A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
A/C -
An abbreviation for air conditioner or air conditioning.
A/C Condenser - The outside fan unit of the Air
Conditioning system. It removes the heat from the freon
gas and "turns" the gas back into a liquid and pumps the
liquid back to the coil in the furnace.
A/C Disconnect - The main electrical ON-OFF
switch near the A/C Condenser.
Aerator - The round screened screw-on tip of a
sink spout. It mixes water and air for a smooth flow.
Aggregate - A mixture of sand and stone and a
major component of concrete.
Air space - The area between insulation facing
and interior of exterior wall coverings. Normally a 1" air gap.
Allowance(s) - A sum of money set aside in the
construction contract for items which have not been
selected and specified in the construction contract. For
example, selection of tile as a flooring may require an
allowance for an underlayment material, or an electrical
allowance which sets aside an amount of money to be
spent on electrical fixtures.
Amortization - A payment plan by which a loan is
reduced through monthly payments of principal and
interest.
Anchor bolts - Bolts to secure a wooden sill
plate to concrete , or masonry floor or wall.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR) - Annual cost of
credit over the life of a loan, including interest,
service charges, points, loan fees, mortgage insurance,
and other items.
Appraisal - An expert valuation of property.
Apron - A trim board that is installed beneath a
window sill
Architect - One who has completed a course of
study in building and design, and is licensed by the
state as an architect. One who draws up plans.
Area wells - Corrugated metal or concrete
barrier walls installed around a basement window to hold
back the earth
Assessment - A tax levied on a property, or a
value placed on the worth of a property.
Assumption - Allows a buyer to assume
responsibility for an existing loan instead of getting a
new loan.
Astragal - A molding, attached to one of a pair
of swinging double doors, against which the other door
strikes.
Attic access - An opening that is placed
in the drywalled ceiling of a home providing access to
the attic.
Attic Ventilators - In houses, screened
openings provided to ventilate an attic space.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Back Charge - Billings for work performed or
costs incurred by one party that, in accordance with the
agreement, should have been performed or incurred by the
party to whom billed. Owners bill back charges to
general contractors, and general contractors bill back
charges to subcontractors. Examples of back charges
include charges for cleanup work or to repair something
damaged by another subcontractor, such as a tub chip or
broken window.
Backfill - The replacement of excavated earth
into a trench around or against a basement /crawl space
foundation wall.
Backing - Frame lumber installed between the wall
studs to give additional support for drywall or an
interior trim related item, such as handrail brackets,
cabinets, and towel bars. In this way, items are screwed
and mounted into solid wood rather than weak drywall
that may allow the item to break loose from the wall.
Carpet backing holds the pile fabric in place.
Backout - Work the framing contractor does after
the mechanical subcontractors
(Heating-Plumbing-Electrical) finish their phase of work
at the Rough (before insulation) stage to get the home
ready for a municipal frame inspection. Generally, the
framing contractor repairs anything disturbed by others
and completes all framing necessary to pass a Rough
Frame Inspection.
Ballast - A transformer that steps up the voltage
in a florescent lamp.
Balloon - A loan that has a series of monthly
payments with the remaining balance due in a large lump
sum payment at the end.
Balloon framed wall - Framed walls (generally
over 10' tall) that run the entire vertical length from
the floor sill plate to the roof. This is done to
eliminate the need for a gable end truss.
Balusters - Vertical members in a railing used
between a top rail and bottom rail or the stair treads.
Sometimes referred to as 'pickets' or 'spindles'.
Balustrade - The rail, posts and vertical
balusters along the edge of a stairway or elevated
walkway.
Barge - Horizontal beam rafter that supports
shorter rafters.
Barge board - A decorative board covering
the projecting rafter (fly rafter) of the gable end. At
the cornice, this member is a fascia board.
Base or baseboard - A trim board
placed against the wall around the room next to the
floor.
Basement window inserts - The window frame and glass
unit that is installed in the window buck.
Base shoe - Molding used next to the floor on
interior base board. Sometimes called a carpet strip.
Bat - A half-brick.
Batt - A section of fiber-glass or rock-wool
insulation measuring 15 or 23 inches wide by four to
eight feet long and various thickness'. Sometimes "faced" (meaning to have a paper covering on one side)
or "unfaced" (without paper).
Batten - Narrow strips of wood used to cover
joints or as decorative vertical members over plywood or
wide boards.
Bay window - Any window space projecting outward
from the walls of a building, either square or polygonal
in plan.
Beam - A structural member transversely
supporting a load. A structural member carrying building
loads (weight) from one support to another. Sometimes
called a "girder".
Bearing partition - A partition that supports any
vertical load in addition to its own weight.
Bearing point - A point where a bearing or
structural weight is concentrated and transferred to the
foundation
Bearing wall - A wall that supports any vertical
load in addition to its own weight.
Bearing header - (a) A beam placed perpendicular
to joists and to which joists are nailed in framing for
a chimney, stairway, or other opening. (b) A wood
lintel. (c) The horizontal structural member over an
opening (for example over a door or window).
Bedrock - A subsurface layer of earth that is
suitable to support a structure.
Bid - A formal offer by a contractor, in
accordance with specifications for a project, to do all
or a phase of the work at a certain price in accordance
with the terms and conditions stated in the offer.
Bid bond - A bond issued by a surety on
behalf of a contractor that provides assurance to the
recipient of the contractor's bid that, if the bid is
accepted, the contractor will execute a contract and
provide a performance bond. Under the bond, the surety
is obligated to pay the recipient of the bid the
difference between the contractor's bid and the bid of
the next lowest responsible bidder if the bid is
accepted and the contractor fails to execute a contract
or to provide a performance bond.
Bid security - Funds or a bid bond submitted with
a bid as a guarantee to the recipient of the bid that
the contractor, if awarded the contract, will execute
the contract in accordance with the bidding requirements
of the contract documents.
Bid shopping - A practice by which contractors,
both before and after their bids are submitted, attempt
to obtain prices from potential subcontractors and
material suppliers that are lower than the contractors'
original estimates on which their bids are based, or
after a contract is awarded, seek to induce
subcontractors to reduce the subcontract price included
in the bid.
Bidding requirements - The procedures and
conditions for the submission of bids. The requirements
are included ion documents, such as the notice to
bidders, advertisements for bids, instructions to
bidders, invitations to bid, and sample bid forms.
Bifold door - Doors that are hinged in the middle
for opening in a smaller area than standard swing doors.
Often used for closet doors.
Binder - A receipt for a deposit to secure the
right to purchase a home at an agreed terms by a buyer
and seller.
Bipass doors - Doors that slide by each other and
commonly used as closet doors.
Blankets - Fiber-glass or rock-wool insulation
that comes in long rolls 15 or 23 inches wide.
Blocked (door blocking) - Wood shims used between
the door frame and the vertical structural wall framing
members.
Blocked (rafters) - Short "2 by 4's" used to keep
rafters from twisting, and installed at the ends and at
mid-span.
Blocking - Small wood pieces to brace framing
members or to provide a nailing base for gypsum board or
paneling.
Block out - To install a box or barrier within a
foundation wall to prevent the concrete from entering an
area. For example, foundation walls are sometimes "blocked" in order for mechanical pipes to pass through
the wall, to install a crawl space door, and to depress
the concrete at a garage door location.
Blow insulation - Fiber insulation in loose form
and used to insulate attics and existing walls where
framing members are not exposed.
Blue print(s) - A type of copying method often
used for architectural drawings. Usually used to
describe the drawing of a structure which is prepared by
an architect or designer for the purpose of design and
planning, estimating, securing permits and actual
construction.
Blue stake - Another phrase for Utility
Notification. This is when a utility company (telephone,
gas, electric, cable TV, sewer and water, etc) comes to
the job site and locates and spray paints the ground
and/or installs little flags to show where their service
is located underground.
Blow insulation - Fiber insulation in loose form
and used to insulate attics and existing walls where
framing members are not exposed.
Board foot - A unit of measure for lumber equal
to 1 inch thick by 12 inches wide by 12 inches long.
Examples: 1" x 12" x 16' = 16 board feet, 2" x 12" x 16'
= 32 board feet
Bond or bonding - An amount of money (usually
$5,000-$10,000) which must be on deposit with a
governmental agency in order to secure a contractor's
license. The bond may be used to pay for the unpaid
bills or disputed work of the contractor. Not to be
confused with a 'performance bond'. Such bonds are
rarely used in residential construction, they are an
insurance policy which guarantees proper completion of a
project.
Boom - A truck used to hoist heavy material up
and into place. To put trusses on a home or to set a
heavy beam into place.
Bottom chord - The lower or bottom horizontal
member of a truss.
Bottom plate - The "2 by 4's or 6's" that lay on
the subfloor upon which the vertical studs are
installed. Also called the 'sole plate'.
Brace - An inclined piece of framing lumber
applied to wall or floor to strengthen the structure.
Often used on walls as temporary bracing until framing
has been completed.
Breaker panel - The electrical box that
distributes electric power entering the home to each
branch circuit (each plug and switch) and composed of
circuit breakers.
Brick ledge - Part of the foundation wall where
brick (veneer) will rest.
Brick lintel - The metal angle iron that brick
rests on, especially above a window, door, or other
opening.
Brick mold -Trim used around an exterior door
jamb that siding butts to.
Brick tie - A small, corrugated metal strip @ 1"
X 6"- 8" long nailed to wall sheeting or studs. They are
inserted into the grout mortar joint of the veneer
brick, and holds the veneer wall to the sheeted wall
behind it.
Brick veneer - A vertical facing of brick laid
against and fastened to sheathing of a framed wall or
tile wall construction.
Bridging - Small wood or metal members that are
inserted in a diagonal position between the floor joists
or rafters at mid-span for the purpose of bracing the
joists/rafters & spreading the load.
Buck - Often used in reference to rough frame
opening members. Door bucks used in reference to metal
door frame. See Window Bucks
Builder's Risk Insurance - Insurance coverage on
a construction project during construction, including
extended coverage that may be added for the contract for
the customer's protections.
Building codes - Community ordinances governing
the manner in which a home may be constructed or
modified.
Building insurance - Insurance covering the
structure of the building.
Building paper - A general term for papers,
felts, and similar sheet materials used in buildings
without reference to their properties or uses. Generally
comes in long rolls.
Built-up roof - A roofing composed of three to
five layers of asphalt felt laminated with coal tar,
pitch, or asphalt. The top is finished with crushed slag
or gravel. Generally used on flat or low-pitched roofs.
Bull nose (drywall) - Rounded drywall corners.
Bundle - A package of shingles. Normally, there
are 3 bundles per square and 27 shingles per bundle.
Butt edge - The lower edge of the shingle tabs.
Butt hinge - The most common type. One leaf
attaches to the door's edge, the other to its jamb.
Butt joint - The junction where the ends of two
timbers meet, and also where sheets of drywall meet on
the 4 foot edge. To place materials end-to-end or
end-to-edge without overlapping.
Buy down - A subsidy (usually paid by a builder
or developer) to reduce monthly payments on a mortgage.
By fold door - Doors that are hinged in the
middle for opening in a smaller area than standard swing
doors. Often used for closet doors.
By pass doors - Doors that slide by each other
and commonly used as closet doors.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
CO - An abbreviation for "Certificate of
Occupancy". This certificate is issued by the local
municipality and is required before anyone can occupy
and live within the home. It is issued only after the
local municipality has made all inspections and all
monies and fees have been paid.
Caisson - A 10" or 12" diameter hole drilled into
the earth and embedded into bedrock 3 - 4 feet. The
structural support for a type of foundation wall, porch,
patio, monopost, or other structure. Two or more
"sticks" of reinforcing bars (rebar) are inserted into
and run the full length of the hole and concrete is
poured into the caisson hole
Cantilever - An overhang. Where one floor extends
beyond and over a foundation wall. For example at a
fireplace location or bay window cantilever. Normally,
not extending over 2 feet.
Cantilevered void - Foundation void
material used in unusually expansive soils conditions.
This void is "trapezoid" shaped and has vertical sides
of 6" and 4" respectively.
Cap - The upper member of a column, pilaster,
door cornice, molding, or fireplace.
Cap flashing - The portion of the flashing
attached to a vertical surface to prevent water from
migrating behind the base flashing.
Capital - The principal part of a loan, i.e. the
original amount borrowed.
Capital and interest - A repayment
loan and the most conventional form of home loan. The
borrower pays an amount each month to cover the amount
borrowed (or capital or principal) plus the interest
charged on capital.
Capped rate - The mortgage interest rate
will not exceed a specified value during a certain
period of time, but it will fluctuate up and down below
that level.
Casement - Frames of wood or metal enclosing part
(or all) of a window sash. May be opened by means of
hinges affixed to the vertical edges.
Casement Window - A window with hinges on
one of the vertical sides and swings open like a normal
door
Casing - Wood trim molding installed around a
door or window opening.
Caulking - (1) A flexible material used to seal a
gap between two surfaces e.g. between pieces of siding
or the corners in tub walls. (2) To fill a joint with
mastic or asphalt plastic cement to prevent leaks.
CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenate) - A pesticide
that is forced into wood under high pressure to protect
it from termites, other wood boring insects, and decay
caused by fungus
Celotex ™ - Black fibrous board that is used as
exterior sheething.
Ceiling joist - One of a series of parallel
framing members used to support ceiling loads and
supported in turn by larger beams, girders or bearing
walls. Also called roof joists.
Cement - The gray powder that is the "glue" in
concrete. Portland cement. Also, any adhesive.
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.
CFM (cubic feet per minute) - A rating that
expresses the amount of air a blower or fan can move.
The volume of air (measured in cubic feet) that can pass
through an opening in one minute.
Chair rail - Interior trim material installed
about 3-4 feet up the wall, horizontally.
Chalk line - A line made 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.
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.
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 - The path of electrical flow from a
power source through an outlet and back to ground.
Circuit Breaker - A device which looks like a
switch and is usually located inside the electrical
breaker panel or circuit breaker box. It is designed to
(1) shut of the power to portions or all of the house
and (2) to limit the amount of power flowing through a
circuit (measured in amperes). 110 volt household
circuits require a fuse or circuit breaker with a rating
of 15 or a maximum of 20 amps. 220 volt circuits may be
designed for higher amperage loads e.g. a hot water
heater may be designed for a 30 amp load and would
therefore need a 30 amp fuse or breaker.
Class "A" - Optimum fire rating issued by
Underwriter's Laboratories on roofing. The building
codes in some areas require this type of roofing for
fire safety.
Class "C" - Minimum fire rating issued by the
Underwriters' Laboratories for roofing materials.
Clean out - An opening providing access to a
drain line. Closed with a threaded plug.
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).
Cold air return - The ductwork (and related
grills) that carries room air back to the furnace for
re-heating.
Collar - Preformed flange placed over a vent pipe
to seal the roofing above the vent pipe opening. Also
called a vent sleeve.
Collar beam - Nominal 1- or 2-inch-thick members
connecting opposite roof rafters. They serve to stiffen
the roof structure.
Column - A vertical structural compression member
which supports loads.
Combustion air - The duct work installed to bring
fresh, outside air to the furnace and/or hot water
heater. Normally 2 separate supplies of air are brought
in: One high and One low.
Combustion chamber - The part of a boiler,
furnace or woodstove where the burn occurs; normally
lined with firebrick or molded or sprayed insulation.
Compression web - A member of a truss system
which connects the bottom and top chords and which
provides downward support.
Compressor - A mechanical device that pressurizes
a gas in order to turn it into a liquid, thereby
allowing heat to be removed or added. A compressor is
the main component of conventional heat pumps and air
conditioners. In an air conditioning system, the
compressor normally sits outside and has a large fan (to
remove heat).
Concrete - The mixture of Portland cement, sand,
gravel, and water. Used to make garage and basement
floors, sidewalks, patios, foundation walls, etc. It is
commonly reinforced with steel rods (rebar) or wire
screening (mesh).
Concrete block - A hollow concrete 'brick' often
8" x 8" x 16" in size.
Concrete board - A panel made out of concrete and
fiberglass usually used as a tile backing material.
Condensate line - The copper pipe that runs from
the outside air conditioning condenser to the inside
furnace ( where the a/c coil is located).
Condensation - Beads or drops of water (and
frequently frost in extremely cold weather) that
accumulate on the inside of the exterior covering of a
building. Use of louvers or attic ventilators will
reduce moisture condensation in attics. A vapor barrier
under the gypsum lath or dry wall on exposed walls will
reduce condensation.
Condensing unit - The outdoor component of a
cooling system. It includes a compressor and condensing
coil designed to give off heat.
Conditions, Covenants, 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 direct transfer of heat energy
through a material.
Conductivity - The rate at which heat is
transmitted through a material.
Conduit, electrical - A pipe, usually metal, in
which wire is installed.
Construction Contract - A legal document which
specifies the what-when-where-how-how much and by whom
in a construction project. A good construction contract
will include:
The
contractors registration number.
A
statement of work quality such as 'Standard Practices
of the Trades' or 'according to Manufacturers
Specifications'.
A set
of Blue Prints or Plans
A
construction timetable including starting and
completion dates.
A set
of Specifications.
A
Fixed Price for the work, or a Time and Materials
formula.
A
Payment Schedule.
Any
Allowances.
A
clause which outlines how any disputes will be
resolved.
A
written Warrantee.
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, frame - A type of construction in which the structural
components are wood or depend upon a wood frame for support.
Continuity tester - A device that tells whether a circuit is capable of
carrying electricity.
Contractor - A company licensed to perform certain types of
construction activities. In most states, the generals contractor's license and
some specialty contractor's licenses don't require of compliance with bonding,
workmen's compensation and similar regulations. Some of the specialty
contractor licenses involve extensive training, testing and/or insurance
requirements. There are various types of contractors: · General contractor -
responsible for the execution, supervision and overall coordination of a
project and may also perform some of the individual construction tasks. Most
general contractors are not licensed to perform all specialty trades and must
hire specialty contractors for such tasks, e.g. electrical, plumbing.
Remodeling contractor - a general contractor who
specializes in remodeling work.
Specialty contractor - licensed to perform a specialty
task e.g. electrical, side sewer, asbestos abatement.
Sub
contractor - a general or specialty contractor who
works for another general contractor.
Control joint - Tooled,
straight grooves made on concrete floors to "control" where the concrete
should crack
Convection - Currents created by heating air, which then rises and
pulls cooler air behind it. Also see radiation.
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° F, regardless of outside
temperature.
Coped - Removing the top and bottom flange of the end(s) of a metal
I-beam. This is done to permit it to fit within, and bolted to, the web of
another I-beam in a "T" arrangement
Coped joint - Cutting and fitting woodwork to an irregular surface.
Corbel - The triangular, decorative and supporting member that holds a
mantel or horizontal shelf.
Corner bead - A strip of formed sheet metal placed on outside corners
of drywall before applying drywall 'mud'.
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 the framed structure
designed to stiffen and strengthen the wall.
Cornice - Overhang of a pitched roof , usually consisting of a fascia
board, a soffit and appropriate trim moldings.
Counter flashing- A metal flashing usually used on chimneys at the roofline to
cover shingle flashing and used to prevent moisture entry.
Counterfort - A foundation wall section that strengthens (and generally
perpendicular to) a long section of foundation wall
Course - A row of shingles or roll roofing running the length of the
roof. Parallel layers of building materials such as bricks, or siding laid up
horizontally.
Cove molding - A molding with a concave face used as trim or to finish
interior corners.
Crawl space - A shallow space below the living quarters of a house,
normally enclosed by the foundation wall and having a dirt floor.
Credit rating - A report ordered by a lender from a credit agency to
determine a borrower's credit habits.
Cricket - A second roof built on top of the primary roof to increase
the slope of the roof or valley. A saddle-shaped, peaked construction
connecting a sloping roof with a chimney. Designed to encourage water drainage
away from the chimney joint.
Cripple - Short vertical "2 by 4's or 6's" frame lumber installed above
a window or door.
Cross bridging - Diagonal bracing between adjacent floor joists, placed
near the center of the joist span to prevent joists from twisting.
Cross Tee - Short metal "T" beam used in suspended ceiling systems to
bridge the spaces between the main beams.
Crown molding - A molding used on cornice or wherever an interior angle
is to be covered, especially at the roof and wall corner.
Culvert - Round, corrugated drain pipe (normally 15" or 18" in
diameter) that is installed beneath a driveway and parallel to and near the
street.
Cupping - A type of warping that causes boards to curl up at their
edges.
Curb - The short elevation of an exterior wall above the deck of a
roof. Normally a 2 by 6 box (on the roof) on which a skylight is attached.
Curb stop - 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.
Cut-in brace - Nominal 2-inch-thick members, usually 2 by 4's, cut in
between each stud diagonally.
Back to Top
A B C
D E F
G H I
J K L
M N O
P Q R
S T U
V W YZ
Dado - A groove cut into a board or panel intended to receive the edge
of a connecting board or panel.
Damper - A metal "door" placed within the fireplace chimney. Normally
closed when the fireplace is not in use.
Dampproofing - The black, tar like waterproofing material applied to
the exterior of a foundation wall.
Daylight - The end of a pipe (the terminal end) that is not attached to
anything.
Dead bolt - An exterior security lock installed on exterior entry doors
that can be activated only with a key or thumb-turn. Unlike a latch, which has
a beveled tongue, dead bolts have square ends.
Dead light - The fixed, non-operable window section of a window unit.
Deck, decked - To install the plywood or wafer board sheeting on the
floor joists, rafters, or trusses.
Dedicated circuit - An electrical circuit that serves only one
appliance (ie, dishwasher) or a series of electric heaters or smoke detectors.
Default - Breach of a mortgage contract (not making the required
payments).
De-humidistat - A control mechanism used to operate a mechanical
ventilation system based upon the relative humidity in the home.
Delamination - Separation of the plies in a panel due to failure of the
adhesive. Usually caused by excessive moisture.
Disconnect - A large (generally 20 Amp) electrical ON-OFF switch.
Discount rate - A mortgage interest rate that is lower than the current
rate for a certain period of time, e.g. 2.00% below variable rate for 2 years.
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. These 3 jambs have the "door stop" installed on
them.
Door operator - An automatic garage door opener.
Door stop - The wooden style that the door slab will rest upon when
it's in a closed position.
Dormer - An opening in a sloping roof, the framing of which projects
out to form a vertical wall suitable for windows or other openings.
Double glass - Window or door in which two panes of glass are used with
a sealed air space between. Also known as Insulating Glass.
Double hung window - A window with two vertically sliding sashes, both
of which can move up and down.
Down payment - The difference between the sales price and the mortgage
amount. A down payment is usually paid at closing.
Downspout - A pipe, usually of metal, for carrying rainwater down from
the roof's horizontal gutters.
Drain tile - A perforated, corrugated plastic pipe laid at the bottom
of the foundation wall and used to drain excess water away from the
foundation. It prevents ground water from seeping through the foundation wall.
Sometimes called perimeter drain.
Draw - The amount of progress billings on a contract that is currently
available to a contractor under a contract with a fixed payment schedule.
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 or metal flashing placed on the exterior topside
of a door or window frame to cause water to drip beyond the outside of the
frame.
Dry in - To install the black roofing felt (tar paper) on the roof.
Drywall (or Gypsum Wallboard (GWB), Sheet rock or Plasterboard) - Wall
board or gypsum- A manufactured panel made out of gypsum plaster and encased
in a thin cardboard. Usually 1/2" thick and 4' x 8' or 4' x 12' in size. The
panels are nailed or screwed onto the framing and the joints are taped and
covered with a 'joint compound'. 'Green board' type drywall has a greater
resistance to moisture than regular (white) plasterboard and is used in
bathrooms and other "wet areas".
Ducts - The heating system. Usually round or rectangular metal pipes
installed for distributing warm (or cold) air from the furnace to rooms in the
home. Also a tunnel made of galvanized metal or rigid fiberglass, which
carries air from the heater or ventilation opening to the rooms in a building.
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.
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
DWV (drain-waste-vent) - The section of a plumbing system that carries
water and sewer gases out of a home.
Back to Top
A B C
D E F
G H I
J K L
M N O
P Q R
S T U
V W Y
Earnst 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. 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 neighbors property.
Eaves - The horizontal exterior roof overhang.
Egress - A means of exiting the home. An egress window is required in
every bedroom and basement. Normally a 4' X 4' window is the minimum size
required
Elbow (ell) - A plumbing or electrical fitting that lets you change
directions in runs of pipe or conduit.
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 entrance package - The entry point of the electrical power
including: (1) the 'strike' or location where the overhead or underground
electrical lines connect to the house, (2) The meter which measures how much
power is used and (3) The 'panel' or 'circuit breaker box ' (or 'fuse box')
where the power can be shut off and where overload devices such a fuses or
circuit breakers and located.
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
Elevation sheet - The page on the blue prints that depicts the house or
room as if a vertical plane were passed through the structure.
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.
Estimate - The amount of labor, materials, and other costs that a
contractor anticipates for a project as summarized in the contractor's bid
proposal for the project.
Escutcheon - An ornamental plate that fits around a pipe extending
through a wall or floor to hide the cut out hole
Estimating - The process of calculating the cost of a project. This can
be a formal and exact process or a quick and imprecise process.
Evaporator coil - The part of a cooling system that absorbs heat from
air in your home. Also see condensing unit.
Expansion joint - Fibrous material (@1/2" thick) installed in and
around a concrete slab to permit it to move up and down (seasonally) along the
non-moving foundation wall.
Expansive soils - Earth that swells and contracts depending on the
amount of water that is present. ("Betonite" is an expansive soil).
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.
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.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
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.
Face nail - To install nails into the vertical
face of a bearing header or beam.
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.
Fascia - Horizontal boards attached to
rafter/truss ends at the eaves and along gables. Roof
drain gutters are attached to the fascia.
Felt - Tar paper. Installed under the roof
shingles. Normally 15 lb. or 30 lb.
Female - Any part, such as a nut or fitting, into
which another (male) part can be inserted. Internal
threads are female.
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.
Field measure - To take measurements (cabinets,
countertops, stairs, shower doors, etc.) in the home
itself instead of using the blueprints.
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 are normally painted
(instead of stained).
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 a
fireplace and boiler.
Fireplace chase flashing pan - A large sheet of
metal that is installed around and perpendicular to the
fireplace flue pipe. It's purpose is to confine and
limit the spread of fire and smoke to a small area.
Fire-resistive or Fire rated - Applies to
materials that are not combustible in the temperatures
of ordinary fires and will withstand such fires for at
least 1 hour. Drywall used in the garage and party walls
are to be fire rated, 5/8", Type X.
Fire retardant chemical - A chemical or
preparation of chemicals used to reduce the flammability
of a material or to retard the 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 2 by 4 cross blocking between studs. Work
performed to slow the spread of fire and smoke in the
walls and ceiling (behind the drywall). Includes
stuffing wire holes in the top and bottom plates with
insulation, and installing blocks of wood between the
wall studs at the drop soffit line. This is integral to
passing a Rough Frame inspection. See also 'Fire block'.
Fishplate (gusset) - 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.
Sometimes called a gang nail plate.
Fish tape - A long strip of spring steel used for
fishing cables and for pulling wires through conduit.
Fixed price contract - A contract with a set
price for the work. See Time and Materials Contract.
Fixed rate - A loan where the initial payments
are based on a certain interest rate for a stated period
. The rate payable will not change during this period
regardless of changes in the lender's standard variable
rate.
Fixed Rate Mortgage - A mortgage with an interest
rate that remains the same over the years.
Flagstone (flagging or flags) - Flat stones (1 to
4 inches thick) used for walks, steps, floors, and
vertical veneer (in lieu of brick).
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.
Flashing - Sheet metal or other material used in
roof and wall construction to protect a building from
water seepage.
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.
Flatwork - Common word for concrete floors,
driveways, basements, and sidewalks.
Floating - The next-to-last stage in concrete
work, when you smooth off the job and bring water 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.
Fluorescent lighting - A fluorescent lamp is a
gas-filled glass tube with a phosphur coating on the
inside. Gas inside the tube is ionized by electricity
which causes the phosphur coating to glow. Normally with
two pins that extend from each end.
Flue - Large pipe through which fumes escape from
a gas water heater, furnace, or fireplace. Normally
these flue pipes are double walled, galvanized sheet
metal pipe and sometimes referred to as a "B Vent".
Fireplace flue pipes are normally triple walled. In
addition, nothing combustible shall be within one inch
from the flue pipe.
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;
purpose is to reduce heat loss up the flue from the
still-warm furnace or boiler.
Flue lining - 2-foot lengths, fire clay or
terra-cotta pipe (round or square) and usually madein
all ordinary flue sizes. Used for the inner lining of
chimneys with the brick or masonry work done around the
outside. Flue linings in chimneys runs from one foot
below the flue connection to the top of the chimney.
Fly rafters - End rafters of the gable overhang
supported by roof sheathing and lookouts.
Footer, footing - Continuous 8" or 10" thick
concrete pad installed before and supports the
foundation wall or monopost.
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 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 ties - Metal wires that hold the
foundation wall panels and rebar in place during the
concrete pour.
Foundation waterproofing - High-quality
below-grade moisture protection. Used for below-grade
exterior concrete and masonry wall damp-proofing to seal
out moisture and prevent corrosion. Normally looks like
black tar.
Frame Inspection - The act of inspecting the
home's structural integrity and it's 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 - Lumber used for the structural members
of a building, such as studs, joists, and rafters.
Frieze - In house construction a horizontal
member connecting the top of the siding with the soffit
of the cornice.
Frost lid - Round metal lid that is installed on
a water meter pit.
Frost line - The depth of frost penetration in
soil and/or the depth at which the earth will freeze and
swell. This depth varies in different parts of the
country.
Furring strips - Strips of wood, often 1 X 2 and
used to shim out and provide a level fastening surface
for a wall or ceiling.
Fuse - A device often found in older homes
designed to prevent overloads in electrical lines. This
protects against fire. See also 'circuit breakers'.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
GF C I, or G F I - Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter- an ultra sensitive plug designed to shut
off all electric current. Used in bathrooms, kitchens,
exterior waterproof outlets, garage outlets, and "wet
areas". Has a small reset button on the plug.
Gable - The end, upper, triangular area of a
home, beneath the roof.
Gang nail plate - A steel plate attached to both
sides at each joint of a truss. Sometimes called a
fishplate or gussett.
Gate valve - A valve that lets you completely
stop—but not modulate—the flow within a pipe.
General Contractor - A contractor who enters into
a contract with the owner of a project for the
construction of the project and who takes full
responsibility for its completion, although the
contractor may enter into subcontracts with others for
the performance of specific parts or phases of the
project.
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.
Girder - A large or principal beam of wood or
steel used to support concentrated loads at isolated
points along its length.
Glazing - The process of installing glass, which
commonly is secured with glazier's points and glazing
compound.
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 enamel - A finishing paint material. Forms
a hard coating with maximum smoothness of surface and
dries to a sheen or luster (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 2 X 4's are
glued together).
Grade - Ground level, or the elevation at any
given point. Also the work of leveling dirt. Also the
designated quality of a manufactured piece of wood.
Grade beam - A foundation wall that is poured @
level with or just below the grade of theearth. 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
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.
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 fault - Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI,
GFI)- an ultra sensitive plug designed to shut off all
electric current. Used in bathrooms, kitchens, exterior
waterproof outlets, garage outlets, and "wet areas". Has
a small reset button on the plug.
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.
Groundwater - Water from an aquifer or subsurface
water source.
Grout - A wet mixture of cement, sand and water
that flows into masonry or ceramic crevices to seal the
cracks between the different pieces. Mortar made of such
consistency (by adding water) that it will flow into the
joints and cavities of the masonry work and fill them
solid.
Gusset - A flat wood, plywood, or similar type
member used to provide a connection at the intersection
of wood members. Most commonly used at joints of wood
trusses. They are fastened by nails, screws, bolts, or
adhesives.
Gutter - A shallow channel or conduit of metal or wood
set below and along the (fascia) eaves of a house to
catch and carry off rainwater from the roof.
Gyp board, Drywall, Wall board or gypsum - A
panel (normally 4' X 8', 10', 12', or 16')made with a
core of Gypsum (chalk-like) rock, which covers interior
walls and ceilings.
Gypsum plaster - Gypsum formulated to be used
with the addition of sand and water for base-coat
plaster.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
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 - All of the "metal" fittings that go
into the home when it is near completion. For example,
door knobs, towel bars, handrail brackets, closet rods,
house numbers, door closers, etc. The Interior Trim
Carpenter installs the "hardware".
Haunch - An extension, knee like protrusion of
the foundation wall that a concrete porch or patio will
rest upon for support.
Hazard insurance - Protection against damage
caused by fire, windstorms, or other common hazards.
Many lenders require borrowers to carry it in an amount
at least equal to the mortgage.
Header - (a) A beam placed perpendicular to
joists and to which joists are nailed in framing for a
chimney, stairway, or other opening. (b) A wood lintel.
(c) The horizontal structural member over an opening
(for example over a door or window).
Hearth - The fireproof area directly in front of
a fireplace. The inner or outer floor of a fireplace,
usually made of brick, tile, or stone.
Heating load - The amount of heating required to
keep a building at a specified temperature during the
winter, usually 65° F, regardless of outside
temperature.
Heat meter - An electrical municipal inspection
of the electric meter breaker panel box.
Heat pump - A mechanical 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 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.
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.
Highlights - A light spot, area, or streak on a
painted surface.
Hip - A roof with four sloping sides. The
external angle formed by the meeting of two sloping
sides of a roof.
Hip roof - A roof that rises by inclined planes
from all four sides of a building.
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.
Honey combs - The appearance concrete makes when
rocks in the concrete are visible and where there are
void areas in the foundation wall, especially around
concrete foundation windows.
Hose bib - An exterior water faucet (sill cock).
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.
Humidifier - An appliance normally attached to
the furnace, or portable unit device designed to
increase the humidity within a room or a house by means
of the discharge of water vapor.
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.
H V A C - An abbreviation for Heat, Ventilation,
and Air Conditioning
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
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 bear down
on the opening.
I-joist - Manufactured structural building
component resembling the letter "I". Used as floor
joists and rafters. I-joists include two key parts:
flanges and webs. The flange or from of the I joist may
be made of laminated veneer lumber or dimensional
lumber, usually formed into a 1 ½" width. The web or
center of the I-joist is commonly made of plywood or
oriented strand board (OSB). Large holes can be cut in
the web to accommodate duct work and plumbing waste
lines. I-joists are available in lengths up to 60 feet
long
Incandescent lamp - A lamp employing an
electrically charged metal filament that glows at white
heat. A typical light bulb.
Index - The interest rate or adjustment standard
that determines the changes in monthly payments for an
adjustable rate loan.
Infiltration - The passage of air from indoors to
outdoors and vice versa; term is usually associated with
drafts from cracks, seams or holes in buildings.
Inside corner - The point at which two walls form
an internal angle, as in the corner of a room.
Insulating glass - Window or door in which two
panes of glass are used with a sealed air space between.
Also known as Double glass.
Insulation board, rigid - A structural building
board made of coarse wood or cane fiber in ½- and
25/32-inch thickness. It can be obtained in various size
sheets and densities.
Insulation - Any material high in resistance to
heat transmission that, when placed in the walls,
ceiling, or floors of a structure, and will reduce the
rate of heat flow.
Interest - The cost paid to a lender for borrowed
money.
Interior finish - Material used to cover the
interior framed areas of walls and ceilings
Irrigation - Lawn sprinkler system.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
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. Includes studs as well as the
frame and trim.
Joint - The location between the touching
surfaces of two members or components joined and held
together by nails, glue, cement, mortar, or other means.
Joint cement or Joint compound - A powder that is
usually mixed with water and used for joint treatment in
gypsum-wallboard finish. Often called "spackle" or
drywall mud.
Joint tenancy - A form of ownership in which the
tenants own a property equally. If one dies, the other
automatically inherits the entire property.
Joint trench - When the electric company and
telephone company dig one trench and "drop" both of
their service lines in.
Joist - Wooden 2 X 8's, 10's, or 12's that run
parallel to one another and support a floor or ceiling,
and supported in turn by larger beams, girders, or
bearing walls.
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.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Keeper - The metal latch plate in a door frame into
which a doorknob plunger latches.
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.
Kilowatt (kw) - One thousand watts. A kilowatt
hour is the base unit used in measuring electrical
consumption. Also see watt.
King stud - The vertical "2 X's" frame lumber
(left and right) of a window or door opening, and runs
continuously from the bottom sole plate to the top
plate.
Knot - In lumber, the portion of a branch or limb
of a tree that appears on the edge or face of the piece.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Laminated shingles - Shingles that have added
dimensionality because of extra layers or tabs, giving a
shake-like 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. Often used
when stairs change direction. Normally no less than 3
ft. X 3 ft. square.
Lap - To cover the surface of one shingle or roll
with another.
Latch - A beveled metal tongue operated by a
spring-loaded knob or lever. The tongue's bevel lets you
close the door and engage the locking mechanism, if any,
without using a key. Contrasts with dead bolt.
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 narrow wood, metal,
gypsum, or insulating board that is fastened to the
frame of a building to act as a base for plaster,
shingles, or tiles.
Lattice - An open framework of criss-crossed wood
or metal strips that form regular, patterned spaces.
Ledger (for a Structural Floor) - The wooden
perimeter frame lumber member that bolts onto the face
of a foundation wall and supports the wood structural
floor.
Ledger strip - A strip of lumber nailed along the
bottom of the side of a girder on which joists rest.
Leech 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.
Let-in brace - Nominal 1 inch-thick boards
applied into notched studs diagonally. Also, an "L"
shaped, long (@ 10') metal strap that are installed by
the framer at the rough stage to give support to an
exterior wall or wall corner.
Level - True horizontal. Also a tool used to
determine level.
Level Payment Mortgage - A mortgage with
identical monthly payments over the life of the loan.
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.
Lineal foot - A unit of measure for lumber equal
to 1 inch thick by 12 inches wide by 12 inches long.
Examples: 1" x 12" x 16' = 16 board feet, 2" x 12" x 16'
= 32 board feet.
Lintel - A horizontal structural member that
supports the load over an opening such as a door or
window.
Load bearing wall - Includes all exterior walls
and any interior wall that is aligned above a support
beam or girder. Normally, any wall that has a double
horizontal top plate.
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 that
supports an overhang portion of a roof.
Louver - A vented opening into the home that has
a series of horizontal slats and arranged to permit
ventilation but to exclude rain, snow, light, insects,
or other living creatures.
Lumens - Unit of measure for total light output.
The amount of light falling on a surface of one square
foot.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Male - Any part, such as a bolt, designed to fit
into another (female) part. External threads are male.
Mantel - The shelf above a fireplace opening.
Also used in referring to the decorative trim around a
fireplace opening.
Manufactured wood - A wood product such as a
truss, beam, gluelam, microlam 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
also Oriented Strand Board.
Manufacturer's 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.
Masonry - Stone, brick, concrete, hollow-tile,
concrete block, or other similar building units or
materials. Normally bonded together with mortar to form
a wall.
Mastic - A pasty material used as a cement (as
for setting tile) or a protective coating (as for
thermal insulation or waterproofing)
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.
Metal lath - Sheets of metal that are slit to
form openings within the lath. 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 sawn lumber. Normally comes in l ½" thickness' and
9 ½", 11 ½" and 14" widths
Milar (mylar) - Plastic, transparent copies of a
blueprint.
Millwork - Generally all building materials made
of finished wood and manufactured in millwork plants.
Includes all doors, window and door frames, blinds,
mantels, panel work, stairway components (balusters,
rail, etc.), moldings, and interior trim. Does not
include flooring, ceiling, or siding.
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.
Molding - A wood strip having an engraved,
decorative surface.
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
Mortar - A mixture of cement (or lime) with sand
and water used in masonry work.
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.
Mortgagee - The lender who makes the mortgage
loan.
Mortgage loan - A contract in which the
borrower's property is pledged as collateral. It is
repaid in installments. The mortgagor (buyer) promises
to repay principal and interest, keep the home insured,
pay all taxes and keep the property in good condition.
Mortgage Origination Fee - A charge for work
involved in preparing and servicing a mortgage
application (usually one percent of the loan amount).
Mortise - A slot cut into a board, plank, or
timber, usually edgewise, to receive the tenon (or
tongue) of another board, plank, or timber to form a
joint.
Mudsill - Bottom horizontal member of an exterior
wall frame which rests on top a foundation, sometimes
called sill plate. Also sole plate, bottom member of
interior wall frame.
Mullion - A vertical divider in the frame between
windows, doors, or other openings.
Muntin - A small member which divides the glass
or openings of sash or doors.
Muriatic acid - Commonly used as a brick cleaner
after masonry work is completed.
Mushroom - The unacceptable occurrence when the
top of a caisson concrete pier spreads out and hardens
to become wider than the foundation wall thickness.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Nail inspection - An inspection made by a
municipal building inspector after the drywall material
is hung with nails and screws (and before taping).
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.
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.
Neutral wire - Usually color-coded white, this
carries electricity from an outlet back to the service
panel. Also see hot wire and ground.
Newel post - The large starting post to which the
end of a stair guard railing or balustrade is fastened.
Nonbearing wall - A wall supporting no load other
than its own weight.
Nosing - The projecting edge of a molding or drip
or the front edge of a stair tread.
Notch - A crosswise groove at the end of a board.
Note - A formal document showing the existence of
a debt and stating the terms of repayment.
Nozzle - The part of a heating system that sprays
the fuel of fuel-air mixture into the combustion
chamber.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
O C - On Center- The measurement of spacing for
studs, rafters, and joists in a building from the center
of one member to the center of the next.
Oakum - Loose hemp or jute fiber that's
impregnated with tar or pitch and used to caulk large
seams or for packing plumbing pipe joints
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.
Oriented Strand Board or OSB - A manufactured 4'
X 8' wood panel made out of 1"- 2" wood chips and glue.
Often used as a substitute for plywood.
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.
Outside corner - The point at which two walls
form an external angle, one you usually can walk around.
Overhang - Outward projecting eave-soffit area of
a roof; the part of the roof that hangs out or over the
outside wall. See also Cornice.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Padding - A material installed under carpet to
add foot comfort, isolate sound, and to prolong carpet
life.
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.
Paint - A combination of pigments with suitable
thinners or oils to provide decorative and protective
coatings. Can be oil based or latex water based.
Pallets - Wooden platforms used for storing and
shipping material. Forklifts and hand trucks are used to
move these wooden platforms around.
Panel - A thin flat piece of wood, plywood, or
similar material, framed by stiles and rails as in a
door (or cabinet door), or fitted into grooves of
thicker material with molded edges for decorative wall
treatment.
Paper, building - A general term for papers,
felts, and similar sheet materials used in buildings
without reference to their properties or uses. Generally
comes in long rolls.
Parapet - A wall placed at the edge of a roof to
prevent people from falling off.
Parting stop or strip - A small wood piece used
in the side and head jambs of double hung windows to
separate the upper sash from the lower sash.
Particle board - Plywood substitute made of
course sawdust that is mixed with resin and pressed into
sheets. Used for closet shelving, floor underlayment,
stair treads, etc.
Partition - A wall that subdivides spaces within
any story of a building or room.
Paver, paving - Materials—commonly masonry—laid
down to make a firm, even 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. There may also be a
temporary 'retainer' (5-10% of the total cost of the
job) at the end of the contract for correcting any small
items which have not been completed or repaired.
Pedestal - A metal box installed at various
locations along utility easements that contain
electrical, telephone, or cable television switches and
connections.
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 series as
a measure of nail length and is abbreviated by the
letter "d". Normally, 16d (16 "penny") nails are used
for framing
Percolation test or 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 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 "day lighted" into a sump
pit inside the home, and a sump pump is sometimes
inserted into the pit to discharge any accumulation of
water.
Permeability - A measure of the ease with which
water penetrates a material.
Permit - A governmental municipal authorization
to perform a building process as in:
Zoning\Use permit - Authorization to use a property
for a specific use e.g. a garage, a single family
residence etc.
Demolition permit - Authorization to tear down and
remove an existing structure.
Grading permit - Authorization to change the contour
of the land.
Septic permit - A health department authorization to
build or modify a septic system.
Building permit - Authorization to build or modify a
structure.
Electrical permit - A separate permit required for
most electrical work.
Plumbing permit - A separate permit required for new
plumbing and larger modifications of existing
plumbing systems.
Pigtails, electrical - The
electric cord that the electrician provides and installs on an appliance such
as a garbage disposal, dishwasher, or range hood.
Pier - A column of masonry, usually rectangular in horizontal cross
section, used to support other structural members. Also see Caisson.
Pigment - A powdered solid used in paint or enamel to give it a color.
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 - The incline slope of a roof or the ratio of the total rise to
the total width of a house, i.e., a 6-foot rise and 24-foot width is a
one-fourth pitch roof. Roof slope is expressed in the inches of rise, per foot
of horizontal run.
PITI - Principal, interest, taxes and insurance (the four major
components of monthly housing payments).
Plan view - Drawing of a structure with the view from overhead, looking
down.
Plate - Normally a 2 X 4 or 2 X 6 that lays horizontally within a
framed structure, such as:
-
Sill plate - A horizontal member anchored to a concrete or masonry
wall.
-
Sole plate - Bottom horizontal member of a frame wall.
-
Top plate - Top horizontal member of a frame wall supporting ceiling
joists, rafters, or other members.
Plan view - Drawing of a structure with the view from overhead, looking
down.
Plenum - The main hot-air supply duct leading from a furnace.
Plot plan - An overhead view plan that shows the location of the home
on the lot. Includes all easements, property lines, set backs, and legal
descriptions of the home. Provided by the surveyor.
Plough, plow - To cut a lengthwise groove in a board or plank. An
exterior handrail normally has a ploughed groove for hand gripping purposes
Plumb - Exactly vertical and perpendicular.
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 layers of roofing felt, veneer in
plywood, or layers in built-up materials, in any finished piece of such
material.
Plywood - A panel (normally 4' X 8') of wood made of three or more
layers of veneer, compressed and joined with glue, and usually laid with the
grain of adjoining plies at right angles to give the sheet strength.
Point load - A point where a bearing/structural weight is concentrated
and transferred to the foundation.
Portland cement - Cement made by heating clay and crushed limestone
into a brick and then grinding to a pulverized powder state.
Post - A vertical framing member usually designed to carry a beam.
Often a 4" x 4", a 6" x 6", or a metal pipe with a flat plate on top and
bottom.
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.
Power vent - A vent that includes a fan to speed up air flow. Often
installed on roofs.
Premium - Amount payable on a loan.
Preservative -. Any pesticide substance that, for a reasonable length
of time, will prevent the action of wood-destroying fungi, insect borers, and
similar destructive agents when the wood has been properly coated or
impregnated with it. Normally an arsenic derivative. Chromated Copper Arsenate
(CCA) is an example.
Pressure Relief Valve (PRV) - A device mounted on a hot water heater or
boiler which is designed to release any high steam pressure in the tank to
prevent tank explosions.
Pressure-treated wood - Lumber that has been saturated with a
preservative.
Primer - The first, base coat of paint when a paint job consists of two
or more coats. A first coating formulated to seal raw surfaces and holding
succeeding finish coats.
Principal - The original amount of the loan, the capital.
Property survey - A survey to determine the boundaries of your property. The
cost depends on the complexity of the survey.
P trap - Curved, "U" section of drain pipe that holds a water seal to
prevent sewer gasses from entering the home through a fixtures water drain.
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.
Putty - A type of dough used in sealing glass in the sash, filling
small holes and crevices in wood, and for similar purposes.
PVC or CPVC - Poly Vinyl Chloride-A type of white or light gray plastic
pipe sometimes used for water supply lines and waste pipe.
Back to Top
A
B C D
E F G
H I J
K L M
N O P
Q R S
T U V
W Y
Quary Tile - A man-made or machine-made clay tile used to finish a
floor or wall. Generally 6" X 6" X 1/4" thick .
Quarter round - A small trim molding that has the cross section of a
quarter circle.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Rabbet - A rectangular longitudinal groove cut in
the corner edge of a board or plank.
Radiant heating - A method of heating, usually
consisting of a forced hot water system with pipes
placed in the floor, wall, or ceiling. Also electrically
heated panels.
Radiation - Energy transmitted from a heat source
to the air around it. Radiators actually depend more on
convection than radiation.
Radon - A naturally-occurring, heavier than air,
radioactive gas common in many parts of the country.
Radon gas exposure is associated with lung cancer.
Mitigation measures may involve crawl space and basement
venting and various forms of vapor barriers.
Radon system - A ventilation system beneath the
floor of a basement and/or structural wood floor and
designed to fan exhaust radon gas to the outside of the
home
Rafter - Lumber used to support the roof sheeting
and roof loads. Generally, 2 X 10's and 2 X 12's are
used. The rafters of a flat roof are sometimes called
roof joists.
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.
Rail - Cross members of panel doors or of a sash.
Also, a wall or open balustrade placed at the edge of a
staircase, walkway bridge, or elevated surface to
prevent people from falling off. Any relatively
lightweight horizontal element, especially those found
in fences (split rail).
Railroad tie - Black, tar and preservative
impregnated, 6" X 8" 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 - Slope or slanted.
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.
Ready mixed concrete - Concrete mixed at a plant
or in trucks en route to a job and delivered ready for
placement.
Rebar, reinforcing bar - Ribbed steel bars
installed in foundation concrete walls, footers, and
poured in place concrete structures designed to
strengthen concrete. Comes in various thickness' and
strength grade.
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 - A fitting with different size openings
at either end and used to go from a larger to a smaller
pipe.
Reflective insulation - Sheet material with one
or both faces covered with aluminum foil.
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 grill placed over a heating duct or
cold air return.
Reglaze - To replace a broken window.
Relief valve - A device designed to open if it
detects excess temperature or pressure.
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.
Retaining wall - A structure that holds back a
slope and prevents erosion.
Retentions - Amounts withheld from progress
billings until final and satisfactory project
completion.
R factor or value - A measure of a materials
resistance to the passage of heat. New homewalls are
usually insulated with 4" of batt insulation with an R
value of R-13, and a ceiling insulation of R-30.
Ribbon (girt) - Normally a 1 X 4 board let into
the studs horizontally to support the ceiling or
second-floor joists.
Ridge - The horizontal line at the junction of
the top edges of two sloping roof surfaces.
Ridge board - The board placed on the ridge of
the roof onto which the upper ends of other rafters are
fastened.
Ridge shingles - Shingles used to cover the ridge
board.
Rim joist - A joist that runs around the
perimeter of the floor joists and home.
Rise - The vertical distance from the eaves line
to the ridge. Also the vertical distance from stair
tread to stair tread (and not to exceed 7 ½").
Riser - Each of the vertical boards closing the
spaces between the treads of stairways.
Riser and panel - The exterior vertical pipe
(riser) and metal electric box (panel) the electrician
provides and installs at the "Rough Electric" stage.
Road base - A aggregate mixture of sand and
stone.
Rock 1, 2, 3 - When referring to drywall, this
means to install drywall to the walls and ceilings (with
nails and screws), and before taping is performed.
Roll, rolling - To install the floor joists or
trusses in their correct place. (To "roll the floor"
means to install the floor joists).
Romex - A name brand of nonmetallic sheathed
electrical cable that is used for indoor wiring.
Roll roofing - Asphalt roofing products
manufactured in roll form. 36-inch wide rolls with and
108 square feet of material. Weights are generally 45 to
90 pounds per roll.
Romex - A name brand of nonmetallic sheathed
electrical cable that is used for indoor wiring.
Roof jack - Sleeves that fit around the black
plumbing waste vent pipes at, and are nailed to, the
roof sheeting.
Roof joist - The rafters of a flat roof. Lumber
used to support the roof sheeting and roof loads.
Generally, 2 X 10's and 2 X 12's are used.
Roof sheathing or sheeting - The wood panels or
sheet material fastened to the roof rafters or trusses
on which the shingle or other roof covering is laid.
Roof valley - The "V" created where two sloping
roofs meet.
Rough opening - The horizontal and vertical
measurement of a window or door opening before drywall
or siding is installed.
Rough sill - The framing member at the bottom of
a rough opening for a window. It is attached to the
cripple studs below the rough opening.
Roughing-in - The initial stage of a plumbing,
electrical, heating, carpentry, and/or other project,
when all components that won't be seen after the second
finishing phase are assembled. See also Heat Rough,
Plumbing Rough, and Electrical Rough.
Run, roof - The horizontal distance from the
eaves to a point directly under the ridge. One half the
span.
Run, stair - the horizontal distance of a stair
tread from the nose to the riser.
R Value - A measure of insulation. A measure of a
materials resistance to the passage of heat. The higher
the R value, the more insulating "power" it has. For
example, typical new home's walls are usually insulated
with 4" of batt insulation with an R value of R-13, and
a ceiling insulation of R-30.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Saddle - A small second roof built behind the back side
of a fireplace chimney to divert water around the
chimney. Also, the plate at the bottom of some—usually
exterior—door openings. Sometimes called a threshold.
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.
Sales contract - A contract between a buyer and
seller which should explain: (1) What the purchase
includes, (2) What guarantees there are, (3) When the
buyer can move in, (4) What the closing costs are, and
(5) What recourse the parties have if the contract is
not fulfilled or if the buyer cannot get a mortgage
commitment at the agreed upon time.
Sand float finish - Lime that is mixed with sand,
resulting in a textured finish on a wall.
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.
Sash - A single light frame containing one or
more lights of glass. The frame that holds the glass in
a window, often the movable part of the window.
Sash balance - A device, usually operated by a
spring and designed to hold a single hung window vent up
and in place
Saturated felt - A felt which is impregnated with
tar or asphalt.
Schedule (window, door, mirror) - A table on the
blueprints that list the sizes, quantities and locations
of the windows, doors and mirrors.
Scrap out - The removal of all drywall material
and debris after the home is "hung out" (installed) with
drywall.
Scratch coat - The first coat of plaster, which
is scratched to form a bond for a second coat.
Screed, concrete - To level off concrete to the
correct elevation during a concrete pour.
Screed, plaster - A small strip of wood, usually
the thickness of the plaster coat, used as a guide for
plastering.
Scribing - Cutting and fitting woodwork to an
irregular surface.
Scupper - (1) An opening for drainage in a wall,
curb or parapet. (2) The drain in a downspout or flat
roof, usually connected to the downspout.
Sealer - A finishing material, either clear or
pigmented, that is usually applied directly over raw
wood for the purpose of sealing the wood surface.
Seasoning - Drying and removing moisture from
green wood in order to improve its usability.
Self-sealing shingles - Shingles containing
factory-applied strips or spots of self-sealing
adhesive.
Semigloss paint or enamel - A paint or enamel
made so that its coating, when dry, has some luster but
is not very glossy. Bathrooms and kitchens are normally
painted semi-gloss
Septic system - An on site waste water treatment
system. It usually has a septic tank which promotes the
biological digestion of the waste, and a drain field
which is designed to let the left over liquid soak into
the ground. Septic systems and permits are usually sized
by the number of bedrooms in a house.
Service entrance panel - Main power cabinet where
electricity enters a home wiring system.
Service equipment - Main control gear at the
service entrance, such as circuit breakers, switches,
and fuses.
Service lateral - Underground power supply line.
Setback Thermostat - A thermostat with a clock
which can be programmed to come on or go off at various
temperatures and at different times of the day/week.
Usually used as the heating or cooling system
thermostat.
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.
Shake - A wood roofing material, normally cedar
or redwood. Produced by splitting a block of the wood
along the grain line. Modern shakes are sometimes
machine sawn on one side. See shingle.
Shear block - Plywood that is face nailed to
short (2 X 4's or 2 X 6's) wall studs (above a door or
window, for example). This is done to prevent the wall
from sliding and collapsing.
Sheathing, sheeting - The structural wood panel
covering, usually OSB or plywood, used over studs, floor
joists or rafters/trusses of a structure.
Shed roof - A roof containing only one sloping
plane.
Sheet metal work - All components of a house employing
sheet metal, such as flashing, gutters, and downspouts.
Sheet metal duct work - The heating system.
Usually round or rectangular metal pipes and sheet metal
(for Return Air) and installed for distributing warm (or
cold) air from the furnace to rooms in the home.
Sheet rock - Drywall-Wall board or gypsum- A
manufactured panel made out of gypsum plaster and
encased in a thin cardboard. Usually 1/2" thick and 4' x
8' or 4' x 12' in size. The 'joint compound'. 'Green
board' type drywall has a greater resistance to moisture
than regular (white) plasterboard and is used in
bathrooms and other "wet areas".
Shim - A small piece of scrap lumber or shingle,
usually wedge shaped, which when forced behind a furring
strip or framing member forces it into position. Also
used when installing doors and placed between the door
jamb legs and 2 X 4 door trimmers. Metal shims are wafer
1 1/2" X 2" sheet metal of various thickness' used to
fill gaps in wood framing members, especially at bearing
point locations.
Shingles - Roof covering of asphalt. asbestos,
wood, tile, slate, or other material cut to stock
lengths, widths, and thickness'.
Shingles, siding - Various kinds of shingles,
used over sheathing for exterior wall covering of a
structure.
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.
Shutter - Usually lightweight louvered decorative
frames in the form of doors located on the sides of a
window. Some shutters are made to close over the window
for protection.
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 finished exterior covering of the
outside walls of a frame building.
Siding, (lap siding) - Slightly wedge-shaped
boards used as horizontal siding in a lapped pattern
over the exterior sheathing. Varies in butt thickness
from ½ to ¾ inch and in widths up to 12".
Sill - (1) The 2 X 4 or 2 X 6 wood plate framing
member that lays flat against and bolted to the
foundation wall (with anchor bolts) and upon which the
floor joists are installed. Normally the sill plate is
treated lumber. (2) The member forming the lower side of
an opening, as a door sill or window sill.
Sill cock - An exterior water faucet (hose bib).
Sill plate (mudsill) - Bottom horizontal member
of an exterior wall frame which rests on top a
foundation, sometimes called mudsill. Also sole plate,
bottom member of an interior wall frame.
Sill seal - Fiberglass or foam insulation
installed between the foundation wall and sill (wood)
plate. Designed to seal any cracks or gaps.
Single hung window - A window with one vertically
sliding sash or window vent.
Skylight - A more or less horizontal window
located on the roof of a building.
Slab, concrete - Concrete pavement, i.e.
driveways, garages, and basement floors.
Slab, door - A rectangular door without hinges or
frame.
Slab on grade - A type of foundation with a
concrete floor which is placed directly on the soil. The
edge of the slab is usually thicker and acts as the
footing for the walls.
Slag - Concrete cement that sometimes covers the
vertical face of the foundation void material.
Sleeper - Usually, a wood member embedded in
concrete, as in a floor, that serves to support and to
fasten the 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 - The incline angle of a roof surface,
given as a ratio of the rise (in inches) to the run (in
feet). See also pitch.
Slump - The "wetness" of concrete. A 3 inch slump
is dryer and stiffer than a 5 inch slump.
Soffit - The area below the eaves and overhangs.
The underside where the roof overhangs the walls.
Usually the underside of an overhanging cornice.
Soil pipe - A large pipe that carries liquid and
solid wastes to a sewer or septic tank.
Soil stack - A plumbing vent pipe that penetrates
the roof.
Sole plate - The bottom, horizontal framing
member of a wall that's attached to the floor sheeting
and vertical wall studs.
Solid bridging - A solid member placed between
adjacent floor joists near the center of the span to
prevent joists or rafters 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.
Spacing - The distance between individual members
or shingles in building construction.
Span - The clear distance that a framing member
carries a load without support between structural
supports. The horizontal distance from eaves to eaves.
Spec home - A house built before it is sold. The
builder speculates that he can sell it at a profit.
Specifications or Specs - A narrative list of
materials, methods, model numbers, colors, allowances,
and other details which supplement the information
contained in the blue prints. Written elaboration in
specific detail about construction materials and
methods. Written to supplement working drawings.
Splash block - Portable concrete (or vinyl)
channel generally placed beneath an exterior sill cock
(water faucet) or downspout in order to receive roof
drainage from downspouts and to divert it away from the
building.
Square - A unit of measure-100 square
feet-usually applied to roofing and siding material.
Also, a situation that exists when two elements are at
right angles to each other. Also a tool for checking
this.
Square, tab shingles - Shingles on which tabs are
all the same size and exposure.
Squeegie - Fine pea gravel used to grade a floor
(normally before concrete is placed).
Stack (trusses) - To position trusses on the
walls in their correct location.
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.
Starter strip - Asphalt roofing applied at the
eaves that provides protection by filling in the spaces
under the cutouts and joints of the first course of
shingles.
Stair carriage or stringer - Supporting member
for stair treads. Usually a 2 X 12 inch plank notched to
receive the treads; sometimes called a "rough horse."
Stair landing - A platform between flights of
stairs or at the termination of a flight of stairs.
Often used when stairs change direction. Normally no
less than 3 ft. X 3 ft. square.
Stair rise - The vertical distance from stair
tread to stair tread (and not to exceed 7 ½").
Static vent - A vent that does not include a fan.
STC (Sound Transmission Class) - The measure of
sound stopping of ordinary noise.
Steel inspection - A municipal and/or engineers
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.
Step flashing - Flashing application method used
where a vertical surface meets a sloping roof plane. 6"
X 6" galvanized metal bent at a 90 degree angle, and
installed beneath siding and over the top of shingles.
Each piece overlaps the one beneath it the entire length
of the sloping roof (step by step).
Stick built - A house built without prefabricated
parts. Also called conventional building.
Stile - An upright framing member in a panel
door.
Stool - The flat molding fitted over the window
sill between jambs and contacting the bottom rail of the
lower sash. Also another name for toilet.
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.
Stops - Moldings along the inner edges of a door
or window frame. Also valves used to shut off water to a
fixture.
Stop valve - A device installed in a water supply
line, usually near a fixture, that permits an individual
to shut off the water supply to one fixture without
interrupting service to the rest of the system.
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.
Story - That part of a building between any floor
or between the floor and roof.
Strike - The plate on a door frame that engages a
latch or dead bolt.
String, stringer - A timber or other support for
cross members in floors or ceilings. In stairs, the
supporting member for stair treads. Usually a 2 X 12
inch plank notched to receive the treads
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.
Stub, stubbed - To push through.
Stucco - Refers to an outside plaster finish made
with Portland cement as its base.
Stud - A vertical wood framing member, also
referred to as a wall stud, attached to the horizontal
sole plate below and the top plate above. Normally 2 X
4's or 2 X 6's, 8' long (sometimes 92 5/8"). 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.
Subfloor - The framing components of a floor to
include the sill plate, floor joists, and deck sheeting
over which a finish floor is to be laid.
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.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
T & G, tongue and groove - A joint made by a
tongue (a rib on one edge of a board) that fits into a
corresponding groove in the edge of another board to
make a tight flush joint. Typically, the subfloor
plywood is T & G.
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.
Take off - The material necessary to complete a
job.
Taping - The process of covering drywall joints
with paper tape and joint compound.
T bar - Ribbed, "T" shaped bars with a flat metal
plate at the bottom that are driven into the earth.
Normally used chain link fence poles, and to mark
locations of a water meter pit.
Teco - Metal straps that are nailed and secure
the roof rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall
plate. Sometimes called a hurricane clip.
Tee - A "T" shaped plumbing fitting.
Tempered - Strengthened. Tempered glass will not
shatter nor create shards, but will "pelletize" like an
automobile window. Required in tub and shower enclosures
and locations, entry door glass and sidelight glass, and
in a windows when the window sill is less than 16" to
the floor.
Termites - Wood eating insects that superficially
resemble ants in size and general appearance, and live
in colonies.
Termite shield - A shield, usually of galvanized
metal, placed in or on a foundation wall or around pipes
to prevent the passage of termites.
Terra cotta - A ceramic material molded into
masonry units.
Thermoply ™ - Exterior laminated sheathing nailed
to the exterior side of the exterior walls. Normally ¼ "
thick, 4 X 8 or 4 x 10 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.
Three-dimensional shingles - Laminated shingles.
Shingles that have added dimensionality because of extra
layers or tabs, giving a shake-like appearance. May also
be called "architectural shingles".
Threshold - The bottom metal or wood plate of an
exterior door frame. Generally they are adjustable to
keep a tight fit with the door slab.
Time and materials contract - A construction
contract which specifies a price for different elements
of the work such as cost per hour of labor, overhead,
profit, etc. A contract which may not have a maximum
price, or may state a 'price not to exceed'.
Tinner - Another name for the heating contractor.
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.
TJI or TJ - Manufactured structural building
component resembling the letter "I". Used as floor
joists and rafters. I-joists include two key parts:
flanges and webs. The flange or from of the I joist may
be made of laminated veneer lumber or dimensional
lumber, usually formed into a 1 ½" width. The web or
center of the I-joist is commonly made of plywood or
oriented strand board (OSB). Large holes can be cut in
the web to accommodate duct work and plumbing waste
lines. I-joists are available in lengths up to 60''
long.
Toenailing - To drive a nail in at a slant.
Method used to secure floor joists to the plate.
Top chord - The upper or top member of a truss.
Top plate - Top horizontal member of a frame wall
supporting ceiling joists, rafters, or other members.
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 walking surface board in a stairway
on which the foot is placed.
Treated lumber - A wood product which has been
impregnated with chemical pesticides such as CCA (Chromated
Copper Arsenate) to reduce damage from wood rot or
insects. Often used for the portions of a structure
which are likely to be in contact with soil and water.
Wood may also be treated with a fire retardant.
Trim (plumbing, heating, electrical) - The work
that the "mechanical" contractors perform to finish
their respective aspects of work, and when the home is
nearing completion and occupancy.
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,
stair way balustrades, mantles, light boxes, base, door
casings, cabinets, countertops, shelves, window sills
and aprons, etc. Exterior- The finish materials on the
exterior 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
Trimmer - The vertical stud that supports a
header at a door, window, or other opening.
Truss - An engineered and manufactured roof
support member with "zig-zag" framing members. Does the
same job as a rafter but is designed to have a longer
span than a rafter.
Tub trap - 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.
Turnkey - A term used when the subcontractor
provides all materials (and labor) for a job.
Turpentine - A petroleum, volatile oil used as a
thinner in paints and as a solvent in varnishes.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
UL Underwriters' Laboratory - An independent
testing agency that checks electrical devices and other
components for possible safety hazards.
Undercoat - A coating applied prior to the
finishing or top coats of a paint job. It may be the
first of two or the second of three coats. Sometimes
called the Prime coat.
Underground plumbing - The plumbing drain and
waste lines that are installed beneath a basement floor.
Underlayment - A ¼" material placed over the
subfloor plywood sheeting and under finish coverings,
such as vinyl flooring, to provide a smooth, even
surface. Also a secondary roofing layer that is
waterproof or water-resistant, installed on the roof
deck and beneath shingles or other roof-finishing layer.
Union - A plumbing fitting that joins pipes
end-to-end so they can be dismantled.
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.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Valley - The "V" shaped area of a roof where two
sloping roofs meet. Water drains off the roof at the
valleys.
Valley flashing - Sheet metal that lays in the
"V" area of a roof valley.
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.
Vapor barrier - A building product installed on
exterior walls and ceilings under the drywall and on the
warm side of the insulation. It is used to retard the
movement of water vapor into walls and prevent
condensation within them. Normally, polyethylene plastic
sheeting is used.
Variable rate - An interest rate that will vary
over the term of the loan.
Veneer - Extremely thin sheets of wood. Also a
thin slice of wood or brick or stone covering a framed
wall.
Vent - A pipe or duct which allows the flow of
air and gasses to the outside. Also, another word for
the moving glass part of a window sash, i.e. window
vent.
Vermiculite - A mineral used as bulk insulation
and also as aggregate in insulating and acoustical
plaster and in insulating concrete floors.
Veterans Administration (VA) - A federal agency
that insures mortgage loans with very liberal down
payment requirements for honorably discharged veterans
and their surviving spouses.
Visqueen - A 4 mil or 6 mil plastic sheeting.
Void - Cardboard rectangular boxes that are
installed between the earth (between caissons) and the
concrete foundation wall. Used when expansive soils are
present.
Voltage - A measure of electrical potential. 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 range, hot water heater and dryer.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
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.
Walk-Through - A final inspection of a home
before "Closing" to look for and document problems that
need to be corrected.
Wall out - When a painter pray paints the
interior of a home.
Warping - Any distortion in a material.
Warranty - In construction there are two general
types of warranties. One is provided by the manufacturer
of a product such as roofing material or an appliance.
The second is a warranty for the labor. For example, a
roofing contract may include a 20 year material warranty
and a 5 year labor warranty. Many new homebuilders
provide a one year warranty. Any major issue found
during the first year should be communicated to the
builder immediately. Small items can be saved up and
presented to the builder for correction periodically
through the first year after closing.
Waste pipe and vent - Plumbing plastic pipe that
carries waste water to the municipal sewage system.
Water board - Water resistant drywall to be used
in tub and shower locations. Normally green or blue
colored
Water closet - Another name for toilet.
Water meter pit (or vault) - The box /cast iron
bonnet and concrete rings that contains the water meter.
Water-repellent preservative - A liquid applied
to wood to give the wood water repellant properties
Water table - The location of the underground
water, and the vertical distance from the surface of the
earth to this underground water.
Water tap - The connection point where the home
water line connects to the main municipal water system.
Watt - A measure of the electrical requirement of
an appliance calculated by multiplying the voltage times
the amperage. For example: a 150 watt light bulb which
uses 110 volt power needs a little less than 1 amp (110
volts X 1 amp= 110 watts).
W C - An abbreviation for water closet (toilet).
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.
Weatherstrip - Narrow sections of thin metal or
other material installed to prevent the infiltration of
air and moisture around windows and doors.
Weep holes - Small holes in storm window frames
that allow moisture to escape.
Whole house fan - A fan designed to move air
through and out of a home and normally installed in the
ceiling.
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 "domino" fashion.
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
Window frame - The stationary part of a window
unit; window sash fits into the window frame.
Window sash - The operating or movable part of a
window; the sash is made of window panes and their
border.
Wire nut
- A plastic device used to connect bare wires together.
Wonderboard™ - A panel made out of concrete and
fiberglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing
material. Commonly used on bathtub decks.
Wrapped drywall - Areas that get complete drywall
covering, as in the doorway openings of bifold and
bipass closet doors.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
Y - A "Y" shaped plumbing fitting.
Yard of concrete - One cubic yard of concrete is
3' X 3' X 3' in volume, or 27 cubic feet. One cubic yard
of concrete will pour 80 square feet of 3 ½" sidewalk or
basement/garage floor.
Yoke - The location where a home's water meter is
sometimes installed between two copper pipes, and
located in the water meter pit in the yard.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y
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.
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.
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.
Zoning - A governmental process and specification
which limits the use of a property e.g. single family
use, high rise residential use, industrial use, etc.
Zoning laws may limit where you can locate a structure.
Also see building codes.
Back to Top
A B
C D
E F
G H
I J
K L
M N
O P
Q R
S T
U V
W Y