R-Value

Protecting your spray foam contracting business from costly lawsuits requires more than just installing a quality product; it takes meticulous documentation and a solid understanding of building science. Learn how proper jobsite practices, chemical conditioning, and ventilation can protect your operations and keep you out of the courtroom.

On this episode of the R-Value Podcast, IDI expert Ken Allison interviews Tom Harris, owner ...

Ever wonder what happens when an HVAC contractor realizes that heating and cooling systems are only as good as the building envelope itself? Discover how bridging the gap between HVAC and building performance can transform a standard trade business into a market-leading enterprise.

On this episode of the R-Value Podcast, IDI expert Ken Allison interviews Brady Gautreaux.

In this conversation, Brady shares his journey from starting ...

Discover the hard-earned wisdom of a 27-year insulation veteran who transitioned from a one-man operation to managing a massive Houston-based team. Carlos Bales shares why profitability in spray foam requires more than just pulling a trigger—it demands business savvy, strict maintenance, and a commitment to quality.

On this episode of the R-Value Podcast, IDI expert Ken Allison interviews Carlos Bales with Payless Insulation.

Protect your insulation business from liability and ensure you get paid for every job with expert legal strategies designed specifically for contractors. Learn why a handshake isn't enough and how a proper contract can save you from expensive litigation.

On this episode of the R-Value Podcast, IDI expert Ken Allison interviews Karalynn Cromeens, Managing Partner of The Cromeens Law Firm and host of the "Quit Getting Screwed" podcas...

Join four of the industry's most seasoned veterans as they swap "war stories" from the field and reveal the critical maintenance habits that separate profitable contractors from the rest.

On this episode of the R-Value Podcast, IDI expert Ken Allison interviews IDI's Senior Spray Foam Technicians: Frank, Matt, Ted, and Jamie.

The conversation begins with a look back at how each technician found their way into the spray foam world, ...

Discover the shocking truth about why 99% of HVAC systems may be oversized and how insulation contractors hold the key to fixing comfort and efficiency problems.

On this episode of the R-Value Podcast, IDI expert Ken Allison interviews Brynn Cooksey. Known as the "Air Doctor," Brynn is the owner of Air Doctors Heating and Cooling and an industry heavyweight who has trained over 10,000 technicians. Recognized as one of ESCO Institut...

In the latest episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI's Ken Allison welcomes Peter Troast from Energy Circle. They discuss the critical, time-sensitive opportunity for insulation contractors with the 25C tax credit, which is confirmed to be ending after 2025. Troast explains how contractors can and should be creating a sense of urgency to get jobs scheduled and completed before the end of the year.

The conversation highlights the free ...

In the latest episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI's Ken Allison welcomes Walter Mleczko II, President and Chief Executive Officer at Performance Spray Foam Texas Inc. Walter shares the intense story of navigating a five-year lawsuit that could have crippled his business, all stemming from a jobsite injury that occurred after his crew had been ordered to leave.

Walter walks listeners through the events that led to the lawsuit, how h...

Are you ready for a future where your next customer demands a solar-powered, all-electric smart home—and rejects granite countertops? 

In this episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI's Ken Allison welcomes Sara Gutterman, co-founder and CEO of Green Builder Media, North America's leading media company focused on green building and sustainable living. Together, they unpack the evolving landscape of generational home buying an...

In the latest episode of the R-Value Podcast, IDI Business Development expert Ken Allison welcomes back Peter Troast, founder of Energy Circle. Peter shares insights into the 25C Means Business program, an initiative sponsored by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) that provides insulation contractors with free, high-value marketing materials to help them promote the 25C tax credit.

Peter and Ken discuss...

The latest advancements in spray foam technology are here, but are you prepared to handle them? In this episode of the R-Value podcast, industry expert Ken Allison sits down with Honeywell research fellow Mary C. Bogdan to break down the changes, challenges, and solutions that come with the new generation of blowing agents.

As the industry moves through its latest transition, Mary shares insights on the chemistry behind these chang...

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 bi...

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 ...

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 o...

In the latest episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI’s Chris Fuerst welcomes Derek Fowler from Owens Corning to discuss the critical topic of insulation coverage, emphasizing the importance of proper techniques and equipment settings to help maximize efficiency and profitability in insulation projects. 

Derek is a former insulation installer and insulation business owner, who now works for Owens Corning in their Certified E...

In the latest episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI’s Ken Allison welcomes Peter Troast, Founder and CEO of Energy Circle.

In this episode, Peter and Ken discuss the significant benefits and underutilization of the 25C tax credit for insulation contractors. Peter shares insights on how Energy Circle, in collaboration with the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAMA) and the Insulation Institute, has developed...

In this episode, IDI’s Ken Allison and Owens Corning’s Mark Keenan discuss various aspects of soundproofing and acoustic insulation. Marc, who has been with Owens Corning for 24 years, shares his expertise in sound insulation. 

They cover the basics of sound transmission, the importance of resilient channels, and the differences in performance between fiberglass, mineral wool, and cellulose insulation. Keenan emph...

In the latest episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI's Ken Allison welcomes special guest Ken Levenson, the executive director of the Passive House Network. The discussion centers on the concept of "Passive House" and its impact on building sustainability and efficiency. Levenson, with his deep experience as an architect and advocate for energy-efficient building, shares insights into how the Passive House standard dramatically reduce...

This episode of the R-Value Podcast features an insightful conversation with industry veteran Henri Fennell about common issues that can arise with spray foam installations. Fennell shares his extensive experience analyzing spray foam problems and the most frequent causes he encounters, such as improper material handling and processing.

He emphasizes the critical importance of precisely following manufacturer guidelines, especially...