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WB DownloadAuthor: Jeff Wieland
WB Download Custom Home Podcast will provide podcast listeners and those in the home building industry a platform to discuss home building news/updates in the nation and whats happening on our local custom home building projects. We will have casual, entertaining discussions with experts in the industry, friends and surprise guests. The WB Download Custom Home Building Podcast is hosted by Wieland Builders President, Jeff Wieland. The Wieland family have been building homes for over 65 years in Southwest Ohio. In this podcast we encourage our guests and listeners to ask questions and suggest topics for future podcast discussions. Be part of the conversation and see behind the scenes https://www.wielandbuilders.com/podcasts/ Language: en-us Genres: Home & Garden, Leisure Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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#71 Then vs. Now: How Home Building Has Evolved
Episode 71
Monday, 24 November, 2025
In this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland takes listeners on a journey through the evolution of the home building industry from the days when his father, Jack Wieland, owned Wieland Builders, to today, where Jeff leads the company alongside his brother, Mike Wieland.Jeff reflects on decades of transformation, highlighting how technology, tools, materials, and even communication have reshaped the way custom homes are built.Technological & Industry AdvancesJeff looks back at the early days of landlines, handwritten messages, and typewriters, contrasting them with today’s cell phones, digital pagers, and computers that streamline communication and planning.He shares how job-site equipment has progressed from front-engine loaders to modern rear-engine loaders and track hoes, along with the introduction of concrete pumps and gravel slinger trucks that make construction safer and more efficient.Changes in Building Practices & MaterialsJeff breaks down the major shifts in materials and methods, including:Moving from single-pane windows to highly efficient insulated glassThe introduction of house wrap and air infiltration barriers for better moisture and energy controlImproved plumbing fixtures, pressure regulators, updated lighting, and the rise of LED technologyEnhanced insulation options transitioning from open-faced insulation to craft-backed insulation and today’s spray foam solutions He also talks about how the industry moved from in-house labor to a greater reliance on specialized subcontractors.Safety & RegulationsJeff discusses OSHA’s growing impact on job-site safety and how new standards have influenced equipment choices, from safer ladders to improved extension cords.Code updates, such as requiring house wrap and continuous gutters have pushed builders toward higher quality and energy-efficient practices.Hiring & Marketing in a Modern WorldFrom newspaper job ads to online platforms like Indeed, Jeff explains how hiring has changed dramatically.He also highlights the importance of marketing and social media for showcasing their craftsmanship and connecting with customers, something that didn’t exist in Jack’s era.Gratitude, Reflections & What’s AheadJeff shares his appreciation for the many positive changes in materials and building practices, even those driven by manufacturers and expresses gratitude for the continued support of podcast listeners.He wraps up the episode by wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and reminding them to visit their website for more insights into their projects.Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comSee Wieland Builders custom home gallery www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz or Pinterest
