PHRC Training Program Offerings

This program provides a general understanding of residential building code requirements contained in IRC chapters 1 through 10, and their field applications. Participants will learn about building planning and project management pas plan reviews and inspections without delaying construction.

Topics include:

• Building design criteria
• Fireblocking and draft stopping
• Window and door requirements
• Means of egress
• Foundations and floors
• Wall design and construction
• Wall Bracing
• Roof and ceiling construction requirements

This program provides an overview of residential plumbing system design and installation requirements in IRC chapters 25-33. Participants will learn to install or inspect plumbing for functionality and code compliance.

Topics include:

• IRC requirements
• Fundamentals of how a residential plumbing system works
• Pipe, tubing, fittings, and materials used in plumbing
• Common symbols for fixtures, connections, fittings, valves for use on building plans
• Fixtures and water heaters
• Water supply systems
• Common traps and venting systems

Proper specification, design, and installation of mechanical systems are vital to a home's performance. This program provides an overview of IRC requirements that are frequently overlooked by general contractors and subcontractors.

Topics include:

• HVAC equipment sizing
• Duct sizing, installation, sealing and testing
• Gas piping installation and bonding
• Clearances to combustibles
• Combustion air
• Drilling and notching of framing
• Fireblocking

The complexity and hazards posed by electrical systems puts electrical contractors in a class of their own. This program covers common violations of IRC/NEC code provisions and how to avoid them.

Topics include:

• Receptacle placement
• Small appliances, laundry, and bathrooms
• GFCI and arc fault protection
• Box-fill
• Ampacity tables
• Services
• Grounding

Energy efficiency is one of the most rapidly advancing segments of the building code. This program covers Chapter 1-4 of the International Energy Conservation Code as well as Pennsylvania's Alternative Residential Energy Provisions.

Topics include:

• Insulation R-value and installation requirements
• Air sealing details and verification
• Duct insulation, sealing, and testing
• REScheck and the Simulated Performance Alternative
• Building system interactions

With increased competition between builders and heightened consumer expectations, advanced framing provides a means to cut costs while improving energy efficiency and reducing waste. These techniques are presented within the framework of code acceptance and structural integrity.

Topics include:

• Thermal bridging concepts
• 24-inch on-center framing
• Two-stud corners
• Insulated and right-sized headers
• Single top plates
• Modular design

The ability to read construction blueprints is a foundational skill in the construction industry. Blueprint reading is relatively simple for the experienced contractor or design professional, but novices require basic knowledge and a little practice. This program is designed to provide an introduction to the basics of blueprint reading through lecture and interactive learning exercises.

Topics include:

• Finding trade information on plans
• Understanding various types of plans (foundation, floor and roof framing, elevations, HVAC and electrical layouts
• Apply blueprint notations and drawings to jobsite construction

Increasing stringency in energy codes along with heightened consumer expectations for energy efficiency and comfort are causing more builders and remodelers to consider using exterior rigid foam. While the use of foam sheathing can result in a more efficient building enclosure, it is not without its practical hurdles. Proper planning and know-how may make exterior rigid foam an attractive option for sheathing, insulation, and water resistance.

Topics include:

• Rigid foam options
• Energy performance
• Water and wind resistance
• Window and door jamb extensions
• Flashing details
• Surface burning characteristics
• Siding attachment
• Wall bracing options

Design and construction of two-family dwellings and townhouses under the IRC presents unique challenges as compared to single-family units, particularly with regard to fire protection. This program covers IRC requirements for fire resistance and overcoming practical challenges.

Topics include:

• Exterior walls and fire separation
• Fire-resistance-rated assemblies
• Fireblocking
• Dryer exhaust systems

Fire sprinkler design and installation are NOT discussed in detail in this program; these are covered in a separate program. (See the Residential Fire Sprinklers program description.)

This program, intended for general contractors and their project managers or superintendents, provides a strong foundation for making sure important construction steps are completed prior to code inspections. Participants will also get a better understanding of the background behind many code requirements, including basic structural engineering concepts, the structural properties of soils and concrete, and key construction and inspection details of wood, masonry, siding and roofing.

Topics include:

• Items that should be marked on building plans
• Key structural elements that should be field-verified prior to inspection
• Common code violations through the various phases of construction, including: footer, foundation, rough framing, rough-in plumbing, mechanical and electrical, drywall, and final

Deck failures are responsible for a substantial number of injuries and deaths each year. This program will explore the root of these problems and offer real-world solutions. The one-day workshop discusses IRC code requirements for residential decks, including a detailed review of how to use common connectors and fasteners. Hands-on examples include deck design guidance, plan submittals, and how to pass inspections.

Topics include:

• Calculating tributary areas to meet gravity loads
• Lateral load resistance
• Ledger board attachment and flashing
• Use of treated lumber and compatible fasteners
• Railings and guards

Pennsylvania Act 1 of 2011 excluded one- and two-family dwellings from the fire sprinkler requirements of the IRC, but sprinkler requirements remain in effect for townhouses. Townhouses built under the scope of the IRC (three stories or less above grade and separate means of egress) are required to have fire sprinklers installed in compliance with IRC Chapter 29 or NFPA 13D. This program provides an overview of sprinkler system types, design options, and proper installation.

Topics include:

• Objectives of IRC/NFPA 13D systems
• Water supply issues
• Standalone versus combination systems
• Loops versus branched systems
• Sprinkler system piping materials and hardware
• Sprinkler head coverage and location

The photovoltaic (solar electric) industry has been growing leaps and bounds. In some cases, this demand has overtaken the supply of qualified contractors. This full-day course will present how to address inherent safety risks of the electric components as well as structural and durability issues relating to integration with the building. The participant will learn the basics proper installation, adherence to relevant code requirements, and a suggested plan submittal and pre-inspection process.

Topics include:

• How the UCC applies to solar installations
• Basic system components
• Items to include on plans
• Mounting systems and roof flashing
• Inverters
• Electrical integration
• Signs, labels, and ratings
• Batteries and utility integration

Helped along by state and federal incentives, consumer demand has spurred the growth of residential renewable energy systems like solar domestic hot water (SDHW) systems. This one-day program provides an overview of SDHW system design options along with plumbing and structural requirements.

Topics include:

• Solar collector types
• Plumbing requirements
• Freeze protection techniques
• Collector mounting and roof integration
• Structural loading considerations

"The stucco failure capital of the United States" is how Joseph Lstiburek, internationally renowned building scientist, referred to eastern Pennsylvania in his article The Perfect Storm. Improper installation of exterior plaster finish systems, like hardcoat stucco and adhered stone veneer, can lead to severe moisture problems and cracking. Many installations do not meet code and result in the need for costly remedial work.

Topics include:

• Relevant code requirements
• Proper flashing and drainage
• Treatment of joints between dissimilar materials
• Rainscreen installation
• Lath requirements