"What happens if I make my house airtight but have no mechanical ventilation?" This question comes up more often than you'd think, and the answer might surprise you. We sat down with Cameron Munro from Passive Analytics and Brad McEwan from Sanford BuildCo to tackle this and other building questions from our social media following that every builder should understand.Building a high-performance home isn't just about achieving airtightness - it's about understanding how all building elements work together. The key takeaway? You cannot have an airtight building without proper mechanical ventilation. The energy and comfort benefits only work when you maintain healthy indoor air quality.For builders serious about high-performance construction, remember that details matter, and investing in proper ventilation systems isn't optional - it's essential for creating truly healthy homes.If you’d like to submit a question for us to discuss on the podcast, reach out to us on Instagram.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram: @sanctumhomesWebsite: www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite: www.carlandconstructions.com/
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49:50
Navigating the winter blues as a builder
Winter hits different when you're working outdoors. The sun disappears by 4 pm, the cold seeps into your bones, and suddenly that motivation you had in summer feels like a distant memory. If you've noticed your mood dropping with the temperature, you're not imagining things. We sat down with our good friend and psychologist, Julie to understand why winter affects us so deeply and what we can actually do about it.Winter challenges are normal, but they don't have to derail your mental health. These strategies work best when implemented consistently, not just when you're already struggling. If you notice symptoms persisting or worsening, professional help can make a significant difference.Remember, acknowledging winter's impact on your mental state isn't weakness, it's awareness that leads to better self-care.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram: @sanctumhomesWebsite: www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite: www.carlandconstructions.com/
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40:48
Perfecting window installation details
Window installation may not instantly grab your attention, but for anyone involved in building or renovating, it's a critical aspect that cannot be neglected. Think about why we have windows: they connect our living spaces with the outside world, offering natural light, beautiful views, and essential ventilation. However, beyond these obvious reasons, there is a layer of complexity and science in window installation that is necessary to explore further.When it comes to window installation, the type of window is fundamentally essential. Each type has its nuances. It’s these differences that require us to break down and approach each installation uniquely. Matt aptly noted during our latest podcast that while there are some industry standards, every project has nuance and a unique set of challenges.If you’re navigating window installations—whether you're a seasoned builder or an enthusiastic DIYer, it’s about more than just inserting glass into a gap. It's about strategising each move, considering the materials, and above all, applying a thoughtful blend of science and practicality to the process. LINKS:Thanks to Hip Vs Hype for having usConnect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram: @sanctumhomesWebsite: www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite: www.carlandconstructions.com/
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29:25
Build Science Expert - Windows and Insulation Part 2
This is part 2 of our conversation with Cameron Munro about insulation. We recommend listening to part 1 first before listening to this episode.—When it comes to building or renovating a home, insulation is one of those topics that seems simple on the surface, but quickly gets complicated. That’s why we brought in Cameron Munro from Passive Analytics to help us break down how insulation really works. In part two of this conversation we pivot the topic to focus on insulation used in walls and roof spaces.After talking with Cam, we’re more convinced than ever that insulation is about more than just picking a product off the shelf. It’s about understanding how heat and moisture move through your home, choosing the right materials for your climate and design, and making sure everything is installed with care. If you want a healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient home, don’t cut corners on insulation—or on the expertise you bring in to get it right.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram: @sanctumhomesWebsite: www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite: www.carlandconstructions.com/
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33:26
Build Science Expert - Windows and Insulation Part 1
In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Cameron Munro from Passive Analytics to really dig into the world of insulation. If you’ve ever wondered why your house feels too hot or too cold, or if you’re curious about how the colour of your roof actually affects your comfort, this one’s for you.Key TakeawaysInsulation is about controlling heat transfer—conduction, convection, and radiation all matter.The colour of your roof or cladding has an impact, but it’s less important in well-designed, high-performance buildings.Still air is a great insulator; moving air (convection) is not.Windows are complex—double/triple glazing, air gaps, and coatings all affect performance.Context is everything: what works in one climate or building type may not work in another.Moisture management is just as important as thermal performance.A huge thanks to Dr. Cameron Munro for sharing his expertise and helping us unpack the science (and myths) around insulation. If you’re designing, building, or renovating, we hope this episode—and this article—gives you a clearer understanding of what really matters when it comes to keeping your home comfortable and efficient.We recorded this episode in two parts, so look out for part two where we move further into wall and roof insulation.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram: @sanctumhomesWebsite: www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite: www.carlandconstructions.com/
Join Matt from Carland Constructions and Hamish from Sanctum Homes in a podcast discussing sustainable building practices and passive house concepts.
They also talk to experts from all avenues of the building industry to share their knowledge and insights on what the industry looks like today.
Further to this, Matt and Hamish are building a platform through the podcast to discuss mental health issues that arise in the building industry. The industry can be quite negative at times and there is a great deal of stigma around what it means to be a "tradie".
Matt and Hamish are here to shine a light of positivity on the industry and share relatable topics that will help you in your own building or construction business.
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