Butte College

Course Outline

2026-2027 Catalog

CNST 30 - Interior and Exterior Finishes

Catalog Description

Transfer Status
CSU
Unit(s)
4.00
  • Lecture: 51.00 Contact hours/102.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)
  • Lab: 51.00 Contact hours/0.00 Out of class hours/51.00 Total hours/1.00 Unit(s)
  • Total: 102.00 Contact hours/102.00 Out of class hours/204.00 Total hours/4.00 Unit(s)

Course Description: This course is a study of the application of interior and exterior finishes common to residential, commercial, and industrial construction. Finish materials will be analyzed for purpose, cost, and ease of installation technique.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  1. Identify and avoid safety hazards associated with construction finish activities.
  2. Demonstrate the use and care of the tools and equipment used in construction finishing.
  3. Identify and employ the correct applications and specifications for doors and windows.
  4. Describe moisture barrier and insulation systems.
  5. Compare and contrast various materials and techniques for interior wall finishes.
  6. Compare and contrast various materials and techniques for exterior wall finishes.
  7. Compare and contrast various materials and techniques of common roof finishes.
  8. Identify the types of interior and exterior trim/molding/casing and their purpose.
  9. Compare and contrast various materials and techniques for floor coverings.
  10. Identify and describe the specifications and correct uses of paints and stains.

Course Content

Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic

Lecture

Lecture topics and suggested hours
TopicsLec Hrs

Safety in construction finishing

3.00

Introduction to doors and enclosures

3.00

Introduction to windows and window systems

6.00

Introduction to moisture barrier and insulation systems

3.00

Introduction to interior wall finish systems

6.00

Introduction to exterior wall finish systems and cladding

6.00

Introduction to roofing systems

6.00

Introduction to interior and exterior trim, molding, and cabinets

6.00

Introduction to stairs and conveyance

3.00

Introduction to flooring systems

6.00

Introduction to paints, stains, and wall treatments

3.00
Total Hours:51.00

Lab

Lab topics and suggested hours
TopicsLab Hrs

Finish construction safety and lab procedures

3.00

Finish construction tools and equipment

3.00

Applications of doors and enclosures

3.00

Applications of window systems

6.00

Applications of moisture barrier and insulation systems

3.00

Interior wall finish systems

6.00

Exterior wall finish systems and cladding

6.00

Applications of roofing systems

6.00

Applications of trim, molding, casing, and cabinetry

6.00

Applications of stairs and conveyance

3.00

Applications of flooring systems

3.00

Applications of paints, stains, and wall/floor/ceiling treatments

3.00
Total Hours:51.00

Methods of Instruction

  1. Demonstrations
  2. Homework: Students are required to complete two hours of outside-of-class homework for each hour of lecture
  3. Laboratory Experiments
  4. Lecture
  5. Multimedia Presentations

Methods of Evaluation

  1. Exams/Tests
  2. Quizzes
  3. Homework
  4. Lab Projects

Examples of Assignments

Reading Assignments

  1. Read the selection on flooring systems and be prepared to discuss in class.
  2. Read assigned trade journal article and be prepared to discuss in class.

Writing Assignments

  1. Write a one-page essay describing the difference between sound and thermal insulation.
  2. Write a one-page essay detailing the application process for three-coat exterior stucco finish, addressing timing.

Out-of-Class Assignments

  1. Using the Butte College Field House Project Plans and Specifications, do a material takeoff and create a detailed list of the amount and size of windows required for the project.
  2. Research OSHA publications for the use and safe operation of a man-lift and write a one-page essay.

Recommended Materials of Instruction

Edward Allen & Joseph Iano. (2014). Fundamentals of Building Construction. John Wiley and Sons, 6th.

Other Learning Materials

All tools listed in the Core Program Guide.

Minimum Qualifications

Industrial Technology

Manufacturing Technology

Building Codes And Regs

Construction Management

Construction Technology

Engineering (Masters Required)

Engineering Technology (Masters Required)