Water damage is a common occurrence in residential buildings. In addition to being an inconvenience, water damage can also be a serious safety hazard. When combined, water and electricity can be an extremely dangerous pair — sometimes even deadly. There are many different kinds of moisture that can cause damage to the residential wiring systems in a home or business, with varying degrees of severity depending on the form of moisture and the method of intrusion. 

If you’re thinking about becoming an electrician, it’s important to be able to recognize the signs of moisture damage in order to address potential threats to the safety of a building’s inhabitants and the integrity of its wiring system. Here’s what future electricians should know about the effects of water damage on residential wiring systems.

A Look at Wiring’s Ability to Withstand Moisture for Those with Electrician Training

Most residences contain cables and wiring with different levels of insulation, depending on where they are located. Water exposure can have a varied effect on electrical wiring systems depending on their make and insulation type, as well as the amount of exposure. Wiring systems may consist of bare conductors, such as copper grounding wires, or conductors insulated with nonconductive material such as plastic or vinyl. 

Professionals with electrician training can identify the level of insulation on a conductor by looking at the wire coding. If there’s a “W” in the coding, this means that a wire is suitable to withstand conditions of moisture. Some cables, such as UF-B cables, are manufactured specifically to withstand wet or damp conditions, protecting conductors in water-proof plastic vinyl. However, residences are commonly equipped with plastic-coated Romex cables–consisting of copper ground wire coated with paper and wrapped in neutral and live wires. This wiring is typically unable to withstand exposure to moisture due to its lower level of insulation. 

How Moisture Can Harm Residential Wiring

Whenever water penetrates through the walls of a structure, whether in a liquid, frozen, vaporized or condensed form, moisture damage can occur to the residential wiring systems. Within indoor structures, many electrical components are not designed to withstand contact with water, and it’s important that electricians are familiar with elements vulnerable to water damage. Common causes of water damage in residences include burst pipes, leakage and flooding. Excessive moisture resulting from conditions such as a humid environment can also be a catalyst for milder cases of damage. 

The most common effects of moisture on wiring include corrosion and mold growth. Over time, corrosion can lead to gradual deterioration of wiring components–leaving systems vulnerable to power loss or further damage. Interior electrical components are typically made more vulnerable to water contact due to the fact that they are often only protected by enamel, which is not effective in preventing water damage. As a result, moisture can cause mountings, conductors, or metal connectors to corrode. Additionally, moisture can increase the current of electrical circuits, leading to overheating and increasing the risk of a fire, or resulting in a blown fuse. When a fuse is blown, short circuiting will occur in the electrical system.

What to Do When Electrical Water Damage Occurs

For those who want to become a construction electrician, it’s important to know what to do in the case of potential water damage to a residential wiring system. If water damage is detected within a structure, it’s important to cut off electrical supply at a residence’s fuse box before inspecting any electrical circuits. Failing to do so could result in shock exposure. In the case of moisture damage, all vulnerable components should be inspected to check for areas of corrosion or mold growth. Depending on the extent of the damage, the affected area can be cut out — but it’s also possible that a new set of wiring will be required. The surrounding area should then be further insulated from moisture to protect against future harm.

In the event of flooding, all cable or wiring products that have been submerged in or exposed to floodwater should be inspected thoroughly to determine whether they can still be used. Floodwater can contain additional contaminants which can be harmful to electrical systems. With this in mind, electricians should be sure to check for foreign elements, as these can interfere with a wiring system’s ability to function.

Ready to enroll in electrician college?

Explore the North American Trade Schools’ program options today.

Home inspection describes a consulting service where industry professionals analyze the safety conditions of a home—helping buyers make informed decisions before purchasing or living in their chosen home.

A big part of home inspection includes assessing the roof for any signs of damage. Conducting a thorough visual inspection of the roof can reveal potential concerns and areas in need of repair to promote the safety of the home’s inhabitants. Those interested in home inspection can receive proper training, learning practical skills to ensure safe living conditions. Here’s a brief overview of what home inspectors can look for when investigating roofing problems.

Checking Gutters and Soffits When Inspecting Roofs

When searching for any roofing problems, home inspectors rely heavily on visual inspection. One of the most obvious signs of a roofing problem includes a sagging roof—which can indicate deterioration, improper installation, or difficulty supporting its weight. Acting quickly to replace a sagging roof is of utmost importance, preventing the chances of it collapsing.

Other problems can include dirty or clogged soffits (the bottom of house eaves or rafters). Dirty or clogged soffits can mess with attic ventilation, blocking airflow and promoting mould growth on the roof’s framing. Home inspectors will also want to check for any rusted gutters, which can lead to unwanted leaks. It’s also important to look for a well-installed gutter apron, typically used to stop water flows from rotting other parts of the roof (like the soffits or roof sheathing). If water stains are visible below the gutter, then gutter aprons should be installed for added protection.

Spotting Signs of a Leaky Roof after Your Home Inspector Training

Water damage can be a clear indication of a roofing problem. If the home’s ceiling or interior walls feature any water stains, then a leaky roof is likely the culprit. Addressing this problem quickly is extremely important, as doing so can prevent further problems from developing—like growing mould or damaging insulation. This can occur around bathroom fans as well, possibly indicating a leak from roof vents. It should also be noted that if mould is spotted on the exterior walls, a leaky roof should be considered as a probable cause.

Those with a home inspector career can also keep an eye out for any roofing problems when assessing the insulation. For example, a leaky roof can be responsible for interfering with the house’s insulation, affecting heating and cooling systems.

Inspecting Roof Shingles and Flashing for Signs of a Roofing Problem

Home inspectors will want to carefully look at the state of roof shingles and flashing in order to properly assess the living conditions of a house. Roof shingles are overlapping elements used to cover roofs, adding further protection. Inspectors should look out for any damaged or missing shingles, both of which increase the chances of leaky roofs. Roof shingles can also appear mismatched or uneven, allowing water to penetrate more easily.

Those who have started their home inspection training will know about roof flashing, used to protect areas where the roof intersects with other walls or structures (like chimneys). Flashing is important when inspecting water flow, preventing water from crashing and seeping into the sidewalls. If the flashing is loose or rusted, then this layer of protection is rendered inefficient—potentially rotting the roof’s sheathing and framing or leading to the growth of more mould.

Do you want to become a home inspector?

Contact NATS for more information!

When you replace an old HVAC unit with a new one, there are certain things worth keeping in mind. For example, many people tend to only replace their HVAC unit on rare occasions. However, having those units replaced in regular intervals can ensure that their HVAC unit is keeping them safe, healthy, and sufficiently heated and cooled. Some homeowners may also want a new unit to help them save on energy. With the right tools and knowledge, you can complete an HVAC replacement job that accomplishes each of these things.

Although replacing an HVAC unit involves a number of steps to complete before, during, and after the installation, these are some of the more important phases to remember during this process. Read on to find out what you can expect with regards to replacing HVAC units.

Preliminary Measures for HVAC Technician Training Students to Remember

Before the replacement process can begin, there are certain tasks to take care of. For one, you’ll need to assess both the home and the old HVAC system, and complete the necessary calculations and measurements. Once this has finished, you can determine how big the new HVAC system needs to be. Measure the square footage of the home to better understand how big the new unit will need to be, and how many tons of heat it can remove. You and the client will also need to determine how they will pay for the installation. Depending on the payment plan, they may put a down payment on the replacement prior to the installation. 

Upon completing your cost estimate, replacing the HVAC unit can go ahead. Complete a ductwork inspection, if necessary, and disconnect the unit being replaced after powering it off. If any parts of the interior, such as furniture, are impeding your ability to get the job done, move them away from your working area. Since HVAC technician training students will learn about installing many different types of systems during their studies, it’s equally important that they learn what’s necessary for the pre-installation phase.

The Installation Process: Out With the Old, In With the New

Once these tasks have been completed, the installation of the HVAC unit replacement can begin. When installing, remember to use dust covers and wear protective gear to prevent any direct contact with debris. Even if only one component of the HVAC unit needs to be replaced, you should still replace the entire unit so that its capacity for efficiency is optimal. Be sure to also cut off power from the old HVAC unit, flush any remaining coolant, take apart the old equipment, and then remove those parts to make room for new ones. The HVAC unit replacement can often be done within the day of installation, but can sometimes go beyond that if complications arise.

Students in HVAC college should also familiarize themselves with the parts that will be involved in the replacement. These parts include the outside compressor, thermostats, evaporators, air handlers, condensate pumps, and/or supply lines for coolant. Once the installation process is done, remember to put the new unit through a series of tests to make sure it works correctly and can sufficiently cool the home. Inspect the system to catch any possible issues, then add a new coolant and keep testing the unit until all systems look good. Lastly, remember to discard and/or recycle any old HVAC equipment being replaced. Explain to clients how the new system works, and recommend a timeline for their next replacement.

Want to get your HVAC diploma?

Contact NATS today for more info!

During a home renovation project, it’s not uncommon to discover a few “fun” surprises. Ripping up a floor or tearing down a wall is not only an opportunity to give a home a new look—it’s also a chance to make sure there’s no mold hidden out of sight and causing harm. 

When mold is discovered, it’s important to address it right away. Left untreated, mold can become a serious health hazard to those who have it in their homes. In fact, it’s known for causing respiratory problems, immune disorders, allergies, and more. If you’re interested in becoming a home renovation technician, here are some tips on identifying and dealing with a mold situation, and how to prevent mold from occurring in the future. 

If You Have Home Renovation Training, Here’s Where Mold Is Likely to Occur

Mold is most likely to grow in places where there is excess moisture. When renovating a home, make sure to check carefully for any leaks, condensation, or general moisture within the walls or floors, as these spots will be prone to mold growth. After your home renovation training, be sure to thoroughly examine a home for water damage or condensation during the renovation process, because where there’s moisture, there could be mold. 

You Found Some Mold: Now What?

So you’ve discovered mold—what’s next? Whatever the quantity, mold should always be removed. While a little bit of mold might not pose a threat, there are certain types of mold that can be dangerous to our health, so it’s good practice to deal with mold as soon as it’s identified. Upon encountering mold, determine how much mold there is and what colour the mold is. If there are large spots of mold (bigger than your hand), the removal process may be more intense, and it might be best to call in a mold professional. Additionally, if the mold is black in colour, this could indicate the presence of black mold, which is toxic and should be removed by a professional remediation company. 

Preventing Mold from Reappearing During Your Home Renovation Career

If you want to become a home renovation technician, remember that it’s a good idea to be prepared to encounter mold while on the job. Make sure to have protective equipment on hand, such as goggles, gloves, and an N-95 or P-100 respirator. 

Of course, what’s even better than removing mold is preventing mold from occurring in the first place. Mold is sneaky, and preventing any possibility of re-growth is essential, especially while renovating a home. You wouldn’t want to put in a new floor over an area that has a chance of developing mold again. In order to remove the possibility of mold resurgence, make sure that the area is completely dry. A dehumidifier can be helpful here. Additionally, consider sealing off the area with a sealant such as shellac before continuing with the renovation, which will discourage mold growth. 

Are you ready to enroll in home renovation technician school?

Explore the program options available at the North American Trade School today.

When the COVID-19 pandemic caused most of Canada to go into lockdown last year, many families found that they were cooking at home a lot more than usual. With the option of going out to eat at restaurants off the table for the better part of the past year, people were forced to spend a lot more time in their kitchens. It’s a change that has gotten plenty of families to reconsider the space in which they’re cooking. For plenty of folks at home, the pandemic was an opportunity to invest in some new cookbooks or updated kitchen appliances, while others decided it was time for a new kitchen altogether. 

In May of 2020, Google searches for outdoor kitchens almost doubled, as did the search for grills, pizza ovens, and other outdoor cooking necessities. Outdoor kitchens can take many shapes and forms, but the idea is rising in popularity, and it looks like the trend is here to stay. If you’re considering a career in cabinetmaking, now is a great opportunity to learn more about outdoor kitchens and their design.

Those With Cabinet Making Training Should Know What Defines an Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen is a functional outdoor space that can serve as a second kitchen in certain homes. While some might call their pizza oven and grill an outdoor kitchen, today, the term can be used to describe a whole range of designs, from simple to luxurious. What an outdoor kitchen looks like might depend on the preferences of the owner. Owners might opt for an island, a grill, an outdoor oven (such as a pizza oven or a wood brick oven), a stovetop, a sink, or even an outdoor bar. Regardless of its design or level of extravagance, there are a few things that should always be taken into consideration when designing an outdoor kitchen. If you have cabinet making training, here’s what you need to know.

Exposure to the Elements

In any outdoor space, an important consideration is how the weather or climate will affect the appliances and materials used. When choosing the right materials for the cabinets and paneling of an outdoor kitchen, consider how the cabinet will fare with exposure to moisture, sunlight, or cold weather. Some good options for durable materials include stainless steel, teak, and marine grade polymer. All of these materials are relatively weather-proof and easy to maintain, making them great options for an outdoor space. 

Functionality

An outdoor kitchen doesn’t have to be huge, as long as it contains all the necessary elements. In a functional outdoor kitchen, cabinets should be designed in order to accommodate a range of storage needs. Outdoor kitchens may need more storage, as it’s less likely that owners will be inclined to leave kitchen appliances and utensils resting on countertops in an outdoor space. After completing your cabinet making program, take storage into consideration when configuring the cabinets in an outdoor kitchen. The more storage space that’s available, the less crowded an outdoor kitchen will look.

A Consistent Aesthetic

As with an indoor kitchen, an outdoor kitchen should be consistent in the style and materials used. The use of matching materials and textures makes the space more visually pleasing. Pairing metallic cabinetry with stonework gives the kitchen a more rustic character, while concrete paired with teak cabinetry gives an outdoor kitchen a modern edge. Whatever materials are chosen, it’s important that they work together in order to make the outdoor kitchen both appealing and useful.

Are you ready to enroll in cabinet making courses?

Check out the North American Trade School’s program options to get started today.

Working within the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry is a rewarding career path. However, it takes more than classroom learning to gain the confidence you need to feel comfortable on the job. In order to become successful in this field, it’s important that you also get hands-on training and experience. 

Being an HVAC technician is all about knowing how to diagnose a situation and use the correct tools and equipment to perform the task at hand–whether that’s installing, maintaining, or repairing a system. When choosing an HVAC program, make sure that you’re choosing one that offers hands-on training to equip you with the experience necessary to handle all kinds of situations. 

Here’s more on why hands-on training is necessary for aspiring HVAC technicians.

Hands-On HVAC Technician Courses Promote Problem-Solving Skills

A good HVAC technician should be able to apply the knowledge they learn in the classroom to real-world situations, and be able to actively solve the problem at hand. The only way to get better at problem-solving on the job is to gain experience at an HVAC college–offering students the opportunity to participate in hands-on training. At North American Trade Schools (NATS), students receive hands-on training in the lab in addition to the information they learn in the classroom. They can expect to work with testing devices and various types of equipment. This helps them to gain first-hand experience with common problems encountered on the job.

Greater Retention of Information

Learning by doing has been proven to be a fool-proof way to remember information. When engaging in hands-on learning, students enrolled in HVAC technician training have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with common materials and equipment of the trade, and get to practice using these tools. Because they’re learning by doing with hands-on training, students are more likely to retain what they’ve experienced, and can easily access and apply that knowledge to situations on the job.

Students Will Gain Familiarity with Safety Protocols

Within this field, there are always risks and safety hazards that may be encountered. Working within the real-world environment offered through hands-on training gives students in HVAC technician courses the chance to practice following safety protocols, and allows them to better understand the risks that go along with the job.

Get Training From Industry Experts

As an HVAC technician student, much of what you learn will depend on the advice and experience of others. It’s important to get hands-on training from experienced teachers in order to learn as much as possible about the field. At NATS, the instructors supervising your training are industry experts. Input from these seasoned professionals proved invaluable to NATS welding graduate Emily Harrison, who said her “favourite thing about the campus was the knowledge of the teachers and how much practical work you were able to do. It was very helpful.” 

Receiving hands-on training from experienced instructors will ensure that all your questions are answered, making you that much more ready to tackle on-the-job challenges.

Are you interested in attending HVAC school to prepare you for this role with hands-on training?

Check out program options from North American Trade Schools today.

When smartphones hit the market, everyone seemed to want one. Now more and more people are also upgrading their houses to become smart homes–intrigued by the idea of home automation for an easier and more efficient lifestyle. If you’re interested in electrical wiring, this is a trend you might encounter. These setups can include anything from lighting and temperature automation to security and entertainment systems. 

Here’s a quick overview of some key facts about smart home development. 

1. Many Start Home Automation With Smart Plugs or Switches 

Installing smart plugs or switches is a good way to start the home automation process. Smart plugs allow homeowners to control their smart devices using their phones—or even their voice, if smart speakers are around. Smart switches enable them to control the lighting system much more efficiently. The rise of smart devices makes this an important step, with the wiring process for both switches and plugs being fairly similar. 

As an electrician, you’ll first unscrew the wall plate and begin disconnecting wires. It’s a good idea to identify all the wires involved—checking for line and load wires as well as neutral wires. Once everything is properly identified and connected, the homeowner can begin integrating smart applications seamlessly into their home. If you want to become a construction electrician, then you might also be looking to install deep junction boxes (where wires meet) during construction as well as in-wall remote control panels to influence lighting groups for a more complex lighting setup.

2. Home Temperatures Can Be Automated by Wiring Smart Doors and Windows 

In addition to being convenient, automated doors and windows can help manage a home’s temperature during summer and winter. Smart doors can include automated garage and sliding doors–both of which can be programmed to open at a scheduled time. They can also be wired with extra sensors that indicate security risks (such as unlocked or open doors). 

Smart windows can operate in the same way. They can be programmed to open or close depending on room temperature. This can be helpful to homeowners who want easier temperature regulation. As a construction electrician, you might also be interested in wiring a smart thermostat, which should be done carefully as it affects the HVAC system. Smart thermostats can give useful energy reports and control temperatures in different rooms. They also provide other features that could make smart homes a compelling option for homeowners.

3. Those With Electrician Training Can Help Homeowners Set Up Smart Security 

Home alarm systems are a big part of smart home security. Both wired and wireless systems can be used to monitor homes, detect intrusions, and even send notifications directly to an individual’s phone. Wired home security systems are permanent, while wireless systems offer more flexibility and can be easily moved around. This makes the option convenient for homeowners who frequently modify their living space. After your electrician training, you can install home security systems–linking them to motion detectors and security cameras. A wireless setup can be easily hooked into the Wi-Fi network, but wired home security requires a central control panel and some hands-on electrical wiring skills. 

The opportunities for smart home development are endless, with options to add smart smoke detectors, video doorbells, and much more. 

Do you want to have an electrician career in construction?

Contact NATS for more information!

Looking for a rewarding career that can teach you many new skills and allow you to work with your hands to build and fix things every day? Welding might just be the right choice for you. Should you decide to pursue a career in this field, going to welding school can help set you up for a future in this profession. A great welding training program can teach you about the trade through both a theoretical and practical lens.

Those who pursue welding as a career path can open themselves up to a hugely gratifying profession. Here are some reasons why you should consider welding school to fulfill your career ambitions.

Welding Is a Fantastic Career, Especially if You Have the Personality For It

Are you a patient, creative, hard-working individual who relishes the challenge of working in an intense environment? Welding is a career that caters to exactly these kinds of people. Welders are typically subjected to a large amount of smoke and heat, all while wearing heavy protective gear like coveralls and a mask. This type of work requires a great amount of endurance, as well as the knowledge and instincts to be able to join metal pieces together with the utmost care and accuracy. As a trained welder, you might have opportunities to work in several different industries after completing an apprenticeship, such as: manufacturing, oil, construction, architecture, and more. If any of these job prospects interest you, welding could be a great fit for your professional career.

Taking a Welding Diploma Program Can Teach You Many Lessons About the Trade

If you’re looking for a way to gain the foundational knowledge necessary for success in the welding industry, starting your welding training is your ticket. At NATS, our welding program offers students the opportunity to learn about the trade over 55 weeks. During the program, you can learn about concepts such as welding processes, equipment, safety standards, blueprint reading, and positional welding. Furthermore, students at NATS can use our on-campus labs for hands-on learning. Here, processes like MIG (Gas Metal Arc Welding) and TIG (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding) welding are learned through the use of modern equipment. This helps give students practical, real-world experience before even setting out to work in the field.

You Won’t Need Prior Experience to Get Started in Welding Training

At NATS, some students come to the welding program having already gained a bit of welding practice beforehand. “I chose to study welding, because I did it in high school,” says Emily Harrison, a graduate of NATS’ welding program. “I’m a bit of an artist, and I wanted a little bit more knowledge and a little bit more practicality for the future.”

However, those hoping to attend welding school should also note that they don’t need any prior experience to get into the program. Even without any base knowledge of the trade, taking a welding program can provide you with the training to open you up to various career opportunities, often starting out as an apprentice welder to further sharpen your skills in such roles as ironworker, boilermaker, pipefitter, and more. Not only do you not need experience or a university degree to enter the field, but you also have a wide range of career choices available to you—making welding a great choice for fulfilling your professional aspirations!

Do you want to begin your welder technician training?

Contact North American Trade Schools today to learn more!

Within the construction industry, businesses are often looking to adopt trends that will cut costs and improve the way that business, and construction itself, is done. Advancements in technology could have a huge impact on the future of the construction industry. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic proved that adapting and innovating–while utilizing available technologies–was essential to continuing operations throughout the many disruptions that construction companies and employees saw. 

These four rising trends highlight how the construction industry is changing and innovating–as it gives us a sneak peek into what to expect in 2021. 

Those in Construction Careers Will Want to Watch for 3D Printing

3D printing is a technology that’s already being used in the construction industry to make custom projects more affordable, as well as to help complete projects at a faster rate. 3D printing is typically used to aid larger projects by building certain smaller components to fit into them. The capacities of 3D printing are still being explored, but those with a career in construction should look for this technology in 2021.

The Use of Big Data

There’s a lot of potential for the construction industry when it comes to big data. Big data is a great tool for construction companies to use to determine and analyze risk. The use of big data allows construction companies to apply algorithms to construction data, sizing a project up against market and material trends, as well as the weather. Construction companies can better manage risk with big data, as they’ll be better informed about the correct amount of resources to use. This will be better equipped for potential losses. The use of big data for risk management increased in 2020, and so there’s a good chance that it’ll continue in 2021.

Prefabricated Buildings and Modular Construction

In an era where separate space is increasingly necessary, prefabricated buildings and modular construction have come to flourish. More and more businesses are requiring temporary solutions to the social-distancing requirements and strains which have been imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals need extra rooms, businesses need extra offices, and homeowners might just need another space where they can work from home or decompress. Modular construction and prefabricated buildings are a great option for temporary, efficient, and affordable expansion. This is certainly a trend that could stick with the construction industry, keeping those in construction careers busy. 

The Use of Design Technology

Building Information Modeling (BIM), or what contractors sometimes call Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), is on the rise as a means of virtually designing and constructing a building before it is physically built. It allows professionals to see how a building would hold up when constructed, making note of potential pitfalls, budgetary excesses, and more. The increasing use of this technology is helping professionals keep construction costs down and save time. By using BIM, designers are also able to think bigger and bolder in terms of the structures they create. For these reasons, it’s safe to say that the use of these helpful design technologies could continue to expand in 2021.

Are you ready to see these trends in action?

Enroll in construction college at the North American Trade School today.