This one-week course is an introduction to the unique challenges of renovating or adding on to an existing house. Participants will learn the skills and techniques to plan and take on their own home renovation projects. Specific areas covered in this course include structural assessment of wood frame buildings, design strategies to blend or contrast with traditional styles, finding and incorporating appropriate materials, integrating heating and cooling systems in an existing house, and upgrading an old house to meet new energy codes. This course will include hands-on workshops to introduce students to the skills and tools needed to prepare for work on their own home projects. Workshops will include selective demolition; re-framing walls, floors and roofs; hanging doors and windows; cutting and installing wood trim and mouldings; and patching in basic interior and exterior finishes. Students are encouraged to bring their specific interests and projects to the class. Field trips to nearby suppliers, lumber yards, salvage shops, and local renovation projects will supplement guest lectures and hands-on practice.  Bring measured drawings and photos of your own projects. 

Course start time: Sunday, 5pm
Course end time: Friday, 5pm

 

  • Competency Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Working on an actual, local renovation project, students will learn step by step basic renovation theory and techniques needed to tackle any standard home renovation. Specific skills include structure and design considerations, demolition, reframing, trim, finish and material selection. Field trips to nearby salvage suppliers and lumberyards will supplement lectures and hands-on practice.

Course Objectives

•  To understand the workings of the structural house

•  Identifying design principles specific to renovation

•  Develop basic hand/power tool competence

•  Broaden knowledge of available building materials and services

•  Develop strategies for tackling personal renovation projects


Suggested/Required Reading

Connell, John. Homing Instinct
Nash, George. Renovating Old Houses:Bringing New Life to Vintage Homes
Nash, George. Old Houses A Rebuilder's Manual

Tools/Materials to Bring

•  Personal hand/power tools (if any- not required)

•  Work clothes/gloves

•  Safety work boots

•  Safety glasses and ear protection

•  Sketch book and pencil

Start Date: April 28, 2013
Closed
Start Date: October 13, 2013
Duration: 5 Days
Instructors:
Tuition: $875
Registration