Cellulose Insulation
Ground-up newspaper that is treated with a fire retardant.
Celotex ™
Black fibrous board that is used as exterior sheething.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
|
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.
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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.
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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.
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Dead Load
The constant, design-weight (of the roof) and any
permanent fixtures attached above or below.
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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.
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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.
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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 ¾ 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.
|
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 surface’s 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.
|
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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 1¾."
|
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 device—in 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.
|
Joist Any of
the small timbers or metal beams ranged parallel
from wall to wall in a structure to support a
floor or ceiling
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
[Back to Top]
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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 codes—which are backed by law—may 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
[Back to Top]
|
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
[Back to Top]
|
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 bird’s 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
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Quarry Tile
A man-made or machine-made clay tile used to
finish a floor or wall. Generally 6"X6"X1/4"
thick .
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Quarter Round
A small molding that has the cross section
of a quarter circle.
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Quartersawn Grain
Another term for edge grain.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Radiator
A heating unit which is supplied heat
through a hot water system.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Retentions
Amounts withheld from progress billings
until final and satisfactory project
completion.
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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.
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Ribbon (or Girt)
Normally a 1"x4" board let into the studs
horizontally to support ceiling or
second-floor joists.
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Ridge
The horizontal line at the junction of the
top edges of two sloping roof surfaces.
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Ridge Board
The board placed on edge at the ridge of the
roof into which the upper ends of the
rafters are fastened.
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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.
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Road Base
An aggregate mixture of sand and stone.
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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.
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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.
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Roll, Rolling
To install the floor joists or trusses in
their correct place. (To "roll the floor"
means to install the floor joists).
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Roof Deck
See deck.
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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.
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Rough
In hardware, metal fastenings on
cabinets which are usually concealed,
like staples.
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Rough Flooring
Materials used to form an unfinished
floor. Floor sheathing.
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Rough Opening
The opening in a wall into which a door
or window is to be installed.
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RPM
Revolutions per Minute.
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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.
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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.
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S
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Saber Saw
A saw that cuts on the upstroke, good
side of wood faces down.
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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.
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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.
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Sand Float Finish
Lime mixed with sand, resulting in a
textured finish.
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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.
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Sanitary T
Used on the waste side of plumbing to
keep effluent flowing the correct
direction.
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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.
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Sash
A single light frame containing one or
more lights of glass.
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Sash Balance
A device, usually operated by a spring
or tensioned weatherstripping designed
to counterbalance double-hung window
sash.
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Saturant
Asphalt used to impregnate a felt-base
material.
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Saturated Felt
A felt which is impregnated with tar or
asphalt.
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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.
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Schedule (Window,
Door, Mirror)
A table on the blueprints that list the
sizes, quantities and locations of the
windows, doors and mirrors.
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Scrap Out
The removal of all drywall material and
debris after the home is "hung out"
(installed) with drywall.
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Scratch Coat
The first coat of plaster, which is
scratched to form a bond for the second
coat.
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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.
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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.
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Scutch
A bricklayer’s 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.
Serviceable
Fit
for use.
Capable
of being put to use.
Of
adequate quality.
|
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.
|
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.
|
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.
|
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.
|
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 building’s 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 ¼" 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 surveyor’s 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
only—either 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.
|
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.
|
Ultraviolet
The invisible rays of the spectrum
of light which are at its violet
end. Sometimes abbreviated U.V.
|
Ultraviolet Degradation
A reduction in certain performance
limits caused by exposure to
ultraviolet light.
|
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.
|
Undercounter
A style of lavatory which is
positioned under the cutout of the
countertop.
|
Underground Plumbing
The plumbing drain and waste lines
that are installed beneath a
basement floor.
|
Underlayment
A material placed under finish
coverings, such as flooring, or
shingles, to provide a smooth, even
surface for applying the finish.
|
Union
A plumbing fitting that joins pipes
end-to-end so they can be
dismantled.
|
Union Nut
A fitting that joins two sections of
pipe.
|
Uprights
Vertical members supporting the
sides of a trench.
|
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.
|
UV Rays
Ultraviolet rays from the sun.
|
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.
|
Valley
The internal angle formed by the
junction of two sloping sides of a
roof.
|
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.
|
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.
|
Valuation
An inspection carried out for the
benefit of the mortgage lender to
ascertain if a property is a good
security for a loan.
|
Valuation Fee
The fee paid by the prospective
borrower for the lender's inspection
of the property. Normally paid upon
loan application.
|
Valve
A device to stop, start or regulate
the flow of liquid or gas through or
from piping.
|
Vapor
The gaseous form of any substance.
|
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.
|
Vapor Retarder
Any substance that prevents the
transmission of water vapor.
|
Variable Rate
An interest rate that will vary over
the term of the loan.
|
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.
|
Vehicle
The liquid portion of a finishing
material; it consists of the binder
(non-volatile) and volatile
thinners.
|
Veining
In roofing, the characteristic lines
or "stretch marks" which develop
during the aging process of soft
bitumens.
|
Veneer
1:Thin sheets of wood made by rotary
cutting or slicing a log.
2: a
protective or ornamental facing (as
of brick or stone)
|
Vent
A pipe or duct which allows flow of
air as an inlet or outlet.
|
Vent Pipe
A vertical pipe of relatively small
dimensions which protrudes through a
roof to provide for the ventilation
of gasses.
|
Vent Stack
A vertical vent pipe installed for
the purpose of providing circulation
of air to and from any part of a
drainage system.
|
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.
|
Ventilator
Device installed on the roof for the
purpose of ventilating the interior
of the building.
|
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.
|
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.
|
Vertical
Being or situated at right angles to
the horizon; upright.
|
Veterans Administration (VA)
A federal agency that insures
mortgage loans with very liberal
down payment requirements for
honorably discharged veterans and
their surviving spouses.
|
Viscosity
The internal frictional resistance
offered by a fluid to change of
shape or to the relative motion or
flow of its parts.
|
Visible Light Transmittance
The percentage of visible light (390
to 770 nanometers) within the solar
spectrum that is transmitted through
glass.
|
Visqueen
A 4 mil or 6 mil plastic sheeting.
|
Visual Mock-Up
Small scale demonstration of a
finished construction product.
|
Vitreous China
A non-porous ceramic that is coated
with a ceramic glaze to form toilets
and lavatories.
|
Void
A cardboard rectangular box that is
installed between the earth (between
caissons) and the concrete
foundation wall. Used when expansive
soils are present.
|
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.
|
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%).
|
Voltmeter
Measures the voltage flowing through
a circuit.
|
W
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Wafer Board
See Oriented Strand Board.
|
Walk-Through
A final inspection of a home before
"closing" to look for and document
problems that need to be corrected.
|
Walkways
Designated areas for foot traffic.
|
Wall Out
When a painter spray paints the
interior of a home.
|
Wane
Bark, or lack of wood from any
cause, on edge or corner of a piece
of wood.
|
Warping
Any distortion in a material.
|
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.
|
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.
|
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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