RESTalk
RESTalk, produced by RESNET.us is the best way to stay up-to-date on everything going on in the world of Home Energy Ratings (HERS), including initiatives, standards, marketing, and more. Hosted by building performance veteran Bill Spohn, the show features interviews with the RESNET team and prominent guests from throughout the rating and home building industries, discussing a wide range of topics, current events and new technologies.
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EP80 Maintaining HERS Software Consistency with Neal Kruis
09/27/2021
EP80 Maintaining HERS Software Consistency with Neal Kruis
“A man with a watch knows what time it is. A man with two watches is never sure.” -Segal’s Law Consistency is important when it comes time to rely on…anything. A key to ensuring the quality of HERS ratings is the software calculation consistency of the HERS score. Too often in the past, the same home could receive a different score based upon the software program being used. What actions has the RESNET Board taken to enhance the consistency of calculation of HERS Index Scores? Neal Kruis, Vice President of Big Ladder Software joins us on the RESTALK podcast to discuss his role as the RESNET Energy Modeling Director. With a doctoral degree in building systems engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder Neal has extensive experience with computational software for building energy analysis. Neal will act as the arbitrator of the Software Consistency Committee (SCC) established by the RESNET Board. Neal gives us a great overview of this very complex topic. He acknowledges that while the goal is not to be disruptive to the HERS Scoring process, the necessary improvements can be disruptive to an extent. To this end, bi-directional communication is the key. Below you find links to the real-world FAQS on this topic along with a link to a form to report software inconsistencies. Some of the other roles for the SCC include researching and identifying major drivers that cause inconsistency, as well as propose resolutions that will enhance consistency between software tools. Links discussed in the podcast: Reporting FAQs Neal’s presentation from the 2019 RESNET Conference RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP 79 California Dreamin’ Collaboration Between RESNET and California Rating Providers on HERS-H2O with Ryan Meres and Russ King
09/13/2021
EP 79 California Dreamin’ Collaboration Between RESNET and California Rating Providers on HERS-H2O with Ryan Meres and Russ King
“The key to everything is patience. You get the chicken by hatching the egg, not by smashing it.” -Arnold H. Glasgow The ANSI/RESNET/ICC Standard 850 was developed over the course of years via consensus input from over 75 organizations. The standard was first issued in 2020 and is now seeing increasing use. Several steps needed to take place before the California Energy Commission’s accredited rating providers were approved by RESNET as HERS-H2O providers. At the same time, the demand for the H2O rating service had to be built along with the ability to provide the service itself. We are joined today by Russ King (Sr. Director of Technical Services for CalCERTS, Inc) and Ryan Meres (Program Director for RESNET) to learn more about the rollout of HERS H2O in California. Ryan shares background on the HERS H2O Standard and how it is being used to achieve the EPA Water Sense Label along with RESNET’s efforts to get the standard recognized as a compliance method for California’s Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO). Russ describes for us the CalCERTS network of California HERS Raters and how they can get certified for H2O and WaterSense through CalCERTS. Russ and Ryan will improve your understanding of the topic leveraging their extensive and diverse backgrounds. Learn more on how this all works at Also, inquiries can be sent to RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP 78 RESNET 2022 Conference- Into The Future with Emma Bennett & Steve Baden (RESNET)
08/23/2021
EP 78 RESNET 2022 Conference- Into The Future with Emma Bennett & Steve Baden (RESNET)
“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.” -Steve Jobs Events of the last year or so have it made it challenging for organizations to host live events. Many events, including the RESNET Conference went to a virtual format in 2021. What will the future hold for conferences in 2022? What will upcoming conferences look like? Will connecting the dots of the past conferences help us to know? Steve Baden and Emma Bennett join us to describe the plans for the 2022 RESNET Conference. We learn how the decision was made to deliver in a hybrid mode; that is both in person and virtual, as well as what a “hybrid event” looks like in detail. As we explore the conference theme - Into the Future – we also hear how participant health and safety is stressed and will be considered To learn more, visit the RESNET home page and check under the conference drop down. Or follow the details in the RESNET newsletter or reach out to Emma at The event is scheduled for Feb 21-23, 2022 in Austin, TX- with room blocks open now. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP 77 Taking Water Efficiency Efforts to New Heights with Jonah Schein (US EPA) & Ryan Meres (RESNET)
08/09/2021
EP 77 Taking Water Efficiency Efforts to New Heights with Jonah Schein (US EPA) & Ryan Meres (RESNET)
“Plans to protect air and water, wilderness and wildlife are in fact plans to protect man.” -Stuart Udall There’s no way around it. Water is essential to life. Water, like energy, is an environmental resource and requires (demands?) more attention from all. In fact, we’ve talked about water in 4 previous episodes of RESTALK over the last 4 years. How does the EPA WaterSense program address this topic? What are the updates in WaterSense Labeled Homes 2.0? How does the HERS H2O rating work? Seasoned water efficiency professional Jonah Schein (US EPA) and Ryan Meres (Program Director RESNET), return to the podcast to give us updates on the EPA WaterSense Labeled Homes V2.0 and HERS H2O programs. Jonah and Ryan share their thoughts and help us learn more about: The move from a prescriptive to a performance-based approach How to handle projects that started using Version 1.0 The ease of access to proper training Why water is important to the building industry Catch up with the “backstory” via previous episodes of RESTalk: (2018), (2019) and Episodes & from 2020. You can purchase the ANSI/RESNET/ICC Standard 850-2020 at the ICC Store: The standard can be viewed for free at this link: - just select "View as Basic" for a view only version of the standard. For updated information on the RESNET HERSH20 program, visit: You’ll find information on the EPA’s WaterSense program at If you have access to the RESNET 2021 conference you can learn more about this topic in Sessions RES-12 and EPP-16. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP76 Meet the 2021 RESNET Emerging Leadership Fellows with Stewart Soleman and Drew Lynch
07/26/2021
EP76 Meet the 2021 RESNET Emerging Leadership Fellows with Stewart Soleman and Drew Lynch
“Go as far as you can see; when you get there, you’ll be able to see farther.” - J.P. Morgan Starting off a career in a new or even a related industry can be challenging as there is so much to learn. It’s not often a newbie gets a chance for “a seat at the table” at an early stage in their career. What industry perspectives do RESNET’s Emerging Leaders in have? Join us as the 2021 RESNET Emerging Leadership Fellows Stewart Soleman and Drew Lynch share their thoughts and perspectives on the HERS industry. Both Drew and Stewart submitted applications for the contest and were both thrilled and pleased to be selected this year. RESNET’s Emerging Leadership Council (ELC) strives to engage the next generation of leaders in the ratings industry as many current HERS Raters approach retirement. If you are interested in applying for next year’s ELC fellows program there are two simple requirements: Be a HERS® professionals who wants to make a difference in the industry Have 5 years or less of experience as a HERS Rater The fellowship winners receive: A 100% waiver on the next RESNET Building Performance Conference registration and automatic membership on the ELC. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP75: RESNET Proposal on Factoring in Energy to Mortgage Loans with Steve Baden
07/12/2021
EP75: RESNET Proposal on Factoring in Energy to Mortgage Loans with Steve Baden
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” - Benjamin Franklin How important are mortgage loans to the home performance industry? What could be the impact on single family home buyers if home energy costs were factored into the mortgage payment? How does this process make energy efficient homes more affordable for families? Most homeowners have heard of the term PITI – the summary of costs in a mortgage payment – principle and interest on the loan plus property taxes and insurance. And most all of us know the cost of energy to run a household, and of the energy savings possible if best practices are followed. In todays’ podcast Steve Baden (RESNET) describes for us the proposal put forth by RESNET to incorporate Energy Savings (ES) into the “mortgage equation”. This transforms the equation to PITI-ES Interestingly, the main driver for this is simply education; no legislation is needed. Listen in to hear how this also impacts mortgage lenders, builders, and HERS Raters and how you can get more people interested in pursuing this. For more information see the policy white paper released by RESNET: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP74: HERS ratings and the PEG Fannie Mae Green MBS Program with Matthew Cooper
06/21/2021
EP74: HERS ratings and the PEG Fannie Mae Green MBS Program with Matthew Cooper
“We learned that economic growth and environmental protection can and should go hand in hand.” - Christopher Dodd How do the financial investment criteria of ESG- Environmental, Social & Governance – relate to the HERS rating world? What are FANNIE MAE Single Family Green Mortgage Backed Securities and what makes this program so unique? How could such a program help to elevate the recognition of HERS raters and the work they do? At long last, the HERS Index is breaking into the new homes mortgage market! Matthew Cooper from PEG joins us to help explain this program launched by PEG, Fannie Mae, and Ekotrope. The program allows Fannie Mae to package ENERGY STAR Certified New Homes into distinguished socially responsible mortgage securities. This is an important first step in moving toward better mortgages for better HERS Rated homes; this is likely to be a game changer for the industry. Matthew explains the background of this initiative, including timelines, how to participate, and what it means for your rating business. To learn more about the topic you can review the video on demand session (NAV-5) from the RESNET 2021 virtual conference site: or read up at the Fannie Mae site: You can also reach Matthew at [email protected] RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP73: Bill Spohn’s High Performance Home Journey hosted by Laurel Elam
06/07/2021
EP73: Bill Spohn’s High Performance Home Journey hosted by Laurel Elam
“The first step is clearly defining what it is you’re after, because without knowing that, you’ll never get it.” - Halle Berry How does a person deeply engaged in the world of home performance handle matters when it comes to building their own home? When it is “your own” you must strive to see the forest through the trees. What’s it like actually living inside your theories? In this podcast we spin the microphones around the table and welcome guest host, Laurel Elam (RESNET) who interviews Bill Spohn (normally the RESTalk host) on the journey he and Marilyn have taken setting out to build a high performance, likely NetZero, home. Listen in to hear what influences he used in making design and construction decisions. Hear of the goals he and his wife set at the beginning and how close they came to achieving them. Bill openly describes his thoughts on the challenges they encountered and how well the plans worked out. To learn more about the project you can follow Bill’s blog at RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP72: The future of the building industry resides in low carbon buildings with Dan Welch- Bundle Design
05/24/2021
EP72: The future of the building industry resides in low carbon buildings with Dan Welch- Bundle Design
“The details are not the details. They make the design.” - Charles Eames Interest in net zero and low carbon homes is sweeping across the country. What drives customers in some smaller cities to ask for a net zero (plus) home? How can a small builder achieve these customer desires in a city that limits the options to energy retrofits of homes that are up to a century old? In this podcast we chat with Dan Welch founder of Bundle Design Studios – a business that grew out of his Masters work in architecture school. Dan walks the talk, living and working from a net-zero energy, water, and waste home – the first residence in Bellingham Washington which elected to include no water or sewer connections. Dan is driven by strong ethics of environmental and social equity, he enjoys synthesizing client goals, clean aesthetics, and rigorous building science into beautiful and cohesive projects. In 2020 Bundle proudly delivered a home with a HERS score of a -51. Dan shares with us some of the methods that he uses to achieve these low scores, as he takes us on a tour through the way he does business in his market, including factors in customer education, products and skilled labor. To learn more about Bundle Design visit their website: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP71: Joint RESNET ICC HERS Rating Company Membership with Laurel Elam and Laurence Genest
05/10/2021
EP71: Joint RESNET ICC HERS Rating Company Membership with Laurel Elam and Laurence Genest
"The whole point of collaboration is that you give and take from each other, and that’s how you create things that are totally new." - Virgil Abloh There is a logical tie between energy codes and HERS ratings. What is the value proposition for HERS rating companies to be involved with ICC? What qualifications do HERS raters bring to assist code officials? Laurence Genest (ICC) and Laurel Elam (RESNET) join us to describe the role that HERS raters can play in the verification of compliance to Energy Codes. We learn how a RESNET HERS Rating company’s membership in RESNET has now doubled in value. We also cover how this ties in with the IECC/HERS Compliance Specialist designation. To learn more or get engaged to get engaged on this topic you will find Resources available here Rater can see the benefits of this arrangement here: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP70: ONE TREE PLEDGE and RESNET Collaboration with Michael Ziman
04/26/2021
EP70: ONE TREE PLEDGE and RESNET Collaboration with Michael Ziman
"Conservation is a state of harmony between men and the land." - Aldo Leopold Many of us reflect on the beauty and awe of nature. The images of clear skies and clean water are quite powerful. How did these powerful images put a builder on mission to make a difference, one tree at a time? Michael Ziman joins us on the podcast to describe the thoughtful research and personal reflection that drove him to create the One Tree Pledge. The One Tree Pledge is an easy way for anyone (builder, rater, homeowner, etc.) to make a low cost ($1) contribution to offset carbon in the atmosphere using the most natural of methods: planting a tree. Learn more at to see how RESNET will engage with this project by launching a campaign with the goal of planting 300,000 trees to combat climate change by the end of January 2023. The site includes a Carbon Math calculation where Michael shares the total carbon Vs potential offset with trees. You can learn more about Michael's company at . RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP69: Behind the scenes at the 3 millionth HERS rated home with CR Herro (Meritage) and Tim Smith (15 Light Years Foundation)
04/12/2021
EP69: Behind the scenes at the 3 millionth HERS rated home with CR Herro (Meritage) and Tim Smith (15 Light Years Foundation)
"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible" - Francis of Assisi How does the honor of HERS rating the 3 millionth home befall you? Tim Smith and CR Herro have been on a quiet mission of building relationships, honoring commitments, and executing with excellence. Steady as they go. That's how it goes. Join the conversation with CR Herro (Meritage Homes) and Tim Smith (15 Lightyears Foundation) as they discuss went on behind the scenes in the 3 millionth HERS rated home. We learn of their commitment to energy-efficient homes as well the processes involved in achieving this milestone home in Winter Garden, Florida. All levels of builders and raters will learn why their recipe for success has education at its core. To learn more about Tim's company, 15 Light Years Foundation go to: And to learn more about CR's company, Meritage homes go to: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP68 How low can you go? Achieving 2020's lowest average HERS score with Gene Myers - Thrive Home Builders
03/29/2021
EP68 How low can you go? Achieving 2020's lowest average HERS score with Gene Myers - Thrive Home Builders
“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.” - Margaret Mead Winning national housing awards year after year, comes with focused effort. However, the efforts put forth by Thrive Home Builders are NOT focused on winning awards. What are the simple concepts that Thrive executes so well that have put them in such a special group and allowed them to flourish (or thrive)? What advice does Thrive have for builders who wish to start the journey to high performance and even Net Zero homes? Our guest today is Gene Myers who founded GreenTree Homes in the Denver area in 1992, well before green was a thing. Under his leadership the company has grown into the very successful and award winning Thrive Home Builders. Gene has developed this award-winning green building program to meet the highest standards of LEED®, Indoor airPLUS, Zero Energy Ready Homes and Energy Star®. In 2020, Thrive also achieved the lowest average HERS score (26.9) in the country for a builder completing more than 50 homes. Recognized as 2019’s EPA Indoor airPLUS Leader of the Year, Thrive tells potential customers they “can breathe easy knowing their Thrive home was built to the highest health standards with superior air quality.” Gene has created a recipe for success that he shares with us in this conversation. One of the key points is education, first of his team, then of his customer. He uses the resources of programs, and his HERS rater in this continuum of education. To learn more about Thrive Home Builders visit their website: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP67 RESNET Priorities 2021 with Steve Baden
03/15/2021
EP67 RESNET Priorities 2021 with Steve Baden
“Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” - Tony Robbins Each year RESNET develops their list of priorities to tackle. A specific four-step process is used which engages both the board and staff. Where did this process (which started in August 2020) lead to for 2021? How do the essential activities goals and priorities all work together in a cohesive fashion? Steve Baden gives us an overview of the RESNET priorities for 2021. You’ll want to listen in to hear the process used, the outcomes, and the big three takeaways for 2021. RESNET focuses on transparency and credibility in achieving its goals. You can learn more about the activities, goals, and priorities in noted in an easy to digest infographic found here: At the time of the recording the RESNET 2021 virtual conference had yet to occur. You can still log in for register to access well over 100 hours of amazing conference content at this link: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP66 A Conversation with 2021 RESNET Board President, John Hensley
03/01/2021
EP66 A Conversation with 2021 RESNET Board President, John Hensley
“Life is the art of drawing without an eraser.” -John W. Gardner Each year a new President of the RESNET board of directors takes the helm. A President brings their own background and experiences to bear upon the role. How do decades of experience in building, while documenting millions in construction defects, lead someone to take on a leadership role such as this? John Hensley shares with us the priorities as the 2021 Board President for RESNET. He first takes us on a journey of his past career experience to shed light on what drove him to become a rater in the first place and why he has decided it is important to take on this role as president. John also shares how much the blood of construction runs in his family and the changes he has seen over his lifetime in RESNET and in the construction industry in general. Connect with John by email: or via his website: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP65 What is in store for Home Performance: 2020 Election Review with Carl Chidlow & Steve Baden
01/25/2021
EP65 What is in store for Home Performance: 2020 Election Review with Carl Chidlow & Steve Baden
“Leadership is not about the next election, it’s about the next generation” -Simon Sinek 2020 was both a notable and challenging year in so many ways. Beyond everyone learning how to Zoom (and Zoom becoming a verb) the election of 2020 is sure to go down in history. What impact did the 2020 election have on RESNET's future-oriented mission to make the energy use for all homes transparent? (THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED IN MID-DECEMBER 2020) In today’s podcast we are joined by Carl Chidlow, a registered federal lobbyist and Steve Baden, Executive Director of RESNET as they again pull out the crystal ball to discuss what changes may come about in the world of Home Performance as a result of the 2020 Elections. Carl and Steve help us understand the possibilities and probabilities of policy change that may happen with the slim majorities, negotiations and compromise we are likely to see. Learn how there may be possible bipartisan consensus with an infrastructure bill and the belief that much change will come about through executive order and regulations. We also discuss the implications of the recently passed extension of the 45L tax credit for builders. Steve also notes the two new proposals forwarded to the new Administration and Congress. Both proposals encourage the energy use calculation as a factor in mortgage approval process We discuss the cabinet nominees focus on a climate agenda and we learn about the potential impact that Gina McCarthy, the Energy Czar, can have on Home Performance. Carl also gives us his definition of Czar. Carl and Steve describe what they found most surprising as they think back to RESTALK Episode 57 (first aired in September 2020) where we discussed the upcoming election. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP64 Learn about the RESNET 2021 Conference. A New Path To the Future with Steve Baden & Emma Bennett
01/11/2021
EP64 Learn about the RESNET 2021 Conference. A New Path To the Future with Steve Baden & Emma Bennett
“Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity. -Charles Mingus How in the world can you deliver an engaging conference in these pandemic times? What kind of steps and measures must you take to make it awesomely simple and fun for attendees and exhibitors? This kind of challenge requires creativity. In todays’ podcast we are joined by Emma Bennett and Steve Baden to learn about the creative and exciting changes in store for the RESNET 2021 Conference. Since early in 2020, the team at RESNET has been planning this virtual event, actually an on-line experience. This professionally executed, dynamic conference will be like two events under one roof: - A 3-day, 3-hour live streaming event with key issues, from February 22 to 24, 2021. - Plus, a library of about 100 prerecorded, 1-hour technical sessions housed in a virtual library accessible all through 2021! There will be four session themes, really something for everyone: New frontiers of RESNET Building science, water efficiency and health Steering energy programs and policy Navigating finance and real estate Exhibitors in the virtual exhibit hall will be able to focus on and reach specific types of attendees. There’s a chance for more attendees to come with bulk pricing for 5 or more attendees from the same organization. There will be lots of fun events: work out classes, cocktail classes, on line chat forums for networking and more. The most active participants will be awarded prizes! Please take note of the early bird deadline of January 15, 2021 Learn more by visiting the Conference website: Or emailing or RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP63 State of RESNET QA with Laurel Elam, Scott Doyle and Billy Giblin
12/14/2020
EP63 State of RESNET QA with Laurel Elam, Scott Doyle and Billy Giblin
“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” -Andy Warhol Like so many businesses, activities, and organizations, 2020 has been a year of unprecedented adaptation. In which ways have RESNET Quality Assurance (QA) procedures been adapted and changed this year? What new techniques, methods, and procedures are being used to maintain the QA function? We welcome back RESNET’s QA Team - Laurel Elam, Billy Giblin, and Scott Doyle for an interactive overview of the QA team’s activities during the past year. Much of the discussion focuses on how the pandemic has affected the QA Team’s oversight of providers in 2020. We learn of the reactions to and the feedback received considering all of the flexibility allowed by RESNET’s emergency policies. The team will give an overview of the QA standard changes that are anticipated to be coming in 2021 specifically addendum 30 to RESNET's standards. We close with some a feeling of pride for the broader housing industry which has remained so resilient. The RESNET QA Team remains available for technical assistance and technical questions at the following email addresses: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP62: Using HERS H2O to achieve the WaterSense Label for homes with Jonah Schein & Ryan Meres
11/30/2020
EP62: Using HERS H2O to achieve the WaterSense Label for homes with Jonah Schein & Ryan Meres
“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” -Loren Eiseley Wikipedia defines water as is an inorganic, transparent, tasteless, odorless, and nearly colorless chemical substance which provides no calories or organic nutrients. Yet water is vital for all known forms of life. What role can builders, raters and providers play in the protection of this unique natural resource? Seasoned water efficiency professional Jonah Schein from the US EPA joins Ryan Meres, Program Director at RESNET on the podcast to give us updates on the EPA WaterSense and HERS H2O programs. We delve into how HERS H2O is used to achieve the WaterSense Label as well as discuss a recent RESNET/EPA Pilot Program for WaterSense v2.0. We learn how the WaterSense Version 2.0 pilot has developed the necessary feedback on how to best support the building industry whilst ensuring that the needs of home buyers are met. In the course of our discussion Ryan and Jonah reveal how raters, providers and builders can and should get involved in rating homes for water efficiency. Ryan covers the eligibility, criteria and steps involved in becoming a HERS H2O Rater or Provider including the online training. Tapping into Jonah’s extensive background, we also explore the importance of water efficiency and conservation efforts. For more information on the RESNET HERSH20 program, visit: You’ll find information on the EPA’s WaterSense program at RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP61: Why big builders will request more HERS ratings with Ryan Meres
11/09/2020
EP61: Why big builders will request more HERS ratings with Ryan Meres
“Data is the most valuable asset in the world.” -Brittany Kaiser What does the builder market data tell us about trends in the adoption of HERS ratings? What is the breakdown of companies that are recording ratings? What role do the larger builders play in all of this? We welcome back Ryan Meres, Program Director at RESNET to share with us some insights into why RESNET believes bigger builders will be requesting more HERS ratings in the future. With nearly 240,000 HERS ratings recorded in 2019 by a little more than 6,000 home building, remodeling and development companies (50% more companies than 2018) Ryan describes some key trends that are on the move. As he draws our attention to the top 20 builders we learn that they ordered more than 104,000 ratings which accounts for nearly 43% of all ratings last year. Ryan also notes that many of the top 20 are publicly traded companies who are moving towards reporting on their environmental impact (i.e., CO2/greenhouse gases and water). HERS ratings can play a role in that reporting via Standard 301 and water ratings). This falls in the category of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) investing or “sustainable investing” which seek long-term impact positive impact on society, environment and the performance of the business. In our conversation, Ryan reveals these and more stories told by the data. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP60: Resilience, sustainability and high-performance homes with Ryan Colker of ICC
10/26/2020
EP60: Resilience, sustainability and high-performance homes with Ryan Colker of ICC
“Resilience is all about being able to overcome the unexpected. Sustainability is about survival. The goal of resilience is to thrive.” -Jamias Cascio Governments are struggling to prepare for hazards and other disaster events they face, Communities cannot sustain in a chronic response mode. What goes into making a community event disastrous?What planning tools or programs can be used to mitigate the impact? How do building codes and other mitigating strategies allow them to get ahead of the situation? We are joined today by Ryan Colker, VP of Innovation at the International Code Council who spends part of his time looking across the building industry to imagine how codes will be used in the future as well as the present. He brings to bear his diverse background on his work at the ICC. We discuss the intersection of the many disciplines and activities in the building community which need to come together to insure resilience. As the co-lead for the Resilient Building Coalition, Ryan gives us many insightful perspectives. For example, he shares the three core aspects necessary for housing to sustain approaching wildfires. Disasters are shocks that tend to make the headlines, yet stresses (homelessness, a major employer leaving the community, climate change, etc.) are constantly grinding away to exacerbate shocks when they occur. Learn more from the two white papers on how building codes impact and support resilience as part of the ICC resilience tool kit. Ryan encourages HERS raters to learn to show the value of resilience strategies, most of which harmonize with health, safety and energy efficiency. Ryan also shares with us some important links: The Insurance Institute Fortified program (), Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH: , and Alliance for National & Community Resilience: () You can learn more about International Code Council at: www.icc.org RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP59: Essential Market Trends to Grow your Business with Sara Gutterman, Green Builder Media
10/12/2020
EP59: Essential Market Trends to Grow your Business with Sara Gutterman, Green Builder Media
“I think things happen for a reason.” -Dave Davies Changes in consumer buying patterns and preferences are a constant topic in every market, especially housing. How are the consumer sentiments changing due to disruptive technologies, yet alone the changes brought about in in a world dealing with a pandemic? What are some of the new areas that building professionals and manufacturers need to learn about and act on? Today’s guest, Sara Gutterman, has some perspectives to share with us. You see, Sara lives on a mountain, both physically and metaphorically. From her home in Hinsdale County Colorado, where she is a County Commissioner, to the mountain of data that come from her entrepreneurial activities with Green Builder Media, Sara will outline for us some trends, as well as permanent changes that are impacting the building market. Learn which demographic is the number one influencer is in the building market and what they are looking for. Sara also provides insights into how the pandemic is influencing both the residential and commercial building markets. We discuss modular and panelized construction techniques as well as ADUs and a brilliant idea on how to repurpose excess commercial space. Stick around to the end to hear the about two key trends that need our attention. You can learn more about Green Builder Media at www.GreenBuilderMedia.com RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP-BONUS COVID -19 Update with Steve Baden and Cardice Gray-Howard
10/05/2020
EP-BONUS COVID -19 Update with Steve Baden and Cardice Gray-Howard
“We’re all working together; that’s the secret.” -Sam Walton COVID-19 continues to impact nearly every area of life these days. What is RESNET is doing to manage the situation? In summary it involves three things: Staying patient. Being open to ideas. Maintaining the dialog. Today we are joined by RESNET leadership: Cardice Gray-Howard, deputy director and Steve Baden, Executive Director, for a quick update on the impact of COVID-19 on RESNET activities. Hear what changes have been put in place for the organization as well as changes made for raters and builders. Learn which changes are likely to be temporary and which may become permanent. Find out what criteria will trigger the lifting of emergency procedures. To learn more. Visit the Tune in as field practitioners share their experiences a recorded webinar series: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP58: The U.S. Housing Market Through the Looking Glass with Clayton Traylor, LBA
09/28/2020
EP58: The U.S. Housing Market Through the Looking Glass with Clayton Traylor, LBA
“To be a carpenter or a builder or a home inspector, you have to have that kind of visual brain where you can sort of imagine something being taken apart.” -Nick Petrie Even before the impact of the pandemic, the housing market was in a challenging time. The home building industry is certainly complicated in the physical world with all the components, materials and contractors that need to come together. What additional complexities have arisen in the last 6 months? What do builders and raters need to know to be better prepared? Clayton Traylor joins us on the podcast to shed some light on the deceptively complicated world of home building. He will help us take apart and see all the pieces involved. From his position as VP for State and Regulatory Affairs at the Leading Builders of America, Clayton has a great handle on the numbers, trends, demographics and more as LBA represents 20 of the nation’s largest builders. Clayton helps peek into the looking glass of what the largest home builders see on the road ahead and lends advice on where you need to be positioned to succeed. You can learn more about The Leading Builders of America at: www.LeadingBuilders.org RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP57: 45L - The Federal Tax Credit for Builders: An Update with Carl Chidlow & Steve Baden
09/14/2020
EP57: 45L - The Federal Tax Credit for Builders: An Update with Carl Chidlow & Steve Baden
“You do the best you can with what’s thrown at you, then you try again.” -Mario Andretti What does the Highway Bill, or HR 2 have to do with builders and raters? What has happened to the “builders tax credit” over the course of the last few months and what is store as we head towards and through the upcoming presidential election? Better known as 45L, Section 45L(c)(1)(A) and (B) of the US Internal Revenue Code (developed by David Goldstein of the NRDC), offers a $2,000 federal tax credit to builders for each energy efficient home they build and sell. As you may know the credit has lived an unsteady life, being on again and off again over the years since its inception, making it difficult for builders to act on this with certainty. It’s important to realize that the trillion dollar Moving Forward package proposed by the Democratic House Caucus contains a proposal to amend the 45L tax credit, and create a performance based path, tied to the IECC. Join us as we discuss 45L with Carl Chidlow, a registered federal lobbyist and Steve Baden and learn of the history, perspectives and future opportunities of this tax credit. Hear about the over 300 RESNET small business owners who signed a letter to Congress in support of this and how you can get involved. RESNET has created an advocate toolkit found here: with the tools and guidance on how to contact your member of Congress and promote issues important to the membership. While COVID-19 makes in person meetings almost impossible Congressional staff are still working remotely and have adapted to using conference calls and technology (eg ZOOM) to engage with constituents. Environmental stewardship is going to be a touchstone issue for the next four years. RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP56: RESNET 2021: A Virtual Conference
08/24/2020
EP56: RESNET 2021: A Virtual Conference
“You change your business plan to anticipate and adapt to changes in the marketplace.” -Jon Feltheimer It seems like everyone is talking about change lately spurred in a large part by the global pandemic. Rolling with the changes, staying on mission, continuing to work towards your vision are no mean feats. How is the team at RESNET adapting the annual conference to deliver the high-quality educational content and social interactions while looking out for the health and safety of all involved? The team at RESNET had some tough decisions to make regarding the 2021 Conference. After polling the community, the RESNET staff and board found that a virtual conference in 2021 is best for the safety and convenience of attendees to still get quality information. Emma Bennett and Steve Baden join us to walk us through the inputs, research and decision-making leading up the delivery of the 2021 conference in a virtual format. We will hear about the changes and some unique benefits of a virtual event including overcoming the common “problem” for in-person attendees of not being able to see all sessions. The in-person social interactions will morph into unique and interactive networking opportunities. Fittingly, the theme of the 2021 RESNET Conference is “A New Path to the Future”. Stay tuned for more details. NOTE: Traditional in-person events are planned for the 2022 RESNET Conference in Austin, TX, 2023 RESNET Conference in Scottsdale, AZ and 2024 RESNET Conference in Atlanta, GA RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP55 A Roadmap to Creating New Business Opportunities for HERS® Raters with John Gillett
08/10/2020
EP55 A Roadmap to Creating New Business Opportunities for HERS® Raters with John Gillett
“Difficulties mastered are opportunities won.” -Winston Churchill Disruptive trends exist in every segment of commerce. Residential construction is no exception. Between changing customer needs and demands, new materials, changing codes, changes in the workforce, and an increased demand for sustainability, all the pieces of the machine are in motion. Stepping back from the complexity and seeing patterns in the chaos is trait of many successful small businesses. What patterns and opportunities are emerging when you step back? With the analytic prowess of a former accountant, the entrepreneurial skills gained in Silicon Valley, and 18 years’ experience in the building trades, our guest today, John Gillett, shares with us a broad roadmap of the new business opportunities that are emerging for HERS raters. John very neatly weaves together several topics we have covered in past episodes of RESTalk so we can see where the big picture of business is headed for raters: Episodes 3 & 50: HERS H2O Episode 20: ANSI/RESNET/ACCA Standard 310 Episodes 35 & 53: Energy Code Compliance Episode 36: Building Information Modeling (BIM) If you are interested in learning more about John’s work go to www.QualityBuilt.com RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP54 Meet the Chairs of the RESNET Standards Development Committees
07/27/2020
EP54 Meet the Chairs of the RESNET Standards Development Committees
“Make no mistake about it: Change is hard, but change is necessary.” -Lori Lightfoot As organizations grow, systems, policies and procedures develop. Grasping the complexities of an organization can become daunting. Especially if you are new or “at the edges of contact” with the organization. It may be easy to feel disconnected. Organizations like RESNET offer the ability to be part of the conversation, insisting that you have the right to speak up and offer the ability for you to make change. We are pleased to be joined today by three guests, Sharla Reid from the Energy Smart Institute, Gayathri Vijayakumar from Steven Winter Associates, and John Hensley from BPS Consultants. They are the chairs/change makers of three RESNET Standards Development Committees or SDCs. Sharla chairs the SDC 200 which oversees RESNET’s education, training assessment, and certification standards and amending the standards. The SDC 300 is chaired by Gayathri where she oversees RESNET’s technical standards related to the inspections, testing, and calculations that impact an energy rating and amending those standards. John chairs the SDC 900 where he oversees RESNET’s quality assurance and sampling technical standards and amending the standards. This talented team breaks down the scope and processes involved with standards development while dispelling some of the myths and misconceptions they have run across in their roles. If you are interested in participating in a task group or joining an SDC please fill out the form at this link RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP53 The HERS Rater’s role in Energy Code Compliance with Chris McTaggart (The BER) and Ryan Meres (RESNET)
07/13/2020
EP53 The HERS Rater’s role in Energy Code Compliance with Chris McTaggart (The BER) and Ryan Meres (RESNET)
“How come it’s given you the code? Someone up there likes me.” -Cathica and The Doctor from Doctor Who (S01E07) What does the future world of residential construction look like? What do opportunities lie for HERS raters in a code world? Yes, podcast listener someone likes you and will share the code. Chris McTaggart (The BER) and Ryan Meres (RESNET) join us on the podcast to detail out the HERS Rater’s role in Energy Code compliance. The International Code Council now offers a new combination designation, the IECC/HERS Compliance Specialist. To qualify you must be a current RESNET HERS Rater and hold the Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner Certification (79). We learn how this designation combines the energy code knowledge of code officials with the energy efficiency knowledge of HERS Raters to provide more powerful advice in energy plan review and inspection. This new credential leverages the strengths of both RESNET and IECC to increase the number of qualified personnel available for evaluating energy code compliance and home energy performance. They explain how an IECC/HERS Compliance Specialist demonstrates their competence in energy performance measurement and energy code proficiency. In areas where jurisdictions face resource constraints, these certified specialists can supplement the work in this dual role. Topics we cover include HERS rater involvement with duct and envelope leakage testing and the R405 performance path compliance. Both Chris and Ryan cover a few on the myths and misconceptions they have encountered along the way as this designation has developed. For more info you can review the topic on the IECC website: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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EP52 Data Trends in HERS Rated Homes- RESNET’s 2019 report With Ryan Meres (RESNET)
06/29/2020
EP52 Data Trends in HERS Rated Homes- RESNET’s 2019 report With Ryan Meres (RESNET)
“Go out and collect data and, instead of having the answer, just look at the data and see if the data tells you anything.” -Steven Levitt With over 20% of all new homes being built in the US receiving a HERS rating, this repository of data can allow important trends in residential construction can be discerned. What does this data speak to in terms of the types of homes and types of buyers? Ryan Meres joins us on today’s podcast to walk us through what the data in the new Trends in HERS Rated Homes report tells us. We get a walk-through of national, state and even city trends which cover the basic characteristics of the rated homes and even the building components. The report concludes with a first-of-its-kind look at the demographics of buyers of HERS rated homes based on a 2019 study conducted by the mortgage industry giant Freddie Mac. For more info you can reach review the study at: . Or if you wish to reach Ryan you can email him at We also discuss the advantages granted to members of the RESNET Suppliers Advisory board, to learn more visit this page on the RESNET site: RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage. Pros can learn more at Consumers can learn more at Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at [email protected]
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