Below the Sill

This course is a contractor's guide to below grade construction. As a general contractor it is imperative that a broad-based knowledge of footing, foundations, and other code requirements found below grade are known. This analyzes in depth the requirements for construction below grade.

Course Outline

• Introduction and seminar outline
• Soils
  • Identifying soil type and strength
  • Determining expansive soils
• Footing design
  • Footing size
  • Spread footing
  • Footing placement
• Foundation design
  • Determining foundation requirements using appropriate tables
    • Masonry foundations
    • Poured concrete foundations
• Frost protected shallow foundations                      
• Anchor Bolts
  • Size
  • Location
  • Anchor Bolt Options
• Foundation drainage
  • Surface Drainage
  • Foundation Drainage
• Foundation insulation options
  • Rim Joist Options
  • Column protection

Learner Objectives

• By using the appropriate tables, design of foundations will be in compliance with the code.
• Evaluate design drawings for accuracy and compliance for footings and foundations based on the minimum parameters of the code.

Testimonials

"The courses is easy to access ." Mark Schiele, Xcel Energy

"Good visuals." Michael Waring, MW Build LLC

"I've been participating in Greg's classes for many years in one form or another. i always leave thinking 'good point'." Chad Walters, Contractor

Quiz Info

In order to receive continuing education credit(s), you will need to take a 10-question quiz after each hour of the course. To pass each quiz, you will need to achieve a score of 70% or higher. If you are unsuccessful, you will have an opportunity to repeat the quiz. Once you have successfully completed the course, you can download your continuing education certificate(s) showing the credit(s) that you have earned.

Credit Info

This course has been approved for two hours of MN residential contractor, remodeler, and building official continuing education by the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry.

If you are eligible to receive continuing education credits, your information will be electronically reported to the appropriate agency within 3 business days of course completion.

Access Info

Your online course is accessible 24/7. The course will be available to you for 180 days from purchase date.

Questions and Comments

Questions and comments related to the curriculum for this course may be submitted to the instructor at education@housingfirstmn.org.