Heritage Retrofit Carpentry

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The Heritage Retrofit Carpentry program is a new program developed to train carpenters to respond to the need to restore heritage buildings while achieving energy efficiency. By preserving and restoring heritage buildings we can secure the future of these culturally important structures by achieving a sustainable level of energy efficiency while providing comfort for occupants. If you are interested in working with wood while learning about energy efficient renovation and building history, this is the program for you.

During the nine-month program, students will gain an appreciation for the value of historically significant structures and the methods of building preservation, renovation and restoration. This will include acquiring knowledge about construction techniques that were used during the last two centuries, coupled with studying the most recent advances in building science. Students will experience hands-on skill development in a purpose-built shop in the new Center for Applied Science and Technology and through on-site restoration of college- owned heritage buildings in downtown Charlottetown. Students will acquire skills using the best of traditional woodworking techniques and modern equipment in order to satisfy project requirements. Participants will learn about and follow safe work practices throughout the entire course of study.

Students who complete the nine-month program may be eligible for apprenticeship credit.

Courses

Heritage Retrofit Carpentry Courses

  print full list with descriptions

Take the following course(s):


Heritage Recording and Architectural History

Heritage Recording and Architectural History

This course is an introduction to residential architectural history with an emphasis on existing Prince Edward Island buildings. This course also provides an overview the principles and practices of heritage recording. This course includes field work to acquire measurements that are used in the production of As-Found Drawings.

Hours: 90
Course Code: ARCH-1400

Blueprint Reading

Blueprint Reading

This course introduces students to working drawings used for construction. Students will learn to read drawings and interpret the information contained in the drawings.

Hours: 45
Course Code: CARP-1300

Advanced Finish Carpentry

Advanced Finish Carpentry

In this course students learn to recreate windows, doors, and millwork from an existing example and from drawings. Included in this course are: stair building and installation, trim and wall finish creation and installation and window building. In addition, students learn to install wood floors and apply various finishes to wood.

Hours: 90
Course Code: CARP-2010

Energy Efficiency

Energy Efficiency

This course will provide an overview of what it means to be energy efficient and why this is important. The course will briefly look at commercial applications and focus mainly on residential applications. The course will look at applying energy efficient building practices to existing and new construction.

Hours: 60
Course Code: CARP-2020

Timber Frame Carpentry

Timber Frame Carpentry

In this course students learn about timber frame construction from the planning to construction stages of a structure. Specialized tools, practices and building techniques that are unique to timber frames are explored during the construction of a timber frame structure.

Hours: 90
Course Code: CARP-2030

Restoration and Renovation Methods

Restoration and Renovation Methods

In this course students learn the theory and practical application of methods in restoration and repair of existing structures.

Hours: 90
Course Code: CARP-2040

Traditional Carpentry Capstone

Traditional Carpentry Capstone

This course will provide students with the opportunity to research an existing piece of heritage millwork (i.e. mantle piece, stair railing etc.) Students will then produce a set of working drawings used to produce an exact replica of the original piece.

Hours: 60
Course Code: CARP-2100

Renovation and Energy Audit Capstone

Renovation and Energy Audit Capstone

In this course students will work with an existing historical home. Within this home students will conduct a complete energy audit. Additionally, students will put together a complete bid for renovations on the house. Each group will present their findings to the class in the form of a polished sales pitch.

Hours: 90
Course Code: CARP-2200

Communications II

Communications II

This course is a combination of oral and written communication as well as several essential skills required for transition to the workplace. Included in the formal technical writing are business correspondence, informal and formal report writing, proper citation techniques, report formatting, and oral presentation skills utilizing PowerPoint and SmartBoard technology.

Hours: 45
Course Code: COMM-2010

Computer Essentials

Computer Essentials

In this course, students are introduced to the fundamentals of various software programs and information processing systems used in today's workplace and educational environments. Students develop the skills necessary to understand and efficiently use common workplace productivity tools. The main areas of focus include: operating systems, e-mail and groupware, word processing, spreadsheets, electronic presentation software, and the integration of these technologies.

Hours: 45
Course Code: COMP-1000

Basic Drafting

Basic Drafting

In this course students will learn the basics of drafting. Students will be able to produce simple drawings, using industry standards, from existing structures. Students will be able to draw irregular shapes and figures according to industry standards. Additionally, students will be able to produce three dimensional drawings from existing structures. Students will demonstrate understanding of how drafting links to blueprint production and creation. Students will be introduced to computer based drafting.

Hours: 30
Course Code: DRAF-1010

Math for Carpenters

Math for Carpenters

This course is designed to enable the student to develop trade related math skills. Students will acquire competency in the math skills as they relate to their carpentry program and future career. Emphasis will be placed on developing problem solving and critical thinking skills. Students will be challenged to continually make connections between math and carpentry, as well as every day applications.

Hours: 45
Course Code: MATH-1010

Project Management

Project Management

This course is offered as a 5-day workshop. During the first three days the course will cover the theory of project management with emphasis on definition and planning phase tools. Topics will include writing a project statement, developing objectives, developing the work breakdown structure, assigning task resources, sequencing tasks, and applying scheduling techniques to the project. The remainder of the course will examine project management software. Participants will produce professional-looking Gantt charts and network diagrams for a simulated house construction project.

Hours: 30
Course Code: PMPG-1000

Occupational Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Safety

In this course students will learn the information needed to prevent accidents and protect themselves and others from injury on the worksite. As well, students will be able to take appropriate steps in the event of an accident. Special components of the course are: provincial legislation regarding workplace health and safety, first aid, CPR, WHMIS, fires and extinguishers, proper use of ladders and scaffolding, fall arrest, foreperson position in the workplace, and a practical safety component.

Hours: 45
Course Code: SAFE-1010

Occupational Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Safety

An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

Hours: 0
Course Code: SAFE-1005

Program Facts
Start Date:September
Length:9 months
Location:Charlottetown
Credential Issued:Certificate, Heritage Retrofit Carpentry

Graduate Opportunities

Graduates may find employment as:

  • Building contractors
  • Custom woodworking shops
  • Self-employment
  • Building supply yards

Admission Requirements

  • Graduation from a college-level carpentry or wood manufacturing program or equivalent or completion of Block 1 Apprenticeship or equivalent experience
  • Resumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program

Tuition & Fees

Tuition
Year 1 $3,600

View a full breakdown of costs and booklist for this program.

Contact

If you have any questions concerning the Heritage Retrofit Carpentry program, contact: