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Carpentry and Renovation Techniques 

A group of carpentry and renovation students actively constructing a wooden frame inside a classroom. The students are focused, using various tools to assemble the structure, surrounded by woodworking materials and equipment.

There are career-building opportunities in this skilled trade for people who enjoy working with their hands and take pride in a job well done. You will practise green and sustainable building methods as you work through construction and or renovation projects.

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Home / Learn / Programs List / Carpentry and Renovation Techniques 
Credential
Ontario College Certificate
Duration
One year or less
Start Date(s)
May (Spring)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Open to
International Students
Domestic Students

Find your career

Prepare for opportunities in new construction and renovations for both residential and commercial building:

  • Specialize as a contractor, new homebuilder, renovator, general carpenter, home inspector, building inspector, energy efficiency and green/sustainable builder, fine finish carpenter, project coordinator, manager or estimator.
  • Employers include general contractors, subcontractors, new homebuilders, woodworking shops, renovation and restoration contractors, government and municipal departments. There are also opportunities with product manufacturers and with retail outlets for building materials, such as hardware stores, lumberyards and building centres.
  • Training in entrepreneurship and estimating can help you work towards running your own business as an independent contractor.
  • Loyalist College grads are eligible to pursue professional certification through the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT).
  • Loyalist College grads are able to apply skills to help obtain apprenticeships such as General Carpenter.  

Our grads get great jobs

  • Construction Framer, Classic Construction 
  • Granite Fabricator Installer, Take Mike for Granite 
  • Carpenter, Nick Hoornweg Contracting 
  • Chief Estimator, Ontario Flooring 
  • Landscaper, Scott Wentworth Landscaping Group 

Is it for you?

People who enjoy careers in construction renovation: 

  • Like to see a project through from the early stages to finishing touches. 
  • Take pride in their work. 
  • May be drawn to opportunities for self-employment. 
  • Enjoy working outdoors, indoors or both. 

How you'll learn

Experiential learning

Learning emphasizes practical hands-on work during a major carpentry, new construction or renovation building project:

  • Practise your skills in carpentry and construction including, rough carpentry/framing, finish carpentry, base footings, insulation, vapour and air barriers, drywalling, window and door installation, interior and exterior finishes, fine finishing techniques and roofing.
  • Study building codes, work from blueprints, produce basic sketches, develop building details and create computer-assisted drawings using AutoCAD and SketchUp.
  • Receive hands-on instruction in environmentally sound construction techniques, proper tool usage and jobsite safety.
  • Obtain industry-required certificates such as Working at Heights and First Aid.
  • Learn green building techniques.

Outstanding faculty make the difference

  • Teachers share their experience based on 15 years in residential and small commercial design, working in architectural and construction firms, and running their own businesses.
  • Our program faculty are expert builders and general contractors who use a wide network of industry contacts to connect students with jobs.

Courses

BLDG1016 Applied Building and Construction Theory

This course focuses on building basic skills involving general tool work and layout techniques. Content will be delivered through a balance of theory and practical applications. Students will develop and practise construction skills with both hand and power tools. Co-requisite: SAFE 1002

CNTP1000 Building Construction Techniques 1

A hands-on course that covers common types of wood, wood structures, wood joints, and hardware utilized in typical construction practices. The selection, safe use, and maintenance of hand tools, portable power tools, and stationary power tools required on a typical construction site are also covered. Co-requisite: BLDG 1016, SAFE 1002

BLDG1001 Building Construction, Codes and Standards 1

This course is an introduction to typical construction methods and standards for houses and small buildings in Ontario. Part 9 of the Ontario Building Code is a major focus with particular attention to site work, footings, foundations, floor systems and stairs. The roles and responsibilities of architectural and construction professionals are reviewed.

BLDG1015 Building Methods & Materials

This course takes a look at the materials and methods used in new construction and renovation projects. An in-depth exploration of how materials are tested and perform in various typical applications is a major focus, as well as methods of installation. Co-requisite: SAFE 1002

MATH1026 Computations for Construction & Renovation

This course is designed to help the student understand the application of basic mathematical concepts in the field of building technology. Emphasis is place on arithmetic, basic algebraic operations, geometry and trigonometric functions.

CADD1010 Computer Applications /CAD 1

The course starts with an introduction to computer applications involving Windows OS, the Microsoft Office Suite, and client based e-mail. The development of basic drafting skills using the AutoCAD software will occupy the latter part of the course.

CNTP1005 Drafting Studio

Through exploration and the production of drawings, students learn to read and interpret construction drawings. Students learn to accurately record information and apply scale to present information in a variety of drawing types and views. Conveyance of information is reinforced through lettering, dimensioning and drawing organization.

SAFE1002 Health & Safety

This course is designed to develop the students’ knowledge of the health hazards and safety risks that are present on a typical job site. The course will prepare students with strategies required for personal protection and general site safety. Upon completion of this course, the student will have earned certifications for key areas for employment on a typical construction project.

CNTP1002 Basic Finishing Techniques

This course covers the composition of exterior and interior walls. Included are the application and installation of exterior sheathing, insulation, air and vapour barriers, drywall, taping, priming and painting, and trim work. Prerequisite: CNTP 1000, SAFE 1002, BLDG 1016

CNTP1003 Building Construction Techniques 2

A continuation of the previous course, this hands-on course covers properties of wood and lumber and methods of framing residential floors, walls and roofs. Additional attention will be given to the detail framing that is entailed in stair construction. Prerequisite: CNTP 1000, SAFE 1002, BLDG 1016

BLDG1007 Building Construction, Codes and Standards 2

This course deals with the design and construction of exterior walls, roofs, and the structure of residential wood-framed buildings. Section 9 of the Ontario Building Code is specifically referenced. There is an emphasis on insulation and building membranes. Alternative residential construction techniques are also introduced. Prerequisite: BLDG 1001

CADD1020 CAD 2 Construction Renovation

A continuation of CADD1010 Computer Applications/CAD 1, this course adds to the use of computers utilized for construction drawings and detailing. Drafting skills are developed through the use of production-level CAD programs. Students become acquainted with drafting standards, construction drawing organization and building detailing. Through the preparation of a partial set of construction drawings, students are introduced to the techniques needed to prepare properly scaled drawings, text, and dimensions. File organization techniques will also be reinforced. Prerequisite: CADD 1010, CNTP 1005

COMM1066 Communications-Common Core

This course prepares students to be successful in college communication and is foundational for workplace communications.

CNTP1001 Residential Estimating

This course will introduce the student to basic area and volumetric calculations as required for quantity take-offs. Using typical contract specifications and drawings, students prepare estimates of quantities if materials and construction costs for residential buildings. Estimates will be prepared in both written and computer form. Prerequisite: CNTP 1000, MATH 1026, CNTP 1005

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

*Courses subject to change.

A carpentry and renovation student is wearing a yellow hard hat holding a yellow leveler against a wooden frame structure. Fourteen green graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Admission requirements

Required academic preparation

  • OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U) or (M) level, AND
  • Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent

OR

Recommended academic preparation

  • Mathematics and sciences

Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) 

Do you have work experience or other types of non-credentialed learning? Through Loyalist’s PLAR program, applicants and current students may be eligible to receive academic credit for relevant educational, work and life experiences. Learn more about PLAR.

International students  

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants and how to apply.

Costs

Approximate costs (2024 – 25)

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367
  • Total: $4,089.08

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Schulich Builders

Students enrolling in this program may be eligible for the Schulich Builders scholarship program.

Schulich Builders covers tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolling in a skilled trades program. Loyalist College will award ten scholarships per year:

  • Five $20,000 scholarships for one-year certificate programs, and
  • Five $40,000 scholarships for two-year diploma programs.

Learn more and apply today!

Approximate costs (2024 – 25)

  • International Tuition: $15,000
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367
  • Mandatory Health Insurance: $659
  • Total: $17,026

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

A carpentry and renovation student is wearing a green hard hat and working with a Dewalt saw. Fourteen blue graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Further study

Pathways and university transfer 

What’s next? Build on the knowledge and skills you learned at Loyalist by continuing your academic journey in the Carpentry and Renovation Technician diploma program.

You can also return to Loyalist to complete a second diploma in as little as a year, or receive credit recognition for your Loyalist studies when pursuing a degree at a university. Explore pathway opportunities. 

With a certificate in Carpentry and Renovation Techniques, you can progress directly into year two of the Welding and Fabrication Technician diploma.

Autodesk certification

Students are eligible to take the Autodesk certification exams at Loyalist College. Completing these industry-recognized credentials enables students to highlight that they have the in-demand skills employers are seeking.

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