#738: DIY Spray-Foam Kits, Affordable Siding, and Second-Floor Load Paths

Ian, Randy, and Patrick address listener feedback about training to be a GC and the safety and sustainability of two-part DIY spray foam kits. They answer a builder in North Carolina who’s considering SmartSide engineered siding as an alternative to fiber-cement and FHB Forum poster who is adding an LVL beam to strengthen his second-floor floor system. Tune in to Episode 738 of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to learn more about:  The secrets of DIY spray-foam kits and cautionary tales about them The durability of SmartSide siding and how to work with it Creating a load path to the basement through multiple house levels  Have a question or topic you want us to talk about on the show? Email us at [email protected].     ➡️ Check Out the Full Show Notes: FHB Podcast 738 ➡️ Get Early-Bird Ticket Pricing for the 2026 Fine Homebuilding Summit ➡️ Follow Fine Homebuilding on Social Media:   Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Pinterest • YouTube  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and rate us on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you prefer to listen.