A
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A/C
An abbreviation for air conditioner or air
conditioning.
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A/C Circuit
Alternating Current. The flow of current through
a conductor first in one direction, then in
reverse. It is used exclusively in residential
and commercial wiring because it provides
greater flexibility in voltage selection and
simplicity of equipment design.
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A/C
Condenser
The outside fan unit of the air conditioning
system. It removes the heat from the Freon gas
and turns the gas back into a liquid and pumps
the liquid back to the coil in the furnace.
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A/C
Disconnect
The main electrical ON-OFF switch near the A/C
condenser.
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ABS
(Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) Rigid black
plastic pipe used only for drain lines.
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Absolute
Humidity
Amount of moisture in the air, indicated in
grains per cubic foot
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Accelerator
Any material added to stucco, plaster or mortar
which speeds up the natural set.
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Access Panel
An opening in the wall or ceiling near the
fixture that allows access for servicing the
plumbing/electrical system.
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Accessible
Can be approached or entered by the inspector
safely, without difficulty, fear or danger.
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Acre
43,560 square feet.
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Acrylic
A glassy thermoplastic material that is
vacuum-formed to cast and mold shapes that form
the surface of fiberglass bathtubs, whirlpools,
shower bases, and shower stalls.
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Activate
To turn on, supply power, or enable systems,
equipment, or devices to become active by normal
operating controls. Examples include turning on
the gas or water supply valves to the fixtures
and appliances and activating electrical
breakers or fuses.
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Actual
Dimension (Lumber)
The exact measurement of lumber after it has
been cut, dried and milled.
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Adaptor
A fitting that unites different types of pipe
together, e.g. ABS to cast iron pipe.
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Adhesion
The property of a coating or sealant to bond to
the surface to which it is applied.
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Adhesive
Failure
Loss of bond of a coating or sealant from the
surface to which it is applied.
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Adversely
Affect
Constitute, or potentially constitute, a
negative or destructive impact.
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Aerator
An apparatus that mixes air into flowing water.
It is screwed onto the end of a faucet spout to
help reduce splashing.
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Aggregate
Crushed stone, slag or water-worn gravel that
comes in a wide range of sizes which is used to
surface built-up roofs.
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Air Chamber
A vertical, air-filled pipe that prevents water
hammer by absorbing pressure when water is shut
off at a faucet or valve.
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Air Duct
Ducts, usually made of sheet metal, that carry
cooled or heated air to all rooms.
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Air Filters
Adhesive filters made of metal or various fibers
that are coated with an adhesive liquid to which
particles of lint and dust adhere. These filters
will remove as much as 90% of the dirt if they
do not become clogged. The more common filters
are of the throwaway or disposable type.
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Air
Infiltration
The amount of air leaking in and out of a
building through cracks in walls, windows and
doors.
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Air Space
The area between insulation facing and interior
of exterior wall coverings. Normally a 1" air
gap.
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Air-Dried
Lumber
Lumber that has been piled in yards or sheds for
any length of time. For the United States as a
whole, the minimum moisture content of
thoroughly air dried lumber is 12 to 15 percent
and the average is somewhat higher. In the
South, air dried lumber may be no lower than 19
percent.
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Airway
A space between roof insulation and roof boards
provided for movement of air.
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Algae
Microorganisms that may grow to colonies in damp
environments, including certain rooftops. They
can discolor shingles. Often described as
"fungus."
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Alligatoring
A condition of paint or aged asphalt brought
about by the loss of volatile oils and the
oxidation caused by solar radiation. Causes a
coarse checking pattern characterized by a
slipping of the new paint coating over the old
coating to the extent that the old coating can
be seen through the fissures. "Alligatoring"
produces a pattern of cracks resembling an
alligator hide and is ultimately the result of
the limited tolerance of paint or asphalt to
thermal expansion or contraction.
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Allowable
Span
The distance between two supporting points for
load bearing lumber such as joists, rafters or a
girder.
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Allowance(s)
A sum of money set aside in the construction
contract for items which have not been selected
and specified in the construction contract. Best
kept to a minimum number and used for items
whose choice will not impact earlier stages of
the construction. For example, selection of tile
because flooring may require an alternative
framing or underlayment material. (Also, money
that your parents give you as a child.)
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Aluminum
Wire
A conductor made of aluminum for carrying
electricity. Aluminum is generally limited to
the larger wire sizes. Due to its lower
conductivity, aluminum wire smaller than No. 12
is not made. Aluminum is lighter and less
expensive than copper, but does not conduct as
well. It also breaks easily.
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Amortization
A payment plan by which a loan is reduced
through monthly payments of principal and
interest.
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Ampacity
Refers to the how much current a wire can safely
carry. For example, a 12 gauge electrical copper
wire can safely carry up to 20 amps.
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Amperage
The rate of flow of electricity through wire -
measured in terms of amperes.
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Amps
(AMPERES)
The rate at which electricity flows through a
conductor.
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Anchor Bolts
In residential construction, bolts used to
secure a wooden sill plate to a concrete or
masonry floor or wall. In commercial
construction, bolts which fasten columns,
girders or other members to concrete or masonry
such as bolts used to anchor sills to masonry
foundation.
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Angle Iron
A piece of iron that forms a right angle and is
used to span openings and support masonry at the
openings. In brick veneer, they are used to
secure the veneer to the foundation. Also known
as shelf angle.
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Angle Stop
A shutoff valve in which the inlet connects to
the water supply pipe in the wall and the outlet
angles 90 degrees upward toward the faucet or
toilet.
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Annealing
In the manufacturing of float glass, the process
of controlled cooling done in a Lahr to prevent
residual stresses in the glass. Re-annealing is
the process of removing objectionable stresses
in glass by re-heating to a suitable temperature
followed by controlled cooling.
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Annual
Percentage Rate (APR)
Annual cost of credit over the life of a loan,
including interest, service charges, points,
loan fees, mortgage insurance, and other items.
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Anti-Scald
A valve that restricts water flow to help
prevent burn injuries. See Pressure Balancing
Valve and Thermostatic Valve. In some areas,
plumbing codes require anti-scald valves. Speak
to a professional in your area for more
information and help with code requirements.
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Anti-Siphon
A device that prevents waste water from being
drawn back into supply lines and possibly
contaminating the water supply.
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Anti-Walk
Blocks
Elastomeric blocks that limit lateral glass
movement in the glazing channel which may result
from thermal, seismic, wind load effects,
building movement, and other forces that may
apply.
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Antiquated
No longer in use, useful or functioning, as in
most home inspection associations. Obsolete.
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APA Plywood
(APA=American Plywood Association) Plywood that
has been rated by the American Plywood
Association. For example, number one APA rated
exterior plywood contains no voids between
laminate layers.
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Aperature
The opening in pipes.
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Appliance
A household device operated by use of
electricity or gas. Not included in this
definition are components covered under central
heating, central cooling or plumbing.
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Appraisal
An expert valuation of property.
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Approach
The area between the sidewalk and the street
that leads to a driveway or the transition from
the street as you approach a driveway.
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Apron
A trim board that is installed beneath a window
sill.
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Arbitration
Service
A service to resolve complaints, as in NACHI's
Arbitration Service.
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Architect
A tradesman who designs and produces plans for
buildings, often overseeing the building
process.
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Architects
Rule (Ruler)
Three sided ruler with different scales on each
side. Also referred to as a "scale."
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Architectural Service
Any practice involving the art and science of
building design for construction of any
structure or grouping of structures and the use
of space within and surrounding the structures
or the design, design development, preparation
of construction contract documents, and
administration of the construction contract
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Area Wells
Corrugated metal or concrete barrier walls
installed around a basement window to hold back
the earth.
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Areaway
An open subsurface space adjacent to a building
used to admit light/air or as a means of access
to a basement.
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Asbestos
A common form of magnesium silicate which was
used in various construction products due to its
stability and resistance to fire. Asbestos
exposure (caused by inhaling loose asbestos
fibers) is associated with various forms of lung
disease. The name given to certain inorganic
minerals when they occur in fibrous form. Though
fire-resistant, its extremely fine fibers are
easily inhaled, and exposure to them over a
period of years has been linked to cancers of
the lung or lung-cavity lining and to asbestosis
a severe lung impairment. A naturally occurring
mineral fiber sometimes found in older homes. It
is hazardous to your health when a possibility
exists of exposure to inhalable fibers.
Homeowners should be alert for friable (readily
crumbled, brittle) asbestos and always seek
professional advice in dealing with it.
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Asphalt
A dark brown to black highly viscous hydrocarbon
produced from the residue left after the
distillation of petroleum. Asphalt is used on
roofs and highways as a waterproofing agent.
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Asphalt
Plastic Cement
An asphalt-based cement used to bond roofing
materials.
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Assessment
A tax levied on a property, or a value placed on
the worth of a property.
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Associate
Member
An indentured servant. Beginning level of
inspection association membership. Slave. See
Candidate.
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Astragal
A molding which is attached to one of a pair of
swinging doors against which the other door
strikes.
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Attic Access
An opening that is placed in the dry-walled
ceiling of a home providing access to the attic.
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Attic
Ventilators
In houses, screened openings provided to
ventilate an attic space. They are located in
the soffit area as inlet ventilators and in the
gable end or along the ridge as outlet
ventilators. They can also consist of
power-driven fans used as an exhaust system.
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Auger
In carpentry, a wood-boring tool used by a
carpenter to bore holes.
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Awning
Window
A window with hinges at the top allowing it to
open out and up.
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B
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Back Nailing
The practice of nailing roofing felts to the
deck under the overlap, in addition to hot
mopping, to prevent slippage of felts.
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Backer Rod
In glazing, a polyethylene or polyurethane foam
material installed under compression and used to
control sealant joint depth, provide a surface
for sealant tooling, serve as a bond breaker to
prevent three-sided adhesion, and provide an
hour-glass contour of the finished bead.
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Backfill
The slope of the ground adjacent to the house.
In any previously excavated area, i.e., the
replacement of excavated earth into a trench
around and against a basement foundation. In
carpentry, the process of fastening together two
pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in the
interior angle.
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Backflow
Movement of water (or other liquid) in any
direction other than that intended.
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Backflow
Preventer
A device or means to prevent backflow into the
potable water supply.
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Backhand
A simple molding sometimes used around the outer
edge of plain rectangular casing as a decorative
feature.
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Backhoe
Self-powered excavation equipment that digs by
pulling a boom mounted bucket towards itself. It
is used to dig basements and/or footings and to
install drainage or sewer systems.
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Backout
Work the framing contractor does after the
mechanical subcontractors
(Heating-Plumbing-Electrical) finish their phase
of work at the rough (before insulation) stage
to get the home ready for a municipal frame
inspection. Generally, the framing contractor
repairs anything disturbed by others and
completes all framing necessary to pass a rough
Frame Inspection.
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Backsplash
A raised integral portion of a wall mount sink
or lavatory located at the rear to protect the
wall.
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Balancing
Damper
Baffle or plate used to control the volume of
flowing air in a confined area.
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Balloon
Framing
In carpentry, the lightest and most economical
form of construction in which the studding and
corner plates are set up in continuous lengths
from the first floor line or sill to the roof
plate to which all floor joists are fastened.
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Balusters
Usually small vertical members in a railing used
between a top rail and the stair treads or a
bottom rail.
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Balustrade
A railing made up of balusters, top rail, and
sometimes bottom rail, used on the edge of
stairs, teal conies, and porches.
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Barge
Horizontal beam rafter that supports shorter
rafters.
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Barge Board
A decorative board covering the projecting
rafter (fly rafter) of the gable end. At the
cornice, this member is a facie board.
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Barometer
Instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure.
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Barrel Roof
A roof design which in a cross section is
arched.
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Base
Flashing
The upturned edge of a watertight membrane
formed at a roof termination point by the
extension of the felts vertically over the cant
strip and up the wall for a varying distance
where they are secured with mechanical
fasteners.
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Base Molding
Molding used to trim the upper edge of interior
baseboard.
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Base Ply
An asphalt-saturated and/or coated felt
installed as the first ply with 4 inch laps in a
built-up roof system under the following felts
which can be installed in a shingle-like
fashion.
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Base Shoe
Molding used next to the floor on interior base
board. Sometimes called a carpet strip.
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Baseboard
Usually wood or vinyl installed around the
perimeter of a room to cover the space where the
wall and floor meet. A board placed against the
wall around a room next to the floor to properly
finish between the floor and the plaster.
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Baseboard
Heat
A heating system with the heating unit located
along the perimeter of the wall where the
baseboard would normally be located. It can be
either an electric or hot water system.
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Basement
Window Inserts
The window frame and glass unit that is
installed in the window buck.
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Basket
Strainer
Basket shaped strainer with holes allowing water
to drain while catching food or other solids.
Can also be closed to fill the sink with water.
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Batt
Insulation
Strips of insulation, usually fiberglass, that
fit between studs or other framing.
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Batten
Narrow strips of wood used to cover joints or as
decorative vertical members over plywood or wide
boards.
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Batten Plate
A formed piece of metal designed to cover the
joint between two lengths of metal edge.
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Batter Board
One of a pair of horizontal boards nailed to
posts set at the corners of an excavation, used
to indicate the desired level, also used as a
fastening for stretched strings to indicate
outlines of foundation walls.
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Batter
Boards
Temporary structures that hold strings used to
locate and square the corners of a building.
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Bay Window
Any window space projecting outward from the
walls of a building, either square or polygonal
in plan.
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Bead
In glazing, an applied sealant in a joint
irrespective of the method of application, such
as caulking bead, glazing bead, etc. Also a
molding or stop used to hold glass or panels in
position.
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Beam
A supporting member either of wood or steel.
Structural support member (steel, concrete,
lumber) transversely supporting a load that
transfers weight from one location to another.
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Bearing
Header
(a) A beam placed perpendicular to joists and to
which joists are nailed in framing for a
chimney, stairway, or other opening. (b) A wood
lintel. (c) The horizontal structural member
over an opening (for example over a door or
window).
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Bearing
Partition
A partition that supports any vertical load in
addition to its own weight.
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Bearing
Point
A point where a bearing or structural weight is
concentrated and transferred to the foundation.
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Bearing Wall
A wall that supports any vertical load in
addition to its own weight.
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Bed Molding
A molding in an angle, as between the over
hanging cornice or eaves of a building and the
side walls.
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Bed or
Bedding
In glazing, the bead compound or sealant applied
between a light of glass or panel and the
stationary stop or sight bar of the sash or
frame. It is usually the first bead of compound
or sealant to be applied when setting glass or
panels.
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Bedrock
A subsurface layer of earth that is suitable to
support a structure.
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Bell Reducer
In plumbing, a fitting shaped like a bell which
has one opening of a smaller diameter used to
reduce the size of the pipe in the line, and the
opposite opening of larger diameter.
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Below Grade
The portion of a building that is below ground
level.
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Bent Glass
Flat glass that has been shaped while hot into
curved shapes.
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Bevel
The angle of the front edge of a door usually
from 1/8" to 2."
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Bevel Siding
(or Lap Siding)
Wedge-shaped boards used as horizontal siding in
a lapped pattern. This siding varies in butt
thickness from ½ to Ύ inch and in widths up to
12 inches. Normally used over some type of
sheathing.
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Bid
A formal offer by a contractor, in accordance
with specifications for a project, to do all or
a phase of the work at a certain price in
accordance with the terms and conditions stated
in the offer.
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Bid Bond
A bond issued by a surety on behalf of a
contractor that provides assurance to the
recipient of the contractor's bid that, if the
bid is accepted, the contractor will execute a
contract and provide a performance bond. Under
the bond, the surety is obligated to pay the
recipient of the bid the difference between the
contractor's bid and the bid of the next lowest
responsible bidder if the bid is accepted and
the contractor fails to execute a contract or to
provide a performance bond.
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Bid
Documents
Drawings, details, and specifications for a
particular project.
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Bid Security
Funds or a bid bond submitted with a bid as a
guarantee to the recipient of the bid that the
contractor, if awarded the contract, will
execute the contract in accordance with the
bidding requirements of the contract documents.
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Bid Shopping
A practice by which contractors, both before and
after their bids are submitted, attempt to
obtain prices from potential subcontractors and
material suppliers that are lower than the
contractors' original estimates on which their
bids are based, or after a contract is awarded,
seek to induce subcontractors to reduce the
subcontract price included in the bid.
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Bidding
Requirements
The procedures and conditions for the submission
of bids. The requirements are included on
documents, such as the notice to bidders,
advertisements for bids, instructions to
bidders, invitations to bid, and sample bid
forms.
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Bifold Door
Doors that are hinged in the middle to allow
them to open in a smaller area than standard
swing doors. Often used for closet doors.
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Binder
A receipt for a deposit to secure the right to
purchase a home at an agreed terms by a buyer
and seller.
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Bipass Doors
Doors that slide by each other. Commonly used as
closet doors.
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Bird's-Mouth
Cut
A cutout in a rafter where it crosses the top
plate of the wall providing a bearing surface
for nailing. Also called a heel cut.
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Bite
The dimension by which the framing system
overlaps the edge of the glazing infill.
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Bitumen
Any of various mixtures of hydrocarbons
occurring naturally or obtained through the
distillation of coal or petroleum. (See Coat Tar
Pitch and Asphalt).
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Blankets
Fiber-glass or rock-wool insulation that comes
in long rolls 15 or 23 inches wide.
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Bleeding
The migration of a liquid to the surface of a
component or into/onto an adjacent material.
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Blind
Nailing
Nailing in such a way that the nail heads are
not visible on the face of the workusually at
the tongue of matched boards.
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Blind Stop
A rectangular molding, usually Ύ by 1-3/8 inches
or more in width, used in the assembly of a
window frame. Serves as a stop for storm and
screen or combination windows and to resist air
infiltration.
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Blister
An enclosed raised spot evident on the surface
of a building. They are mainly caused by the
expansion of trapped air, water vapor, moisture
or other gases.
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Block Out
To install a box or barrier within a foundation
wall to prevent the concrete from entering an
area. For example, foundation walls are
sometimes "blocked" in order for mechanical
pipes to pass through the wall, to install a
crawl space door, or to depress the concrete at
a garage door location.
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Blocked
(Door Blocking)
Wood shims used between the door frame and the
vertical structural wall framing members.
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Blocked
(Rafters)
Short 2x4s used to keep rafters from twisting,
and installed at the ends and at mid-span.
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Blocking
In carpentry, the process of fastening together
two pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in
the interior angle.
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Blow
Insulation
Fiber insulation in loose form used to insulate
attics and existing walls where framing members
are not exposed.
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Blue Prints
Architectural plans for a building or
construction project, which likely include floor
plans, footing and foundation plans, elevations,
plot plans, and various schedules and or
details.
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Blue Stain
A bluish or grayish discoloration of the sapwood
caused the growth of certain mold like fungi on
the surface and in the interior of a piece, made
possible by the same conditions that favor the
growth of other fungi.
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Blue Stake
Also Utility Notification. When a utility
company (telephone, gas, electric, cable TV,
sewer and water, etc) comes to the job site and
locates and spray paints the ground and/or
installs small flags to show where their service
is located underground.
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Board and
Batten
A method of siding in which the joints between
vertically placed boards or plywood are covered
by narrow strips of wood.
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Board Foot
The volume of a piece of wood measuring 12
inches square and in inch thick. A piece of
lumber 1/2" thick and 6 inches wide and 24
inches long is equal to one board foot.
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Boards
Yard lumber less than 2 inches thick and 2 or
more inches wide.
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Bodied
Linseed Oil
Linseed oil that has been thickened in viscosity
by suitable processing with heat or chemicals.
Bodied oils are obtainable in a great range in
viscosity from a little greater than that of raw
oil to just short of a jellied condition.
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Boiled
Linseed Oil
Linseed oil in which enough lead, manganese or
cobalt salts have been incorporated to make the
oil harden more rapidly when spread in thin
coatings.
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Bolster
A short horizontal timber or steel beam on top
of a column to support and decrease the span of
beams or girders.
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Bond Breaker
A substance or a tape applied between two
adjoining materials to prevent adhesion between
them.
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Bond or
Bonding
An amount of money (usually $5,000-$10,000)
which must be on deposit with a governmental
agency in order to secure a contractor's
license. The bond may be used to pay for the
unpaid bills or disputed work of the contractor.
Not to be confused with a performance bond. They
are an insurance policy which guarantees proper
completion of a project. Such bonds are rarely
used in residential construction.
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Bond Plaster
In addition to gypsum, bond plaster contains
2-5% lime by weight and chemical additives which
improve the bond with dense non-porous surfaces
such as concrete. It is used as a base coat.
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Bonding
Strip (Electrical)
A thin strip of metal inside armored or BX
cable. This strip is meant to back up the
primary ground.
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Boom
A truck used to hoist heavy material up and into
place, to put trusses on a home or to set a
heavy beam into place.
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Boston Ridge
A method of applying asphalt or wood shingles at
the ridge or at the hips of a roof as a finish.
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Bottom Chord
The lower or bottom horizontal member of a
truss.
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Bottom Plate
The 2x4s or 6s that lay on the subfloor upon
which the vertical studs are installed. Also
called the sole plate.
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Bow
A curve, bend, warping or other deviation from
flatness in glass or wood.
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Box Cornice
A cornice completely closed with trim work.
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Brace
An inclined piece of framing lumber applied to
wall or floor to stifled the structure. Often
used on walls as temporary bracing until framing
has been completed.
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Bracing
Ties and rods used for supporting and
strengthening various parts of a building used
for lateral stability for columns and beams.
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Brake Metal
Sheet metal that has been bent to the desired
configuration.
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Branch
Circuit (Electrical)
Wiring that runs from a service panel or
sub-panel to outlets. Branch circuits are
protected by fuses or breakers at the panel.
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Breaker Box
A metal box that contains circuit breakers or
fuses that control the electrical current in a
home.
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Breaker
Panel
The electrical box that distributes electric
power entering the home to each branch circuit
(each plug and switch) and composed of circuit
breakers.
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Breeze Way
A roofed, open-sided passageway connecting two
structures, such as a house and a garage.
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Brick Ledge
Part of the foundation wall where brick (veneer)
will rest.
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Brick Lintel
The metal angle iron that brick rests on,
especially above a window, door, or other
opening.
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Brick Mold
Trim used around an exterior door jamb onto
which siding butts.
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Brick Tie
A small, corrugated metal strip (1"x6"- 8" long)
nailed to wall sheeting or studs. They are
inserted into the grout mortar joint of the
veneer brick, and hold the veneer wall to the
sheeted wall behind it.
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Brick Veneer
A facing of brick laid against and fastened to
the sheathing of a frame wall or tile wall
construction.
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Bridging
Small wood or metal members that are inserted in
a diagonal position between the floor joists at
midspan to act as both tension and compression
members for the purpose of bracing the joists a
spreading the action of loads.
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Broker
One that acts as an agent for others, as in
negotiating contracts, purchases, or sales in
return for a fee or commission.
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Browncoat
The coat of plaster directly beneath the finish
coat. In three-coat work, the brown is the
second coat.
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BTU
A measure of the capacity of a heating or
cooling system. Abbreviation of British Thermal
Unit. The amount of heat energy required to
raise the temperature of one pound of water
through a change of one degree Fahrenheit.
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Bubbling
In glazing, open or closed pockets in a sealant
caused by release, production or expansion of
gasses.
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Buck
Often used in reference to rough frame opening
members. Door bucks used in reference to metal
door frame.
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Buckling
The bending of a building material as a result
of wear and tear or contact with a substance
such as water.
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Builder's
Risk Insurance
Insurance coverage on a construction project
during construction, including extended coverage
that may be added for the contract for the
customer's protections.
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Building
Brick
Brick for building purposes not especially
treated for texture or color, formerly called
"common brick." It is stronger than face brick.
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Building
Code
Minimum local or state regulations established
to protect health and safety. They apply to
building design, construction, rehabilitation,
repair, materials, occupancy and use. Community
ordinances governing the manner in which a home
may be constructed or modified.
|
Building
Paper
A general term for papers, felts and similar
sheet materials used in buildings without
reference to their properties or uses. Generally
comes in long rolls.
|
Building
Permit
Written authorization from the city, county or
other governing regulatory body giving
permission to construct or renovate a building.
A building permit is specific to the building
project described in the application.
|
Built-Up
Beam (or Girder)
Beam (or girder) created by sistering or
"scabbing" two or more pieces of lumber
together.
|
Built-Up
Roof
A roofing composed of three to five layers of
asphalt felt laminated with coal tar, pitch, or
asphalt. The top is finished with crushed slag
or gravel. Generally used on flat or low-pitched
roofs.
|
Bull Nose
(Drywall)
Rounded drywall corners.
|
Bullfloat
A tool used to finish and flatten a slab. After
screeding, the first stage in the final finish
of concrete, smoothes and levels hills and voids
left after screeding. Sometimes substituted for
darbying. A large flat or tool usually of wood,
aluminum or magnesium with a handle.
|
Bundle
A package of shingles. There are 3, 4 or 5
bundles per square.
|
Bushing
A pipe fitting for joining pipes with different
diameters. A bushing is threaded on the inside
and outside.
|
Butt Glazing
The installation of glass products where the
vertical glass edges are without structural
supporting mullions.
|
Butt Joint
The junction where the ends of two timbers or
other members meet in a square-cut joint.
|
Butterfly
Roof
A roof assembly, which pitches sharply from
either side toward the center.
|
Buttering
In glazing, application of sealant or compound
to the flat surface of some member before
placing the member in position, such as the
buttering of a removable stop before fastening
the stop in place.
|
Butyl
Type of non-curing and non-skinning sealant made
from butylene. Usually used for internal
applications.
|
Buy Down
A subsidy (usually paid by a builder or
developer) to reduce monthly payments on a
mortgage.
|
BX Cable
Armored electrical cable wrapped in galvanized
steel outer covering. A factory assembly of
insulated conductors inside a flexible metallic
covering. It can be run anywhere except where
exposed to excessive moisture. It should not be
run below grade. It must always be grounded and
uses its armor as an equipment ground. It is
difficult to pull out old wires or insert new
ones.
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C
[Back to Top]
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Caisson
A 10" or 12" diameter hole drilled into the
earth and embedded into bedrock 3 - 4 feet. The
structural support for a type of foundation
wall, porch, patio, monopost, or other
structure. Two or more "sticks" of reinforcing
bars (rebar) are inserted into and run the full
length of the hole and concrete is poured into
the caisson hole.
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Calcium
Chloride
A chemical used to speed up curing of concrete
in damp conditions.
|
Calibration
The act or process of calibrating or the state
of being calibrated.
|
Camber
A slightly arched surface, as of a road, a
ship's deck, an airfoil, or a snow ski.
|
Camber Arch
An arch whose intrados, though apparently
straight, has a slightly concave curve upward.
|
Camber Beam
A beam whose under side has a concave curve
upward.
|
Camber
Windows
Casement windows with a curved top.
|
Candidate
An indentured servant. Beginning level of
inspection association membership. Slave. See
Associate Member.
|
Canopy
An overhanging roof.
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Cant Strip
A beveled support used at the junction of a flat
surface and a vertical surface to prevent bends
and/or cracking of the roofing membrane at the
intersection of the roof deck and wall. Used
with a base flashing to minimize breaking of the
roofing felts.
|
Cantilever
A projecting beam or other structure supported
only at one end. Any part of a structure that
projects beyond its main support and is balanced
on it.
|
Cantilevered
Void
Foundation void material used in unusually
expansive soil conditions. This void is
"trapezoid" shaped and has vertical sides of 6"
and 4" respectively.
|
Cap
The upper member of a column, pilaster, door
cornice, molding, and the like.
|
Cap Flashing
The portion of the flashing attached to a
vertical surface to prevent water from migrating
behind the base flashing.
|
Cap Sheet
A top layer in built-up roofing.
|
Cap Sheets
In roofing, one to four plies of felt bonded and
top-coated with bitumen that is laid over an
existing roof as a treatment for defective
roofs.
|
Cape Chisel
Tool used to clean out mortar joints on brick.
|
Capital
The principal part of a loan, i.e. the original
amount borrowed.
|
Capital and
Interest
A repayment loan and the most conventional form
of home loan. The borrower pays an amount each
month to cover the amount borrowed (capital or
principal) plus the interest charged on capital.
|
Capped Rate
The mortgage interest rate will not exceed a
specified value during a certain period of time,
but it will fluctuate up and down below that
level.
|
Carbon
Monoxide
CO. A colorless, odorless, highly poisonous gas
formed by the incomplete combustion of carbon.
|
Casement
Frames and Sash
Frames of wood or metal enclosing part or all of
the sash, which may be opened by means of hinges
affixed to the vertical edges.
|
Casement
Window
A sidehinged window that opens on hinges secured
to the side of the window frame.
|
Casing
Molding of various widths and thicknesses used
to trim door and window openings at the jambs.
|
Cast Iron
Heavy metal formed by casting on molds. The
metal is covered with a porcelain enamel coating
to make fixtures such as the cast iron tubs.
|
Cast-Iron
Pipe (Plumbing)
Drain and vent lines. Most older drain-waste
venting systems are made of cast-iron pipes. Now
increasingly supplanted by ABS and PVC. Pipes
were originally joined with molten lead, but
most plumbers now join them with no-hub
couplers.
|
Cat's Paw
A variation of a pry bar used to pry up deep set
(counter sunk) nails.
|
Catch Basin
A drain for a low or wet spot, with pipe exiting
the side and a pit at the bottom to collect
sediment.
|
Caulk
The application of sealant to a joint, crack or
crevice. A compound used for sealing that has
minimum joint movement capability; sometimes
called low performance sealant.
|
Caulking
Material used to seal exterior cracks and
openings such as windows or foundations.
|
CCA
(Chromated Copper Arsenate)
A pesticide that is forced into wood under high
pressure to protect it from termites, other wood
boring insects, and decay caused by fungus.
|
Ceiling
Joist
One of a series of parallel framing members used
to support ceiling loads and supported in turn
by larger beams, girders or bearing walls. Also
called roof joists.
|
Cells
(Masonry)
The hollow spaces in concrete blocks.
|
Cellulose
Insulation
Ground-up newspaper that is treated with a fire
retardant.
|
Celotex
Black fibrous board that is used as exterior
sheething.
|
Cement
The gray powder that is the "glue" in concrete.
Portland cement. Also, any adhesive.
|
Cement
Mixtures
Rich - 1 part cement, 2 parts sand, 3 parts
coarse aggregate. Used for concrete roads and
waterproof structures. Standard - 1 part cement,
2 parts sand, 4 parts coarse aggregate. Used for
reinforced work floors, roofs, columns, arches,
tanks, sewers, conduits, etc. Medium - 1 part
cement, 2 1/2 parts sand, 5 parts coarse
aggregate. Used for foundations, walls,
abutments, piers, etc. Lean - 1 part cement, 3
parts sand, 6 parts coarse aggregate. Used for
all mass concrete work, large foundations,
backing for stone masonry, etc. Mixtures are
always listed Cement to Sand to Aggregate.
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Centerset
A style of faucet that is installed on a
lavatory with 4" center-to-center faucet holes
and that has the spout and handle(s) combined
into a single part.
|
Ceramic Disk
Valve
A type of valve that relies on two-part
revolving disks in a sealed cylinder. Each disk
has a port in it that, when aligned with the
other, will allow water to pass through.
|
Ceramic Tile
A man-made or machine-made clay tile used to
finish a floor or wall. Generally used in
bathtub and shower enclosures and on counter
tops.
|
Certificate
of Occupancy
A document stating that a building is approved
for occupancy. The Building Authority issues the
Certificate of Occupancy.
|
Certified
Having a formal document testifying to
qualification or completion of requirements.
|
CFM (Cubic
Feet per Minute)
Measure of volume of air. When testing systems,
find the CFM by multiplying the face velocity
(amount of air passing through the face of an
outlet or return) times the free area (the total
area of the openings in the outlet or inlet
through which air can pass) in square feet.
|
Chair Rail
A molding that runs horizontally along the wall
at about 3 feet from the ground. In storefront,
window wall, or curtain wall systems, a chair
rail is an aluminum extrusion applied
horizontally to the inside of the system 3 feet
from the floor to create a barrier in
floor-to-ceiling glazing applications.
|
Chalk Line
A line made on the roof by snapping a taut
string or cord dusted with chalk. Used for
alignment purposes.
|
Change Order
A written document which modifies the plans and
specifications and/or the price of the
Construction Contract.
|
Channel
Glazing
The installation of glass products into U-shaped
glazing channels. The channels may have fixed
stops; however, at least one glazing stop on one
edge must be removable.
|
Chapter
A local group of members of a larger
association, as in a local NACHI Chapter. A
local branch.
|
Chase
A framed enclosed space around a flue pipe or a
channel in a wall or through a ceiling for
something to lie in or pass through.
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Checking
Fissures that appear with age in many exterior
paint coatings. At first superficial, but in
time may penetrate entirely through the coating.
It produces a pattern of surface cracks running
in irregular lines. When found in the top pour
of an asphalt built-up roof, checking is the
preliminary stage of alligatoring.
|
Checkrails
Meeting rails sufficiently thicker than a window
to fill the opening between the top and bottom
sash made by the parting stop in the frame of
double-hung windows. They are usually beveled.
|
Chemical
Injection Grouting
Leak repair technique usually used below grade
in cracks and joints in concrete walls and
floors that involves the injection of sealant
(usually urethane) that reacts with water to
form a seal.
|
Chink
To install fiberglass insulation around all
exterior door and window frames, wall corners,
and small gaps in the exterior wall.
|
Chip Board
A manufactured wood panel made out of 1"- 2"
wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute
for plywood in the exterior wall and roof
sheathing. Also called OSB (Oriented Strand
Board) or Wafer Board.
|
Circuit
A network of wiring that typically commences at
a panel box, feeds electricity to outlets and
ultimately returns to the panel box.
|
Circuit
Breaker
A protective device which automatically opens an
electrical circuit when it is overloaded.
|
Cistern
Reservoir for water. Common in houses built
prior to the fifties in the Midwest.
|
Class "A"
Fire Resistance
The highest fire-resistance rating for roofing
per ASTM E-108. Indicates that roofing is able
to withstand severe exposure to fire originating
from sources outside the building.
|
Class "B"
Fire Resistance
Fire-resistance rating that indicates roofing
material is able to withstand moderate exposure
to fire originating from sources outside the
building.
|
Class "C"
Fire Resistance
Fire-resistance rating that indicates roofing
material is able to withstand light exposure to
fire originating from sources outside the
building.
|
Class B Door
A fire resistant rating applied by the
Underwriters Laboratories Classification for a
door having a 1 to 1 1/2 hour rating.
|
Cleanout
A plug in a trap or drain pipe that provides
access for the purpose of clearing an
obstruction.
|
Cleanout
(Plumbing)
A drain fitting, usually a wye or a tee, with a
removable plug to permit inspection and access
for an auger or snake.
|
Cleat
A wedge-shaped piece (usually of metal) which
serves as a support or check. A strip fastened
across something to give strength or hold
something in position.
|
Clip Ties
Sharp cut metal wires that protrude out of a
concrete foundation wall that at one time held
the foundation form panels in place.
|
Closed Cut
Valley
A method of valley treatment in which shingles
from one side of the valley extend across the
valley, while shingles from the other side are
trimmed 2 inches from the valley centerline. The
valley flashing is not exposed.
|
Closet Auger
A flexible rod with a curved end used to access
the toilet's built-in trap and remove clogs.
|
Closet Bend
A curved fitting that connects the closet flange
to the toilet drain.
|
Closet Bolts
Bolt whose head is fitted to a closet flange and
protrudes up through a toilet base. A nut is
tightened around it on the toilet base. Two (or
four) bolts serve one toilet.
|
Closet
Flange
An anchoring ring secured to the floor. The base
of the toilet is secured to this ring with
bolts.
|
CO
An abbreviation for "Certificate of Occupancy."
|
Coal Tar
A viscous liquid mixture of hydrocarbon
compounds, derived, along with coke, from the
destructive distillation of coal.
|
Coal Tar
Pitch
A bituminous material, which is a by-product
from the coking of coal. It is used as the
waterproofing material for tar and gravel
built-up roofing.
|
Code of
Ethics
Ethical standards of conduct for home
inspectors.
|
Cohesive
Failure
Internal splitting of a compound resulting from
over-stressing of the compound.
|
Cold Air
Return
The ductwork (and related grills) that carries
room air back to the furnace for re-heating.
|
Cold Applied
Products that can be applied without heating.
These are in contrast to products which need to
be heated to be applied.
|
Cold Patch
In roofing, a roof repair done with cold-applied
material.
|
Cold Process
Adhesive
Mastic prepared with SBS modifiers to adhere
laps, flashing and joints of built-up or
low-slope roofing without hot-mopping or
torching equipment.
|
Cold-Method
or Lap Cement
Special multipurpose adhesive for low-sloped,
cold-applied roof construction. Bonds 19"
selvedge, mineral surface and cap sheets to the
underlayment. Doubles as an adhesive on 2"
selvedge lap of mineral-, granule- or
smooth-surfaced roofing. Available in both
summer and winter grades.
|
Collar
In roofing, a conical metal cap flashing used in
conjunction with vent pipes or stacks usually
located several inches above the plane of the
roof for the purpose of shedding water away from
the base of the vent.
|
Collar Beam
In carpentry, a tie that keeps the roof from
spreading. They serve to stiffen the roof
structure. Connects similar rafters on opposite
sides of roof.
|
Collar Tie
A horizontal board attached perpendicular to
rafters.
|
Combination
Doors or Windows
Combination doors or windows are used over
regular openings. They provide winter insulation
and summer protection and often have self
storing or removable glass and screen inserts.
This eliminates the need for handling a
different unit each season.
|
Combustion
Chamber
The part of a boiler, furnace or woodstove where
the burn occurs; normally lined with firebrick
or molded or sprayed insulation.
|
Common
Rafter
Rafter that extends from the top plate to the
ridge. Generally set 12, 16, or 24 inches apart.
|
Compatible
Two or more substances, which can be mixed or
blended without separating, reacting, or
affecting either material adversely.
|
Component
A permanently installed or attached fixture,
element or part of a system.
|
Composite
Board
An insulation board which has two different
insulation types laminated together in 2 or 3
layers.
|
Compression
Fitting
Used to join or connect pipes and conduit by
causing a ring to compress against the
connecting tube when tightening with a wrench.
|
Compression
Gasket
A gasket designed to function under compression.
|
Compression
Set
The permanent deformation of a material after
removal of the compressive stress.
|
Compression
Valve
A type of valve that works by raising or
lowering a stem. Water passes through the valve
by turning the faucet handle, which causes the
stem to drop or rise.
|
Compression
Web
A member of a truss system which connects the
bottom and top chords and which provides
downward support.
|
Compressor
A mechanical device that pressurizes a gas in
order to turn it into a liquid, thereby allowing
heat to be removed or added. A compressor is the
main component of conventional heat pumps and
air conditioners. In an air conditioning system,
the compressor normally sits outside and has a
large fan (to remove heat).
|
Concealed
Nail Method
Application of roll roofing in which all nails
are driven into the underlying course of roofing
and covered by a cemented, overlapping course.
Nails are not exposed to the weather.
|
Concrete
Block
A hollow concrete 'brick' often 8"x8"x16" in
size. Often used in low rise commercial and some
residential construction. The original design
and use is attributed to the architect Frank
Lloyd Wright.
|
Concrete
Board
A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass
usually used as a tile backing material.
|
Concrete
Board or Wonderboard (TM)
A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass
usually used as a tile backing material.
|
Concrete
Grout
A mixture of 3/8-inch pea gravel, sand, cement
and water which is poured into the cells of
concrete-block walls to reinforce them.
|
Concrete
Plain
Concrete either without reinforcement, or
reinforced only for shrinkage or temperature
changes.
|
Condensate
Line
The copper pipe that runs from the outside air
conditioning condenser to the inside furnace (
where the A/C coil is located).
|
Condensation
Water condensing on walls, ceiling and pipes.
Normal in areas of high humidity, usually
controlled by ventilation or a dehumidifier.
|
Condensing
Unit
The outdoor component of a cooling system. It
includes a compressor and condensing coil
designed to give off heat.
|
Condition
The visible and conspicuous state of being of an
object.
|
Conditions,
Convenants, and Restrictions (CC and Rs)
The standards that define how a property may be
used and the protections the developer makes for
the benefit of all owners in a subdivision.
|
Conduction
The flow of heat from one part of a substance to
another part. A piece of iron with one end
placed in a fire will soon become warm from end
to end due to the transfer of heat by the actual
collision of the air molecules.
|
Conductivity
The rate at which heat is transmitted through a
material.
|
Conductor
In roofing, a pipe for conveying rainwater from
the roof gutter to a drain, or from a roof drain
to the storm drain; also called a leader,
downspout, or downpipe. In electrical
contracting, a wire through which a current of
electricity flows, better known as an electric
wire.
|
Conductor
(Electrical)
Anything that conducts or carries electricity.
|
Conduit
A hollow pipe casing through which electric
lines run.
|
Conduit
(Electrical)
Tubing used to protect wiring.
|
Console
Lavatory
A table-like lavatory in which the basin is
attached to a wall at the back and by table or
piano legs at the front.
|
Construction
Adhesive
Thick-bodied adhesive, suited to a wide range of
repair and construction tasks. Packaged in
convenient cartridges for caulking guns.
|
Construction
Drywall
A type of construction in which the interior
wall finish is applied in a dry condition,
generally in the form of sheet materials or wood
paneling as contrasted to plaster.
|
Construction
Loan
A loan provided by a lending institution
specifically to construct or renovate a
building.
|
Construction, Frame
A type of construction in which the structural
parts are wood or depend upon a wood frame for
support. In codes, if masonry veneer is applied
to the exterior walls, the classification of
this type of construction is usually unchanged.
|
Continuing
Education
Ongoing education, often a requirement for
membership in a home inspection association. For
example, NACHI's Continuing Education Policy.
|
Continuity
Tester
An electrical tool used to identify and diagnose
a circuit as either open or closed.
|
Control
Joint
A control joint controls or accommodates
movement in the surface component of a roof.
|
Convection
A method of transferring heat by the actual
movement of heated molecules, usually by a
freestanding unit such as a furnace.
|
Conventional
Loan
A mortgage loan not insured by a government
agency (such as FHA or VA).
|
Convertibility
The ability to change a loan from an adjustable
rate schedule to a fixed rate schedule.
|
Cooling Load
The amount of cooling required to keep a
building at a specified temperature during the
summer, usually 78° Fahrenheit, regardless of
outside temperature.
|
Cooling
Tower
A large device mounted on roofs, consisting of
many baffles over which water is pumped in order
to reduce its temperature.
|
Coped
Removing the top and bottom flange of the end(s)
of a metal I-beam. This is done to permit it to
fit within, and bolted to, the web of another
I-beam in a "T" arrangement.
|
Coped Joint
Cutting and fitting woodwork to an irregular
surface.
|
Coping
A construction unit placed at the top of the
parapet wall to serve as a cover for the wall.
|
Coping Joint
The intersection of a roof slope and an exterior
vertical wall.
|
Copper Pipe
Types
Type K has the heaviest or thickest wall and is
generally used underground. It has a green
stripe. Type L has a medium wall thickness and
is most commonly used for water service and for
general interior water piping. It has a blue
stripe. Type M has a thin wall and many codes
permit its use in general water piping
installation. It has a red stripe.
|
Corbel
The triangular, decorative and supporting member
that holds a mantel or horizontal shelf.
|
Corbel Out
To build out one or more courses of brick or
stone from the face of a wall to form a support
for timbers.
|
Core
A small section cut from any material to show
internal composition.
|
Corner Bead
A strip of formed sheet metal, sometimes
combined with a strip of metal lath, placed on
corners before plastering to reinforce them.
Also, a strip of wood finish
three-quarters-round or angular placed over a
plastered corner for protection.
|
Corner
Boards
Used as trim for the external corners of a house
or other frame structure against which the ends
of the siding are finished.
|
Corner
Braces
Diagonal braces at the corners of frame
structure to stiffen and strengthen the wall.
|
Cornerite
Metal-mesh lath cut into strips and bent to a
right angle. Used in interior corners of walls
and ceilings on lath to prevent cracks in
plastering.
|
Cornice
A horizontal projecting course on the exterior
of a building, usually at the base of the
parapet. In residential construction, the
overhang of a pitched roof at the cave line,
usually consisting of a facie board, a soffit
for a closed cornice, and appropriate moldings.
|
Cornice
Return
The portion of the cornice that returns on the
gable end of a house.
|
Corrosion
The deterioration of metal by chemical or
electrochemical reaction resulting from exposure
to weathering, moisture, chemicals or other
agents or media.
|
Corrugated
Folded or shaped into parallel ridges or furrows
so as to form a symmetrically wavy surface.
|
Cost
Breakdown
A breakdown of all the anticipated costs on a
construction or renovation project.
|
Cost Plus
Contract
See Time and Materials Contract.
|
Counter
Flashing
The formed metal secured to a wall, curb, or
roof top unit to cover and protect the upper
edge of a base flashing and its associated
fasteners. This type of flashing is usually used
in residential construction on chimneys at the
roofline to cover shingle flashing and to
prevent moisture entry.
|
Counterfort
A foundation wall section that strengthens (and
is generally perpendicular to) a long section of
foundation wall.
|
Coupling
In plumbing, a short collar with only inside
threads at each end, for receiving the ends of
two pipes which are to be fitted and joined
together. A right/left coupling is one used to
join 2 gas pipes in limited space.
|
Course
A single layer of brick or stone or other
building material.
|
Cove Molding
A molding with a concave face used as trim or to
finish interior corners.
|
Covenants
Rules usually developed by a builder or
developer regarding the physical appearance of
buildings in a particular geographic area.
Typical covenants address building height,
appropriate fencing and landscaping, and the
type of exterior material (stucco, brick, stone,
siding, etc) that may be used.
|
Coverage
Amount of weather protection provided by the
roofing material. Depends on number of layers of
material between the exposed surface of the
roofing and the deck; i.e. single coverage,
double coverage, etc.
|
CPVC
Plastic water piping.
|
CPVC
(Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride)
Rigid plastic pipe used in water supply systems
where code permits.
|
Crater
Pit in the surface of concrete resulting from
cracking of the mortar due to expansive forces
associated with a particle of unsound aggregate
or a contaminating material, such as wood or
glass.
|
Crawl Space
A shallow open area between the floor of a
building and the ground, normally enclosed by
the foundation wall.
|
Crawlspace
The area within the confines of the foundation
and between the ground and the underside of the
lowest floor structural component.
|
Crazing
A series of hairline cracks in the surface of
weathered materials, having a web-like
appearance. Also, hairline cracks in
pre-finished metals caused by bending or forming
(see Brake Metal).
|
Credit
Rating
A report ordered by a lender from a credit
agency to determine a borrower's credit habits.
|
Cricket
A peaked saddle construction at the back of a
chimney to prevent accumulation of snow and ice
and to deflect water around the chimney.
|
Cripple Stud
Short stud used as support in wall openings that
replaces a normal 93 inch or 96 inch stud.
|
Cripple
Walls
In a wood-frame house, the section of wall under
the house between the concrete foundation and
the floor joists. Also called crawl space walls.
|
Crock
Used in the ground to hold water for pumping
sump pumps.
|
Cross Tee
Short metal "T" beam used in suspended ceiling
systems to bridge the spaces between the main
beams.
|
Cross-Bridging
Diagonal bracing between adjacent floor joists,
placed near the center of the joist span to
prevent joists from twisting.
|
Crosscutting
Cutting across the wood grain; to crosscut a
board is to cut across its width.
|
Crown
Molding
A molding used on cornice or wherever an
interior angle is to be covered.
|
Culvert
Round, corrugated drain pipe (normally 15" or
18" in diameter) that is installed beneath a
driveway parallel to and near the street.
|
Cupola
A small dome at the peak of a pitched roof.
|
Cupping
A type of warping that causes boards to curl up
at their edges.
|
Curb
A short wall or masonry built above the level of
the roof that provides a means of flashing the
deck equipment.
|
Curb Roof
A roof with an upper and lower set of rafters on
each side, the under-set being less inclined to
the horizon than the upper; a mansard roof.
|
Curing
In concrete application, the process in which
mortar and concrete harden. The length of time
is dependent upon the type of cement, mix
proportion, required strength, size and shape of
the concrete section, weather and future
exposure conditions. The period may be 3 weeks
or longer for lean concrete mixtures used in
structures such as dams or it may be only a few
days for richer mixes. Favorable curing
temperatures range from 50 to 70 degrees
Fahrenheit. Design strength is achieved in 28
days.
|
Curing
(Paint)
The process of paint bonding to a surface.
Curing and drying are not the same.
|
Curing Agent
One part of a multi-part sealant which, when
added to the base, will cause the base to change
its physical state by chemical reaction between
the two parts.
|
Curtain
Drain
A ditch sometimes filled with gravel and a drain
tile which diverts storm and drain water away
from a structure.
|
Curtain Wall
A thin wall, supported by the structural steel
or concrete frame of the building independent of
the wall below. Also a metal (most often
aluminum) framing system on the face of a
building containing vision glass panels and
spandrel panels made of glass, aluminum, or
other material.
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Cut Off
A piece of roofing membrane consisting of one or
more narrow plies of felt usually mopped in hot
to seal the edge of insulation at the end of a
day's work.
|
Cut-In Brace
Nominal 2-inch-thick members, usually 2x4s, cut
in between each stud diagonally.
|
Cutback
In roofing, basic asphalt or tar which has been
"cut back" with solvents and oils so that the
material become fluid.
|
Cutoff
Valves
Valves used to shut water off, generally located
under sinks or behind bathtub and shower access
panels. They cut off hot and/or cold water at
the source without cutting all water off
throughout the house.
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D
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Dado
A rectangular groove across the width of a board
or plank. In interior decoration, a special type
of wall treatment.
|
Damper
An air valve that regulates the flow of air
inside the flue of a furnace or fireplace.
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Dampproofing
A process used on concrete, masonry or stone
surfaces to repel water, the main purpose of
which is to prevent the coated surface from
absorbing rain water while still permitting
moisture vapor to escape from the structure.
(Moisture vapor readily penetrates coatings of
this type.) "Dampproofing" generally applies to
surfaces above grade; "waterproofing" generally
applies to surfaces below grade.
|
Darby
A flat tool used to smooth concrete flatwork
immediately after screeding. See Bullfloating.
|
De-Humidistat
A control mechanism used to operate a mechanical
ventilation system based upon the relative
humidity in the home.
|
Dead Load
The constant, design-weight (of the roof) and
any permanent fixtures attached above or below.
|
Decay
Disintegration of wood or other substance
through the action of fungi.
|
Deck
An elevated platform. "Deck" is also commonly
used to refer to the above-ground floors in
multi-level parking garage.
|
Deck Paint
An enamel with a high degree of resistance to
mechanical wear designed for use on such
surfaces as porch floors.
|
Decorative
Ornamental; not required for the operation of
essential systems and components of a home.
|
Deflect
To bend or deform under weight.
|
Deflection
The amount of bending movement of any part of a
structural member perpendicular to the axis of
the member under an applied load.
|
Density
The mass of substance in a unit volume. When
expressed in the metric system, it is
numerically equal to the specific gravity of the
same substance.
|
Describe
Report in writing on a system or component by
its type or other observed characteristics to
distinguish it from other components used for
the same purpose.
|
Design
Pressure
Specified pressure a product is designed to
withstand.
|
Designer
One who designs houses, interiors, landscaping
or other objects. When used it the context of
residential construction it usually suggests
that a designer is not a licensed architect.
Most jurisdictions don't require an
architectural license for most single family
construction.
|
Determine
To arrive at an opinion or conclusion pursuant
to examination.
|
Dew Point
Temperature at which vapor condenses from the
atmosphere and forms water.
|
Dimension
Lumber
Yard lumber from 2 inches to, but not including,
5 inches thick and 2 or more inches wide.
Includes joists, rafters, studs, plank, and
small timbers.
|
Direct Gain
System
Passive solar heating system in which sunlight
penetrates and warms the house interior
directly.
|
Direct
Nailing
To nail perpendicular to the initial surface or
to the junction of the pieces joined. Also
termed Face Nailing.
|
Dismantle
To open, take apart or remove any component,
device or piece that would not typically be
opened, taken apart or removed by an ordinary
occupant.
|
Disposer
A device that grinds food sufficiently to enter
drains for disposal without clogging them.
|
Distortion
Alteration of viewed images caused by variations
in glass flatness or in homogeneous portions
within the glass. An inherent characteristic of
heat-treated glass.
|
Diverter
Valves which have a single inlet and direct
water to one of two outlets. Diverters are used
with handshowers, shower risers, tub & shower
combinations, and kitchen faucet sprayers.
|
Diverter
Valve
A device that changes the direction of water
flow from one faucet to another.
|
Dolly Varden
Siding
Beveled wood siding which is rabbeted on the
bottom edge.
|
Doorjamb
(Interior)
The surrounding case into which and out of which
a door closes and opens. It consists of two
upright pieces, called side jambs, and a
horizontal head jamb.
|
Dormer
A converted attic with windows projecting
through a sloping roof.
|
Double
Coverage
Application of asphalt roofing so that the
lapped portion is at least 2 inches wider than
the exposed portion, resulting in two layers of
roofing material over the deck.
|
Double Hung
Window
A window with sashes that slide vertically and
allow opening from the top and bottom.
|
Double Plate
When two layers of 2x4s are placed on top of
studs in framing a wall.
|
Double
Strength
In float glass, approximately 1/8" (3 mm.)
thick.
|
Double Tree
Refers usually to a precast roof deck panel
poured with two fins in its underside to impart
flexural rigidity.
|
Double-Glazing
In general, any use of two lights of glass,
separated by an air space within an opening to
improve insulation against heat transfer and/or
sound transmission. In insulating glass units,
the air between the glass sheets is thoroughly
dried and the space is sealed, eliminating
possible condensation and providing superior
insulating properties.
|
Downspout
The pipe that carries water down from the gutter
or scupper. Also called a leader.
|
Draw
The amount of progress billings on a contract
that is currently available to a contractor
under a contract with a fixed payment schedule.
|
Drawing
Detail
A top view drawing of a building or roof showing
the roof perimeter and indicating the
projections and roof mounted equipment, drawn to
scale.
|
Drawing
Outline
A top view drawing of a building or roof showing
only the perimeter drawn to scale.
|
Dressed and
Matched (Tongued & Grooved)
Boards or planks machined in such a manner that
there is a groove on one edge and a
corresponding tongue on the other.
|
Dressed Size
Lumber
The dimension of lumber after shrinking from
green dimension and after machining to size or
pattern.
|
Drier Paint
Usually oil-soluble soaps of such metals as lead
manganese or cobalt which, in small proportions,
hasten the oxidation and hardening (drying) of
the drying oils in paints.
|
Drip
(a) A member of a cornice or other horizontal
exterior finish course that has a projection
beyond the other parts for throwing off water.
(b) A groove in the underside of a sill or drip
cap to cause water to drop off on the outer edge
instead of drawing back and running down the
face of the building.
|
Drip Cap
A molding placed on the exterior top side of a
door or window frame to cause water to drip
beyond the outside of the frame.
|
Drip Edge
A device designed to prevent water from running
back or under an overhang.
|
Drippage
Bitumen material that drips through roof deck
joints, or over the edge of a roof deck.
|
Drop Siding
Usually Ύ inch thick and 6 and 8 inches wide
with tongued-and-grooved or shiplap edges. Often
used as siding without sheathing in secondary
buildings.
|
Dropping a
Stringer
In carpentry, "dropping" a stringer refers to
cutting short on the bottom of a stairs to allow
for thickness of the first tread.
|
Dry Glazing
Also called compression glazing, a term used to
describe various means of sealing monolithic and
insulating glass in the supporting framing
system with synthetic rubber and other
elastomeric gasket materials.
|
Dry Rot
See Fungal Wood Rot.
|
Dry Seal
Accomplishment of weather seal between glass and
sash by use of strips or gaskets of Neoprene,
EPDM, silicone or other flexible material. A dry
seal may not be completely watertight.
|
Dry Sheet
A ply mechanically attached to wood or gypsum
decks to prevent asphalt or pitch from
penetrating the deck and leaking into the
building below.
|
Dry-In
To make a building waterproof.
|
Drywall
A gypsum board material used for walls or
ceilings.
|
Drywall
Construction
A type of construction in which the interior
wall finish is applied in a dry condition,
generally in the form of sheet materials or wood
paneling as contrasted to plaster.
|
Drywall
Hammer
A special hammer used for nailing up gypsum
board. Also known as an ax or hatchet. Edges
should be smooth and the corners rounded off.
The head has a convex round & checkered head.
|
Drywall Nail
Nails used for hanging regular drywall that is
to be taped and finished later must have
adequate holding power and a head design that
does not cut the face paper. They must also be
of the proper depth to provide exactly 1 inch
penetration into the framing member. Nails
commonly used are chemically-etched and are
designed with a cupped head.
|
Duct
A cylindrical or rectangular "tube" used to move
air either from exhaust or intake, and for
distributing warm air from the heating plant to
rooms, or air from a conditioning device or as
cold air returns. The installation is referred
to as "duct work."
|
Ductwork
A system of distribution channels used to
transmit heated or cooled air from a central
system (HVAC) throughout a home.
|
Due-On-Sale
A clause in a mortgage contract requiring the
borrower to pay the entire outstanding balance
upon sale or transfer of the property.
|
Dumbwaiter
An elevator with a maximum footage of not more
than 9 sq. ft. floor area; not more than 4"
headroom and a maximum capacity of 500 lbs. used
for carrying materials only.
|
Dura Board,
Dura Rock
A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass
usually used as a ceramic tile backing material.
Commonly used on bathtub decks. Sometimes called
Wonder Board.
|
Durometer
A gauge to measure the hardness of an
elastomeric material.
|
DWV
(Drainage, Waste & Vent)
The pipes in a plumbing system that remove waste
water.
|
E
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E&O
Insurance
Errors and Omissions Insurance.
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Earnest
Money
A sum paid to the seller to show that a
potential purchaser is serious about buying.
|
Earthquake
Strap
A metal strap used to secure gas hot water
heaters to the framing or foundation of a house.
It is intended to reduce the chances of having
the water heater fall over in an earthquake and
causing a gas leak.
|
Easement
A formal contract which allows a party to use
another party's property for a specific purpose,
e.g. a sewer easement might allow one party to
run a sewer line through a neighbor's property.
|
Eave
The part of the roof which extends beyond the
side wall.
|
Eaves
Flashing
Additional layer of roofing material applied at
the eaves to help prevent damage from water
backup.
|
Edge
Clearance
Nominal spacing between the edge of the glass
product and the bottom of the glazing pocket
(channel).
|
Edge Grain
(Vertical)
Edge-grain lumber has been sawed parallel to the
pith of the log and approximately at right
angles to the growth rings; i.e., the rings form
an angle of 45° or more with the surface of the
piece.
|
Edge Metal
A term relating to brake or extruded metal
around the perimeter of a roof.
|
Edging
Strips
Boards nailed along eaves and rakes to provide
secure edges for re-roofing with asphalt shingle
after cutting back existing wood shingles.
|
EER
Energy Efficiency Ratio is figured by dividing
BTU hours by watts.
|
Efflorescence
A white powder on the surface of walls due to
evaporation of water. It forms on the surface of
bricks.
|
Egress
A means of exiting the home. An egress window is
required in every bedroom and basement. Normally
a 4x4 window is the minimum size required.
|
EIFS
Exterior Insulating and Finish System; exterior
wall cladding system consisting primarily of
polystyrene foam board with a textured acrylic
finish that resembles plaster or stucco.
|
Elastomer
An elastic rubber-like substance, such as
natural or synthetic rubber.
|
Elastomeric
Of or pertaining to any of the numerous flexible
membranes that contain rubber or plastic.
|
Elbow
An angled fitting that alters the direction of
the water line.
|
Electric
Lateral
The trench or area in the yard where the
electric service line (from a transformer or
pedestal) is located, or the work of installing
the electric service to a home.
|
Electric
Resistance Coils
Metal wires that heat up when electric current
passes through them and are used in baseboard
heaters and electric water heaters.
|
Electrical
Rough
Work performed by the Electrical Contractor
after the plumber and heating contractor are
complete with their phase of work. Normally all
electrical wires, and outlet, switch, and
fixture boxes are installed (before insulation).
|
Electrical
Trim
Work performed by the Electrical Contractor when
the house is nearing completion. The electrician
installs all plugs, switches, light fixtures,
smoke detectors, appliance "pig tails", bath
ventilation fans, wires the furnace, and "makes
up" the electric house panel. The electrician
does all work necessary to get the home ready
for and to pass the municipal electrical final
inspection.
|
Electrolytic
Coupling
A fitting required to join copper to galvanized
pipe and gasketed to prevent galvanic action.
Connecting pipes of different materials may
result in electrolysis.
|
Elevation
A side of a building.
|
Elevation
Sheet
The page on the blue prints that depicts the
house or room as if a vertical plane were passed
through the structure.
|
Ell
See Elbow.
|
Emissivity
The measure of a surfaces ability to emit
long-wave infrared radiation.
|
EMT
(Electrical Metallic Tubing)
Electrical pipe, also called thin-wall conduit,
which may be used for both concealed and exposed
areas. It is the most common type of raceway
used in single family and low rise residential
and commercial buildings.
|
Emulsion
In roofing, a coating consisting of asphalt and
fillers suspended in water.
|
End Dams
Internal flashing (dam) that prevents water from
moving laterally within a curtain wall or window
wall system.
|
End Lap
The amount or location of overlap at the end of
a roll of roofing felts in the application.
|
Energy
Efficiency Ratio
An air conditioning efficiency rating system
which indicates the number of BTU's delivered
per watt of power consumed.
|
Engineering
Service
Any professional service or creative work
requiring engineering education, training, and
experience and the application of special
knowledge of the mathematical, physical and
engineering sciences to such professional
service or creative work as consultation,
investigation, evaluation, planning, design and
supervision of construction for the purpose of
assuring compliance with the specifications and
design, in conjunction with structures,
buildings, machines, equipment, works or
processes.
|
Enter
To go into an area to observe all visible
components.
|
EPDM
(Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
A single ply membrane consisting of synthetic
rubber; usually 45 or 60 mils. Application can
be ballasted, fully adhered or mechanically
attached.
|
Equity
The "valuation" that you own in your home, i.e.
the property value less the mortgage loan
outstanding.
|
Escrow
The handling of funds or documents by a third
party on behalf of the buyer and/or seller.
|
Escutcheon
A trim piece or decorative flange that fits
beneath the faucet handle to conceal the faucet
stem and the hole in the fixture or wall.
|
Estimate
The anticipated cost of materials, labor, and
associated cost for a proposed construction,
repair, or remodeling project.
|
Estimating
The process of calculating the cost of a
project. This can be a formal and exact process
or a quick and imprecise process.
|
Evaluate
To assess the systems, structures or components
of a dwelling.
|
Examine
To visually look. See Inspect.
|
Excavate
To dig the basement and/or all areas that will
need footings/foundations below ground.
|
Exhaust Fan
Extracts air or excess heat from the interior of
a home.
|
Expansion
Coefficient
The amount that a specific material will vary in
any one dimension with a change of temperature.
|
Expansion
Joint
A device used to permit a structure to expand or
contract without breakage. In residential
construction, a bituminous fiber strip used to
separate blocks or units of concrete to prevent
cracking due to expansion as a result of
temperature changes. Also used on concrete
slabs.
|
Expansive
Soils
Earth that swells and contracts depending on the
amount of water that is present.
|
Exposed
Aggregate
A method of finishing concrete which washes the
cement/sand mixture of the top layer of the
aggregate - usually gravel. Often used in
driveways, patios and other exterior surfaces.
|
Exposed
Aggregate Finish
A method of finishing concrete which washes the
cement/sand mixture off the top layer of the
aggregate - usually gravel. Often used in
driveways, patios and other exterior surfaces.
|
Exposed Nail
Method
Application of roll roofing in which all nails
are driven into the cemented, overlapping course
of roofing. Nails are exposed to the weather.
|
Exposure
The portion of the roofing exposed to the
weather after installation.
|
Exposure I
Grade Plywood
Type of plywood approved by the American Plywood
Association for exterior use.
|
Exterior
Glazed
Glazing infills set from the exterior of the
building.
|
Exterior
Stop
The molding or bead that holds the light or
panel in place when it is on the exterior side
of the light or panel.
|
Extras
Additional work requested of a contractor, not
included in the original plan, which will be
billed separately and will not alter the
original contract amount, but increase the cost
of building the home.
|
Extrusion
An item formed by forcing a base metal
(frequently aluminum) or plastic, at a malleable
temperature, through a die to achieve a desired
shape.
|
Eyebrow
A flat, normally concrete, projection which
protrudes horizontally from a building wall;
Eyebrows are generally located above windows.
|
F
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Facade
The front of a building. Frequently, in
architectural terms an artificial or decorative
effort.
|
Face Brick
Brick made especially for exterior use with
special consideration of color, texture and
size, and used as a facing on a building.
|
Face Glazing
A system having a triangular bead of compound
applied with a putty knife, after bedding,
setting, and clipping the glazing infill in
place on a rabetted sash.
|
Faced
Concrete
To finish the front and all vertical sides of a
concrete porch, step(s), or patio. Normally the
"face" is broom finished.
|
Facing Brick
The brick used and exposed on the outside of a
wall. Usually these have a finished texture.
|
Factory
Mutual (FM)
Insurance agency that has established stringent
guidelines for maximum construction integrity as
it relates to fire and environmental hazards.
Their specifications have become industry
standards.
|
Fall/Flow
The proper slope or pitch of a pipe for adequate
drainage.
|
Fascia
A flat, horizontal board enclosing the overhang
under the eave.
|
Fasteners
A general term covering a wide variety of screws
and nails, which may be used for mechanically
securing various components of a building.
|
Faucet
A device for regulating the flow of a liquid
from a reservoir such as a pipe or drum.
|
Feathering
Strips
Tapered wood filler strips placed along the butt
edges of old wood shingles to create a level
surface when re-roofing over existing wood
shingle roofs. Also called "horsefeathers."
|
Felt
A very general term used to describe composition
of roofing ply sheets, consisting of a mat of
organic or inorganic fibers either unsaturated,
impregnated with asphalt or coal tar pitch, or
impregnated and coated with asphalt.
|
Female IPS
Pipe connection where the threads are on the
inside of the fitting. See FIP.
|
Female
Threads
See FIP.
|
Fenestration
Any glass panel, window, door, curtain wall or
skylight unit on the exterior of a building.
|
Ferrous
Refers to objects made of or partially made of
iron, such as ferrous pipe.
|
Ferrule
Metal tubes used to keep roof gutters "open."
Long nails (ferrule spikes) are driven through
these tubes and hold the gutters in place along
the fascia of the home.
|
FHA Strap
Metal straps that are used to repair a bearing
wall "cut-out," and to "tie together" wall
corners, splices, and bearing headers. Also,
they are used to hang stairs and landings to
bearing headers.
|
Fibered
Aluminum Roof Coating
High-performance metallic reflective barrier for
prepared roofing, metal surfaces and exterior
masonry. Reflects sun's harmful rays, reduces
energy costs in summer and winter while
prolonging surface life.
|
Fibered Roof
and Foundation Coating
Combined application for this special
medium-viscosity-grade fibered material. Use as
a roof or foundation coating.
|
Fibered Roof
Coating
Optimal protection for low-sloped roofs. This
thick, high-quality coating seals fine cracks
and openings. Renews and rejuvenates old
composition roofing and prolongs roof life. Also
performs well on metal or concrete surfaces.
|
Fiberglass
Mat
An asphalt roofing base material manufactured
from glass fibers.
|
Field
Measure
To take measurements (cabinets, countertops,
stairs, shower doors, etc.) in the home itself
instead of using the blueprints.
|
Fillet Bead
Caulking or sealant placed in such a manner that
it forms an angle between the materials being
caulked.
|
FindAnInspector.US
Foremost home inspector search engine.
|
Finger Joint
A manufacturing process of interlocking two
shorter pieces of wood end to end to create a
longer piece of dimensional lumber or molding.
Often used in jambs and casings and normally
painted (instead of stained).
|
Finish
In hardware, metal fastenings on cabinets which
are usually exposed such as hinges and locks.
|
Finish
Carpentry
The hanging of all interior doors, installation
of door molding, base molding, chair rail, built
in shelves, etc.
|
Finish Coat
The last coat applied in plastering intended as
a base for further decorating or as a final
decorative surface. Finish coat usually consists
of calcified gypsum, lime and sometimes an
aggregate. Some may require the addition of lime
or sand on the job. The three basic methods of
applying it are trowel, flat and spray.
|
Finish Grade
Any surface which has been cut to or built to
the elevation indicated for that point. Surface
elevation of lawn, driveway or other improved
surfaces after completion of grading operations.
|
FIP (Female
Iron Pipe)
Standard threads that are on the inside of a
pipe fitting.
|
Fire Block
Short horizontal members sometimes nailed
between studs, usually about halfway up a wall.
See also 'Fire Stop.'
|
Fire Brick
Brick made of refractory ceramic material which
will resist high temperatures. Used in
fireplaces and boilers.
|
Fire Rated
Descriptive of materials that have been tested
for use in fire walls.
|
Fire
Retardant Chemical
A chemical or preparation of chemicals used to
reduce flammability or to retard spread of
flame.
|
Fire Stop
A solid, tight closure of a concealed space,
placed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke
through such a space. In a frame wall, this will
usually consist of 2x4s cross blocking between
studs.
|
Fire Wall
Any wall built for the purpose of restricting or
preventing the spread of fire in a building.
Such walls of solid masonry or concrete
generally sub-divide a building from the
foundations to two or more feet above the plane
of the roof.
|
Fire-Resistive
In the absence of a specific ruling by the
authority having jurisdiction, applies to
materials for construction not combustible in
the temperatures of ordinary fires and that will
withstand such fires without serious impairment
of their usefulness for at least 1 hour.
|
Fireplace
Chase Flashing Pan
A large sheet of metal that is installed around
and perpendicular to the fireplace flue pipe.
Its purpose is to confine and limit the spread
of fire and smoke to a small area.
|
Fish Tape
(Fish Wire)
Material used to advance wire through a conduit.
|
Fishplate
A wood or plywood piece used to fasten the ends
of two members together at a butt joint with
nails or bolts. Sometimes used at the junction
of opposite rafters near the ridge line.
|
Fitting
A general term that usually refers to faucets,
shower valves, tub fillers, or various piping
parts such as tees or elbows.
|
Fixed Price
Contract
A contract with a set price for the work. See
Time and Materials Contract.
|
Fixture
In plumbing, the devices that provide a supply
of water and/or its disposal, e.g. sinks, tubs,
toilets.
|
Flagstone
(Flagging or Flags)
Flat stones, from 1 to 4 inches thick, used for
rustic walks, steps, floors, and the like.
|
Flake
A scale-like particle. To lose bond from a
surface in small thin pieces. Sometimes a paint
film "flakes."
|
Flakeboard
A manufactured wood panel made out of 1"- 2"
wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute
for plywood in the exterior wall and roof
sheathing. Also called OSB or Wafer Board.
|
Flame
Retention Burner
An oil burner designed to hold the flame near
the nozzle surface. Generally the most efficient
type for residential use.
|
Flapper
Valve (Plumbing)
A valve that replaces a tank stopper in a
toilet. Creates a seal between the tank and the
bowl.
|
Flash Point
The critical temperature at which a material
will ignite.
|
Flashing
Material used around any angle in a roof or wall
to prevent leakage.
|
Flat Glass
A general term that describes float glass, sheet
glass, plate glass, and rolled glass.
|
Flat Grain
Flat grain lumber has been sawed parallel to the
pith of the log and approximately tangent to the
growth rings, i.e., the rings form an angle of
less than 45° with the surface of the piece.
|
Flat Mold
Thin wood strips installed over the butt seam of
cabinet skins.
|
Flat Paint
An interior paint that contains a high
proportion of pigment and dries to a flat or
lusterless finish.
|
Flat Seam
A seam at the junction of sheet metal roof
components that has been bent at the plane of
the roof.
|
Flatwork
Common word for concrete floors, driveways,
basements, and sidewalks.
|
Fleet
Averaging
By using a point system, builders can show
compliance with energy building requirements by
using average figures for all air conditioning
units in the same sub division.
|
Flex Hose
A flexible pipe or tube usually made of braided
stainless steel. Commonly used with widespread
or Roman tub faucets to provide variable
centers.
|
Flexible
Metal Conduit
Conduit similar to armored cable in appearance
but does not have the pre-inserted conductors.
|
Float Glass
Glass formed on a bath of molten tin. The
surface in contact with the tin is known as the
tin surface or tin side. The top surface is
known as the atmosphere surface or air side.
|
Floating
The next-to-last stage in concrete work, when it
is smoothed and water is brought to the surface
by using a hand float or bull float.
|
Floating
Wall
A non-bearing wall built on a concrete floor. It
is constructed so that the bottom two horizontal
plates can compress or pull apart if the
concrete floor moves up or down. Normally built
on basements and garage slabs.
|
Floor Plan
The basic layout of building or addition, which
includes placement of walls, windows and doors
as well as dimensions.
|
Floor Plate
See Floor Plan.
|
Flow Rate
The rate by which water is discharged from an
outlet. For example, the standard flow rate of a
showerhead is 2.5 gallons per minute.
|
Flue
A pipe used to exhaust smoke, gas or air.
|
Flue Collar
Round metal ring which fits around the heat flue
pipe after the pipe passes out of the roof.
|
Flue Damper
An automatic door located in the flue that
closes it off when the burner turns off; its
purpose is to reduce heat loss up the flue from
the still-warm furnace or boiler.
|
Flue Lining
Fire clay or terracotta pipe, round or square,
usually made in all ordinary flue sizes and in
2-foot lengths, used for the inner lining of
chimneys with the brick or masonry work around
the outside. Flue lining in chimneys runs from
about a foot below the flue connection to the
top of the chimney.
|
Fluorescent
Lighting
A fluorescent lamp is a gas-filled glass tube
with a phosphor coating on the inside, normally
with two pins that extend from each end. Gas
inside the tube is ionized by electricity which
causes the phosphor coating to glow.
|
Flush
Glazing (Pocket Glazing)
The setting of a light of glass or panel into a
four-sided sash or frame opening containing a
recessed "U" shaped channel without removable
stops on three sides of the sash or frame and
one channel with a removable stop along the
fourth side.
|
Flush Valve
The valve separating the water in the tank from
the bowl.
|
Flux
A material applied to the surface of copper
pipes and fittings to assist in the cleaning and
bonding process.
|
Fly Rafters
End rafters of the gable overhang supported by
roof sheathing and lookouts.
|
Folded Seam
In sheet metal work, a joint between sheets of
metal wherein the edges of the sheets are
crimped together and folded flat.
|
Foot Print
See Floor Plan.
|
Footing
The underground support for a foundation or
support post.
|
Footings
Wide pours of cement reinforced with re-bar
(reinforcing bar) that support foundation walls,
pillars, or posts. Footings are part of the
foundation and are often poured before the
foundation walls.
|
Forced Air
Heating
A common form of heating with natural gas,
propane, oil or electricity as a fuel. Air is
heated in the furnace and distributed through a
set of metal plastic ducts to various areas of
the house.
|
Form
Temporary structure erected to contain concrete
during placing and initial hardening.
|
Foundation
The supporting portion of a structure below the
first floor construction, or below grade,
including the footings.
|
Foundation
Coating
High-quality below-grade moisture protection.
Used for below-grade exterior concrete and
masonry wall damp-proofing to seal out moisture
and prevent corrosion.
|
Frame
Inspection
An inspection of the home's structural integrity
and its compliance to local municipal codes.
|
Framer
The carpenter contractor that installs the
lumber and erects the frame, flooring system,
interior walls, backing, trusses, rafters,
decking, installs all beams, stairs, soffits and
all work related to the wood structure of the
home. The framer builds the home according to
the blueprints and must comply with local
building codes and regulations.
|
Framing
The structural wood and/or metal elements of
most homes. The floor and ceiling framing is
called the joist work. Wall framing is usually
made out of 2x4 or 2x6 studs. See Rafters,
Posts, and Beams.
|
Free-Tab
Shingles
Shingles that do not contain factory-applied
strips or spots of self-sealing adhesive. See
also self-sealing shingles.
|
Frieze
In house construction, a horizontal member
connecting the top of the siding with the soffit
of the cornice.
|
Frostline
The depth of frost penetration in soil. This
depth varies in different parts of the country.
Footings should be placed below this depth to
prevent movement.
|
Fully
Tempered Glass
Flat or bent glass that has been heat-treated to
a high surface and/or edge compression to meet
the requirements of ASTM C 1048 kind FT. Fully
tempered glass, if broken, will fracture into
many small pieces (dice) which are more or less
cubical. Fully tempered glass is approximately
four times stronger than annealed glass of the
same thickness when exposed to uniform static
pressure loads.
|
Fully-Adhered
A completely attached (adhered) roof membrane.
|
Fungal Wood
Rot
A common wood destroying organism which develops
when wood containing material is exposed to
moisture and poor air circulation for a long (6
months +) period of time. Often and incorrectly
referred to as dry rot.
|
Fungi (Wood)
Microscopic plants that live in damp wood and
cause mold, stain, and decay.
|
Fungicide
A chemical that is poisonous to fungi.
|
Furnace
A heating system that uses the principle of
thermal convection. When air is heated, it rises
and as the air cools it settles. Ducts are
installed to carry the hot air from the top of
the furnace to the rooms. Other ducts, called
cold air returns, return the cooler air back to
the furnace.
|
Furring
Strips of wood or metal applied to a wall or
other surface to even it and normally to serve
as a fastening base for finish material.
|
G
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Gable
The end of a building as distinguished from the
front or rear side. The triangular end of an
exterior wall from the level of the eaves to the
ridge of a double-sloped roof. In house
construction, the portion of the roof above the
eave line of a double-sloped roof.
|
Gable End
An end wall having a gable.
|
Gable Roof
A type of roof with sloping planes of the same
pitch on each side of the ridge. Has a gable at
each end.
|
Galvanize
To coat a metal with zinc by dipping it in
molten zinc after cleaning.
|
Gambrel Roof
A type of roof which has its slope broken by an
obtuse angle, so that the lower slope is steeper
than the upper slope. A double sloped roof
having two pitches.
|
Gang Nail
Plate
A steel plate attached to both sides at each
joint of a truss. Sometimes called a Fishplate
or Gusset.
|
Gas Lateral
The trench or area in the yard where the gas
line service is located, or the work of
installing the gas service to a home.
|
Gaskets
Pre-formed shapes, such as strips, grommets,
etc., of rubber or rubber-like composition, used
to fill and seal a joint or opening either alone
or in conjunction with a supplemental
application of a sealant.
|
Gate Valve
A valve that lets you completely stop, but not
modulate, the flow within a pipe.
|
Gauge
The thickness of sheet metal and wire, etc.
|
Gauge Board
(Spot Board)
Board used to carry grout needed to patch small
jobs.
|
General
Contractor
A contractor responsible for all facets of
construction of a building or renovation.
|
General
Contractor (Prime Contractor)
A contractor responsible for all facets of
construction of a building or renovation.
|
GFI or GFCI
(Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters)
Special devices capable of opening a circuit
when even a small amount of current is flowing
through the grounding system.
|
GFRC (Glass
Fiber Reinforced Concrete)
Material used in wall systems that resembles but
generally does not perform as well as concrete.
Usually a thin cementitious material laminated
to plywood or other lightweight backing.
|
Girder
A main beam upon which floor joists rest. Used
to support concentrated loads at isolated points
along its length, usually made of steel or wood.
|
Girdle
A large principal beam made of steel, reinforced
concrete, wood or combination of these, used to
support other structural members at isolated
points along its length.
|
Glass
A hard, brittle substance, usually transparent,
made by fusing silicates under high temperatures
with soda, lime, etc.
|
Glass-Base
Roll roofing product built on a fiberglass base
sheet constructed with a heavyweight TAMKO
fiberglass mat, coated with weathering-grade
asphalt. Used as a base sheet in select TAMKO
modified asphalt and fiberglass roofing systems
and as an alternate for TAMKO Type 43 Coated
Base Sheet in any TAMKO specification.
Hot-asphalt applied or mechanically fastened.
|
Glass-Seal
3-tab self-sealing fiberglass shingles with a
traditional square-tab design. A thick layer of
weathering-grade asphalt gives them extra
waterproofing protection. They are U.L. Class A
fire rated and backed by a 20-year limited
warranty. Algae-resistant granules optional.
|
Glaze Coat
In roofing, a light uniform mopping of bitumen
on exposed felts to protect them from the
weather, pending completion of the job.
|
Glazing
A generic term used to describe an infill
material such as glass, panels, etc. Also the
process of installing an infill material into a
prepared opening in windows, door panels,
partitions, etc.
|
Glazing Bead
In glazing, a strip surrounding the edge of the
glass in a window or door which holds the glass
in place.
|
Glazing
Channel
In glazing, a three-sided, U-shaped sash detail
into which a glass product is installed and
retained.
|
Globe Valve
A valve that lets you adjust the flow of water
to any rate between fully on and fully off. Also
see Gate Valve.
|
Gloss (Paint
or Enamel)
A paint or enamel that contains a relatively low
proportion of pigment and dries to a sheen or
luster.
|
Gloss Enamel
A finishing material made of varnish and
sufficient pigments to provide opacity and
color, but little or no pigment of low opacity.
Such an enamel forms a hard coating with maximum
smoothness of surface and a high degree of
gloss.
|
Glued
Laminated Beam (Glulam)
A structural beam composed of wood laminations
or lams. The lams are pressure bonded with
adhesives to attain a typical thickness of 1 ½"
. (It looks like 5 or more 2x4s are glued
together).
|
GPF (Gallons
Per Flush)
The unit of measurement by which flow rate of
toilets are measured and regulated. Current U.S.
regulations for toilets require a maximum of 1.6
GPF.
|
GPM (Gallons
Per Minute)
The unit of measurement by which the flow rate
of faucets and showerheads is measured and
regulated.
|
Grade Beam
A foundation wall that is poured level with or
just below the grade of the earth. An example is
the area where the 8' or 16' overhead garage
door "block out" is located, or a lower (walk
out basement) foundation wall is poured.
|
Grade MW
Moderate Weather grade of brick for moderate
resistance to freezing used, for example, in
planters.
|
Grade NW
No Weather brick intended for use as a back-up
or interior masonry.
|
Grade SW
Severe Weather grade of brick intended for use
where high resistance to freezing is desired.
|
Graduated
Payment Mortgage (GPM)
A fixed-rate, fixed-schedule loan. It starts
with lower payments than a level payment loan;
payments rise annually, with the entire increase
being used to reduce the outstanding balance.
The increase in payments may enable the borrower
to pay off a 30-year loan in 15 to 20 years, or
less.
|
Grain
The direction, size, arrangement, appearance, or
quality of the fibers in wood.
|
Granules
The mineral particles of a graded size which are
embedded in the asphalt coating of shingles and
roofing.
|
Gravel
Loose fragments of rock used for surfacing
built-up roofs, in sizes varying from 1/8" to
1Ύ."
|
Grid
The completed assembly of main and cross tees in
a suspended ceiling system before the ceiling
panels are installed. Also the decorative slats
(munton) installed between glass panels.
|
Ground
Refers to electricity's habit of seeking the
shortest route to earth. Neutral wires carry it
there in all circuits. An additional grounding
wire or the sheathing of the metal-clad cable or
conduit protects against shock if the neutral
leg is interrupted.
|
Ground Iron
The plumbing drain and waste lines that are
installed beneath the basement floor. Cast iron
was once used, but black plastic pipe (ABS) is
now widely used.
|
Ground
System
The connection of current-carrying neutral wire
to the grounding terminal in the main switch
which in turn is connected to a water pipe. The
neutral wire is called the ground wire.
|
Grounding
Rod
Rod used to ground an electrical panel.
|
Grounds
Guides used around openings and at the floorline
to strike off plaster. They can consist of
narrow strips of wood or of wide sub-jambs at
interior doorways. They provide a level plaster
line for installation of casing and other trim.
|
Groundwater
Water from an aquifer or subsurface water
source.
|
Grout
A hydrous mortar whose consistency allows it to
be placed or pumped into small joints or
cavities, as between pieces of ceramic clay,
slate, or tile. Also, various mortar mixes used
in foundation work to fell voids in soils,
usually injected through drilled holes.
|
Grout or
Grouting
A cement mortar mixture made of such consistency
(by adding water) that it will flow into joints
and cavities of masonry work to fill them solid.
|
Gun
Consistency
Sealant formulated in a degree of viscosity
suitable for application through the nozzle of a
caulking gun.
|
Gunite
A construction material composed of cement, sand
or crushed slag and water mixed together and
forced through a cement gun by pneumatic
pressure, used in the construction of swimming
pools.
|
Gusset
A flat wood, plywood, or similar type member
used to provide a connection at intersection of
wood members. Most commonly used at joints of
wood trusses. They are fastened by nails,
screws, bolts, or adhesives.
|
Gutter
Metal or wood trough at the eaves of a roof to
carry rain water from the roof to the downspout.
|
Gutter Strap
Metal bands used to support the gutter.
|
Guy Wire
A strong steel wire or cable strung from an
anchor on the roof to any tall slender
projection for the purpose of support.
|
Gypsum Board
See Drywall.
|
Gypsum Keene
Cement
Material used to obtain a smooth finish coat of
plaster, for use over gypsum plastic base coats
only and in areas not subject to moisture. It is
the hardest plaster.
|
Gypsum
Plaster
Gypsum formulated to be used with the addition
of sand and water for base-coat plaster.
|
H
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|
H Clip
Small metal clips formed like an "H" that fits
at the joints of two plywood (or wafer board)
sheets to stiffen the joint. Normally used on
the roof sheeting.
|
Hardware
Metal accessories such as door knobs, towel
bars, toilet paper holders, etc.
|
Hatch
An opening in a deck, floor or roof. The usual
purpose is to provide access from inside the
building.
|
Haunch
An extension, knee-like protrusion of the
foundation wall that a concrete porch or patio
will rest upon for support.
|
Hawk
A flat wood or metal tool 10 inches to 14 inches
square with a handle used by plasterers to carry
plaster mortar or mud.
|
Hazard
Insurance
Insurance for a building while it is under
construction.
|
Header
Framing members over windows, doors, or other
openings. A beam placed perpendicular to joists
and to which joists are nailed in framing for
chimney, stairway, or other opening. Also, a
wood lintel.
|
Hearth
The inner or outer floor of a fireplace, usually
made of brick, tile, or stone.
|
Heartwood
The wood extending from the pith to the sapwood,
the cells of which no longer participate in the
life processes of the tree.
|
Heat Meter
An electrical municipal inspection of the
electric meter breaker panel box.
|
Heat Pump
A device which uses compression and
decompression of gas to heat and/or cool a
house.
|
Heat Rough
Work performed by the heating contractor after
the stairs and interior walls are built. This
includes installing all duct work and flue
pipes. Sometimes the furnace and fireplaces are
installed at this stage of construction.
|
Heat
Strengthened Glass
Flat or bent glass that has been heat-treated to
a specific surface and/or edge compression range
to meet the requirements of ASTM C 1048, kind
HS. Heat-strengthened glass is approximately two
times as strong as annealed glass of the same
thickness when exposed to uniform static
pressure loads. Heat-strengthened glass is not
considered safety glass and will not completely
dice in the manner fully tempered glass will.
|
Heat Trim
Work done by the heating contractor to get the
home ready for the municipal final heat
Inspection. This includes venting the hot water
heater, installing all vent grills, registers,
air conditioning services, turning on the
furnace, installing thermostats, venting ranges
and hoods, and all other heat related work.
|
Heating Load
The amount of heating required to keep a
building at a specified temperature during the
winter, usually 65° Fahrenheit, regardless of
outside temperature.
|
Heel Bead
Sealant applied at the base of a channel, after
setting the light or panel and before the
removable stop is installed, one of its purposes
being to prevent leakage past the stop.
|
Heel Cut
A notch cut in the end of a rafter to permit it
to fit flat on a wall and on the top, doubled,
exterior wall plate.
|
Hermetic
Seal
Vacuum seal between panes of a double-paned
window, i.e. insulated glass unit or IGU.
Failure of a hermetic seal causes permanent
fogging between the panels of the IGU.
|
High-Early
Cement
A portland cement sold as Type III which sets up
to its full strength faster than other types.
|
Highlights
A light spot, area, or streak on a painted
surface.
|
Hinge
A jointed or flexible device that allows the
turning or pivoting of a part, such as a door or
lid, on a stationary frame.
|
Hip
The external angle formed by the meeting of two
sloping sides of a roof.
|
Hip Rafter
A rafter that forms the intersection of an
external roof angle.
|
Hip Roof
A roof that rises by inclined planes from all
four sides of a building.
|
Hip Shingles
Shingles used to cover the inclined external
angle formed by the intersection of two sloping
roof planes.
|
Hoistway
A shaftway for the travel of one or more
elevators.
|
Home Run
(Electrical)
The electrical cable that carries power from the
main circuit breaker panel to the first
electrical box, plug, or switch in the circuit.
|
Honeycomb
Areas in a foundation wall where the aggregate
(gravel) is visible. Honeycombs can be usually
be remedied by applying a thin layer of grout or
other cement product over the affected area.
Also, a method by which concrete is poured and
not puddled or vibrated, allowing the edges to
have voids or holes after the forms are removed.
|
Horizontal
Parallel to or in the plane of the horizon.
|
Hose Bib
An outdoor faucet with hose threads on the
spout. Also commonly used to supply washing
machines and wash basins.
|
Hot Wire
The wire that carries electrical energy to a
receptacle or other devicein contrast to a
neutral, which carries electricity away again.
Normally the black wire. Also see Ground.
|
Hub
In plumbing, the enlarged end of a pipe which is
made to provide a connection into which the end
of the joining pipe will fit.
|
Humidifier
A device designed to increase the humidity
within a room or a house by means of the
discharge of water vapor. They may consist of
individual room size units or larger units
attached to the heating plant to condition the
entire house.
|
Hurricane
Clip
Metal straps that are nailed and secure the roof
rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall
plate. Sometimes called a Teco Clip.
|
Hurricane
Ties
Metal fasteners used to secure rafters in
structures subject to hurricane winds.
|
HVAC
Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning.
|
Hydro-Electric Elevator
An elevator where liquid is pumped under
pressure directly into the cylinder by a pump
driven by an electric motor without an
accumulator between the pump and cylinder.
|
I
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I-Beam
A steel beam with a cross section resembling the
letter "I." It is used for long spans as
basement beams or over wide wall openings, such
as a double garage door, when wall and roof
loads are imposed on the opening.
|
ID (Inside
Diameter)
The diameter measurement taken from the inside
of a pipe. A common method for sizing pipe.
|
IIC
A new system utilized in the Federal Housing
Administration recommended criteria for impact
sound insulation.
|
Incandescent
Lamp
A lamp employing an electrically charged metal
filament that glows at white heat. A typical
light bulb.
|
Incompatibility
Descriptive of two or more materials which are
not suitable to be used together.
|
Indemnification Clause
Provision in a contract in which one party
agrees to be financially responsible for
specified types of damages, claims, or losses.
|
Index
The interest rate or adjustment standard that
determines the changes in monthly payments for
an adjustable rate loan.
|
Infiltration
The process by which air leaks into a building.
To find the infiltration heating load factor
(HLF), the formula to account for the extra BTUs
needed to heat the infiltrated air is BTU/HR =
building volume x air changes x BTU/cu.ft/hr x
TD (temperature difference).
|
Inlet
An opening providing a means of entrance or
intake.
|
INR (Impact
Noise Rating)
A single figure rating which provides an
estimate of the impact sound insulating
performance of a floor-ceiling assembly.
|
Inside
Corner
The point at which two walls form an internal
angle, as in the corner of a room.
|
Inside Drain
In roofing, a drain positioned on a roof at some
location other than the perimeter. It drains
surface water inside the building through closed
pipes to a drainage system.
|
Insulating
Glass
Window or door in which two panes of glass are
used with a sealed air space between. Also known
as Double Glass.
|
Insulating
Glass Unit
Two or more lights of glass spaced apart and
hermetically sealed to form a single-glazed unit
with an air space between each light. Commonly
called IG units.
|
Insulation
Generally, any material which slows down or
retards the flow or transfer of heat. Building
insulation types are classified according to
form as loose-fill, flexible, rigid, reflective,
and foamed-in-place. All types are rated
according to their ability to resist heat flow
(R-Value). In electrical contracting, rubber,
thermoplastic, or asbestos wire covering. The
thickness of insulation varies with wire size
and type of material, application or other code
limitations.
|
Insulation
Board
A rigid structural building board made of coarse
wood or cane fiber in 1/2 and 25/32 inch
thickness. It can be obtained in various size
sheets, in various densities, and with several
treatments.
|
Insulation
Fasteners
Any of several specialized mechanical fasteners
designed to hold insulation down to a steel or a
nailable deck.
|
Interest
The cost paid to a lender for borrowed money.
|
Interior
Finish
Material used to cover the interior framed
areas, or materials of walls and ceilings.
|
Interior
Glazed
Glazing infills set from the interior of the
building.
|
Interlayer
In glazing, any material used to bond two lights
of glass and/or plastic together to form a
laminate.
|
Interlocking
Shingles
Individual shingles that mechanically fasten to
each other to provide wind resistance.
|
Interply
Between two layers of roofing felts that have
been laminated together.
|
IPS (Iron
Pipe Size)
Pipe thread sizing system. Also measurement of
the outside diameter of a pipe.
|
IRMA
[Insulated (or Inverted) Roof Membrane Assembly]
In this system the roof membrane is laid
directly on the roof deck, covered with extruded
foam insulation and ballasted with stone,
minimum of 1000 lbs. per square.
|
Irrigation
Lawn sprinkler system.
|
J
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|
J Channel
Metal edging used on drywall to give the edge a
better finished appearance when a wall is not
"wrapped." Generally, basement stairway walls
have drywall only on the stair side. J Channel
is used on the vertical edge of the last drywall
sheet.
|
Jack Post
A type of structural support made of metal which
can be raised or lowered through a series of
pins and a screw to meet the height required.
Basically used as a replacement for an old
supporting member in a building. See Monopost.
|
Jack Rafter
A rafter that spans the distance from the wall
plate to a hip, or from a valley to a ridge.
|
Jamb
The side and head lining of a doorway, window,
or other opening.
|
Joint
The space between the adjacent surfaces of two
members or components joined and held together
by nails, glue, cement, mortar, or other means.
|
Joint Cement
A powder that is usually mixed with water and
used for joint treatment in gypsum-wallboard
finish. Often called "spackle."
|
Joint
Compound
A material applied to threaded connections to
help prevent leaks in plumbing. Also, in
carpentry, a wet gypsum material applied to
sheetrock joints.
|
Joint
Tenancy
A form of ownership in which the tenants own a
property equally. If one dies, the other
automatically inherits the entire property.
|
Joint Trench
When the electric company and telephone company
dig one trench and "drop" both of their service
lines in.
|
Joist Hanger
A metal "U" shaped item used to support the end
of a floor joist and attached with hardened
nails to another bearing joist or beam.
|
Jumpers
Water pipe installed in a water meter pit
(before the water meter is installed), or
electric wire that is installed in the electric
house panel meter socket before the meter is
installed. This is sometimes illegal.
|
K
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Keene's
Cement
A white finish plaster that produces an
extremely durable wall. Because of its density,
it excels for use in bathrooms and kitchens and
is also used extensively for the finish coat in
auditoriums, public buildings, and other places
where walls may be subjected to unusually hard
wear or abuse.
|
Keeper
The metal latch plate in a door frame into which
a doorknob plunger latches.
|
Kelvin
Thermometer scale on which a unit of measurement
equals the Celsius degree.
|
Keyless
A plastic or porcelain light fixture that
operates by a pull string. Generally found in
the basement, crawl space, and attic areas.
|
Keyway
A slot formed and poured on a footer or in a
foundation wall when another wall will be
installed at the slot location. This gives
additional strength to the joint/meeting point.
|
Kick Hole
A defect frequently found in perimeter flashings
arising from being stepped on or kicked. A small
fracture of the base flashing in the area of the
cant.
|
Kiln Dried
Lumber
Lumber that has been kiln dried often to a
moisture content of 6 to 12 percent. Common
varieties of softwood lumber, such as framing
lumber are dried to a somewhat higher moisture
content.
|
Kilowatt
(KW)
One thousand watts. A kilowatt hour is the base
unit used in measuring electrical consumption.
Also see Watt.
|
King Stud
The vertical 2x4 frame lumber (left and right)
of a window or door opening, and runs
continuously from the bottom sole plate to the
top plate.
|
Knife
Consistency
Compound formulated in a degree of firmness
suitable for application with a putty knife such
as used for face glazing and other sealant
applications.
|
Knot
In lumber, the portion of a branch or limb of a
tree that appears on the edge or face of the
piece.
|
Kraft
A heavy, water resistant paper.
|
Kynar
Coating
Architectural coating that is UV stable and
suitable for exterior use on aluminum and other
metal surfaces.
|
L
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Labor Hour
A standard in which one person's labor is
performed in one hour.
|
Ladder,
Fixed
A ladder which is permanently attached to a
building.
|
Laminated
Glass
Two or more lights of glass permanently bonded
together with one or more inter-layers.
|
Laminated
Shingles
Shingles that have added dimensionality because
of extra layers or tabs, giving a shakelike
appearance. May also be called "architectural
shingles" or "three-dimensional shingles."
|
Laminating
Bonding together two or more layers of
materials.
|
Landing
A platform between flights of stairs or at the
termination of a flight of stairs.
|
Lap
To extend one material partially over another;
also, the distance so extended.
|
Lap Cement
An asphalt-based cement used to adhere
overlapping plies of roll roofing.
|
Lateral
(Electric, Gas, Telephone, Sewer and Water)
The underground trench and related services
(i.e., electric, gas, telephone, sewer and water
lines) that will be buried within the trench.
|
Lath
A building material of wood, metal, gypsum, or
insulating board that is fastened to the frame
of a building to act as a plaster base.
|
Lath and
Plaster
The most common wall finish prior to the
introduction of drywall. Thin wood strips (lath)
were nailed onto the framing as a base for the
sand/lime plaster.
|
Lattice
A framework of crossed wood or metal strips.
|
Lavatory
Bathroom or washroom sink.
|
Leach field
A method used to treat/dispose of sewage in
rural areas not accessible to a municipal sewer
system. Sewage is permitted to be filtered and
eventually discharged into a section of the lot
called a leech field.
|
Lead
A malleable metal once extensively used for
flashings.
|
Lead Based
Paint
Lead is a highly toxic metal that was used for
many years in products found in and around our
homes. Lead may cause a range of health effects,
from behavioral problems and learning
disabilities, to seizures and death. Children 6
years old and under are most at risk, because
their bodies are growing quickly.
|
Leader
See Downspout.
|
Lean-To Roof
The sloping roof of a building addition, having
its rafters or supports pitched against and
supported by the adjoining wall of a building.
|
Ledger Strip
A strip of lumber nailed along the bottom of the
side of a girder on which joists rest.
|
Let-In Brace
Nominal 1 inch-thick boards applied into notched
studs diagonally.
|
Level
Term use to describe any horizontal surface
whereby all sides are at the same elevation.
|
Level
(Carpenter's Level)
A tool used to check for level.
|
Level
Payment Mortgage
A mortgage with identical monthly payments over
the life of the loan.
|
Leveling Rod
A rod with graduated marks for measuring heights
or vertical distances between given points and
the line of sight of a leveling instrument. They
are longer than a yardstick and are held by a
surveyor in a vertical position.
|
Lien
An encumbrance that usually makes real or
personal property the security for payment of a
debt or discharge of an obligation.
|
Light
Space in a window sash for a single pane of
glass. Also, a pane of glass.
|
Limit Switch
A safety control that automatically shuts off a
furnace if it gets too hot. Most also control
blower cycles.
|
Lintel
A horizontal structural member that supports the
load over an opening such as a door or window.
|
Liquated
Damages
A monetary amount agreed upon by two parties to
a contract prior to performance under the
contract that specifies what a either party owes
the other if that party defaults under the
contract.
|
Liquid-Applied Membrane
Generally applied to cast-in-place concrete
surfaces in one or more coats to provide
fully-adhered waterproof membranes which conform
to all contours.
|
Lite
(Not the beer!) Another term for a pane of
glass. Also spelled "light" in industry
literature.
|
Live Load
Loads produced by use and occupancy of the
building or other structure and do not include
construction or environmental loads such as wind
load, snow load, ice load, rain load, seismic
load, or dead load.
|
Load Bearing
Wall
A wall which is supporting its own weight and
some other structural elements of the house such
as the roof and ceiling structures.
|
Loan
The amount to be borrowed.
|
Loan to
Value Ratio
The ratio of the loan amount to the property
valuation and expressed as a percentage; e.g. if
a borrower is seeking a loan of $200,000 on a
property worth $400,000 it has a 50% loan to
value rate. If the loan were $300,000, the LTV
would be 75%. The higher the loan to value, the
greater the lender's perceived risk. Loans above
normal lending LTV ratios may require additional
security.
|
Lookout
A short wood bracket or cantilever to support an
overhang portion of a roof or the like, usually
concealed from view.
|
Loose Laid
In roofing, a membrane "laid loosely," i.e. not
adhered, over a roof deck or Burm.
|
Lot
A parcel of ground with boundaries determined by
the county.
|
Louver
An opening with a series of horizontal slats
arranged so as to permit ventilation but to
exclude rain, sun. light, or vision. See also
Attic Ventilators.
|
Low-Slope
Application
Method of installing asphalt shingles on roof
slopes between 2 and 4 inches per foot.
|
Lumber
The product of the sawmill and planing mill not
further manufactured other than by sawing,
re-sawing, and passing lengthwise through a
standard planing machine, crosscutting to
length, and matching.
|
Lumens
Unit of measure for total light output. The
amount of light falling on a surface of one
square foot.
|
M
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|
Main Vent
(or Stack)
Principal vent to which branch vents may be
connected. See Stack.
|
Male IPS
Pipe connection where the threads are on the
outside of the fitting. See MIP.
|
Male Threads
See MIP.
|
Mansard Roof
A roof which rises by inclined planes from all
four sides of a building. The sloping roofs on
all four sides have two pitches, the lower pitch
usually very steep and the upper pitch less
steep.
|
Mantel
The shelf above a fireplace. Also used in
referring to the decorative trim around a
fireplace opening.
|
Manufactured
Wood
A wood product such as a truss, beam, Glue Lam
or joist which is manufactured out of smaller
wood pieces and glued or mechanically fastened
to form a larger piece. Often used to create a
stronger member which may use less wood. See
Oriented Strand Board.
|
Manufacturers Specifications
The written installation and/or maintenance
instructions which are developed by the
manufacturer of a product and which may have to
be followed in order to maintain the product
warrantee.
|
Mason's
Hammer (Bricklayer's Hammer)
Tool shaped like a chisel to trim brick or
stone.
|
Masonry
Stone, brick, concrete, hollow-tile, concrete
block, gypsum block, or other similar building
units or materials or a combination of the same,
bonded together with mortar to form a wall,
pier, buttress, or similar mass.
|
Masonry
Primer
An asphalt-based primer used to prepare masonry
surfaces for bonding with other asphalt
products.
|
Mastic
Heavy-consistency compound that may remain
adhesive and pliable with age. Is typically a
waterproof compound applied to exterior walls
and roof surfaces.
|
Matched
Lumber
Lumber that is dressed and shaped on one edge in
a grooved pattern and on the other in a tongued
pattern.
|
Maximum
Occupancy Load
The maximum number of people permitted in a
room. It is measured per foot for each width of
exit door. The maximum is 50 per foot of exit.
|
Mechanics
Lien
A lien on real property, created by statue in
many years, in favor of persons supplying labor
or materials for a building or structure for the
value of labor or materials supplied by them. In
some jurisdictions, a mechanics lien also exists
for the value of professional services. Clear
title to the property cannot be obtained until
the claim for the labor, materials, or
professional services is settled. Timely filing
is essential to support the encumbrance, and
prescribed filing dates vary by jurisdiction.
|
Melt Point
The temperature at which solid asphalt becomes a
liquid.
|
Membrane
A generic term relating to a variety of sheet
goods used for certain built-up roofing repairs
and application.
|
Metal Edge
Brake metal or metal extrusions which are
secured at the perimeter of the roof to form a
weather-tight seal.
|
Metal Lath
Sheets of metal that are slit and drawn out to
form openings. Used as a plaster base for walls
and ceilings and as reinforcing over other forms
of plaster base.
|
Microlam
A manufactured structural wood beam. It is
constructed of pressure and adhesive bonded wood
strands of wood. They have a higher strength
rating than solid saw lumber. Normally comes in
l ½" thickness' and 9 ½", 11 ½" and 14" widths.
|
Migration
Spreading or creeping of a constituent of a
compound onto/into adjacent surfaces. See
bleeding.
|
Mil
Thickness
Measurement used to determine thickness of a
coating. 1 mil = .001 inch (1/1000).
|
Milar
(Mylar)
Plastic, transparent copies of a blueprint.
|
Millwork
Generally all building materials made of
finished wood and manufactured in millwork
plants and planing mills are included under the
term "millwork." It includes such items as
inside and outside doors, window and doorframes,
blinds, porchwork, mantels, panelwork,
stairways, moldings, and interior trim. It
normally does not include flooring, ceiling, or
siding.
|
Mineral
Spirits
A by-product of petroleum, clear in color, used
as a solvent for asphalt coatings.
|
Mineral
Stabilizers
Finely ground limestone, slate, traprock or
other inert materials added to asphalt coatings
for durability and increased resistance to fire
and weathering.
|
Mineral-Surfaced Roofing
Asphalt shingles and roll roofing that are
covered with granules.
|
Minispread
A smaller variation of a widespread faucet with
separate spout and handles designed small enough
to fit 4" center-to-center faucet holes.
|
MIP (Male
Iron Pipe)
Standard threads that are on the outside of a
pipe or fitting.
|
Miter Joint
The joint of two pieces at an angle that bisects
the joining angle. For example, the miter joint
at the side and head casing at a door opening is
made at a 45° angle.
|
Mixing Valve
A valve that mixes hot and cold water in the
valve to obtain a set temperature prior to
delivery.
|
Mobile Home
Aluminum Roof Coating
Durable one-coat application prolongs the life
of mobile home roofs while reflecting sun's rays
and providing a decorative surface. Reduces
energy costs.
|
Mock-Up
Testing
Controlled air, water and structural performance
testing of existing or new glazing systems.
|
Modified
Bitumen Roof
A roof covering that is typically composed of a
factory-fabricated composite sheet consisting of
a copolymer-modified bitumen, often reinforced
with polyester and/or fiberglass, and installed
in one or more plies. The membrane is commonly
surfaced with field-applied coatings,
factory-applied granules or metal foil. The
roofing system may incorporate rigid insulation.
|
Modulus
Stress at a given strain. Also tensile strength
at a given elongation.
|
Moisture
Content of Wood
Weight of the water contained in the wood,
usually expressed as a percentage of the weight
of the oven-dry wood.
|
Molding
A wood strip having a coned or projecting
surface used for decorative purposes, e.g., door
and window trim.
|
Monitor
A large structure rising above the surrounding
roof planes, designed to give light and/or
ventilation to the building interior.
|
Monopost
Adjustable metal column used to support a beam
or bearing point. Normally 11 gauge or Schedule
40 metal, and determined by the structural
engineer.
|
Mopping
In roofing, a layer of hot bitumen mopped
between plies of roofing felt. Full mopping is
the application of bitumen by mopping in such a
manner that the surface being mopped is entirely
coated with a reasonably uniform coating. Spot
Mopping is the procedure of applying hot bitumen
in a random fashion of small daubs, as compared
to full mopping. Sprinkle mopping is a special
application of installing insulation to the
decks. It is done by dipping a roof mop into hot
bitumen and sprinkling the material onto the
deck. Strip Mopping is the application of
bitumen in parallel bands.
|
Mortar Types
Type M is suitable for general use and is
recommended specifically for masonry below grade
and in contact with earth, such as foundations,
retaining walls and walks. Type M is the
strongest type. Type S is suitable for general
use and is recommended where high resistance to
lateral forces is required. Type N is suitable
for general use in exposed masonry above grade
and is recommended specifically for exterior
walls subject to severe exposures. Type O is
recommended for load-bearing walls of solid
units where the compressive stresses do not
exceed 100 lbs. per square inch and the masonry
wall not be subjected to freezing and thawing in
the presence of excessive moisture.
|
Mortgage
Loan secured by land.
|
Mortgage
Broker
A broker who represents numerous lenders and
helps consumers find affordable mortgages; the
broker charges a fee only if the consumer finds
a loan.
|
Mortgage
Company
A company that borrows money from a bank, lends
it to consumers to buy homes, then sells the
loans to investors.
|
Mortgage
Deed
Legal document establishing a loan on property.
|
Mortgage
Origination Fee
A charge for work involved in preparing and
servicing a mortgage application (usually one
percent of the loan amount).
|
Mortgagee
The lender who makes the mortgage loan.
|
Mortise
A slot cut into a board, plank, or timber,
usually edgewise, to receive tenon of another
board, plank, or timber to form a joint.
|
Mud Cracks
Cracks developing from the normal shrinkage of
an emulsion coating when applied too heavily.
|
Mudsill
A wood foundation member, usually a pressure
treated 2x4 or 2x6, bolted to the foundation and
on which other framing members can be attached.
|
Mullion
A vertical bar or divider in the frame between
windows, doors, or other openings that supports
and holds such items as panels, glass, sash, or
sections of a curtain wall.
|
Muntins
Horizontal or vertical bars that divide the sash
frame into smaller lights of glass. Muntins are
smaller in dimensions and weight than mullions.
|
Muriatic
Acid
Commonly used as a brick cleaner after masonry
work is completed.
|
Mushroom
An unacceptable occurrence when the top of a
caisson concrete pier spreads out and hardens to
become wider than the foundation wall thickness.
|
N
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NACHI
Foundation
A Maryland based charitable organization funded
by members of the National Association of
Certified Home Inspectors.
|
Nailer
A piece of lumber secured to non-nailable decks
and walls by bolts or other means, which
provides a suitable backing onto which roof
components may be mechanically fastened.
|
Natural
Finish
A transparent finish which does not seriously
alter the original color or grain of the natural
wood. Natural finishes are usually provided by
sealers, oils, varnishes, water-repellent
preservatives, and other similar materials.
|
Neat Plaster
A base coat plaster which does not contain
aggregates and is used where the addition of
aggregates on the job is desired.
|
NEC
(National Electrical Code)
A set of rules governing safe wiring methods.
Local codeswhich are backed by lawmay differ
from the NEC in some ways.
|
Neoprene
A synthetic rubber having physical properties
closely resembling those of natural rubber. It
is made by polymerizing chloroprenes, which are
produced from acetylene and hydrogen chloride.
|
Nesting
A method of re-roofing with new asphalt shingles
over old shingles in which the top edge of the
new shingles is butted against the bottom edge
of the existing shingle tab.
|
Neutral Wire
Usually color-coded white, the neutral wire
carries electricity from an outlet back to the
service panel. Also see Hot Wire and Ground.
|
Newel
A post to which the end of a stair railing or
balustrade is fastened. Also, any post to which
a railing or balustrade is fastened.
|
Nipple
A short pipe installed between fittings. A pipe
coupling that is threaded on both ends.
|
NM
A type of Romex cable (nonmetallic sheathed
cable that contains several conductors). The
cable, which is flame-retardant, is limited to
use in dry locations only and can not be exposed
to excessive moisture.
|
NMC (Non
Metallic Conduit)
A type of Romex cable (nonmetallic sheathed
cable that contains several conductors). NMC may
be used in damp or corrosive locations as well
as dry areas.
|
No-Cutout
Shingles
Shingles consisting of a single, solid tab with
no cutouts.
|
Nominal Size
Size used for identification only; not literal
dimensions.
|
Non-Bearing
Wall
A wall supporting no load other than its own
weight.
|
Non-Destructive
A phrase describing a method of examining the
interior of a component whereby no damage is
done to the component itself.
|
Non-Drying
(Non-Curing)
A sealant that does not set up or cure. See
Butyl.
|
Non-fibered
Aluminum Roof Coating
Thin but efficient reflective barrier to reflect
sun's harmful rays and prolong surface life.
Also works on metal surfaces.
|
Non-Sag
A sealant formulation having a consistency that
will permit application in vertical joints
without appreciable sagging or slumping. This
performance characteristic allows the sealant to
be installed in a sloped or vertical joint
application without appreciable sagging or
slumping.
|
Non-Skinning
Descriptive of a product that does not form a
surface skin.
|
Non-Staining
Characteristic of a compound that will not stain
a surface.
|
Non-Veneer
Panel
Any wood-based panel that does not contain
veneer and carries an APA span rating, such as
wafer board or oriented strand board.
|
Nonfibered
Roof and Foundation Coating
Dual purposed, this thin-viscosity material
doubles as a nonfibered roof or foundation
coating.
|
Normal Slope
Application
Method of installing asphalt shingles on roof
slopes between 4 inches and 21 inches per foot.
|
Nosing
The projecting edge of a molding or drip.
Usually applied to the projecting molding on the
edge of a stair tread.
|
Notch
A crosswise rabbet at the end of a board.
|
Note
A formal document showing the existence of a
debt and stating the terms of repayment.
|
Nozzle
The tubular tip of a caulking gun through which
the compound is extruded.
|
Nuclear
Meter
A device used to detect moisture by measuring
slowed, deflected neutrons.
|
O
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|
O-Ring
Round rubber washer or gasket that is compressed
to create a watertight seal, typically in a
compression fitting.
|
O. G. (or
Ogee)
A molding with a profile in the form of a letter
S; having the outline of a reversed curve.
|
Oakum
Loose hemp or jute fiber that is impregnated
with tar or pitch and used to caulk large seams
or for packing plumbing pipe joints.
|
OD (Outside
Diameter)
A measurement of the diameter of a pipe as taken
from the outside edge. A common method for
sizing pipe.
|
Offset
A tubular component which permits the offsetting
of a drainage run in the same basic direction.
|
Ohmmeter
In electrical contracting, a device to measure
the resistance across a load. They are never
used on a live circuit. Used to track down
broken wires.
|
Oil-Canning
The term describing distortion of thin-gauge
metal panels which are fastened in a manner
restricting normal thermal movement.
|
On Center
(O.C.)
A measurement term meaning a certain distance
between like materials. Studs rafters, joists,
and the like in a building placed at 16 inches
O.C. will be laid out so that there is 16 inches
from the center of one stud to the center of the
next.
|
Open Hole
Inspection
When an engineer (or municipal inspector)
inspects the open excavation and examines the
earth to determine the type of foundation
(caisson, footer, wall on ground, etc.) that
should be installed in the hole.
|
Open Valley
Method of valley construction in which shingles
on both sides of the valley are trimmed along a
chalk line snapped on each side of the valley.
Shingles do not extend across the valley. Valley
flashing is exposed.
|
Organic
A term designating any chemical compound which
contains carbon and hydrogen.
|
Organic Felt
An asphalt roofing base material manufactured
from cellulose fibers.
|
Oriented
Strand Board (OSB, Chip Board, Wafer Board)
A manufactured wood panel made out of 1"- 2"
wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute
for plywood in the exterior wall and roof
sheathing.
|
Outrigger
An extension of a rafter beyond the wall line.
Usually a smaller member nailed to a larger
rafter to form a cornice or roof overhang.
|
Overhang
That part of the roof structure which extends
horizontally beyond the vertical plane of the
exterior walls of a building.
|
Oxidize
To combine with oxygen in the air.
|
P
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P Trap
P-shaped section of drain pipe that prevents
sewer odors from escaping into your home. Water
is trapped in the pipe blocking gases from
escaping through the drain.
|
Pad Out,
Pack Out
To shim out or add strips of wood to a wall or
ceiling in order that the finished ceiling/wall
will appear correct.
|
Padding
A material installed under carpet to add foot
comfort, isolate sound, and to prolong carpet
life.
|
Paint
A combination of pigments with suitable thinners
or oils to provide decorative and protective
coatings.
|
Pallets
Wooden platforms used for storing and shipping
bundles of shingles.
|
Panel
In house construction, a thin flat piece of
wood, plywood, or similar material, framed by
stiles and rails as in a door or fitted into
grooves of thicker material with molded edges
for decorative wall treatment.
|
Parapet Wall
A low wall around the perimeter of a roof deck.
|
Parge Coat
A thin application of plaster for coating a
wall.
|
Parking
Strip
The area in front of a building between the
sidewalk and the street usually landscaped with
grass. The parking strip serves as a buffer
between the road and pedestrians walking on the
sidewalk.
|
Parting Stop
or Strip
A small wood piece used in the side and head
jambs of double-hung windows to separate upper
and lower sash.
|
Partition
A wall that subdivides spaces within any story
of a building.
|
Patterned
Glass
A type of rolled glass having a pattern
impressed on one or both sides. Used extensively
for light control, bath enclosures and
decorative glazing. Sometimes call "rolled,"
"figured," or "obscure" glass.
|
Paver Stones
Usually pre-cast concrete slabs used to create a
traffic surface.
|
Payment
Schedule
A pre-agreed upon schedule of payments to a
contractor usually based upon the amount of work
completed. Such a schedule may include a deposit
prior to the start of work. Payments are often
scheduled for the beginning of the month and
allow the contractor to subcontractors and
suppliers by the 10th of the month. There may
also be a temporary 'holdout' at the end of the
contract for any small items which have not been
completed.
|
Pedestal
Lavatory
A lavatory in which the bowl is supported by a
single pedestal leg.
|
Penalty
Clause
A provision in a contract that provides for a
reduction in the amount otherwise payable under
a contract to a contractor as a penalty for
failure to meet deadlines or for failure of the
project to meet contract specifications.
|
Penny
As applied to nails, it originally indicated the
price per hundred. The term now serves as a
measure of nail length and is abbreviated by the
letter "D."
|
Penthouse
A relatively small structure built above the
plane of the roof.
|
Percolation
Test (Perc Test)
Tests that a soil engineer performs on earth to
determine the feasibility of installing a leech
field type sewer system on a lot. A test to
determine if the soil on a proposed building lot
is capable of absorbing the liquid affluent from
a septic system.
|
Performance
and Payment Bond
Guaranty by a surety company that if a
contractor fails to perform under a contract,
the surety company will complete the work.
|
Performance
Bond
An amount of money (usually 10% of the total
price of a job) that a contractor must put on
deposit with a governmental agency as an
insurance policy that guarantees the
contractors' proper and timely completion of a
project or job.
|
Perimeter
Drain
3" or 4" perforated plastic pipe that goes
around the perimeter (either inside or outside)
of a foundation wall (before backfill) and
collects and diverts ground water away from the
foundation. Generally, it is "daylighted" into a
sump pit inside the home, and a sump pump is
sometimes inserted into the pit to discharge any
accumulation of water.
|
Perlite
An aggregate formed by heating and expanding
siliceous volcanic glass.
|
Perm
A measure of water vapor movement through a
material (grains per square foot per hour per
inch of mercury difference in vapor pressure).
|
Permanent
Set
The amount by which a material fails to return
to its original dimensions after being deformed
by an applied force or load.
|
Photo-Oxidation
Oxidation caused by rays of the sun.
|
Pier
A column of masonry, usually rectangular in
horizontal cross section, used to support other
structural members.
|
Pier Block
A concrete block used to support foundation
members such as posts, beams, girders and joist.
|
Pigment
A powdered solid in suitable degree of
subdivision for use in paint or enamel.
|
Pigtails,
Electrical
The electric cord that the electrician provides
and installs on an appliance such as a garbage
disposal, dishwasher, or range hood.
|
Pilot Hole
A small-diameter, pre-drilled hole that guides a
nail or screw.
|
Pilot Light
A small, continuous flame (in a hot water
heater, boiler, or furnace) that ignites gas or
oil burners when needed.
|
Pitch
(a) The incline slope of a roof or the ratio of
the total rise to the total width of a house,
i.e., an 8-foot rise and 24-foot width is a
one-third pitch roof. Roof slope is expressed in
the inches of rise per foot of run. A term
frequently used to designate coal tar pitch.
|
Pitch Pan or
Pitch Pocket
A container, usually formed of sheet metal,
around supporting connections with roof-mounted
machinery. Filling the container with pitch, or
better yet, plastic roof cement, helps seal out
water even when vibration is present.
|
Pitch Pocket
An opening extending parallel to the annual
rings of growth, that usually contains, or has
contained, either solid or liquid pitch.
|
Pith
The small, soft core at the original center of a
tree around which wood formation takes place.
|
PITI
Principal, interest, taxes and insurance (the
four major components of monthly housing
payments).
|
Plan
Submittal
Submission of construction plans to the city or
county in order to obtain a Building Permit.
|
Plans
See Blue Prints.
|
Plaster
Grounds
Strips of wood used as guides or strike off
edges around window and door openings and at
base of walls.
|
Plastic Roof
Cement
Used as a waterproofing medium in new
construction and as a general-purpose exterior
repair and maintenance material. Stops roof and
other leaks fast. Available in both summer and
winter grades.
|
Plat
A map of a geographical area as recorded by the
county.
|
Plate Line
The top horizontal line of a building wall upon
which the roof rests.
|
Platform
Framing (Platform Construction)
A system of framing a building in which floor
joists of each story rest on the top plates of
the story below or on the foundation sill for
the first story, and the bearing walls and
partitions rest on the subfloor of each story.
(Usually one story constitutes a platform.)
|
Plenum (or
Plenum Chamber)
Chamber or container for moving air under a
slight positive pressure to which one or more
ducts are connected.
|
Plot Plan
A birds eye view showing how a building sits on
the building lot, typically showing setbacks
(how far the building must sit from the road),
easements, rights of way, and drainage.
|
Plough
To cut a lengthwise groove in a board or plank.
|
Plumb
Exactly perpendicular; vertical.
|
Plumb Bob
A lead weight attached to a string. It is the
tool used in determining plumb.
|
Plumbing
Boots
Metal saddles used to strengthen a bearing
wall/vertical stud(s) where a plumbing drain
line has been cut through and installed.
|
Plumbing
Ground
The plumbing drain and waste lines that are
installed beneath a basement floor.
|
Plumbing
Jacks
Sleeves that fit around drain and waste vent
pipes at and are nailed to the roof sheeting.
|
Plumbing
Rough
Work performed by the plumbing contractor after
the Rough Heat is installed. This work includes
installing all plastic ABS drain and waste
lines, copper water lines, bath tubs, shower
pans, and gas piping to furnaces and fireplaces.
Lead solder should not be used on copper piping.
|
Plumbing
Stack
A plumbing vent pipe that penetrates the roof.
|
Plumbing
Trim
Work performed by the plumbing contractor to get
the home ready for a final plumbing inspection.
Includes installing all toilets (water closets),
hot water heaters, sinks, connecting all gas
pipe to appliances, disposal, dishwasher, and
all plumbing items.
|
Plumbing
Waste Line
Plastic pipe used to collect and drain sewage
waste.
|
Ply
A term to denote the number of thicknesses or
layers of roofing felt, veneer in plywood, or
layers in built-up materials, in any finished
piece of such material.
|
Ply Sheet
A layer in built-up roofing.
|
Plywood
A piece of wood made of three or more layers of
veneer joined with glue, and usually laid with
the grain of adjoining plies at right angles.
Almost always an odd number of plies are used to
provide balanced construction.
|
Pocket
(Channel)
A three-sided, U-shaped opening in a sash or
frame to receive glazing infill. Contrasted to a
rabbet, which is a two-sided, L-shaped sections
as with face glazed window sash.
|
Point Load
A point where a bearing/structural weight is
concentrated and transferred to the foundation.
|
Pointing
The process where joints between masonry units,
brick, etc., are filled with mortar.
|
Polished
Wired Glass
Wired glass that has been ground and polished on
both surfaces.
|
Polymer
A substance consisting of large molecules which
have been formed from smaller molecules of
similar make-up.
|
Polysulfide
Sealant
Polysulfide liquid polymer sealant which is
mercaptan terminated, long chain aliphatic
polymers containing disulfide linkages. They can
be converted to rubbers at room temperature
without shrinkage upon addition of a curing
agent.
|
Polyurethane
Sealant
An organic compound formed by reaction of a
glycol with an isocyanate.
|
Polyvinyl
Chloride (PVC)
Polymer formed by polymerization of vinyl
chloride monomer. Sometimes called vinyl.
|
Ponding
A condition where water stands on a roof for
prolonged periods due to poor drainage and/or
deflection of the deck.
|
Pop Rivets
Fasteners used to join pieces of metal that are
installed by either compressed-air-assisted or
hand-operated guns. Unique in that they are
installed from one side of the work.
|
Pop-Out
See Stucco Pop-Out.
|
Pores
Wood cells of comparatively large diameter that
have open ends and are set one above the other
to form continuous tubes. The openings of the
vessels on the surface of a piece of wood are
referred to as pores.
|
Porosity
The density of substance and its capacity to
pass liquids.
|
Portland
Cement
A mixture of certain minerals which when mixed
with water form a gray colored paste and cure
into a very hard mass.
|
Post
A vertical member of wood, steel, concrete or
other material that transfers weight from the
top of the post to whatever the post is resting
on.
|
Post & Beam
Construction
Most common type of wall framing, using posts
which carry horizontal beams on which joists are
supported. It allows for fewer bearing
partitions and less material.
|
Post-and-Beam
A basic building method that uses just a few
hefty posts and beams to support an entire
structure. Contrasts with stud framing.
|
Pot-Life
The time interval following the addition of an
accelerator before chemically curing material
will become too viscous to apply satisfactorily.
See Shelf Life.
|
Potable
Water that is safe to drink.
|
Powder Coat
A technique for applying paint to metal
surfaces. The metal is covered with a powder of
dry paint particles and is baked in an oven.
This causes the powder to melt and harden into a
tough, colorful finish.
|
Power
The energy rate, usually measured in watts.
Power equals voltage times amps, or W = E x 1.
The heavier the flow of amps at a given supply,
the higher the rate at which energy is being
supplied and used.
|
Power Vent
A vent that includes a fan to speed up air flow.
Often installed on roofs.
|
Pre-Shimed
Tape Sealant
A sealant having a pre-formed shape containing
solids or discrete particles that limit its
deformation under compression.
|
Precast
Concrete building components which are formed
and cured at a factory and then transported to a
work site for erection.
|
Premium
Amount payable on a loan.
|
Preservative
Any substance that, for a reasonable length of
time, will prevent the action of wood-destroying
fungi, borers of various kinds, and similar
destructive agents when the wood has been
properly coated or impregnated with it.
|
Pressure
Tank
Used in conjuction with wells to maintain
pressure.
|
Pressure-Reducing Valve
Valve installed in the water service line where
it enters the building to reduce the pressure of
water in the line to an acceptable pressure used
in buildings (40-55 psi desired).
|
Pressure-Relief Valve
Valve to relieve excess pressure in water
storage tanks.
|
Pressure-Treated Lumber
Lumber that is treated in such a way that the
sealer is forced into the pores of the wood.
|
Primer
A material of relatively thin consistency
applied to a surface for the purpose of creating
a more secure bonding surface and to form a
barrier to prevent migration of components. The
first coat of paint in a paint job that consists
of two or more coats. Also, the paint used for
such a first coat.
|
Priming
Sealing of a porous surface so that compounds
will not stain, lose elasticity, shrink
excessively, etc. because of loss of oil or
vehicle into the surround.
|
Principal
The original amount of the loan, the capital.
|
Projection
In roofing, any object or equipment which
pierces the roof membrane.
|
Property
Survey
A survey to determine the boundaries of a
property. The cost depends on the complexity of
the survey.
|
Protection
Board
In roofing, heavy asphalt impregnated boards
which are laid over bituminous coatings to
protect against mechanical injury.
|
Pump Mix
Special concrete that will be used in a concrete
pump. Generally, the mix has smaller rock
aggregate than regular mix.
|
Punch List
A list of discrepancies that need to be
corrected by the contractor.
|
Punch Out
To inspect and make a discrepancy list.
|
Purlins
A horizontal structural member spanning between
beams or trusses to support a roof deck. In
slope glazing, purlins are the horizontal
framing members.
|
Push Stick
In hardware, a tool used when cutting a short
board on a table saw.
|
Putty
A type of cement usually made of whiting and
boiled linseed oil, beaten or kneaded to the
consistency of dough, and used in sealing glass
in sash, filling small holes and crevices in
wood, and for similar purposes.
|
PVC or CPVC
(PolyVinyl Choride)
A type of white plastic pipe sometimes used for
water supply lines.
|
PVD
(Physical Vapor Deposition)
A very durable titanium or zirconium coating
that resists tarnish, scratches, and corrosion.
It is used mostly to protect faucets with a
brass finish.
|
PVDF
Architectural coating. See Kynar Coating.
|
Q
[Back to Top]
|
Quarry Tile
A man-made or machine-made clay tile used to
finish a floor or wall. Generally 6"X6"X1/4"
thick .
|
Quarter
Round
A small molding that has the cross section of a
quarter circle.
|
Quartersawn
Grain
Another term for edge grain.
|
Quick-Setting Cement
An asphalt-based cement used to adhere tabs of
strip shingles to the course below. Also used to
adhere roll roofing laps applied by the
concealed nail method.
|
Quote or
Quotation
A price provided by a contractor,
sub-contractor, or vendor to funish materials,
labor and/or both. Quotes differ from estimates
in that an estimate is a best guess of the cost
involved.
|
R
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|
R-Value
The thermal resistance of a glazing system. The
R-value is the reciprocal of the U-value. The
higher the R value, the less heat is transmitted
throughout the glazing material.
|
Rabbet
A rectangular, longitudinal groove cut in the
corner edge of a board or plank.
|
Radial Saw
A circular saw which hangs from a horizontal arm
or beam and slides back and forth. The arm
pivots from side to side to allow for angle cuts
and bevels. When sawing finish plywood, the good
side should face up as the saw cuts on the down
stroke.
|
Radiant
Heating
A method of heating, usually consisting of a
forced hot water system with pipes placed in the
floor, wall, or ceiling, or with electrically
heated panels.
|
Radiation
Any heated surface loses heat to cooler
surrounding space or surfaces through radiation.
The earth receives its heat from the sun by
radiation. The heat rays are turned into heat as
they strike an object which will absorb some or
all of the heat transmitted.
|
Radiator
A heating unit which is supplied heat through a
hot water system.
|
Radon
A naturally-occurring, radioactive gas which is
heavier than air and is common in many parts of
the country. Radon gas exposure is associated
with lung cancer. Mitigation measures may
involve crawl space and basement venting and
various forms of vapor barriers.
|
Radon System
A ventilation system beneath the floor of a
basement and/or structural wood floor and
designed to fan exhaust radon gas to the outside
of the home.
|
Rafter
A sloping roof member that supports the roof
covering which extends from the ridge or the hip
of the roof to the eaves. A common rafter is one
which runs square with the plate and extends to
the ridge. A hip rafter extends from the outside
angle of the plate towards the apex of the roof.
They are 2" deeper or wider than common rafters.
A valley rafter extends from an inside angle of
the plates toward the ridge of the house.
|
Rafter Tail
The portion of a rafter that extends past the
building to form the eaves.
|
Rafter, Hip
A rafter that forms the intersection of an
external roof angle.
|
Rafter,
Valley
A rafter that forms the intersection of an
internal roof angle. The valley rafter is
normally made of double 2-inch-thick members.
|
Raggle Block
A specially designed masonry block having a slot
or opening into which the top edge of the roof
flashing is inserted and anchored.
|
Rail
Cross members of panel doors or of a sash. Also
the upper and lower members of a balustrade or
staircase extending from one vertical support,
such as a post, to another.
|
Railroad Tie
Black, tar and preservative impregnated, 6"x8"
and 6'-8' long wooden timber that was used to
hold railroad track in place. Normally used as a
member of a retaining wall.
|
Rake
Trim members that run parallel to the roof slope
and form the finish between the wall and a gable
roof extension. The angle of slope of a roof
rafter, or the inclined portion of a cornice.
|
Rake Edge
The overhang of an inclined roof plane beyond
the vertical wall below it.
|
Rake Fascia
The vertical face of the sloping end of a roof
eave.
|
Rake Siding
The practice of installing lap siding
diagonally.
|
Ranch
A single story, one level home.
|
Random-Tab
Shingles
Shingles on which tabs vary in size and
exposure.
|
Rankin
Thermometer scale on which unit of measurement
equals the Fahrenheit degree.
|
Raw Linseed
Oil
The crude product processed from flaxseed and
usually without much subsequent treatment.
|
Ready Mixed
Concrete
Concrete mixed at a plant or in trucks en route
to a job and delivered ready for placement.
|
Rebar
Reinforcing bar used to increase the tensile
strength of concrete.
|
Receptacle
An electrical outlet. A typical household will
have many 120 volt receptacles for plugging in
lams and appliances and 240 volt receptacles for
the range, clothes dryer, air conditioners, etc.
|
Recording
Fee
A charge for recording the transfer of a
property, paid to a city, county, or other
appropriate branch of government.
|
Redline, Red
Lined Prints
Blueprints that reflect changes and that are
marked with red pencil.
|
Reducer
See bushing.
|
Reflective
Glass
Glass with a metallic coating to reduce solar
heat gain.
|
Reflective
Insulation
Sheet material with one or both sun faces of
comparatively low heat emissivity, such as
aluminum foil. When used in building
construction the surfaces face air spaces,
reducing the radiation across the air space.
|
Refrigerant
A substance that remains a gas at low
temperatures and pressure and can be used to
transfer heat. Freon is an example and is used
in air conditioning systems.
|
Register
A fixture through which conditioned air flows.
In a gravity heating system, it is located near
the baseboard. In an air conditioning system, it
is located close to the thermostat.
|
Reglaze
To replace a broken window.
|
Reglet
A horizontal slot, formed or cut in a parapet or
other masonry wall, into which the top edge of
counter-flashing can be inserted and anchored.
In glazing, a reglet is typically a pocket or
keyway extruded into the framing for installing
the glazing gaskets.
|
Reinforced
Concrete
A combination of steel and concrete using the
best properties of each. The steel consists of
rebar or reinforcing bars varying from 3/8 " to
2 1/4 " in diameter and is placed before
concrete is poured.
|
Reinforced
Masonry
Masonry units, reinforcing steel, grout and/or
mortar combined to act together to strengthen
the masonry structure.
|
Reinforcing
Steel rods or metal fabric placed in concrete
slabs, beams, or columns to increase their
strength.
|
Relative
Heat Gain
The amount of heat gain through a glass product
taking into consideration the effects of solar
heat gain (shading coefficient) and conductive
heat gain (U-value).
|
Relative
Humidity
The amount of water vapor in the atmosphere,
expressed as a percentage of the maximum
quantity that could be present at a given
temperature. (The actual amount of water vapor
that can be held in space increases with the
temperature.)
|
Release Tape
A plastic or paper strip that is applied to the
back of self-sealing shingles. This strip
prevents the shingles from sticking together in
the bundles, and need not be removed for
application.
|
Remote
Remote electrical, gas, or water meter digital
readouts that are installed near the front of
the home in order for utility companies to
easily read the home owners usage of the
service.
|
Resilient
Flooring
A durable floor cover that has the ability to
resume its original shape.
|
Resistance
The internal structure of wires even in the best
conductors opposes the flow of electric current
and converts some current into heat. This
internal friction-like effect is called
resistance and is measured in ohms. Resistance
equals Voltage divided by Amperage.
|
Resorcinol
Glue
A glue that is high in both wet and dry strength
and resistant to high temperatures. It is used
for gluing lumber or assembly joints that must
withstand severe service conditions.
|
Retaining
Wall
A structure that holds back a slope and prevents
erosion.
|
Retentions
Amounts withheld from progress billings until
final and satisfactory project completion.
|
Return
In heating and cooling systems, a vent that
returns cold air to be warmed. In a hot air
furnace system, it is located near an inside
wall.
|
Ribbon (or
Girt)
Normally a 1"x4" board let into the studs
horizontally to support ceiling or second-floor
joists.
|
Ridge
The horizontal line at the junction of the top
edges of two sloping roof surfaces.
|
Ridge Board
The board placed on edge at the ridge of the
roof into which the upper ends of the rafters
are fastened.
|
Ridge Cut
The end cut on a rafter that fits to the
ridgeboard.
|
Ridgeboards
Horizontal support at the ridge of a roof to
which opposing rafters are attached.
|
Rigid Metal
Conduit
This conduit resembles plumbing pipe, protecting
wires from damage.
|
Rise
In stairs, the vertical height of a step or
flight of stairs.
|
Riser
Each of the vertical boards closing the spaces
between the treads of stairways.
|
Road Base
An aggregate mixture of sand and stone.
|
Rock 1, 2, 3
When referring to drywall, this means to install
drywall to the walls and ceilings (with nails
and screws), and before taping is performed.
|
Roll Roofing
Roofing material, composed of fiber and satin
rated with asphalt, that is supplied in 36-inch
wide rolls with 108 square feet of material.
Weights are generally 45 to 90 pounds per roll.
|
Roll,
Rolling
To install the floor joists or trusses in their
correct place. (To "roll the floor" means to
install the floor joists).
|
Roof Deck
See deck.
|
Roof
Sheathing
The boards or sheet material fastened to the
roof rafters on which the shingle or other roof
covering is laid.
|
Roof System
General term referring to the waterproof
covering, roof insulation, vapor barrier, if
used and roof deck as an entity.
|
Roofing Tape
An asphalt-saturated tape used with asphalt
cements for flashing and patching asphalt
roofing.
|
Root Cellar
Food storage area with a dirt floor.
|
Rough
In hardware, metal fastenings on cabinets which
are usually concealed, like staples.
|
Rough
Flooring
Materials used to form an unfinished floor.
Floor sheathing.
|
Rough
Opening
The opening in a wall into which a door or
window is to be installed.
|
RPM
Revolutions per Minute.
|
Rubber
Emulsion Paint
Paint, the vehicle of which consists of rubber
or synthetic rubber dispersed in fine droplets
in water.
|
Rubber-Tired
Roller
A roller with rubber tires commonly used for
compacting trimmed subgrade or aggregate base or
clay type soils.
|
Run
(Roofing)
The horizontal distance between the eaves and
the ridge of the roof, being half the span for a
symmetrical gable roof. Also, the net width of a
step or the horizontal distance covered by a
flight of stairs.
|
S
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|
Saber Saw
A saw that cuts on the upstroke, good side of
wood faces down.
|
Sack Mix
The amount of Portland cement in a cubic yard of
concrete mix. Generally, 5 or 6 sack is required
in a foundation wall.
|
Saddle
Two sloping surfaces meeting in a horizontal
ridge, used between the back side of a chimney,
or other vertical surface, and a sloping roof.
|
Sand Float
Finish
Lime mixed with sand, resulting in a textured
finish.
|
Sanitary
Sewer
A sewer system designed for the collection of
waste water from the bathroom, kitchen and
laundry drains, and is usually not designed to
handle storm water.
|
Sanitary T
Used on the waste side of plumbing to keep
effluent flowing the correct direction.
|
Sapwood
The outer zone of wood, next to the bark. In the
living tree it contains some living cells (the
heartwood contains none), as well as dead and
dying cells. In most species, it is lighter
colored than the heartwood. In all species, it
is lacking in decay resistance.
|
Sash
A single light frame containing one or more
lights of glass.
|
Sash Balance
A device, usually operated by a spring or
tensioned weatherstripping designed to
counterbalance double-hung window sash.
|
Saturant
Asphalt used to impregnate a felt-base material.
|
Saturated
Felt
A felt which is impregnated with tar or asphalt.
|
SBS-Modified
Asphalt that has been combined with SBS
(styrene-butadiene-styrene) polymers to increase
its elasticity.
|
Scale
The relationship between actual measurements on
a page of plans or blue prints and the actual
measurements of the building represented by the
plans or blue prints.
|
Schedule
(Window, Door, Mirror)
A table on the blueprints that list the sizes,
quantities and locations of the windows, doors
and mirrors.
|
Scrap Out
The removal of all drywall material and debris
after the home is "hung out" (installed) with
drywall.
|
Scratch Coat
The first coat of plaster, which is scratched to
form a bond for the second coat.
|
Screed or
Screeding
The wood or metal straightedge used to strike
off or level newly placed concrete when doing
cement work. Screeds can be the leveling device
used or the form work used to level or establish
the level of the concrete. Screeds can be hand
used or mechanical.
|
Scribing
Fitting woodwork to an irregular surface. In
moldings, cutting the end of one piece to fit
the molded face of the other at an interior
angle to replace a miter joint.
|
Scrim
A woven or mat-type fabric that is used as a
membrane sandwich between other material to
provide reinforcement and stretch resistance.
|
Scupper
An outlet in the wall of a building or a parapet
wall for drainage of water from a flat roof.
|
Scutch
A bricklayers cutting tool used for dressing
and trimming brick to a special shape. It
resembles a small pick.
|
Sealant
An elastomeric material with adhesive qualities
applied between components of a similar or
dissimilar nature to provide an effective
barrier against the passage of the elements.
|
Sealer
A finishing material, either clear or pigmented,
that is usually applied directly over uncoated
wood for the purpose of sealing the surface.
|
Seasoning
Removing moisture from green wood in order to
improve its serviceability.
|
Seat
The fixed part of a valve. The stem assembly
will move up and down against the seat to open
and close the valve.
|
Self Rimming
A style of bathroom lavatory or kitchen sink
with a finished lip or rim that installs on top
of a counter without requiring a metal sink rim.
|
Self-Healing
A term used to describe to a material which
melts with the heat from the sun's rays, and
seals over cracks that were earlier formed from
other causes. Some waterproof membranes are
self-healing.
|
Self-Leveling
A term used to describe a viscous material that
is applied by pouring. In its uncured state, it
spreads out evenly.
|
Selvage
The unsurfaced strip along a sheet of roll
roofing which forms the under portion at the lap
in the application of the roof covering.
|
Semigloss
(Paint or Enamel)
A paint or enamel made with a slight
insufficiency of nonvolatile vehicle so that its
coating, when dry, has some luster but is not
very glossy.
|
Separation
In concrete application, when concrete is
dropped directly with a flat chute causing the
concrete to separate, usually occurring at a 1:2
slope.
|
Service
Conductor
In electrical contracting, the supply conductors
that extend from the street main or from the
transformer to the service equipment.
|
Service Drop
In electrical contracting, the overhead service
conductors from the last pole or other aerial
support to and including the splices, if any,
connecting to the service entrance conductors at
the building.
|
Setback
Thermostat
A thermostat with a clock which can be
programmed to various temperatures at different
times of the day/week. Usually used as the
heating or cooling system thermostat.
|
Setting
Blocks
Generally rectangular cured extrusions of
neoprene, EPDM, silicone, rubber or other
suitable material on which the glass product
bottom edge is placed to effectively support the
weight of the glass.
|
Settlement
Shifts in a structure, usually caused by
freeze-thaw cycles underground.
|
Sewage
Ejector
A pump used to 'lift' waste water to a gravity
sanitary sewer line. Usually used in basements
and other locations which are situated bellow
the level of the side sewer.
|
Sewer
Lateral
The portion of the sanitary sewer which connects
the interior waste water lines to the main sewer
lines. The side sewer is usually buried in
several feet of soil and runs from the house to
the sewer line. It is usually 'owned' by the
sewer utility, must be maintained by the owner
and may only be serviced by utility approved
contractors. Sometimes called side sewer.
|
Sewer Stub
The junction at the municipal sewer system where
the home's sewer line is connected.
|
Sewer Tap
The physical connection point where the home's
sewer line connects to the main municipal sewer
line.
|
Shading
Slight differences in shingle color that may
occur as a result of normal manufacturing
operations.
|
Shading
Coefficient
The ratio of the solar heat gain through a
specific glass product to the solar heat gain
through a lite of 1/8" (3mm) clear glass.
|
Shake
A thick handsplit shingle, resawed to form two
shakes; usually edge-grained.
|
Sheathing
The structural covering, usually wood boards,
plywood, gypsum or wood fiber, used over studs
or rafters of framed buildings as the first
layer of outer wall covering nailed to the studs
or rafters.
|
Sheathing
Paper
A building material, generally paper or felt,
used in wall and roof construction as a
protection against the passage of air and
sometimes moisture.
|
Shed Roof
A roof having only one slope or pitch, with only
one set of rafters which fall from a higher to a
lower wall.
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Sheet Metal
Duct Work
The heating system. Usually round or rectangular
metal pipes and sheet metal (for return Aar) and
installed for distributing warm (or cold) air
from the furnace to rooms in the home.
|
Sheet Metal
Work
All components of a house employing sheet metal,
such as flashing, gutters, and downspouts.
|
Sheetrock
Panels made primarily from gypsum installed over
the framing to form the interior walls and
ceilings. Sheetrock is often called gypsum
board.
|
Shelf-Life
Used in the glazing and sealant business to
refer to the length of time a product may be
stored before beginning to lose its
effectiveness. Manufacturers usually state the
shelf life and the necessary storage conditions
on the package.
|
Shellac
A transparent coating made by dissolving lac, a
resinous secretion of the lac bug (a scale
insect that thrives in tropical countries,
especially India), in alcohol.
|
Shingles
Roof covering of asphalt, wood, tile, slate, or
other material cut to stock lengths, widths, and
thicknesses, which are laid in a series of
overlapping rows as a roof covering on pitched
roofs.
|
Shiplap
Lumber
Lumber that is edge-dressed to make a close
rabbeted or lapped joint.
|
Shore "A"
Hardness
Measure of firmness of a compound by means of a
Durometer Hardness Gauge. A hardness range of
20-25 is about the firmness of an art gum
eraser. A hardness of about 90 is about the
firmness of a rubber heel.
|
Shoring
A temporary support erected in a trench or other
excavation to support the walls from caving in.
|
Short
Circuit
A situation that occurs when hot and neutral
wires come in contact with each other. Fuses and
circuit breakers protect against fire that could
result from a short.
|
Shutoff
Valve
The valve that allows water supply to be cut off
to one fixture without affecting the water
supply to the entire house or building. Common
for use with clawfoot tubs, sinks, and toilets.
|
Shutter
Usually lightweight louvered or flush wood or
nonwood frames in the form of doors located at
each side of a window. Some are made to close
over the window for protection; others are
fastened to the wall as a decorative device.
|
Side Sewer
The portion of the sanitary sewer which connects
the interior waste water lines to the main sewer
lines. The side sewer is usually buried in
several feet of soil and runs from the house to
the sewer line. It is usually 'owned' by the
sewer utility, must be maintained by the owner
and may only be serviced by utility approved
contractors. Sometimes called sewer lateral.
|
Siding
The finish covering of the outside wall of a
frame building, whether made of horizontal
weatherboards, vertical boards with battens,
shingles, or other material.
|
Sight Line
The line along the perimeter of glazing infills
corresponding to the top edge of stationary and
removable stops. The line to which sealants
contacting the glazing infill are sometimes
finished off.
|
Silicone
Sealant
A sealant having as its chemical compound a
backbone consisting of alternating
silicon-oxygen atoms.
|
Sill
The lowest member of the frame of a structure,
resting on the foundation and supporting the
floor joists or the uprights of the wall. The
member forming the lower side of an opening, as
in a door sill, window sill, etc.
|
Sill Cock
An exterior water faucet (hose bib).
|
Sill Plate
The framing member anchored to the foundation
wall upon which studs and other framing members
will be attached. It is the bottom plate of
exterior walls.
|
Sill Seal
Fiberglass or foam insulation installed between
the foundation wall and sill (wood) plate.
Designed to seal any cracks or gaps.
|
Sill Sealer
A material placed between the top of the
foundation wall and the sill plate. Usually a
foam strip, the sill sealer helps make a better
fit and eliminate water problems.
|
Sill Step
The first step coming directly off a building at
the door openings.
|
Single
Coverage
Asphalt roofing that provides one layer of
roofing material over the deck.
|
Single
Family Dwelling (SFD)
A house built for the purpose of a single family
as opposed to multi families such as a duplex or
apartment complex.
|
Single Ply
A descriptive term signifying a roof membrane
composed of only one layer of material such as
EPDM, Hypalon or PVC.
|
Single Tee
The name given to a type of precast concrete
deck which has one stiffening rib integrally
cast into slab.
|
Skip
Sheathing
The normal base for shake, shingle and some tile
roofs. 1"x4" or similar sized boards are nailed
at 90 degree angles to the rafters leaving a
space of about 4" between each row and allowing
for better ventilation.
|
Sky Dome
A type of skylight exhibiting a characteristic
translucent plastic domed top.
|
Skylight
A structure on a roof that is designed to admit
light and is somewhat above the plane of the
roof surface.
|
Slab on
Grade
A type of construction in which footings are
needed but little or no foundation wall is
poured.
|
Slab,
Concrete
Concrete pavement, i.e. driveways, garages, and
basement floors.
|
Slab, Door
A rectangular door without hinges or frame.
|
Slag
A by-product of smelting ore such as iron, lead
or copper. Also overburden/dropping from welding
which may burn, melt, or discolor adjacent
surfaces.
|
Slate
A dark gray stratified stone cut relatively thin
and installed on pitched roofs in a shingle like
fashion.
|
Sleeper
Usually, a wood member embedded in concrete, as
in a floor, that serves to support and to fasten
subfloor or flooring.
|
Sleeve(s)
Pipe installed under the concrete driveway or
sidewalk, and that will be used later to run
sprinkler pipe or low voltage wire.
|
Slope
Incline or pitch of roof surface.
|
Sloped
Glazing
Any installation of glass that is at a slope of
15 degrees or more from vertical.
|
Sludge
Term for the waste material found in sump pump
pits, septic systems and gutters.
|
Slump
The "wetness" of concrete. A 3 inch slump is
dryer and stiffer than a 5 inch slump.
|
Slump-Test
Measures the consistency of a concrete mix or
its stiffness. If the tests results are high,
one likely cause would be too much water. Low
slump test results mean not enough water. The
test is measured in inches.
|
Smooth-Surfaced Roofing
Roll roofing that is covered with ground talc or
mica instead of granules.
|
Soffit
The underside of an overhanging cornice of a
building extending out from the plane of the
building walls.
|
Softening
Point
The temperature at which a substance changes
from a hard material to a softer and more
viscous material.
|
Soil Cover
(Ground Cover)
A light covering of plastic film, roll roofing,
or similar material used over the soil in crawl
spaces of buildings to minimize moisture
permeation of the area.
|
Soil Stack
A general term for the vertical main of a system
of soil, waste, or vent piping.
|
Sole Plate
Bottom horizontal member of a frame wall.
|
Solid
Bridging
A solid member placed between adjacent floor
joists near the center of the span to prevent
joists from twisting.
|
Sonotube
Round, large cardboard tubes designed to hold
wet concrete in place until it hardens.
|
Sound
Attenuation
Sound proofing a wall or subfloor, generally
with fiberglass insulation.
|
Space Heat
Heat supplied to the living space, for example,
to a room or the living area of a building.
|
Spacers
(Shims)
Small blocks of neoprene, EPDM, silicone or
other suitable material placed on each side of
the glass product to provide glass centering,
maintain uniform width of sealant bead and
prevent excessive sealant distortion.
|
Spalling
The chipping or flaking of concrete, bricks, or
other masonry where improper drainage or venting
and freeze/thaw cycling exists.
|
Span
The horizontal distance between structural
supports such as walls, columns, piers, beams,
girders, and trusses.
|
Spandrel
The panels of a wall located between vision
areas of windows, which conceal structural
columns, floors, and shear walls.
|
Spec Home
A house built before it is sold. The builder
speculates that he can sell it at a profit.
|
Specialty
Eaves Flashing Membrane
A self-adhering waterproofing shingle
underlayment designed to protect against water
infiltration due to ice damage or wind-driven
rain.
|
Specification
Detailed written instructions which, when clear
and concise, explain each phase of work to be
done.
|
Splash Block
A small masonry block laid with the top close to
the ground surface to receive roof drainage from
downspouts and to carry it away from the
building.
|
Splitting
The formation of long cracks completely through
a membrane. Splits are frequently associated
with lack of allowance for expansion stresses.
They can also be a result of deck deflection or
change in deck direction.
|
Spud
The removal of gravel or heavy accumulations of
bitumen from roof membranes by means of chipping
or scraping.
|
Square
A unit of measure, e.g. 100 square feet, usually
applied to roofing material. Sidewall coverings
are sometimes packed to cover 100 square feet
and are sold on that basis.
|
Square Foot
Coverage measured by multiplying width by
length. An area 5 foot long and 7 foot wide is
equal to 35 square foot.
|
Squeegie
Fine pea gravel used to grade a floor (normally
before concrete is placed).
|
Stack
The vertical pipe of a system of soil, waste or
vent piping.
|
Stack Vent
Also called a waste vent or soil vent, it is the
extension of a soil or waste stack above the
highest horizontal drain connected to the stack.
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Stain
A form of oil paint, very thin in consistency,
intended for coloring wood with rough surfaces,
such as shingles, without forming a coating of
significant thickness or gloss.
|
Stair
Carriage
Supporting member for stair treads. Usually a
2-inch plank notched to receive the treads;
sometimes called a "rough horse."
|
Standard
Practices of the Trade(s)
One of the more common basic and minimum
construction standards. This is another way of
saying that the work should be done in the way
it is normally done by the average professional
in the field.
|
Standing
Seam
A type of joint often used on metal roofs.
|
Static Load
The total amount of permanent non-moving weight
that is applied to given surface areas.
|
Static Vent
A vent that does not include a fan.
|
STC (Sound
Transmission Class)
A single number rating derived from individual
transmission losses at specified test
frequencies. It is used for interior walls,
ceilings and floors.
|
Steel
Inspection
A municipal and/or engineer's inspection of the
concrete foundation wall, conducted before
concrete is poured into the foundation panels.
Done to insure that the rebar (reinforcing bar),
rebar nets, void material, beam pocket plates,
and basement window bucks are installed and
wrapped with rebar and complies with the
foundation plan.
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Steel Trowel
Tool used for non-porous smooth finishes of
concrete. It is a flat steel tool used to spread
and smooth plaster, mortar or concrete. Pointing
trowels are small enough to be used in places
where larger trowels will not fit. The pointing
trowel has a point. The common trowel has a
rectangular blade attached to a handle. For
smooth finish, use a trowel when the concrete
begins to stiffen.
|
Stem
A small shaft or rod that projects through the
faucet valve and to which the handle is
installed.
|
Stem
Assembly
The moving part of a valve that controls the
amount and temperture of water released by
moving up and down against the seat to open and
close the valve.
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Step Croack
Hairline, "staircase"-type steps near the
corners of the foundation, usually due to normal
soil settlement. Larger such cracks may indicate
ongoing movement or sinking of the foundation
and are much more grave.
|
Step
Flashing
Individual small pieces of metal flashing
material used to flash around chimneys, dormers,
and such projections along the slope of a roof.
The individual pieces are overlapped and stepped
up the vertical surface.
|
Stick Built
A house built without prefabricated parts. Also
called conventional building.
|
Stile
An upright framing member in a panel door.
|
STL (Sound
Transmission Loss)
The reduction of the amount of sound energy
passing through a wall, floor, roof, etc. It is
related to the specific frequency at which it is
measured and it is expressed in decibels. Also
called "Transmission Loss."
|
Stool
A flat molding fitted over the window sill
between jambs and contacting the bottom rail of
the lower sash.
|
Stop
See shutoff valve.
|
Stop Box
Normally a cast iron pipe with a lid (5" in
diameter) that is placed vertically into the
ground, situated near the water tap in the yard,
and where a water cut-off valve to the home is
located (underground). A long pole with a
special end is inserted into the curb stop to
turn off/on the water.
|
Stop Order
A formal, written notification to a contractor
to discontinue some or all work on a project for
reasons such as safety violations, defective
materials or workmanship, or cancellation of the
contract.
|
Storm Door
A panel or sash door placed on the outside of an
existing door to provide additional protection
from the elements.
|
Storm Sash
or Storm Window
An extra window usually placed outside of an
existing one, as additional protection against
cold weather.
|
Storm Sewer
A sewer system designed to collect storm water
and is separated from the waste water system.
|
Storm Window
A glazed panel or sash placed on the inside or
outside of an existing sash or window as
additional protection against the elements.
|
Story
That part of a building between any floor and
the floor or roof next above.
|
Straight
Stop
A shutoff valve that is installed on a supply
line between the floor and the faucet or toilet.
Unlike an angle stop, a straight stop does not
change the direction of water flow.
|
Strain
The percentage of elongation or compression of a
material or portion of a material caused by an
applied force.
|
Striking Off
The operation of smoothing off excess compound
or sealant at sight line when applying same
around lites or panels.
|
String (or
Stringer)
A timber or other support for cross members in
floors or ceilings. In stairs, the support on
which the stair treads rest; also Stringboard.
|
String Line
A nylon line usually strung tightly between
supports to indicate both direction and
elevation, used in checking grades or deviations
in slopes or rises. Used in landscaping to level
the ground.
|
Strip
Flooring
Wood flooring consisting of narrow, matched
strips.
|
Structural
Floor
A framed lumber floor that is installed as a
basement floor instead of concrete. This is done
on very expansive soils.
|
Structural
Silicone Glazing
The use of a silicone sealant for the structural
transfer of loads from the glass to its
perimeter support system and retention of the
glass in the opening.
|
Stub
See Rough-In.
|
Stucco
A type of exterior finish. Most commonly refers
to an outside plaster made with Portland cement
as its base.
|
Stud
One of a series of wood or metal vertical
structural members placed as supporting elements
in walls and partitions.
|
Stud Framing
A building method that distributes structural
loads to each of a series of relatively
lightweight studs. Contrasts with Post-and-Beam.
|
Stud Shoe
A metal, structural bracket that reinforces a
vertical stud. Used on an outside bearing wall
where holes are drilled to accommodate a
plumbing waste line.
|
Sub-Rough
That part of a buildings plumbing system that
is done before the cement is poured.
|
Subcontractor
A contractor who specializes in a particular
trade such as waterproofing.
|
Subfloor
Boards or plywood laid on joists over which a
finish floor is to be laid.
|
Substrate
A part or substance which lies below and
supports another.
|
Sump
Pit or large plastic bucket/barrel inside the
home designed to collect ground water from a
perimeter drain system.
|
Sump Pump
A submersible pump in a sump pit that pumps any
excess ground water to the outside of the home.
|
Suspended
Ceiling
A ceiling system supported by hanging it from
the overhead structural framing.
|
Sway Brace
Metal straps or wood blocks installed diagonally
on the inside of a wall from bottom to top
plate, to prevent the wall from twisting,
racking, or falling over "domino" fashion.
|
Switch
A device that completes or disconnects an
electrical circuit.
|
T
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T Bar
A ribbed "T" shaped bar with a flat metal plate
at the bottom that is driven into the earth.
Normally used with chain link fence poles, and
to mark locations of a water meter pit.
|
Tab
The exposed portion of strip shingles defined by
cutouts.
|
Tail Beam
A relatively short beam or joist supported in a
wall on one end and by a header at the other.
|
Tailpiece
The tubular part of a lavatory drain that runs
from the drain flange to the trap.
|
Take Off
The material necessary to complete a job.
|
Taping
Applying joint tape over embedding compound in
the process of joint treatment of drywall.
|
Tear-Off
In roofing, a term used to describe the complete
removal of the built up roof membrane and
insulation down to and exposing the roof deck.
|
Teco
Metal straps that are nailed to secure the roof
rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall
plate. Sometimes called a Hurricane Clip.
|
Tee
A T-shaped fitting with three openings.
|
Tempered
Strengthened. Tempered glass will not shatter
nor create shards, but will "pelletize" like an
automobile window. Required in tub and shower
enclosures, entry door glass, sidelight glass
and in windows where the window sill is less
than 16" to the floor.
|
Termite
Shield
A shield, usually of non-corrodible metal,
placed in or on a foundation wall or other mass
of masonry or around pipes to prevent passage of
termites.
|
Termites
Insects that superficially resemble ants in
size, general appearance, and habit of living in
colonies; hence, they are frequently called
"white ants." Subterranean termites establish
themselves in buildings not by being carried in
with lumber, but by entering from ground nests
after the building has been constructed. If
unmolested, they eat the woodwork, leaving a
shell of sound wood to conceal their activities,
and damage may proceed so far as to cause
collapse of parts of a structure before
discovery. There are about 56 species of
termites known in the United States but the two
major ones, classified by the manner in which
they attack wood, are ground inhabiting or
subterranean termites (the most common) and dry
wood termites, which are found almost
exclusively along the extreme southern border
and the Gulf of Mexico in the United States.
|
Terneplate
Sheet iron or steel coated with an alloy of lead
and tin.
|
Terracotta
A ceramic material molded into masonry units.
|
Texture
Paint
Paint which may be manipulated by brush, trowel
or other to give various patterns.
|
Thermal
Insulation
Any material high in resistance to heat
transmission that, when placed in the walls,
ceiling, or floors of a structure, will reduce
the rate of heat flow.
|
Thermal
Movement
The measured amount of dimensional change that a
material exhibits as it is warmed or cooled.
|
Thermal
Shock
The stress built up by sudden and appreciable
changes in temperature.
|
Thermopane
Window
Compased of a double layer of glass positioned
side by side with a thin strip of foam material
bonding the two layers of window glass together
to form the storm window design.
|
Thermoplastic Material
Solid material which is softened by increasing
temperatures and hardened by decreasing
temperatures.
|
Thermoply
Exterior laminated sheathing nailed to the
exterior side of the exterior walls. Normally Ό"
thick, 4x8 or 4x10 sheets with an aluminumized
surface.
|
Thermostat
A device which relegates the temperature of a
room or building by switching heating or cooling
equipment on or off.
|
Thermostatic
Valve
A mixing valve that automatically maintains the
temperature setting by regulating fluctuations
in water temperature at the water inlets and
immediately adjusting the ratio of hot and cold
water that is discharged by the valve.
|
Three-Dimensional Shingles
See Laminated Shingles.
|
Three-Phase
In electrical contracting, a wiring system
consisting of 4 wires and used in industrial and
commercial applications. This system is suitable
for installations requiring large motors. It
consists of three hot wires and one ground wire.
The voltage in each hot wire is out of phase
with the others by 1/3 of a cycle, as if
produced by 3 different generators.
|
Threshold
A strip of wood or metal with beveled edges used
over the finish floor and the sill of exterior
doors.
|
Thru-Wall
Flashing
Flashing extended completely through a masonry
wall. Designed and applied in combination with
counter-flashings, to prevent water which may
enter the wall above from proceeding downward in
the wall or into the roof deck or roofing
system.
|
THW
Moisture and heat resistant thermoplastic
conductor. It is flame retardant, moisture and
heat resistant and can be used in dry or wet
locations.
|
Tie-In
In roofing, a term used to describe the joining
of a new roof with the old.
|
Tilt-Up Wall
Cast concrete units which are preformed which,
when cured, are tilted to their vertical
position and secured by mechanical fasteners to
prior erected structural steel. May be pre-cast.
|
Timbers
Yard lumber 5 or more inches in least dimension.
Includes beams, stringers, posts, caps, sills,
girders, and purlins.
|
Tinner
Another name for the heating contractor.
|
Tinted Glass
Glass with colorants added to the basic glass
batch that give the glass color as well as light
and heat-reducing capabilities. The color
extends throughout the thickness of the glass.
|
Tip Up
The downspout extension that directs water (from
the home's gutter system) away from the home.
They typically swing up when mowing the lawn,
etc.
|
Title
Evidence (usually in the form of a certificate
or deed) of a person's legal right to ownership
of a property.
|
Title 24
A set of federal laws that mandates the
construction industry to conserve energy.
|
Toe Bead
Sealant applied at the intersection of the
outboard glazing stop and the bottom of the
glazing channel. It must be sized to provide a
seal to the edge of the glass.
|
Toe-Nailing
To drive a nail at a slant to the initial
surface in order to permit it to penetrate into
a second member.
|
Tongue and
Groove
A type of flooring where the tongue of one board
is joined to the groove of another board.
|
Tooling
The operation of pressing in and striking a
sealant in a joint to press the sealant against
the sides of a joint and secure good adhesion;
the finishing off of the surface of a sealant in
a joint so that it is flush with the surface.
|
Top Chord
The upper or top member of a truss.
|
Top Mopping
The finished mopping of hot bitumen on a
built-up roof.
|
Top Mount
Faucet
See Centerset.
|
Top Plate
Top horizontal member of a frame wall.
|
Torch Down
Roof (Single Ply or Modified Bitumen)
A newer roofing material mostly used on flat
roofs. This material usually comes in rolls and
is applied to the roof with an open flame or
'torch.'
|
Torching
Applying direct flame to a membrane for the
purpose of melting, heating or adhering.
|
Transit
A surveyors instrument used by builders to
establish points and elevations both vertically
and horizontally. It can be used to line up
stakes or to plumb walls or to measure the angle
of elevation from a horizontal plane.
|
Transmitter
(Garage Door)
The small push-button device that causes the
garage door to open or close.
|
Trap
A plumbing fitting that holds water to prevent
air, gas, and vermin from backing up into a
fixture.
|
Tread
The horizontal board in a stairway on which the
foot is placed.
|
Treated
Lumber
A wood product which has been impregnated with
chemicals to reduce damage from wood rot or
insects. Often used for the portions of a
structure which is likely to be in ongoing
contact with soil and water. Wood may also be
treated with a fire retardant.
|
Tremie
A tube with removable sections and a funnel at
the top used in concrete application. The bottom
is kept beneath the surface of the concrete and
raised as the form is filled and is used to pour
concrete underwater.
|
Trim
The finish materials in a building, such as
moldings applied around openings (window trim,
door trim) or at the floor and ceiling of rooms
(baseboard, cornice, and other moldings).
|
Trim
(Exterior)
The finish materials on the exterior of a
building, such as moldings applied around
openings (window trim, door trim), siding,
windows, exterior doors, attic vents, crawl
space vents, shutters, etc. Also, the physical
work of installing these materials.
|
Trim
(Interior)
The finish materials in a building, such as
moldings applied around openings (window trim,
door trim) or at the floor and ceiling of rooms
(baseboard, cornice, and other moldings). Also,
the physical work of installing interior doors
and interior woodwork, to include all handrails,
guardrails, stairway balustrades, mantles, light
boxes, base, door casings, cabinets,
countertops, shelves, window sills and aprons,
etc.
|
Trim
(Plumbing, Heating, Electrical)
The work that the "mechanical" contractors
perform to finish their respective aspects of
work when the home is nearing completion and
occupancy.
|
Trim Kit
Refers to the outside decorative parts that
conceal a faucet rough-in.
|
Trimmer
A beam or joist to which a header is nailed in
framing for a chimney, stairway, or other
opening.
|
Triple-Glazed Window
The most energy efficient window. Gases are
sealed between three panes of glass and Low E
coatings are applied on two of the panes. This
can bring the energy efficiency up to a value of
R10 at the center point of the glass.
|
Truss
A frame or jointed structure designed to act as
a beam of long span, while each member is
usually subjected to longitudinal stress
onlyeither tension or compression.
|
Tub Trap
A curved, "U" shaped section of a bath tub drain
pipe that holds a water seal to prevent sewer
gasses from entering the home through tubs water
drain.
|
Tube and
Knob Wiring
A common form of electrical wiring used before
World War II. When in good condition it may
still be functional for low amperage use such as
smaller light fixture.
|
Tuck-Pointing
The re-grouting of defective mortar joints in a
masonry or brick wall.
|
Turnkey
A term used when the subcontractor provides all
materials (and labor) for a job.
|
Turpentine
A volatile oil used as a thinner in paints and
as a solvent in varnishes. Chemically, it is a
mixture of terpenes.
|
TW
A moisture-resistant thermoplastic conductor
that can be used in dry or wet locations, has no
outer covering and is not heat-resistant.
|
Two-Part
Sealant
A product composed of a base and curing agent or
accelerator, necessarily packaged in two
separate containers which are uniformly mixed
just prior to use.
|
U
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U-Value
A measure of air-to-heat transmission (loss or
gain) due to the thermal conductance and the
difference in indoor and outdoor temperatures.
As the U-value decreases, so does the amount of
heat that is transferred through the glazing
material. The lower the U-value, the more
restrictive the fenestration product is to heat
transfer. Reciprocal of R-value.
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U.L.
(Underwriters Laboratories)
A private research firm located in the United
States that attempts to classify and determine
the safety of various materials and products.
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Ultraviolet
The invisible rays of the spectrum of light
which are at its violet end. Sometimes
abbreviated U.V.
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Ultraviolet
Degradation
A reduction in certain performance limits caused
by exposure to ultraviolet light.
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Undercoat
A coating applied prior to the finishing or top
coats of a paint job. It may be the first of two
of three coats. In some usage of the word it may
become synonymous with priming coat.
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Undercounter
A style of lavatory which is positioned under
the cutout of the countertop.
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Underground
Plumbing
The plumbing drain and waste lines that are
installed beneath a basement floor.
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Underlayment
A material placed under finish coverings, such
as flooring, or shingles, to provide a smooth,
even surface for applying the finish.
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Union
A plumbing fitting that joins pipes end-to-end
so they can be dismantled.
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Union Nut
A fitting that joins two sections of pipe.
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Uprights
Vertical members supporting the sides of a
trench.
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Utility
Easement
The area of the earth that has electric, gas, or
telephone lines. These areas may be owned by the
homeowner, but the utility company has the legal
right to enter the area as necessary to repair
or service the lines.
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UV Rays
Ultraviolet rays from the sun.
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V
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Vacuum
Breaker
An anti-siphon device that prevents waste water
from being drawn back into supply lines,
potentially contaminating the water supply. A
type of backflow preventer.
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Valley
The internal angle formed by the junction of two
sloping sides of a roof.
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Valley
Rafter
A rafter that forms the intersection of an
internal roof angle. The valley rafter is
normally made of double 2-inch-thick members.
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Valley
Shield
A quality underlayment for added protection in
the heavy water flow areas of a roof. This self
adhering product has a waterproof asphalt
coating which offers excellent elongation and
recovery properties for accommodating roof
expansion and contraction and structural
movement.
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Valuation
An inspection carried out for the benefit of the
mortgage lender to ascertain if a property is a
good security for a loan.
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Valuation
Fee
The fee paid by the prospective borrower for the
lender's inspection of the property. Normally
paid upon loan application.
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Valve
A device to stop, start or regulate the flow of
liquid or gas through or from piping.
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Vapor
The gaseous form of any substance.
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Vapor
Barrier
A membrane which is placed between the
insulation and the roof deck to retard water
vapor in the building from entering the
insulation and condensing into liquid water.
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Vapor
Retarder
Any substance that prevents the transmission of
water vapor.
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Variable
Rate
An interest rate that will vary over the term of
the loan.
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Varnish
A thickened preparation of drying oil, or drying
oil and resin suitable for spreading on surfaces
to form continuous, transparent coatings, or for
mixing with pigments to make enamels.
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Vehicle
The liquid portion of a finishing material; it
consists of the binder (non-volatile) and
volatile thinners.
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Veining
In roofing, the characteristic lines or "stretch
marks" which develop during the aging process of
soft bitumens.
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Veneer
Thin sheets of wood made by rotary cutting or
slicing a log.
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Vent
A pipe or duct which allows flow of air as an
inlet or outlet.
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Vent Pipe
A vertical pipe of relatively small dimensions
which protrudes through a roof to provide for
the ventilation of gasses.
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Vent Stack
A vertical vent pipe installed for the purpose
of providing circulation of air to and from any
part of a drainage system.
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Vent System
In plumbing, a system to provide a flow of air
to or from a drainage system or to provide
circulation of air within such system to protect
traps seals from siphonage and back pressure.
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Ventilator
Device installed on the roof for the purpose of
ventilating the interior of the building.
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Venting
The process of installing roof vents in a roof
assembly to relieve vapor pressure. The process
of water in the insulation course of the roof
assembly evaporating and exiting via the roof
vents.
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Vermiculite
An aggregate somewhat similar to perlite that is
used as an aggregate in lightweight roof decks
and deck fills. It is formed from mica, a
hydrous silicate with the ability of expanding
on heating to form lightweight material with
insulation quality. Used as bulk insulation and
also as aggregate in insulating and acoustical
plaster and in insulating concrete.
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Vertical
Being or situated at right angles to the
horizon; upright.
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Veterans
Administration (VA)
A federal agency that insures mortgage loans
with very liberal down payment requirements for
honorably discharged veterans and their
surviving spouses.
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Viscosity
The internal frictional resistance offered by a
fluid to change of shape or to the relative
motion or flow of its parts.
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Visible
Light Transmittance
The percentage of visible light (390 to 770
nanometers) within the solar spectrum that is
transmitted through glass.
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Visqueen
A 4 mil or 6 mil plastic sheeting.
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Visual
Mock-Up
Small scale demonstration of a finished
construction product.
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Vitreous
China
A non-porous ceramic that is coated with a
ceramic glaze to form toilets and lavatories.
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Void
A cardboard rectangular box that is installed
between the earth (between caissons) and the
concrete foundation wall. Used when expansive
soils are present.
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Volatile
Thinner
A liquid that evaporates readily and is used to
thin or reduce the consistency of finishes
without altering the relative volumes of pigment
and non-volatile vehicles.
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Voltage
The driving force behind the flow of electricity
somewhat like pressure is in a water pipe. Most
homes are wired with '110' and '220' volt lines.
The '110' volt power is used for lighting and
most of the other circuits. The '220' volt power
is usually used for the kitchen stove, water
heater and dryer. (The terms '110' and '220'
volts are a short hand, e.g. a '110' volt line
is usually rated at 117 volts plus or minus
10%).
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Voltmeter
Measures the voltage flowing through a circuit.
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W
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Wafer Board
See Oriented Strand Board.
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Walk-Through
A final inspection of a home before "closing" to
look for and document problems that need to be
corrected.
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Walkways
Designated areas for foot traffic.
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Wall Out
When a painter spray paints the interior of a
home.
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Wane
Bark, or lack of wood from any cause, on edge or
corner of a piece of wood.
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Warping
Any distortion in a material.
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Warrantee
In construction there are two general types of
warrantees. One is provided by the manufacturer
of a product such as roofing material or an
appliance. The second is a warrantee for the
labor. For example, a roofing contract may
include a 30 year material warrantee and a 5
year labor warrantee. Many (but not all ) new
homes come with a one year warrantee. Any major
issues found during the first year should be
communicated the builder at once. Small items
can be saved up and presented to the builder in
a letter on the 11 month anniversary of the
closing. This gives the builder one month to
make the necessary corrections.
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Waste and
Overflow
A bathtub drain assembly that has an outlet at
the top to remove overflow water when filling
the tub and an outlet at the bottom to remove
waste water when the tub is drained.
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Waste Pipe
and Vent
Plastic plumbing pipe that carries waste water
to the municipal sewage system.
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Water Board
Water resistant drywall to be used in tub and
shower locations. Normally green or blue
colored.
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Water Closet
Toilet.
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Water Meter
Pit (or Vault)
The box, cast iron bonnet and concrete rings
that contain the water meter.
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Water
Repellant Coating
Transparent coating or sealer applied to the
surface of concrete and masonry surfaces to
repel water.
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Water
Repellent Preservative
A liquid designed to penetrate into wood and
impart water repellency and a moderate
preservative protection. It is used for
millwork, such as sashes and frames, and is
usually applied by dipping.
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Water Table
The location of the underground water, and the
vertical distance from the surface of the earth
to this underground water.
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Water Tap
The connection point where the home water line
connects to the main municipal water system.
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Water Vapor
Moisture existing as a gas in air.
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Water-Cement
Ratio
The strength of a concrete mixture depends on
the water cement ratio. The water and cement
form a paste. If the paste is made with more
water, the concrete becomes weaker.
Traditionally, concrete mixes have been
identified in terms of the ratio of cement to
fine aggregate to coarse aggregate. For example,
the ratio 1:2:4 refers to a mix which consists
of 1 cu. ft. of cement, 2 cu. ft. of sand and 4
cu. ft. of gravel. Cement and water are the two
chemically active elements in concrete and when
combined, form a paste or glue which coats and
surrounds the particles of aggregate and upon
hardening binds the entire mass together.
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Waterproofing
The process where a building component is made
totally resistant to the passage of water and/or
water vapor.
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Wattage
The electrical unit of power. A kilowatt is 1000
watts and electric customers are billed on how
many kilowatts of power they have used.
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Wax Ring Job
Removing a toilet from the floor so that a
blockage can be manually removed or to replace a
degraded wax ring. Replacing a new wax ring on
the bottom of the toilet to create a seal.
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WC
An abbreviation for water closet (toilet).
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Weatherization
Work on a building exterior in order to reduce
energy consumption for heating or cooling. Work
involving adding insulation, installing storm
windows and doors, caulking cracks and putting
on weather-stripping.
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Weatherstrip
Jamb-width or narrower sections of thin metal or
other material to prevent infiltration of air
and moisture around windows and doors.
Compression weather stripping prevents air
infiltration, provides tension, and acts as a
counter balance.
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Weep Hole
A hole which allows for drainage of entrapped
water from masonry or glazing structures.
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Weep Screed
Tool used to drain moisture from concrete.
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Weld
The joining of components together by fusing. In
thermoplastics, refers to bonding together of
the membrane using heat or solvents.
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Well Casing
A steel or plastc pipe which serves as the
lining of a well, preventing it from caving in
and protecting ground water from contamination
by surface water.
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Well Casing
Head
A heavy, flanged steel fitting connected to the
first string of casing.
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Well House
A structure that encloses a well Commonly found
in the Midwest and Western States.
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Wet or Dry
Surface Plastic Roof Cement
Superior performance in cold and wet
applications. Performs as a general-purpose
exterior repair and maintenance material on damp
or dry surfaces. Stops roof and other leaks
fast.
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Wet Seal
Application of an elastomeric sealant between
the glass and sash to form a weather tight seal.
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Whole House
Fan
A fan designed to move air through and out of a
home and normally installed in the ceiling.
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Widespread
A style of lavatory faucet where the spout and
handles are separate. Flex hoses are used
between the spout and handles to allow
adjustable centers, although this style of
faucet is typically used on 8" or 12" centers.
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Wind Bracing
Metal straps or wood blocks installed diagonally
on the inside of a wall from bottom to top
plate, to prevent the wall from twisting,
racking, or falling over in a "domino" fashion.
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Wind Uplift
The upward force exerted by wind traveling
across a roof.
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Window Buck
Square or rectangular box that is installed
within a concrete foundation or block wall. A
window will eventually be installed in this
"buck" during the siding stage of construction.
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Window Frame
The stationary part of a window unit; the window
sash fits into the window frame.
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Window Sash
The operating or movable part of a window; the
sash is made of window panes and their border.
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Wire Nut
A plastic device used to connect bare wires
together.
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Wire Size
Conductors for building wiring are available in
AWG (American Wire Gauge) sizes ranging from No.
14 to 4/0. The larger the number size, the
smaller the diameter. For example, 10 is smaller
than 8. The larger the diameter of a wire, the
lesser the resistance.
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Wonderboard
A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass
usually used as a ceramic tile backing material.
Commonly used on bathtub decks.
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Wood Filler
A heavily pigmented preparation used for fining
and leveling off the pores in open-pored woods.
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Wood Rays
Strips of cells extending radially within a tree
and varying in height from a few cells in some
species to 4 inches or more in oak. The rays
serve primarily to store food and to transport
it horizontally in the tree.
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Wood-Fiber
Plaster
Consists of calcified gypsum integrally mixed
with selected coarse cellulose fibers which
provide bulk and greater coverage. It is
formulated to produce high-strength base coats
for use in highly fire-resistant ceiling
assemblies.
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Work-Life
The time during which a curing sealant remains
suitable for use after being mixed with a
catalyst.
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Woven Valley
Method of valley construction in which shingles
from both sides of the valley extend across the
valley and are woven together by overlapping
alternate courses as they are applied. The
valley flashing is not exposed.
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Wrapped
Drywall
Areas that get complete drywall covering, as in
the doorway openings of bifold and bipass closet
doors.
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Y
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Y
A "Y" shaped plumbing fitting.
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Yard Lumber
Lumber of those grades, sizes, and patterns
which are generally intended for ordinary
construction, such as framework and rough
coverage of houses.
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Yard of
Concrete
One cubic yard of concrete is 3'x3'x3' in
volume, or 27 cubic feet. One cubic yard of
concrete will pour 80 square feet of 3 ½"
sidewalk or basement/garage floor.
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Yoke
The location where a home's water meter is
installed between two copper pipes, and located
in the water meter pit in the yard.
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Z
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Z-bar
Flashing
Bent, galvanized metal flashing that's installed
above a horizontal trim board of an exterior
window, door, or brick run. It prevents water
from getting behind the trim/brick and into the
home.
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Zone
The section of a building that is served by one
heating or cooling loop because it has
noticeably distinct heating or cooling needs.
Also, the section of property that will be
watered from a lawn sprinkler system.
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Zone Valve
A device, usually placed near the heater or
cooler, which controls the flow of water or
steam to parts of the building; it is controlled
by a zone thermostat.
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