Home Renovation

A Day In The Life Of A Drywall Installer After Home Renovation Training

November 02, 2023

A male drywall installer in a building after home renovation training.

Have you ever admired the smooth walls in a freshly renovated room? Have you ever wondered what journey a room takes from a skeletal frame to a finished space, ready for painting? The transformation is the result of the meticulous work of a Drywall Installer. This profession is more than affixing panels to walls. It’s about precision, expertise, and a touch of artistry, especially for those trained in home renovation.

A Drywall Installer is a skilled tradesperson responsible for measuring, cutting, and fitting drywall sheets onto walls and ceilings during construction or renovation projects. They meticulously secure these panels, fill in joints and imperfections, and ensure a smooth surface, preparing the space for painting or further finishing. Drywall Installers are crucial in shaping buildings’ interior structure and appearance.

If this role sounds like something you would be interested in after your home renovation training, this blog post details what a day in the role entails.

Planning and Execution

Drywall Installers typically begin their day early. In the early morning hours, when most people are just stretching out of sleep, the Drywall Installer is already engrossed in blueprints, decoding the plans for the day. These aren’t mere diagrams but a roadmap to a perfect finish. Every detail, from installation methods to tool requirements, is spelled out on these sheets.

Armed with insights from home renovation courses and the blueprint as a guide, the next step involves a tape measure, straightedge, and marker. Each mark on the surface is a calculated decision, ensuring that every piece of drywall aligns perfectly with the structure’s blueprint. It’s like piecing together a jigsaw puzzle, where each piece has its unique place.

Installations

Following the markings, the physical transformation begins. Whether it’s a metal or wooden framework, each drywall piece must be securely positioned and fastened. This isn’t just about brute strength; it’s about aligning each panel perfectly, making adjustments, and securing it firmly with glue, nails, or screws.

A professional Drywall Installer working on a ceiling after home renovation training.
The drywall Installer uses insights gained from home renovation training to fasten installations.

As the main pieces find their place, attention turns to the details. This involves carving out space for essential fixtures such as electrical outlets, windows, or vents. Using tools like the keyhole saw and relying on knowledge from their home renovation training, the Drywall Installer crafts precise cuts, ensuring that every fixture integrates seamlessly with the drywall. 

But straight walls are only part of the story. Corners, those tricky junctions, need special attention. That’s where metal corner beads come in, serving as protective armour for these vulnerable spots. They enhance durability and lend a neat finish to the corners.

Ensuring Finishes are to Home Renovation Training Standards

As daylight starts to wane, the role of the Drywall Installer morphs from installer to finisher. Each joint, tiny hole and imperfection in the drywall needs attention. The compound is skillfully applied with a trowel and broad knife, filling in any gaps or imperfections. This step requires a practiced hand, ensuring the compound is spread smoothly and evenly.

After home renovation training, a male Drywall Installer working on a wall in a renovated building.
Finishing is the final stage of drywall installation, as learned during home renovation training.

The crowning touch? A thorough sanding. Once the applied compound dries, sanding ensures the surface is silky smooth, primed, and ready for paint. By sunset, what was once a bare frame is now a canvas, transformed and ready for the following stages of interior design. 

Are you interested in our world-class home renovation diploma?

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Home Renovation

3 Reasons to Pursue a Construction Apprentice Position After Home Renovation Training

August 10, 2023

A construction worker smiles at the camera while working with his colleagues after Home Renovation Training

Construction apprentices are essential workers who perform various tasks on different types of residential and commercial construction projects, such as houses, roads, bridges, and skyscrapers. Construction is an interesting and great career choice in a country like Canada which continues to develop rapidly and welcomes hundreds of thousands of immigrants annually.

A look at the numbers might provide some perspective. According to Statistics Canada, investment in building construction in February 2023 alone was a whopping $20.6 billion. This figure could have been even higher; a severe shortage of construction workers means the industry is not functioning at its full potential.

If you’ve been mulling over choosing a career as a construction apprentice after your Home Renovation training, our enthusiastic recommendation would be to go for it! If you’re still unconvinced, this article offers three reasons to pursue a construction apprentice position after Home Renovation training.

1. The Position Offers Ample Job Opportunities and Flexibility

The construction industry is one of Canada’s largest and fastest-growing sectors, and according to Construction Canada, it expects demand for more than 300,000 new workers by 2030. This is exciting news for construction apprentices, as it translates to many opportunities for year-round engagement. Unlike in many other careers, you will also have the flexibility to choose the type of projects that interest you, the location that suits you, and the schedule that works for you.

A construction worker gives a thumbs up after Home Renovation Training
A construction apprentice job after earning your Home Renovation Diploma offers great flexibility.

If you’re the type of person who loves challenges, you’ll find the perfect fit for your personality in construction after your Home Renovation Technician training. No two days on the job are the same, and there’s always something new to discover and new heights (maybe even literally) to explore. To make things even more interesting, you don’t need to be tied to any location, company, or even project if you don’t want to be.

2. Career Growth as a Construction Apprentice

Working as a construction apprentice can be a stepping stone to other positions in the construction industry, such as foreperson, supervisor, estimator, or project manager. Our Home Renovation Technician diploma program encourages students to be optimistic and strive for goals despite challenges and obstacles. They carry this mindset into the workplace, motivating them to strive for career growth.

Construction workers walking towards the construction site after Home Renovation Training
A construction apprentice position can offer you immense job satisfaction.

3. A Rewarding Career After Home Renovation Training

It’s an unarguable fact; working as a construction apprentice can be challenging. But it can also be vastly satisfying and fulfilling. The job provides the perfect platform to use your skills and knowledge from Home Renovation training to create structures that improve people’s lives and communities. 

In addition, you’ll get to work with a diverse team of professionals who share your passion and vision for crafting solid structures that meet the basic needs of a large group of people. Beyond this, there’s that satisfaction of seeing the results of your hard work every day.

Are you ready to earn your Home Renovation diploma?

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Home Renovation

Considering Home Renovation Training? Trends to Watch This Year

August 09, 2023

The nature of a trend is that it is perpetually changing. People are always looking for the next best thing and to modernize as much as possible. In the case of home design and renovation trends, this is no different. With the shift in the working situation that has occurred in the past few years, many people are looking to make their home a space where they can both work and relax. This means that several different trends are emerging this year which follow this train of thought. As someone invested in home renovation, it will be important that you stay updated with these trends. Read on to learn more.

Working From Home Means More Home Offices

The number of people working from home has increased in the past few years. This means that there has also been an increase in people needing home offices or home working spaces. People have renovated spaces in their homes, turning them into work-from-home offices. There has also been an increase in the number of garages and sheds converted into work-from-home offices. These rooms are generally pretty simple in design and conducive to healthy and efficient working. Paint schemes are predominantly light colours, with some accent colours mixed in. 
As someone considering Home Renovation training, this trend is will be good for future business. It means more renovations, and the work itself is not complex. Your training covers everything you need to know, including desk installation, wall painting, and renovation. Due to these being spare rooms or garages/sheds, they may also require patching up in several areas. The practical training you’ll receive in your program will prepare you for such work.

Learn what you need to know to renovate a home office during home renovation college.

Use Calming Colours After Home Renovation College 

The current trend for bathrooms is to use light and calming colours. This could be in the form of light greys, whites, greens, or blues for example. People want their bathroom to be a relaxing space, almost like a mini spa in their home. This means that the bathrooms are being renovated to include larger baths and showers. People prefer their bathroom tiles to either contrast the wall colour or match it. With this, it means that you may need to lay tiles. During Home Renovation college, you’ll learn about renovating bathrooms, including laying tiles, installing baths and showers, and connecting them. Acquiring these skills will ensure you’re ready to take on bathroom renovations in the future.

Learn bathroom renovation skills during Home Renovation training.

People Want More Outdoor Living Spaces

After enduring so much time indoors in isolation throughout the pandemic, many people focused on bringing the outdoors into their homes. With an increase in people working from home even now, they still want to be able to get up from their desks and experience nature. This could be in the form of balconies or patios. As people look to renovate their homes to do this, a professional home renovator will be well-equipped to fulfil this gap in the market. Whether you work for yourself or a company, a good Home Renovation program will ensure that you have all the knowledge you need to thrive.

Are you ready to earn your Home Renovation diploma

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Home Inspection

4 Red Flags To Look Out For in Basements After Home Inspection Training

June 28, 2023

Home inspector smiling at the camera after home inspection training.

Basements are an integral part of a home. They provide useful storage space, serve as a foundation for the entire structure, and house most of the home’s key functioning systems. Despite all of these, though, potential homebuyers tend to spend the least amount of time in basements and typically fail to notice issues with them.

As is often the case, this can be a mistake; a troubled basement is a fertile breeding ground for sickness-causing mould. It can also pose a fire hazard in the future, or, at the very least, cause homeowners to spend a lot on repairs. During your inspections, you’re responsible for making sure that your clients don’t fall into these types of traps. In this blog post, we will discuss four common red flags to look out for during basement inspections after your training.

1. Moisture and Water Intrusion Founded Through Home Inspection Training

One of the most critical issues to identify in basements is moisture and water intrusion. Excessive moisture can lead to mould growth, structural damage, and a host of other problems. Signs of moisture include water stains, dampness, musty odours, and efflorescence (white, powdery deposits on surfaces). During your inspection, pay close attention to the basement walls, floors, and ceiling for any visible signs of water intrusion. Additionally, inspect the perimeter for proper grading, functioning gutters, and adequate drainage systems.

Home inspector examining the walls in a basement after home inspection training.
As you’ll discover in home inspection training, mould on basement walls is a definite red flag.

2. Foundation Cracks and Structural Issues

Just as you’ve learned during home inspection training, basements are susceptible to foundation cracks and structural problems due to soil movement, settling, or poor construction practices. These issues can compromise the stability and safety of the entire home. During your inspection, carefully examine the basement walls, floors, and foundation for any visible cracks, bulges, or signs of shifting. Horizontal cracks, widening cracks, or stair-step cracks are particularly concerning and should be evaluated by a structural engineer to determine their severity.

3. Home Inspection Training Highlights Inadequate Ventilation and Poor Air Quality

Basements often lack proper ventilation, leading to poor air quality and potential health hazards. Insufficient airflow can result in a buildup of moisture, stale air, and the proliferation of harmful substances such as radon gas. During inspections after your home inspection training, check for proper ventilation systems, including vents and exhaust fans, to ensure adequate air circulation. Consider conducting a radon test as well, as it is a colourless, odourless gas that can be harmful if present in high concentrations.

4. Electrical and Plumbing Issues

In addition, it is crucial to inspect the electrical and plumbing systems housed in basements. Outdated or faulty electrical wiring, exposed wires, improper grounding, and overloaded circuits can pose significant safety risks.

Home inspector checking a home’s plumbing fixtures after home inspection training.
Using insights from your home inspection training, carefully examine the plumbing fixtures in the basement.

Carefully examine the electrical components for any signs of wear or potential hazards. Similarly, inspect the plumbing system for leaks, damaged pipes, and indications of water damage, which can lead to costly repairs and structural issues. Don’t forget to ensure that sump pumps, if present, are functioning properly to prevent basement flooding, which can cause extensive damage to the property. To ensure the basement’s safety and functionality, it is imperative to thoroughly inspect these systems.

 Are you eager to learn more about a home inspection program?

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Home Renovation

3 Paint Application Tips to Use After Home Renovation Technician Training

April 25, 2023

Young woman painting a wall at home after Home Renovation Technician Training.

Painting is one of the final stages of every building or home renovation job. However, it’s also one of the most delicate tasks. Get it right, and you’ll have applied the perfect finish to your masterpiece and crafted the perfect ambience for the home. On the other hand, if you get it wrong, it can take the shine away from all your hard work up to that point.

If you’re considering becoming a Home Renovation Technician, you likely have an eye for design and the ability to bring a client’s vision to life. After completing your training, you may use paint application techniques to enhance the finished look of a project. In this blog post, we will discuss three paint application tips you can use after completing your home renovation technician training.

1. Prepare the Surface After Home Renovation Courses

Before beginning any paint application after your Home Renovation Technician training, it is crucial to prepare the surface properly. Preparing the surface means cleaning, sanding, and priming the area to ensure the paint adheres well and looks smooth. Cleaning the surface may involve removing any dirt, debris, or peeling paint that may be present. Sanding the surface helps to smooth out any bumps or roughness that may interfere with the application of the paint. Finally, priming the surface will help the paint stick and ensure the colour appears consistent.

It is important to note that different surfaces may require different preparation methods. For example, wood surfaces may require more sanding than metal surfaces, and concrete surfaces may require a special primer. Knowing the correct preparation methods for different surfaces can help you achieve a professional-looking finish.

2. Use the Right Tools and Techniques

Using the right tools and techniques can also make a significant difference in the outcome of your paint job, as you will learn in your Home Renovation courses. There are a variety of tools available for paint application, including brushes and rollers. Each tool has its own strengths and weaknesses, and it is important to choose the right tool for the job. For example, brushes are best for detail work and edging, while rollers are ideal for large, flat surfaces.

Man using a roller to paint the walls of a home after Home Renovation Technician Training.
Choosing the right equipment to work with after Home Renovation Technician Training is vital.

In addition to using the right tools, it is important to use the correct techniques. For example, when using a brush, you should use long, smooth strokes to avoid visible brush marks. When using a roller, you should roll in a “W” shape to ensure even coverage. Knowing the correct techniques for each tool can help you achieve a professional-looking finish.

3. Choose the Right Paint

The type of paint you choose can also drastically affect how your paint job ends up. There are a variety of paint types available, including latex, oil-based, and specialty paints. Each type of paint has its properties and is best suited for different surfaces and applications. Latex paint is best for interior walls, while oil-based paint is best for exterior surfaces. Specialty paints, such as chalk or metallic paint, are ideal for adding texture and interest to a project.

Man pours paint into a painting tray, using techniques and knowledge gained from Home Renovation Technician Training.
After drawing inspiration from the home renovation courses you took, choose the right paint.

Choosing the right paint type is equally as important as choosing the right colour and finish. The colour should complement the rest of the room or project, while the finish should match the desired look and durability. Choosing the right paint can help you achieve a professional-looking finish that will last years.

Are you interested in earning a Home Renovation diploma?

Contact NATS to learn how to get started.

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Home Renovation

3 Opportunities for Advancement After Home Renovation College

December 21, 2022

Home renovation is a rewarding career that allows workers to use their technical abilities, problem-solving skills and creative flair. If you dream of helping homeowners customize their spaces and improve your own, home renovation training is an excellent idea. 

Naturally, you may be asking yourself what career opportunities await you after graduation. Here are three interesting career paths to explore as a home renovation expert. 

1. Become a Carpenter with a Home Renovation Diploma

If you enjoy working with your hands, carpentry could be a lucrative, enjoyable outlet for your talents and interests. The work of carpenters supports the construction industry as they build, install, and repair wooden structures. 

As a carpenter, you’ll be building foundations, installing floors, installing roofing systems, repairing wood structures, interpreting blueprints, and more. This role will require you to complete an apprenticeship and pass an interprovincial exam, leaving you qualified to work as a journeyperson and start gaining valuable experience.

After home renovation school, carpentry is a great, high-demand career path in the construction field.

2. Start Your Own Business After Home Renovation College 

Entrepreneurship allows you to create your own schedule and remove limitations on your earning potential. Starting your own home renovation business will require you to put a capable team together, network, build a solid portfolio, and hunt for clients. This is the perfect path for independent self-starters who want to build a successful company from the ground up. 

When you attend home renovation school, you’ll have access to hands-on labs, where you’ll learn all the fundamentals of plumbing, carpentry, interior and exterior finishes, cabinetmaking, stair construction and installation, and roof construction. In addition, you’ll learn how to use equipment like table saws, mitre saws, band saws, drill presses, and a wide range of other power and pneumatic tools in our state-of-the-art facilities. 

3. Become A Property Developer After Home Renovation School

Property developers leverage their vision, planning skills and teams to purchase, develop and sell real estate. This is an extremely lucrative and interesting way to use your home renovation skills. 

While there are no formal requirements for starting a property development career, there are many moving parts. As a property developer, you’ll need to successfully identify worthy investments and use your understanding of the market to plan for the creation of attractive results for buyers. 

Once you have the right training and experience in the construction industry, you’ll need to ensure that you’ve optimized your borrowing capacity and then assemble a team, study the market, find your niche, and network as much as possible. After completing these steps, you’ll be ready to develop your very first property. 

Where do you begin? A home renovation college can be the perfect starting point for an exciting career in property development.

Property development is a very lucrative, exciting career path to consider after studying at a home renovation college.

Ready to receive your home renovation diploma

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