in Older Homes 37:35 The Impact of Building Codes on Home Performance 38:21 Pre-Construction Planning: Setting Projects Up for Success 41:28 Leveraging Technology: AI in Construction Management 44:23 Learning from Mistakes: The Importance of Contracts

    48 min
  6. Building Affordable Houses (with Rob Howard)

    12/01/2025

    Building Affordable Houses (with Rob Howard)

    To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/MpJELehhLbc In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry sit down with Rob Howard, founder of Howard Building Science, to explore how he’s tackling one of the biggest challenges in housing today: building affordable, high-performance homes. Rob shares his journey from Habitat for Humanity to creating Duke Street Cottages, a pocket neighborhood in North Carolina designed for community, energy efficiency, and resilience. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events You can check Rob’s website here: https://howardbuildingscience.com/ Takeaways Building code is the baseline, not the finish line. Pocket neighborhoods foster community and affordability. SIP panels and modular construction reduce waste and speed up builds. Zero-energy-ready homes require airtight envelopes and efficient systems. Maintenance plans in HOA dues simplify homeowner responsibilities. Financing options like on-bill programs can make upgrades attainable. Skilled labor shortages are driving innovation in factory-built housing. Monitoring humidity and ventilation is key to healthy homes. Modular homes can achieve near-SIPs performance with customization. Affordability starts with design choices and community planning. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Sponsors 01:14 – Shoutout to IEB Coaching 02:07 – Meet Rob Howard: Builder & Innovator 04:43 – From Habitat for Humanity to Howard Building Science 07:34 – Why Energy Audits Are a Hard Sell 14:03 – Duke Street Cottages: Pocket Neighborhood Concept 18:35 – Affordability and Price Points 21:26 – Building Zero-Energy-Ready Homes 24:34 – SIP Panels vs. Modular Construction 31:00 – Ventilation, Humidity, and ERVs 36:56 – Tackling Skilled Labor Shortages 40:35 – Modular Factory Advantages 44:20 – Performance Trade-Offs in Modular Homes 47:22 – Lessons Learned and Developer Interest 49:14 – How to Connect with Rob Howard 50:38 – Wrap-Up and Listener Call-Out

    50 min
  7. Building Fortified Homes (with Isaac Scott)

    11/24/2025

    Building Fortified Homes (with Isaac Scott)

    To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/gcF3wVu0630 In this episode, Tessa Murry and Reuben Saltzman welcome Isaac Scott, a builder from Louisiana, to discuss his company, Clare Homes, and the innovative building practices they employ. Isaac shares his journey from working in the construction industry to starting his own business focused on energy-efficient and resilient homes. The conversation delves into the Fortified Home Program, which aims to enhance the resilience of homes against natural disasters, and the importance of building science in creating sustainable living environments. Isaac also discusses the challenges and learning curves faced in the construction industry, particularly in Louisiana, and how they are paving the way for better building standards. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events You can check Clare Homes’ website here: https://www.clare-homes.com/ Takeaways Isaac Scott is the co-founder of Clare Homes, focusing on energy-efficient homes. Clare Homes builds to ENERGY STAR and Fortified Roof standards. The Fortified Home Program enhances resilience against natural disasters. Building science is crucial for creating sustainable homes. Isaac emphasized the importance of community resilience in building practices. The cost of building fortified homes is often outweighed by insurance savings. Indoor air quality management is essential in high-performance homes. Isaac's journey reflects the evolution of building practices in Louisiana. The construction industry is seeing a shift towards better standards and practices. Isaac encourages collaboration among builders for community improvement. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 02:52 Meet Isaac Scott: Builder and Innovator 03:55 The Journey of Clare Homes 08:49 Building Energy Efficient Homes 14:31 What Sets Clare Homes Apart? 17:26 Understanding Fortified Certification 25:05 Cost of Building Fortified Homes 25:38 Understanding Fortified Roofing Systems 28:39 The Importance of Continuous Load Paths 31:01 The Growing Interest in Fortified Homes 33:04 Insurance Incentives for Resilient Building 34:56 Cost Considerations for Fortified Homes 37:00 Building Techniques for High Performance Homes 39:28 Air Quality and Humidity Management 45:48 The Evolution of Building Standards in Louisiana

    52 min
  8. Old, complicated houses take more time

    11/11/2025

    Old, complicated houses take more time

    To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/6GZOqskHBwU In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry discuss Halloween chaos and a complex home inspection that pushed the limits of Structure Tech’s expertise. Reuben shares a detailed story about troubleshooting a heating system in a 100-year-old Minneapolis home, emphasizing the importance of documentation, communication, and customer support. Tessa adds insights on energy types and reflects on the challenges of winding down during a busy season. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Takeaways When dealing with heating issues, timestamped evidence can be crucial. Effective communication is key in customer support. Guiding customers through troubleshooting can lead to successful outcomes. Frustration is common among customers facing technical issues. Follow-up is important to ensure customer satisfaction. Resetting devices can often resolve common problems. Clear instructions can empower customers to solve their issues. Customer appreciation can enhance the support experience. Billing for services can be a point of discussion in customer interactions. Understanding customer emotions can improve service delivery. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Sponsors 01:14 – Sleep Struggles and WHOOP Tracker 03:36 – Halloween Party Chaos at Reuben’s House 06:57 – Shoutout to IEB Coaching 07:34 – Facebook Post from Agent Clint Kipers 09:03 – Why Structure Tech Charges More 11:25 – Target Market: Savvy Buyers & High-Integrity Agents 15:14 – Training New Inspectors 17:34 – Tessa’s Travel, Moving, and Sleep Challenges 21:13 – Human Design and Energy Types 25:29 – Complex Home Inspection Case Study 30:05 – HVAC Systems Fighting Each Other 34:06 – Boiler Error Codes and Troubleshooting 36:25 – Homeowner Call and Reset Instructions 39:22 – Why Documentation Matters 42:05 – Not All Homes Are First-Time Buyer Friendly 46:10 – Maintenance Demands and Utility Costs 47:18 – Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts 48:12 – Listener Call-Out and Upcoming Guest

    49 min
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4.9
out of 5
57 Ratings

About

Structure Talk is a podcast about houses, home maintenance, home ownership, buying and selling houses, and of course, home inspections.  The show is hosted by Reuben Saltzman at Structure Tech and Tessa Murry, the House Coach. Our podcast is sponsored by Inspector Empire Builder.Email us at podcast@structuretech.com

Information

  • Creator
    Reuben Saltzman
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    295
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Structure Talk
  • Show Website
    Structure Talk

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