Proposed Winter/Spring workshops

Estimating

Art or Science?  Learn what estimating tools are available to turn the art of estimating into a science to help reduce the uncertainties and what some call the guesswork out of estimating.  You will have the opportunity to have hands-on experience in our computer lab to try an estimating program.

Bidding Projects

Learn what it takes to bid out a project and what tools are necessary.  Learn how to write specifications for bidding to subcontractors, the process of competitive bidding, and evaluating bids.  

Construction Contracts

Do I need a contract? Learn who needs contracts and why.  What are the major parts of contracts and why are they important; for subs as well as customers.  You will go through an exercise of writing a contract for a project. 

Construction Methods

A big topic which can be reduced to two words” Transfer Liability”.  Although there are methods that will be touched on which are intrinsic to the construction industry, there are methods which, although may be common practice, may not be what the manufacturer recommends. 

Sizing; Headers, Beams, Joists and Rafters
This workshop will give you a brief overview of the science of structural design for calculating header sizes.  In addition it will go over the NYS Building Code “Prescriptive Method” for sizing header, beams and floor joists. 

Better Insulation Practices

Learn better insulating practices (based on Builder’s Guide to Cold Climates) and why they are important.  How does relative humidity play a part in moisture and condensation?  And what impacts a “Tight Home” has on the internal environment and how to deal with it. 

The Importance of Water Tight Buildings

Water in a building is never good.  Learn how it can quickly destroy buildings and building material.  Learn how to keep it out with better construction techniques and standard industry practices.  

Foundations

One of the most important elements of a stable house is a good foundation.  Learn the do’s and don’ts about foundation design and construction.  Expansion, contraction, control joints and backfill all affect the foundation performance.

Septic Systems

Learn the basics in septic system design.  Learn what a deep test is and a percolation test is and why you need both.  What does it mean if the “perc fails”.  What alternative are there for marginal sites and what to do about a failed septic system. 

LEED Construction

Leadership in Energy Efficient Designs (LEED) construction.  What does this mean for construction costs and the future of building?  

Drainage and its Affects

Learn the importance of proper grading around the house and septic system.   Proper use of underdrains, curtain drains and French drains.

NYS Erosion Control Requirements 

In this workshop we will discuss the selection and use of various erosion and sediment control practices, including silt fence, stabilized construction entrances, temporary diversions, water bars, inlet protection, and sediment traps

NYS DEC and NYC DEP Stormwater Requirements

The recent past has seen an increase in stormwater discharge regulations.  In this workshop we will discuss the thresholds that require a “Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan”, the difference between a “Basic” SWPPP and a “Full” SWPPP”, proper implementation of the plan, certification requirements, and construction phase monitoring and record-keeping requirements.