Home Renovation Course

Lesson 1 • Understanding Renovation Project Types

Distinguishes cosmetic, structural, and systems-based renovations by scope and complexity. Sets the framework for all project planning decisions covered later.

Lesson 2 • Assessing Existing Conditions

Teaches visual inspection techniques to identify damage, wear, and code deficiencies. Directly informs scope definition and budget estimation in later chapters.

Lesson 3 • Reading Blueprints and Floor Plans

Introduces architectural drawing conventions, symbols, and scale interpretation. Enables accurate measurement and spatial planning throughout the course.

Lesson 1 • Financing Renovation Projects

Reviews common financing options including home equity, personal loans, and staged payments. Matching financing to project size protects cash flow.

Lesson 2 • Creating a Project Schedule

Introduces Gantt charts, task sequencing, and lead-time planning for materials. A realistic schedule coordinates trades and minimises downtime.

Lesson 3 • Cost Estimation Methods

Covers square-footage pricing, unit-cost breakdowns, and allowance-based budgeting. Accurate estimates are the foundation of financial control.

Lesson 4 • Defining Project Scope

Establishes methods for translating renovation goals into a written scope of work. A clear scope prevents cost overruns and contractor disputes.

Lesson 1 • Understanding Building Permits

Explains when permits are required, how to apply, and what inspections follow. Skipping permits creates liability and resale complications.

Lesson 2 • Contracts and Payment Terms

Details essential contract clauses including scope, payment schedule, and dispute resolution. A strong contract protects both parties throughout the project.

Lesson 3 • Managing Contractors On-Site

Teaches daily site oversight, progress tracking, and quality verification techniques. Consistent oversight keeps projects on schedule and within scope.

Lesson 4 • Building Codes and Safety Standards

Covers residential building codes for structural, fire, and egress requirements. Code compliance protects occupants and ensures project approval.

Lesson 1 • Debris Management and Site Cleanup

Covers waste sorting, dumpster sizing, and site protection during active demolition. Proper debris management maintains safety and project efficiency.

Lesson 2 • Hazardous Material Identification

Covers identification and safe handling of asbestos, lead paint, and mould before demolition. Hazard removal must precede any structural demo work.

Lesson 3 • Structural Wall Identification

Teaches methods to distinguish load-bearing walls from partition walls before removal. Removing a load-bearing wall without support causes structural failure.

Lesson 1 • Structural Modifications and Beams

Covers the process of installing beams to replace load-bearing walls and adding point loads. Builds on shoring skills introduced in the demolition chapter.

Lesson 2 • Roof Framing Basics

Introduces rafter layout, ridge board installation, and collar tie placement for gable roofs. Proper roof framing resists wind and snow loads.

Lesson 3 • Wall Framing Fundamentals

Covers plate layout, stud spacing, corner assemblies, and rough opening construction. Accurate wall framing supports all subsequent finish work.

Lesson 4 • Lumber and Engineered Wood Products

Introduces dimensional lumber grades, engineered beams, and their appropriate applications. Material selection directly affects structural performance and cost.

Lesson 1 • Electrical Panel and Circuit Planning

Introduces load calculations, circuit breaker sizing, and panel capacity assessment. Proper planning prevents overloaded circuits and code violations.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Rough-In and Finish Work

Covers wire routing, box placement, device installation, and final connection procedures. Correct rough-in supports safe and code-compliant finish wiring.

Lesson 3 • Rough-In Plumbing Techniques

Explains pipe material selection, cutting, joining, and rough-in height standards. Accurate rough-in ensures fixtures align with finish surfaces.

Lesson 4 • HVAC Basics for Renovations

Explains duct sizing, register placement, and equipment selection for renovated spaces. HVAC changes must be coordinated with framing and insulation work.

Lesson 1 • Tile Installation Techniques

Explains substrate preparation, layout planning, mortar application, and pointing. Proper tile work in wet areas prevents water intrusion and callbacks.

Lesson 2 • Drywall Installation and Finishing

Covers board hanging, taping, mudding, and sanding to a smooth paintable surface. Drywall quality sets the visual standard for all other interior finishes.

Lesson 3 • Hardwood and Engineered Flooring

Covers acclimation, subfloor prep, installation methods, and finishing for wood floors. Correct installation prevents cupping, gapping, and squeaking.

Lesson 4 • Painting and Wall Treatments

Teaches surface preparation, primer selection, application techniques, and sheen choices. Proper prep and application produce durable, professional results.

Lesson 1 • Punch List Development and Resolution

Teaches systematic punch list creation, contractor assignment, and completion verification. A resolved punch list confirms the project meets contracted quality standards.

Lesson 2 • Final Inspections and Code Sign-Off

Explains how to prepare for and pass final building inspections across all trades. Inspection approval is required before occupancy and permit closeout.

Lesson 3 • Project Documentation and Handover

Covers as-built drawings, warranty documentation, and owner manuals for completed work. Thorough handover documentation protects both owner and contractor.