Skip to content
POWER100
Join Free
Content

#725: LIVE From the 2026 International Builders’ Show

⏱️ 37:07 🎤 Brian Pontolilo, Randy Williams, Mark Peterson, Daniel Sutton
AUDIO EPISODE
#725: LIVE From the 2026 International Builders’ Show
0:00
0:00

Chapters

Click to jump to section

  • 0:00
    Live from IBS 2026
    The hosts introduce the special episode recorded live from the International Builders' Show 2026, sponsored by VersaTex, focusing on low-maintenance exteriors.
  • 0:54
    Introducing the Panel
    Brian Pontolilo introduces guests Randy Williams, editor of Green Building Advisor, Mark Peterson, Fine Homebuilding contributing editor and IBS judge, and Daniel Sutton, project manager at VersaTex.
  • 3:34
    Mark's IBS Judging Experience
    Mark Peterson shares his experience as a judge for the new product category at IBS, highlighting the extensive research involved.
  • 9:01
    Product Manager's Role
    Daniel Sutton explains his role as a product manager at VersaTex, detailing how product ideas from customers are developed from concept to market.
  • 20:56
    Defining High-Maintenance Exteriors
    The panel discusses examples of high-maintenance exteriors, such as those requiring frequent painting, staining, or extensive repair due to environmental factors or material degradation.
  • 29:14
    Defining Low/No Maintenance
    The conversation shifts to defining low-maintenance and the myth of 'no-maintenance' products, emphasizing durability and resistance to fading, rotting, and common issues.
  • 39:51
    Natural Materials & Quality
    The panel debates whether natural materials left to weather can be considered low-maintenance, with a focus on how modern wood quality impacts longevity.
  • 43:35
    Homeowner Expectations
    The discussion covers the increasing homeowner demand for low-maintenance products and how manufacturers like VersaTex are meeting these expectations with innovative materials.
  • 51:19
    PVC vs. Vinyl Siding
    Daniel Sutton explains the differences between cellular PVC siding and traditional vinyl siding, focusing on thickness, durability, and installation considerations like expansion and contraction.
  • 1:09:52
    VersaTex Innovations
    Daniel highlights VersaTex's exceed siding and canvas series, noting their low-maintenance features, color stability, and ease of installation due to design features like VZ drop lock technology.

Speakers

B
Brian Pontolilo
Host — Fine Homebuilding's editorial director
R
Randy Williams
editor of Green Building Advisor
M
Mark Peterson
Host — contributing editor at Fine Homebuilding
D
Daniel Sutton
project manager at VersaTex

Key Takeaways

✦

Embrace solutions-oriented products that simplify construction processes, like pre-milled moldings and integrated sheathing systems, to save time and labor on site.

✦

Recognize that 'no-maintenance' is a myth; even durable materials require some upkeep, but 'low-maintenance' products significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of required tasks.

✦

Prioritize materials that offer long-term durability and color stability, especially in exterior applications, to avoid costly repainting or premature replacement, and consider advancements in cap stock technology for fade resistance.

✦

Understand the specific expansion and contraction properties of synthetic materials like PVC; for PVC, movement primarily occurs lengthwise, requiring precise installation techniques to prevent gaps or buckling.

✦

Educate clients on material quality differences, particularly concerning natural woods, as modern lumber may not offer the same longevity as old-growth timber without significant maintenance.

✦

Utilize manufacturer training programs and resources to ensure proper installation and maximize the performance and longevity of advanced building materials.

✦

When painting PVC products, ensure using acrylic latex paint with an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 55 or higher, or use heat-reflective pigments for darker colors to mitigate heat absorption and movement issues.

Want the full experience?

Join Power100 for full access to every episode, AI-powered insights, personalized coaching, and a network of industry leaders.

Join Power100 →