GLOSSARY OF GENERAL CONSTTRUCTION TERMS

A

An extension or increase in the height, conditioned floor area or conditioned volume of a building or structure.

dhesion

The property of a coating or sealant to bond to the surface to which it is applied.

Aggregate

A mixture of sand and stone and a major component of concrete. (b) Crushed stone, slag or water-worn gravel that comes in a wide range of sizes that is used to surface built-up roofs.

Alteration

Any construction or renovation to an existing structure other than repair or addition that requires a permit. Also, a change in a mechanical system that involves an extension, addition or change to the arrangement, type or purpose of the original installation that requires a permit.

Approach

The area between the sidewalk and the street that leads to a driveway or the transition from the street as you approach a driveway.

Approved

The approval of the code official or other authority having jurisdiction as the result of investigation and tests conducted by said official or authority, or by reason of accepted principles or tests by nationally recognized organizations.

Apron

The “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. An architect is a licensed tradesman who designs and produces plans for buildings, often overseeing the building process.

Architectural Rule (ruler)

Is a three sided ruler with different scales on each side, often referred to as a “scale” ruler.

Area Wells

Corrugated metal or concrete barrier walls installed around a basement window to hold back the earth

Area Wells

Corrugated metal or concrete barrier walls installed around a basement window to hold back the earth

Astragal

A molding, attached to one of a pair of swinging double doors, against which the other door strikes.

Backfill

(a) filling in any previously excavated area. (b) in carpentry, the process of fastening together two pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in the interior angle.

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.

Balloon Framing

In carpentry, the lightest and most economical form of construction, in which the studding and corner plates are set up in continuous lengths from the first floor line or sill to the roof plate. A construction method where the walls are framed before the floor is built, and the wall cavity is often open to both the attic and the basement. This is done to eliminate the need for a gable end truss.

Barrel Roof

Is a type of roof design which in cross section is arched.

Base or Baseboard

A trim board placed against the wall around the room next to the floor.

Base Ply

An asphalt-saturated and/or coated felt installed as the first ply with 4 inch laps in abuilt-up roof system under the following felts which can be installed in a shingle-like fashion.

Band Joist

The outside framing ribbon or joist between first and second floors of a structure. Also see Rim joist

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 Shoe

Molding used next to the floor on interior base board.

Batten

Narrow strips of wood used to cover joints or as decorative vertical members over plywood or wide boards.

Batten Plate

A formed piece of metal designed to cover the joint between two lengths of metal edge.

Bay Window

A window space projecting outward from the walls of a building, either square or polygonal in plan.

Beam

Structural support member (steel, concrete, lumber) that transfers weight from one location to another. Or a strong horizontal building support used to carry the weight of a floor or roof. It may be referred to as a “girder”.

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).

Bevel

(of a door) is the angle of the front edge of a door usually from 1/8″ to 2″.

Bi-fold door

Doors that are hinged in the middle for opening in a smaller area than standard swingdoors. Often used for closet doors.

Bi-Pass Doors

Doors that slide by each other and commonly used as closet doors.

Bitumen

Any of various mixtures of hydrocarbons occurring naturally or obtained through thedistillation of coal or petroleum. (See Coat Tar Pitch and Asphalt)

Bleeding

Blocking (door)

Wood shims used between the door frame and the vertical structural wall framing members.

Blocking (rafters)

Short “2 by 4’s” used to keep rafters from twisting, and installed at the ends and at mid-span.

Blister

An enclosed raised spot evident on the surface of a building. They are mainly caused by the expansion of trapped air, water vapor, moisture or other gases.

Blocking

Small wood pieces to brace framing members or to provide a nailing base for gypsum board or paneling. In carpentry, the process of fastening together two pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in the interior angle.

Blue Print(s)

A type of copying method often used for architectural drawings. The term used to describe the drawing of a structure prepared by an architect or designer for the purpose of design and planning, estimating, securing permits and actual construction. Architectural plans for a building or construction project, which is likely to include floor plans, footing and foundation plans, elevations, plot plans, and various schedules and or details.

Board Foot

The unit of measure for lumber, which is 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 Breaker

A substance or a tape applied between two adjoining materials to prevent adhesion between them.

Bond Plaster

In addition to gypsum, bond plaster contains 2-5% lime by weight and chemical additives which improve the bond with dense non-porous surfaces such as concrete. It is used as a base coat.

Bottom Chord

The lower or bottom horizontal member of a truss.

Bottom Plate

The “2 x 4’s or 2×6’s” that lay on the subfloor upon which the vertical studs are installed. It may also be called the ‘sole plate’ or “kick 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.

Bracing

Ties and rods used for supporting and strengthening various parts of a building used for lateral stability for columns and beams.

Brick Ledge

Part of the foundation wall where brick (veneer) will rest.

Brick Lintel

This is 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.

Brown-coat

This is coat of plaster directly beneath the finish coat. In three-coat work, the brown is the second coat.

Bubbling

In glazing, open or closed pockets in a sealant caused by release, production or expansion of gasses.

Buck

Often used in reference to rough frame opening members. Door bucks used in reference to metal door frame. See Window Bucks

Building

Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.

Building Brick

Brick for building purposes not especially treated for texture or color, formerly called “common brick.” It is stronger than face brick.

Brick Tie

A small, corrugated 1″ X 6″- 8″ long metal strip, nailed to wall sheeting or studs. They are inserted into the grout mortar joint of the veneer brick, holding the veneer wall to the sheeted wall behind it.

Brick Veneer

A vertical facing of brick lain 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.

Building Codes

Community ordinances governing the manner in which a home may be constructed or modified.

Building Permit

Written authorization from the city, county or other governing regulatory body giving permission to construct or renovate a building. A building permit is specific to the building project described in the application.

Built-Up Roof

A roof 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 and is generally used for flat or low-pitched roofing systems.

Butt Edge

The lower edge of the shingle tabs.

Butt Glazing

The installation of glass products where the vertical glass edges are without structural supporting mullions.

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 or to place materials end-to-end or end-to-edge without overlapping.

Butterfly Roof

Is a roof assembly which pitches sharply from either side toward the center.

CO

(a) 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. Itis issued only after the local municipality has made all inspections and all monies and fees have been paid. (b) An abbreviation for Carbon Monoxide. An odorless, tasteless, poisonous combustion by-product lighter than air.

Caisson

A 10″ or 12″ diameter hole drilled into the earth and embedded into bedrock 3 – 4 feet. This is the structural support for a type of foundation wall, porch, patio, mono-post, 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

Canopy

An overhanging roof.

Cant Strip

A beveled support used at the intersection of the roof deck with vertical surfaces so that bends in the roofing membrane to form base flashings can be made without breaking the felts.

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.

Cap Sheets

In roofing, one to four plies of felt bonded and top coated with bitumen that is laid over an existing roof as a treatment for defective roofs.

Casement

Is the frame of wood or metal enclosing part (or all) of a window sash and 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 or molding installed around a door or window opening.

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, such as Portland cement or 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.

Certificate of Occupancy

A document stating that a building is approved for occupancy. The building authority issues the Certificate of Occupancy.

Channel Glazing

The installation of glass products into U-shaped glazing channels. The channels may have fixed stops; however, at least one glazing stop on one edge must be removable.

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.

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. It may also be referred to as OSB (Oriented Strand Board) or wafer board.

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”

Is the minimum fire rating issued by the Underwriters’ Laboratories for roofing materials.

Coal Tar Pitch (Tar)

Is a bituminous material which is a byproduct from the coking of coal. It is used as the waterproofing material for tar and gravel built-up roofing.

Coating

A layer of any liquid product spread over a surface for protection.

Code Official

The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative.

Cohesive Failure

Internal splitting of a compound resulting from over-stressing of the compound.

Collar

(a) In roofing, a conical metal cap flashing used in conjunction with vent pipes or stacks usually located several inches above the plane of the roof, for the purpose of shedding water away from the base of the vent. (b) In HVAC, the device used to connect a duct to the plenum, sometimes called a “start collar”.

Collar Beam

A nominal 1- or 2-inch-thick members connecting opposite roof rafters. They serve to stiffen the roof structure by connecting similar rafters on opposite sides of roof.

Column

A vertical building support usually made of wood or steel which supports loads.

Commercial Building

For the purpose of code, all buildings that are not included in the definition of “Residential buildings,” other than detached one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses and residential buildings, Groups R-2 and R-4.

Compatible

Two or more substances which can be mixed or blended without separating, reacting, or affecting either material adversely.

Component

Any one part of an assembly associated with construction.

Composite Board

An insulation board which has two different insulation types laminated together in 2 or 3 layers.

Compound

A chemical formulation of ingredients used to produce a caulking, elastomeric joint sealant, etc.

Compression Web

Is a member of a truss system which connects the bottom and top chords and which provides downward support.

Concrete

The mixture of Portland cement, sand, gravel, and water. Used to make garage and basement floors, sidewalks, patios, foundation walls, etc. and is commonly reinforced with steel rods (rebar) or wire screening (mesh).

Concrete Block

Is 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.

Conduit (electrical)

Is a pipe, usually metal, in which wire is installed for protecting electric wires.

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.

Control Circuit

A circuit whose work is switching a power circuit or opening an automatic valve.

Control Joint

Tooled, straight grooves made on concrete floors to “control” where the concrete should crack or to accommodate movement in the surface component of a roof or brick wall.

Coping

A construction unit placed at the top of the parapet wall to serve as a cover for the wall.

Copper Pipe

Piping used to transfer fluids or gases made from copper. (a) Type K has the heaviest or thickest wall and is generally used underground. It has a green stripe. (b) Type L has a medium wall thickness and is most commonly used for water service and for general interior water piping. It has a blue stripe. (c) Type M has a thin wall and many codes permit its use in general water piping installation. It has a red stripe.

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

(a) Overhang of a pitched roof, usually consisting of a fascia board, a soffit and appropriate trim moldings. (b) A horizontal projecting course on the exterior of a building, usually at the base of the parapet.

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.

Coupling

In plumbing, a short collar with only inside threads at each end, for receiving the ends of two pipes which are to be fitted and joined together. A right/left coupling is one used to join 2 gas pipes in limited space.

Course

(a) A row of shingles or roll roofing running the length of the roof. Parallel layers of building materials such as bricks, or siding laid horizontally. (b) A single layer of brick or stone or other building material.

Cove Molding

A molding with a concave face used as trim or to finish interior corners.

Crawl Space

A shallow space below the living quarters of a house, normally enclosed by the foundation wall and having a dirt floor. The space in a house often used to distribute mechanical/electrical systems. It is usually unconditioned.

Crawl Space Wall

Is the opaque portion of a wall that encloses a crawl space and is partially or totally below grade.

Cricket

(a) A second roof built on top of the primary roof to increase the slope of the roof or valley. (b) 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 Section

A view of a building component drawn or imagined by cutting through the component.

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

(a) The short elevation of an exterior wall above the deck of a roof. Normally a 2 x 6 box (on the roof) on which a skylight is attached. (b) A short wall or masonry built above the level of the roof that provides a means of flashing the deck equipment.

Curing

(a) In concrete application, the process in which mortar and concrete harden. The length of time is dependent upon the type of cement, mix proportion, required strength, size and shape of the concrete section, weather and future exposure conditions. The period may be 3 weeks or longer for lean concrete mixtures used in structures such as dams or it may be only a few days for richer mixes. Favorable curing temperatures range from 50 to 70 degrees F. Design strength is achieved in 28 days. (b) In reference to a home, the process by which a home is dried after construction. Usually takes 12-18 months of being in a continually conditioned state.

Curtain Wall

(a) A thin wall, supported by the structural steel or concrete frame of the building independent of the wall below. Also a metal (most often aluminum) framing system on the face of a building containing vision glass panels and spandrel panels made of glass, aluminum, or other material. (b) Fenestration products used to create an external non-load bearing wall that is designed to separate the exterior and interior environments. (c) Air stream created at the entrance to a building to restrict the transfer of heat into or out of building.

Cut-in Brace

Nominal 2-inch-thick members, usually 2 by 4’s, cut in between each stud diagonally.

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

(a) An elevated platform. (b) To install the plywood or wafer board sheeting on the floor joists, rafters, or trusses.

Decking

The wood material installed under roofing material to support the roofing.

Deflection

The amount of bending movement of any part of a structural member perpendicular to the axis of the member under an applied load.

Distortion

Alteration of viewed images caused by variations in glass flatness or inhomogeneous portions within the glass and is an inherent characteristic of heat-treated glass.

Door Jamb

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 Stop

Is the wooden style that the door slab will rest upon when it’s in a closed position.

Dormer

(a) A vertical house-like structure with window projecting from a roof. (b) An opening in a sloping roof, the framing of which projects out to form a vertical wall suitable for windows or other openings.

Double Hung Window

A window with two vertically sliding sashes, both of which can move up and down.

Double Plate

when two layers of 2 x 4’s are placed on top of studs in framing a wall.

Down Spout

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. It is sometimes referred to as a perimeter drain.

Drawing(s)

See Blue Prints.

Drawing Detail

A top view drawing of a building or roof showing the roof perimeter and indicating the projections and roof mounted equipment, drawn to scale.

Drawing Outline

A top view drawing of a building or roof showing only the perimeter drawn to scale.

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.

Drip Edge

A device designed to prevent water from running back or under an overhang.

Dry In

To make a building waterproof by installing the black roofing felt (tar paper) on the roof and or walls.

Drywall (or Gypsum Wallboard (GWB), Sheet Rock™ or Plasterboard)

Wall board or gypsum board – A manufactured panel made out of gypsum plaster and encased in a thin cardboard. Usually 1/2″ – 3/4” thick and comes in 4′ x 8′ or 4′ x 12′ sheets. 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”.

Dura Board or Dura Rock™

A panel used as a ceramic tile backing material, made out of concrete and fiberglass usually. Commonly used on bathtub decks. Sometimes called Wonder board

Dwelling Unit

A single housekeeping unit comprised of one or more rooms providing complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.

DWV

Acronym for Drain-Waste-Vent, which is the section of a plumbing system that carries water and sewer gases out of a home.

Earthquake Strap

A metal strap used to secure gas hot water heaters to the framing or foundation of a house.

Eave(s)

(a) The horizontal exterior roof overhang. (b) The part of a roof which projects out from the side wall, or the lower edge of the part of a roof that overhangs a wall.

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

EIFS

Acronym for Exterior Insulating Finish System; exterior wall cladding system consisting primarily of polystyrene foam board with a textured acrylic finish that resembles plaster or stucco.

Elevation

A side of a building.

Elevation Sheet

The page of a set of blue prints or building drawings that depicts the house or room as if a vertical plane were passed through the structure.

Entrance Door

Fenestration products used for ingress, egress and access in nonresidential buildings, including, but not limited to, exterior entrances that utilize latching hardware and automatic closers and contain over 50-percent glass specifically designed to withstand heavy use and possibly abuse.

Equivalent Length

The term used to describe a length of straight pipe that has equivalent resistance to a pipe or duct fitting. Used for piping and duct design.

Escutcheon

An ornamental plate that fits around a pipe extending through a wall or floor to hide the cut out hole

Expansion Joint

(a) A device used to permit a structure to expand or contract without breakage. (b) 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.

Expansion Valve

Is a valve that meters refrigerant into the evaporator.

Exterior Wall

Walls including both above-grade walls and basement walls.

Exterior Wall

Is an above-grade wall enclosing conditioned space which is vertical or sloped at an angle 60 degrees (1.1 rad) or greater from the horizontal (see “Roof assembly”). It includes between-floor spandrels, peripheral edges of floors, roof and basement knee walls, dormer walls, gable end walls, walls enclosing a mansard roof, and basement walls with an average below-grade wall area which is less than 50 percent of the total opaque and non-opaque area of that enclosing side.

Eyebrow

A flat, normally concrete, projection which protrudes horizontally from a building wall; Eyebrows are generally located above windows.

Facade

The front of a building. Frequently, in architectural terms an artificial or decorative effort.

Face Brick

Brick made especially for exterior use with special consideration of color, texture and size, and used as a facing or siding on a building.

GFCI, or GFI

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.

GFRC

Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete; Material used in wall systems that resembles but generally does not perform as well as concrete. Usually a thin cementitious material laminated to plywood or other lightweight backing.

Gable

The triangular end of the exterior wall of a building, that extends from the level of the eaves, to the ridge of a double-sloped roof.

Galvanized

Process used to coat a metal with zinc by dipping it in molten zinc after cleaning.

Gambrel Roof

A type of roof which has its slope broken by an obtuse angle, so that the lower slope is steeper than the upper slope. A double sloped roof having two pitches.

Gang Nail Plate

A steel plate attached to both sides at each joint of a truss. It sometimes referred to as a fishplate or gusset.

Gate Valve

A valve that lets you completely stop, but not modulate the flow within a pipe.

Gauge

(a) The thickness of sheet metal and wire, etc. (b) A device used to measure pressure.

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.

Girder

(a) A main beam upon which floor joists rest, usually made of steel or wood. (b) A large or principal beam of wood or steel used to support concentrated loads at isolated points along its length.

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 pieces of dimensional lumber are glued together).

Grade

(a) The ground level or the elevation at any given point. (b) The work of leveling dirt. (c) The designated quality of a manufactured piece of wood.

Grade MW

Moderate Weather grade of brick for moderate resistance to freezing used, for example, in planters.

Grade NW

No Weather brick intended for use as a backup or interior masonry.

Grade SW

Severe Weather grade of brick intended for use where high resistance to freezing is desired.

Grade Beam

Is a foundation wall that is poured @ level with or just below the grade of the earth. An example is the area where the 8′ or 16′ overhead garage door “block out” is located, or a lower (walk out basement) foundation wall is poured

Grain

The direction, size, arrangement, appearance, or quality of the fibers in wood.

Granules

The mineral particles of a graded size which are embedded in the asphalt coating of shingles and roofing.

Gravel

Loose fragments of rock used for surfacing built-up roofs, in sizes varying from 1/8″ to 1 3/4″.

Grout or Grouting

(a) Cement mortar mixture commonly used to fill joints and cavities of masonry. (b) 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.

Gutter Strap

Metal bands used to support the gutter.

Gypsum 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 Keene Cement

Material used to obtain a smooth finish coat of plaster, for use over gypsum plastic base coats only and in areas not subject to moisture. It is the hardest plaster.

Gypsum Plaster

Gypsum formulated to be used with the addition of sand and water for base-coat plaster.

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”.

Hatch

An opening in a deck; floor or roof. The usual purpose is to provide access from inside the building.

Haunch

An extension, knee like protrusion of the foundation wall that a concrete porch or patio will rest upon for support.

Head

Foot pounds of mechanical energy per pound of fluid created by a pump.

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.

Heat Strengthened Glass

Flat or bent glass that has been heat-treated to a specific surface and/or edge compression range to meet the requirements of ASTM C 1048, kind HS. Heat-strengthened glass is approximately two times as strong as annealed glass of the same thickness when exposed to uniform static pressure loads. Heat-strengthened glass is not considered safety glass and will not completely dice as will fully tempered glass.

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 Bead

Sealant applied at the base of a channel, after setting the lite or panel and before the removable stop is installed, one of its purposes being to prevent leakage past the stop.

Heel Cut

A notch cut in the end of a rafter to permit it to fit flat on a wall and on the top, doubled, exterior wall plate.

Highlights

A light spot, area, or streak on a painted surface.

Hip Roof

(a) This type of roof has four sloping sides, extending downward from the peak of a building. (b) The external angle formed by the meeting of two sloping sides of a roof.

Home Run (electrical)

The electrical cable that carries power from the main circuit breaker panel to the first electrical box, plug, or switch in the circuit.

Honeycomb

(1) Areas in a foundation wall where the aggregate (gravel) is visible. Honeycombs can be usually be remedied by applying a thin layer of grout or other cement product over the affected area. (2) Method by which concrete is poured and not puddled or vibrated, allowing the edges to have voids or holes after the forms are removed.

Hose Bib

An exterior water faucet (sill cock).

HUB

In plumbing, the enlarged end of a pipe which is made to provide a connection into which the end of the joining pipe will fit.

Hurricane Clip

Metal straps that are nailed and secure the roof rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall plate. It may also be referred to as a “Teco” clip.

IRMA

Acronym for the Insulated (or Inverted) Roof Membrane Assembly. In this system the roof membrane is laid directly on the roof deck, covered with extruded foam insulation and ballasted with stone, minimum of 1000 lbs. per square.

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 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

Inside Corner

The point at which two walls forms an internal angle, as in the corner of a room.

Interior finish Material used to cover the interior framed areas of walls and ceilings

Material used to cover the interior framed areas of walls and ceilings

Interior Glazed

Glazing infills set from the interior of the building.

Interlayer

In glazing, any material used to bond two panes of glass and/or plastic together to form a laminate.

Irrigation

Lawn or landscape watering system.

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 the top piece of a doorway, window, or other opening. It includes the studs as well as the frame and trim.

Keeper

The metal latch plate in a door frame into which a doorknob plunger latches.

Keyway

A slot formed and poured on the 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.

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.

Knee Wall

A short wall, usually about 3 to 4 feet high, in the attic of a home, anchored with plates between the attic floor joists and the roof joist. Sheathing can be attached to these walls to enclose an attic space. Commonly found in Cape-style homes.

Kynar Coating

Architectural coating that is UV stable and suitable for exterior use on aluminum and other metal surfaces.

Labeled

Equipment, materials or products to which have been affixed a label, seal, symbol or other identifying mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency or other organization concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of the production of the above-labeled items and whose labeling indicates either that the equipment, material or product meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.

Laminated Glass

Two or more panes or “lites” of glass permanently bonded together with one or more inter-layers.

Laminated Shingles

Shingles that have added dimensionality because of extra layers or tabs, giving a shake-like appearance. They 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, usually no less than 3 ft. X 3 ft. square.

Lap

The act of extending one material partially over the surface of another shingle, sheet or roll with another. Lap siding would be an example, where each layer of siding is sequential adhered slightly over the last.

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.

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.

Lead

A malleable metal once extensively used for flashings. If ingested, lead is poisonous to animals and humans, damaging the nervous system and causing brain disorders.

Lean to Roof

the sloping roof of a building addition having its rafters or supports pitched against and supported by the adjoining wall of a building.

Ledger (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.

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.

Leveling Rod

A rod with graduated marks for measuring heights or vertical distances between given points and the line of sight of a leveling instrument. They are longer than a yardstick and are held by a surveyor in a vertical position.

Lineal Foot

This is the 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 or header – A horizontal piece of wood or steel over an opening such as a window or door. It is used to support the walls immediately above the opening. Lintels can also be steel or stone.

Listed

Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the code official and concerned with evaluation of products or services that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.

Live Load

Loads produced by use and occupancy of the building or other structure and do not include construction or environmental loads such as wind load, snow load, ice load, rain load, seismic load, or dead load.

Load Bearing Wall

Includes all exterior walls and any interior wall that is aligned above a support beam or girder. Normally, includes any wall that has a double horizontal top plate.

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 ratio, the greater the lenders 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.

Mansard Roof

A roof which rises by inclined planes from all four sides of a building. The sloping roofs on all four sides have two pitches, the lower pitch usually very steep and the upper pitch less steep.

Mantel

The shelf above a fireplace opening and used in referring to the decorative trim around a fireplace opening.

Manufactured Wood

This would be 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. These are 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.

Manual

Capable of being operated by personal intervention (see “Automatic”).

Masonry

Stone, brick, concrete, hollow-tile, concrete block, or other similar building units or materials. It is normally bonded together with mortar to form a wall.

Maximum Occupancy Load

The maximum number of people permitted in a room and is measured per foot for each width of exit door. The maximum is 50 per foot of exit.

Melt Point

This is the temperature at which the solid asphalt becomes a liquid.

Membrane

A generic term relating to a variety of sheet goods used for certain built-up roofing repairs and application.

Metal Edge

Brake metal or metal extrusions which are secured at the perimeter of the roof to form a weathertight seal.

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

MIL Thickness

Measurement used to determine thickness of a coating. 1 mil = .001 inch (1/1000).

Millwork

Generally all building materials made of finished wood and manufactured in millwork plants. This 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

This is 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.

Modulus

Stress at a given strain, also tensile strength at a given elongation.

Molding

A wood strip having an engraved, decorative surface. Finish wood such as door and window trim.

Monitor

A large structure rising above the surrounding roof planes, designed to give light and/or ventilation to the building interior.

Mono-Post

Adjustable metal column used to support a beam or bearing point. Normally metal in 11 gauge or Schedule 40 thickness and determined by the structural engineer

Mopping

In roofing, a layer of hot bitumen mopped between plies of roofing felt. Full mopping is the application of bitumen by mopping in such a manner that the surface being mopped is entirely coated with a reasonably uniform coating. Spot Mopping is the procedure of applying hot bitumen in a random fashion of small daubs, as compared to full mopping. Sprinkle mopping is a special application of installing insulation to the decks. It is done by dipping a roof mop into hot bitumen and sprinkling the material onto the deck. Strip Mopping is the application of bitumen in parallel bands.

Mortar

A mixture of cement (or lime) with sand and water used in masonry work to bond bricks, stones, or blocks together.

Mortar Types

Type M is suitable for general use and is recommended specifically for masonry below grade and in contact with earth, such as foundations, retaining walls and walks. Type M is the strongest type. Type S is suitable for general use and is recommended where high resistance to lateral forces is required. Type N is suitable for general use in exposed masonry above grade and is recommended specifically for exterior walls subject to severe exposures. Type 0 is recommended for load-bearing walls of solid units where the compressive stresses do not exceed 100 lbs. per square inch and the masonry wall not be subjected to freezing and thawing in the presence of excessive moisture.

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.

Mud Cracks

Cracks developing from the normal shrinkage of an emulsion coating when applied too heavily.

Mudsill

The bottom horizontal member of an exterior wall frame which rests on top a foundation, sometimes called sill plate. It may also be referred to as the sole plate and bottom member of interior wall frame.

Mullion

(a) A vertical divider in the frame between windows, doors, or other openings. (b) A horizontal or vertical member that supports and holds such items as panels, glass, sash, or sections of a curtain wall.

Multifamily Dwelling

This would be a building containing three or more dwelling units.

Multiple Single Family Dwelling (Townhouse)

This would be a building not more than three stories in height consisting of multiple single-family dwelling units, constructed in a group of three or more attached units in which each unit extends from foundation to roof and with open space on at least two sides.

Muntin(s)

(a) A small member which divides the glass or openings of sash or doors. (b) Horizontal or vertical bars that divide the sash frame into smaller lites of glass. Muntins are smaller in dimensions and weight than mullions.

Mushroom

The unacceptable occurrence when the top of a caisson concrete pier spreads out and hardens to become wider than the foundation wall thickness.

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.

NM

A type of ROMEX cable (nonmetallic sheathed cable that contains several conductors). The cable, which is flame-retardant, is limited to use in dry locations only and cannot be exposed to excessive moisture.

NMC (Non Metallic Conduit)

A type of ROMEX cable (nonmetallic sheathed cable that contains several conductors). NMC may be used in damp or corrosive locations as well as dry areas.

Nailer

A piece of lumber secured to non-nail-able decks and walls by bolts or other means, which provides a suitable backing onto which roof components may be mechanically fastened.

Natural Finish

This is the transparent finish which does not seriously alter the original color or grain of the natural wood. Natural finishes are usually provided by sealers, oils, varnishes, water repellent preservatives, and other similar materials.

Neat Plaster

A base coat plaster which does not contain aggregates and is used where the addition of aggregates on the job is desired.

Neoprene

A synthetic rubber having physical properties closely resembling those of natural rubber. It is made by polymerizing chloroprene, and the latter is produced from acetylene and hydrogen chloride.

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 a stair guard railing or balustrade is fastened.

Non-Bearing Wall

This would be a wall supporting no load other than its own weight.

Non-Staining

Characteristic of a compound that will not stain a surface.

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.

O.C.

Acronym used for “On Center”. The measurement term describing a certain distance between like materials, such as studs placed at 16″ O.C. They will be laid out so that there is 16″ from the center of one stud 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

Occupancy

The purpose for which a building, or portion thereof, is utilized or occupied.

Oil-Canning

The term describing distortion of thin-gauge metal panels which are fastened in a manner restricting normal movement due to thermal expansion and contraction.

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. That part of the roof structure which extends horizontally beyond the vertical plane of the exterior walls of a building. See also Cornice.

Oxidize

To combine with oxygen in the air.

Ozone Depletion Factor

This is the relative measure of the potency of chemicals in depleting stratospheric ozone. The ozone depletion factor potential depends on the chlorine and bromine content and the atmospheric lifetime of the chemical. The depletion factor potential is normalized such that the factor for CFC-11 is set equal to unity and the factors for the other chemicals indicate their potential relative to CFC-11.

Padding

A material installed under carpet to add foot comfort, isolate sound, and to prolong carpet life.

Pad Out or Pack Out

The act of shimming out or adding 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.

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)

The general term used for papers, felts, and similar sheet materials used in buildings without reference to their properties or uses. Generally comes in long rolls.

Parapet or Parapet Wall

A low wall placed at the edge of a roof to prevent people from falling off.

Parking Strip

The area in front of a building between the sidewalk and the street usually landscaped with grass. The parking strip serves as a buffer between the road and pedestrians walking on the sidewalk.

Parting Stop or Strip

A small wood piece used in the side and head jambs of double hung windows to separate 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.

Patterned Glass

On type of rolled glass having a pattern impressed on one or both sides. Used extensively for light control, bath enclosures and decorative glazing. Sometimes call “rolled,” “figured” or “obscure” glass.

Pedestal

A metal box installed at various locations along utility easements that contain electrical, telephone, or cable television switches and connections.

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

Penthouse

A relatively small structure built above the plane of the roof.

Percolation Test

Test that a soil engineer performs on earth to determine the feasibility of installing a leech field type sewer system on a lot. The test will determine if the soil on a proposed building lot is capable of absorbing the liquid affluent from a septic system.

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.

Paver Stones

Usually pre-cast concrete slabs used to create a traffic surface.

Permanent Set

The amount by which a material fails to return to its original dimensions after being deformed by an applied force or load.

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.

Photo-Oxidation

Oxidation caused by rays of the sun.

Pitch

(a) 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. (b) A term frequently used to designate coal tar pitch.

Plan Submittal

Submission of construction plans to the city or county in order to obtain a Building Permit.

Plan View

Drawing of a structure with the view from overhead, looking down.

Plans

See Blue Prints.

Plat

A map of a geographical area as recorded by the county.

Plate

A piece of lumber installed horizontally to which the vertical studs in a wall frame are attached. Normally a 2 X 4 or 2 X 6 that lies 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.

Plate Line

The top horizontal line of a building wall upon which the roof rests.

Platform Framing/Platform Construction

This is the process of constructing a building in one or more consecutively installed platforms. (Usually one story constitutes a platform.)

Plot Plan

This is the overhead view plan that shows the location of the home on the lot. It normally includes all easements, property lines, setbacks, and legal descriptions of the home.

Plumb

Exactly vertical and perpendicular.

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 drains 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 Trim

Work performed by the plumbing contractor to get the home ready for a final plumbing inspection. This includes installing all toilets (water closets), hot water heaters, sinks, connecting all gas piping to the 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.

Pocket (Channel)

A three-sided, U-shaped opening in a sash or frame to receive glazing infill. Contrasted to a rabbet, which is a two-sided, L-shaped sections as with face glazed window sash.

Point Load

This is the point where a bearing/structural weight is concentrated and transferred to the foundation.

Pointing

The process where joints between masonry units, brick, etc., are filled with mortar.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polymer formed by polymerization of vinyl chloride monomer, sometimes called vinyl.

Ponding

A condition where water stands on a roof for prolonged periods due to poor drainage and/or deflection of the deck.

Post

A vertical framing member of wood, steel, concrete or other material that transfers weight from usually designed to carry a beam, usually a 4″ x 4″, 6″ x 6″ or a metal pipe with a flat plate on top and bottom.

Post and Beam Construction

A basic building method that uses just a few hefty posts and beams to support an entire structure. Contrasts with standard stud framing. This is the most common type of wall framing, which uses posts to carry horizontal beams on which the joists are supported. It allows for fewer bearing partitions, & less material.

Precast

Concrete building components which are formed and cured at a factory and then transported to a work site for erection.

Pre-Shimmed Tape Sealant

This is a sealant having a pre-formed shape containing solids or discrete particles that limit its deformation under compression.

Pressure Reducing Valve

Valve installed in the water service line where it enters the building to reduce the pressure of water in the line to an acceptable pressure used in buildings (40-55 psi desired).

Pressure-Treated Wood

Lumber that has been saturated with a preservative in such a way that the sealer is forced into the pores of the wood.

Primer

(a) 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. (b) A material of relatively thin consistency applied to a surface for the purpose of creating a more secure bonding surface and to form a barrier to prevent migration of components.

Priming

Sealing of a porous surface so that compounds will not stain, lose elasticity, shrink excessively, etc. because of loss of oil or vehicle into the surround.

Principal

The original amount of the loan, the capital.

Projection

Any object or equipment which pierces the roof membrane.

Property Survey

The survey used to determine the boundaries of your property. The cost depends on the complexity of the survey.

Protection Board

In roofing, heavy asphalt impregnated boards which are laid over bituminous coatings to protect against mechanical injury.

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.

Punch List

A list of discrepancies that need to be corrected by the contractor.

Punch Out

To inspect and make a discrepancy list.

Purlins

(a) Framing members that sit on top of rafters, perpendicular to them, designed to spread support to roofing materials. (b) The horizontal structural member spanning between beams or trusses to support a roof deck. In slope glazing, purlins are the horizontal framing members.

Putty

A type of dough used in sealing glass in the sash, filling small holes and crevices in wood, and for similar purposes.

PVC/CPVC

Acronyms for Poly Vinyl Chloride (white/grey) /Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (off white/tan). They are similar in many ways, but they shouldn’t be used interchangeably. Both are made of the same basic elements with one distinguishing factor. CPVC is altered by a free radical chlorination reaction that effectively increases the chlorine content of the material. CPVC is also a thermoplastic that is molded into many of the same products as PVC. This difference in makeup allows CPVC to withstand a wider range of temperatures. This is why many building codes require the use of CPVC as opposed to PVC for use in hot water applications. The ASTM standard allows PVC to be used in applications not exceeding 140ºF. Temperatures over this can cause softening of the material and weakening of joints. CPVC on the other hand can handle temperatures up to 200ºF.

PVDF

Acronym for polyvinylidene fluoride or polyvinylidene difluoride. An architectural coating, also known as Kynar® Coating is a highly non-reactive and pure thermoplastic fluoropolymer. It is generally used in applications requiring the highest purity, strength, and resistance to solvents, acids, bases and heat and low smoke generation during a fire event.

Quarry 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 quartered circle.

Rabbet

A rectangular longitudinal groove cut in the corner edge of a board or plank.

Rafter

A sloping roof beam that supports the roof covering which extends from the ridge or the hip of the roof to the eaves. A common rafter is one which runs square with the plate and extends to the ridge. A hip rafter extends from the outside angle of the plate towards the apex of the roof. They are 2″ deeper or wider than common rafters. A valley rafter extends from an inside angle of the plates toward the ridge of the house. 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)

This is the rafter that forms the intersection of an external roof angle.

Rafter (Valley)

This is the rafter that forms the intersection of an internal roof angle. The valley rafter is normally made of double 2-inch-thick members.

Raggle Block

A specially designed masonry block having a slot or opening into which the top edge of the roof flashing is inserted and anchored.

Rail

(a) The top and bottom frame members of a door or window (not the jamb). (b) Cross members of panel doors or of a sash. (c) A wall or open balustrade placed at the edge of a staircase, walk-way, 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

The angle of slope of a roof rafter, or the inclined portion of a cornice.

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.

Readily Accessible

Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal or inspection without requiring those to who ready access is requisite to climb over or remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders or access equipment (see “Accessible”).

Rebar or Reinforcing Bar

Ribbed steel bars installed in foundation concrete walls, footers, and poured in place concrete structures designed to strengthen concrete. It comes in various thicknesses and strength grade.

Redline or 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.

Reglet

A horizontal slot formed or cut in a parapet or other masonry wall, into which the top edge of counter-flashing can be inserted and anchored. In glazing, a reglet is typically a pocket or keyway extruded into the framing for installing the glazing gaskets.

Reinforced Concrete

A combination of steel and concrete using the best properties of each. The steel consists of rebar or reinforcing bars varying from 3/8 ” to 2 1/4 “in diameter and is placed before concrete is poured.

Reinforced Masonry

Masonry units, reinforcing steel, grout and/or mortar combined to act together to strengthen the masonry structure.

Repair

The reconstruction or renewal of any part of an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance

Residential Building

For this code, includes R-3 buildings, as well as R-2 and R-4 buildings three stories or less in height above grade.

Residential Building (GROUP R-2)

A residential occupancies containing more than two dwelling units, where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature. Such as apartment houses, boarding houses (not transient), convents, monasteries, rectories, fraternities and sororities, dormitories and rooming houses. For the purpose of this code, reference to Group R-2 occupancies shall refer to buildings that are three stories or less in height above grade.

Residential Building (GROUP R-4)

Residential occupancies shall include buildings arranged for occupancies as Residential Care/Assisted Living Facilities including more than five but not more than 16 occupants, excluding staff. For the purpose of this code, reference to Group R-4 occupancies shall refer to buildings which are three stories or less in height above grade.

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.

Rigid Metal Conduit

This conduit resembles plumbing pipe, protecting wires from damage.

Rim Joist

The outer most joist running around the perimeter of the floor framing joists and home. It may also be called box sill.

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

An aggregate mixture of sand and stone, used to create the first layer of a roadway.

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.

Romex®

A name brand of nonmetallic sheathed electrical cable consisting of two or more insulated conductors having an outer sheath of moisture resistant, nonmetallic material. The conductor insulation is rubber, neoprene, thermoplastic or a moisture resistant flame retardant fibrous material. Also see NM and NMC.

Roll Roofing

Asphalt roofing products manufactured in roll form. Typically comes in 36-inch wide rolls with and 108 square feet of material. Weights are generally 45 to 90 pounds per roll.

Roof Assembly

(a) A system designed to provide weather protection and resistance to design loads. The system consists of a roof covering and roof deck or a single component serving as both the roof covering and the roof deck. A roof assembly includes the roof covering, underlayment, roof deck, insulation, vapor retarder and interior finish. (b) A roof assembly shall be considered as all roof/ceiling components of the building envelope through which heat flows, thus creating a building transmission heat loss or gain, where such assembly is exposed to outdoor air and encloses conditioned space. The gross area of a roof assembly consists of the total interior surface of all roof/ceiling components, including opaque surfaces, dormer and bay window roofs, trey ceilings, overhead portions of an interior stairway to an unconditioned attic, doors and hatches, glazing and skylights exposed to conditioned space, that are horizontal or sloped at an angle less than 60 degrees (1.1 rad) from the horizontal (see “Exterior wall”). A roof assembly, or portions thereof, having a slope of 60 degrees (1.1 rad) or greater from horizontal shall be considered in the gross area of exterior walls and thereby excluded from consideration in the roof assembly. Skylight shaft walls 12 inches (305 mm) in depth or greater (as measured from the ceiling plane to the roof deck) shall be considered in the gross area of exterior walls and are thereby excluded from consideration in the roof assembly.

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, Sheeting or Decking

The wood panels or sheet material fastened to the roof rafters or trusses on which the shingle or other roof covering is laid.

Roof System

General term referring to the waterproof covering, roof insulation, vapor barrier, if used and roof deck as an entity.

Roof Valley

The “V” created where two sloping roofs meet.

Rough

In hardware, metal fastenings on cabinets which are usually concealed, like staples

Rough Plumbing

All plumbing that should be done before the finish trades (sheetrock, painting, etc), including all waste lines and supply water lines that are in the walls or framing of the building. See also: Plumbing, Sub Rough, and Finish Plumbing.

Rough Sill

The framing member at the bottom of a rough opening for a window, attached to the cripple studs below the rough opening.

Roughing-In

The initial stage of a plumbing, electrical, HVAC, carpentry, and/or other project, when all components that won’t be seen after the finishing phase are assembled. See also Heat Rough, Plumbing Rough, and Electrical Rough.

Run (Roof)

The horizontal distance between the eaves and the ridge of the roof, being half the span for a symmetrical gable roof.

Run (Stair)

the horizontal distance of a stair tread from the nose to the riser.

SFD

Acronym for Single Family Dwelling, which Is a house built for the purpose of a single family as opposed to multi families such as a duplex or apartment complex.

STC

Acronym for Sound Transmission Class, which is the single number rating, derived from individual transmission losses at specified test frequencies. It is used for interior walls, ceilings and floors.

STL

Acronym for Sound Transmission Loss or the reduction of the amount of sound energy passing through a wall, floor, roof, etc. It is related to the specific frequency at which it is measured and it is expressed in decibels. It may also be referred to as “Transmission Loss.”

Saddle

(a) A ridge in the roof deck, whose top divides two sloping parts of the roof so that water will be diverted to the roof drains. (b) A small second roof built behind the back side of a fireplace chimney to divert water around the chimney. (c) The plate or threshold at the bottom of some usually exterior door openings.

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) A single frame, including muntin bars if used, containing one or more panes of glass. (b) The frame that holds the glass in a window, often the movable part of the window. (c) A movable or stationary part of a window that frames a piece of glass.

Sash Balance

A device, usually operated by a spring or weight, designed to hold a single hung window up and in place

Saturated Felt

A felt material impregnated with tar or asphalt.

Schedule

A table included with a set of blueprints that list the sizes, quantities and locations of the windows, doors, etc.

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. The term is derived from the cross-raking which is performed on the wet surface to improve bond with the following brown coat. It is considered a base coat plaster.

Screed(ing)

(a) Term used for leveling off concrete to the correct elevation during a concrete pour. (b) 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.

Scrim

A woven or mat-type fabric that is used as a membrane sandwich between other material to provide reinforcement and stretch resistance.

Scupper

(a) An opening for drainage in a wall, curb or parapet. (b) 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.

Settlement

Shifts in a structure, usually caused by freeze-thaw cycles underground.

Self-Healing

A term used to describe to a material which melts with the heat from the sun’s rays, and seals over cracks that were earlier formed from other causes. Some waterproof membranes are self-healing.

Self-Leveling

A term used to describe a viscous material that is applied by pouring. In its uncured state, it spreads out evenly.

Self-Sealing Shingles

Shingles containing factory-applied strips or spots of self-sealing adhesive.

Semi-Gloss Paint or Enamel

Paint or enamel when dry, has some luster but is not very glossy. Bathrooms and kitchens are normally painted semi-gloss

Septic System

Onsite waste water treatment system used when local sanitary sewer systems are not available. 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 Conductor

The electrical supply conductors that extend from the main or from the transformer to the service equipment.

Service Drop

The overhead service conductors from the last pole or other aerial support to and including the splices, if any, connecting to the service entrance conductors at the building.

Service Entrance Panel

Main power cabinet where electricity enters a home wiring system.

Service Equipment

The main control gear at the service entrance, such as the meter, main switch, circuit breakers, switches, and fuses.

Service Lateral

Underground power supply line.

Setting Blocks

Generally rectangular cured extrusions of neoprene, EPDM, silicone, rubber or other suitable material on which the glass product bottom edge is placed to effectively support the weight of the glass.

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 below the level of the side sewer.

Sewer Lateral

This is 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.

Sewer Stub

This is the junction at which the municipal sewer system and the home’s sewer lines are 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 material covering the exterior of a building, usually OSB, plywood, gypsum or laminated paper, used over studs, floor joists or rafters/trusses of a structure.

Shed Roof

A roof containing only one sloping plane or pitch, with only one set of rafters which fall from a higher to a lower wall.

Sheet Metal Work

All components of a house employing sheet metal, such as flashing, gutters, and downspouts.

Sheet Rock®

Drywall, Wall Board or Gypsum – A proprietary manufactured panel product made out of gypsum plaster and encased in a thin cardboard. It is typically manufactured in ½” – ¾” thickness and 4′ x 8′ or 4′ x 12′ in size. “Green board” type drywall has a greater resistance to moisture than regular (white) plasterboard and is used in bathrooms and other “wet areas”.

Sheeting

See Sheathing.

Shelf Life

Used when referring to the length of time a product may be stored before beginning to lose its effectiveness. Manufacturers usually state the shelf life and the necessary storage conditions on the package.

Shim

A small wedge shaped piece, 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 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)

Roof covering of made of asphalt, asbestos, wood, tile, slate, or other material cut to stock lengths, widths, and thickness. The materials are laid in a series of overlapping rows as a roof covering on pitched roofs.

Shingles (Siding)

The various type of shingles, applied over the sheathing of the exterior walls of a structure.

Short Circuit

This occurs when the 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 a lightweight decorative louvered doors located on the sides of a window. Some shutters are made to close over the window for protection.

Side Sewer

This the portion of a sanitary sewer, connecting 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. This may also be referred to as a sewer lateral.

Siding – Lap

Slightly wedge shaped boards used as horizontal siding in a lapped pattern over the exterior sheathing. Lap siding varies in butt thickness from ½ to ¾ inch and in widths up to 12″.

Sight Line

The line along the perimeter of glazing infills corresponding to the top edge of stationary and removable stops. The line to which sealants contacting the glazing infill are sometimes finished off.

Sill

(a) 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. (b) The member forming the lower side of an opening, as a door sill or window sill.

Sill Cock

This is an exterior water faucet (hose bib).

Sill Plate (Mud Sill)

(a) Bottom horizontal member of an exterior wall frame which rests on top a foundation, sometimes called mudsill. Also referred to as the sole plate and is the bottom member of an interior wall frame. (b) The framing member anchored to the foundation wall upon which studs and other framing members will be attached. It is the bottom plate of your exterior walls.

Sill Seal

Caulking or foam insulation, designed to seal any cracks or gaps and installed between the foundation wall and sill (wood) plate.

Single Hung Window

A window with one vertically sliding sash or window vent.

Single Ply

A descriptive term signifying a roof membrane composed of only one layer of material such as EPDM, Hypalon or PVC.

Single Tee

The name given to a type of precast concrete deck which has one stiffening rib integrally cast into slab.

Slag

Concrete cement that sometimes covers the vertical face of the foundation void material.

Slate

A dark gray stratified stone cut relatively thin and installed on pitched roofs in a shingle like fashion.

Sleeper

Usually, a wood member embedded in concrete, as in a floor, that serves to support and to fasten the subfloor or flooring.

Sleeping Unit

A room or space in which people sleep, which can also include permanent provisions for living, eating, and either sanitation or kitchen facilities but not both. Such rooms and spaces that are also part of a dwelling unit are not sleeping units.

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 or pitch of a roof surface, given as a ratio of the rise (in inches) to the run (in feet). See also pitch.

Sloped Glazing

The installation of glass, that is at a slope of 15 degrees or more from a vertical plane.

Slump

The “wetness” of concrete. A 3 inch slump is dryer and stiffer than a 5 inch slump.

Slump Test

Measures the consistency of a concrete mix or its stiffness. If the tests results are high, one likely cause would be too much water, whereas low slump indicates not enough water. The test is measured in inches.

Soffit

The area below the eaves and overhangs, the underside where the roof overhangs the walls or the underside of an overhanging cornice.

Softening Point

The temperature at which a substance changes from a hard material to a softer and more viscous material.

Soil Pipe

This is the large pipe which carries the liquid and solid wastes to a sewer or septic tank.

Soil Stack

This is the plumbing vent pipe, which penetrates the roof surface.

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.

Spacers (Shims)

Small blocks of neoprene, EPDM, silicone or other suitable material placed on each side of the glass product to provide glass centering, maintain uniform width of sealant bead and prevent excessive sealant distortion.

Spalling

The chipping or flaking of concrete, bricks, or other masonry where improper drainage or venting and freeze/thaw cycling exists.

Span

(a) The horizontal distance between supporting structures such as beams, trusses or columns. (b) The clear distance that a framing member carries a load without support between structural supports. (c) The horizontal distance from eaves to eaves.

Spandrel

The panels of a wall located between vision areas of windows which conceal structural columns, floors, and shear walls.

Spec Home

A house built before it is sold. The builder speculates that he can sell it at a profit.

Specifications or Specs

(a) A detailed written instructions which, when clear and concise, explain each phase of work to be done. (b) A narrative list of materials, methods, model numbers, colors, allowances, and other details which supplement the information contained in the blue prints. A specific written detail about construction materials and methods included with the design documents.

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.

Spline

A strip that, when inserted into a groove, holds a screen or plastic film in place on a frame.

Splitting

The formation of long cracks completely through a membrane. Splits are frequently associated with lack of allowance for expansion stresses. They can also be a result of deck deflection or change in deck direction.

Square

(a) A unit of measure equalling100 square feet-usually applied to roofing and siding material. (b) A situation that exists when two elements are at right angles to each other. (c) A tool for checking the “square” or right angle of adjoining materials.

Square Tab Shingles

Shingles on which tabs are all the same size and exposure.

Squeegee

Fine pea gravel used to grade a floor (normally before concrete is placed).

Stack

(a) The vertical pipe of a system of soil, waste or vent piping. (b) To position trusses on the walls in their correct location.

Stack Vent

Also called a waste vent or soil vent, it is the extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain connected to the stack. Also see Stack.

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

The platform located between flights of stairs or at the termination of a flight of stairs. Often used when stairs change direction. Landings are typically no less than 3’ X 3’ square.

Stair Rise

The vertical distance from stair tread to stair tread (and not to exceed 7 ½”).

Standard Practices (Trades)

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.

Standard Truss

Type of construction that does not permit the roof/ceiling insulation to achieve the required R-value over the exterior walls.

Standing Seam

A type of joint often used on metal roofs.

Starter Strip

Asphalt roofing applied at the eaves, providing protection by filling in the spaces under the cutouts and joints of the first course of shingles.

Static Load

The total amount of permanent, non-moving weight applied to given surface areas.

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, often referred to as “conventional” building.

Stile

An upright side framing members of a door or window (not the jamb).

Stool

(a) The flat molding fitted over the window sill between jambs and contacting the bottom rail of the lower sash. (b) Another name for toilet.

Stop

A thin trim board for windows and doors to close against or slide against.

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.

Store Front

A nonresidential system of doors and windows mulled as a composite fenestration structure that has been designed to resist heavy use. Storefront systems include, but are not limited to, exterior fenestration systems that span from the floor level or above to the ceiling of the same story on commercial buildings.

Storm Sewer

A sewer system designed to collect storm water and is separated from the waste water system.

Strain

The percentage of elongation or compression of a material or portion of a material caused by an applied force.

Strike or Strike Plate

The metal plate attached to a door frame, which engages a latch or dead bolt to hold secure.

String/Stringer

The support timber used to support the cross members in floors, ceilings or 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.

Structural Silicone Glazing

Silicone sealant used to transfer structural loads from the glass to its perimeter support system and retain the glass in the opening.

Stucco

Refers to an outside plaster finish made with Portland cement as its base, applied to the building’s exterior walls.

Stud

The evenly spaced, vertical framing members of a wall. Typically dimensional lumber (2”x4” or 2”x6”), cut to 92 5/8” lengths.

Stud Framing

Is the building method that distributes structural loads to each of a series of relatively lightweight studs and contrasts with post-and-beam.

Stud Shoe

The metal structural bracket which reinforces a vertical stud, on an outside bearing wall where holes are drilled to accommodate a plumbing waste line.

Sub-Contractor

A contractor who specializes in a particular trade such as framing, electrical or mechanical installation.

Subfloor

(a) 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. (b) The sheathing material (such as particleboard) installed over the floor joists and under finish the flooring.

Sub-Rough

That part of a building’s plumbing system that is done before the cement is poured.

Substrate

(a) A layer of material to which another layer is applied. (b) A part or substance which lies below and supports another.

Sump

Pit or large plastic bucket/barrel inside the home designed to collect ground water from a perimeter drain system.

Sump Pump

A submersible pump in a sump pit that pumps any excess ground water to the outside of the home.

Suspended Ceiling

A ceiling system supported by hanging it from the overhead structural framing.

Sway Brace

Metal straps or wood blocks installed diagonally on the inside of a wall from bottom to top plate, to prevent the wall from twisting, racking, or falling over “domino” fashion.

T & G or 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.

THW

Moisture and heat resistant thermoplastic conductor. It is flame retardant, moisture and heat resistant and can be used in dry or wet locations.

TJI® or TJ®

Is the Weyerhaeuser proprietary 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.

TW

The exposed portion of strip shingles defined by cutouts.Is a moisture-resistant thermoplastic conductor that can be used in dry or wet locations and has no outer covering and is not heat-resistant.

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.

Taping

(a) The process of applying joint tape over embedding compound covering drywall joints with in the process of joint treatment of drywall. (b) Process of sealing the joints of an exterior sheeting material.

T-Bar – Ribbed

“T” shaped bars with a flat metal plate at the bottom that are driven into the earth. Normally used for temporary chain link fence poles and to mark locations of a water meter pit.

Tear Off

In roofing, a term used to describe the complete removal of the built up roof membrane and insulation down to and exposing the roof deck.

TECO

Metal straps that are nailed and secure the roof rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall plate and sometimes referred to as a hurricane clip.

Tee

A “T” shaped plumbing fitting.

Tempered

Strengthened glass that will not shatter nor create shards, but will “pelletize” like an automobile window. Tempered glass is required in tub and shower enclosures, entry door 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.

Texture Paint

One which may be manipulated by brush, trowel or other to give various patterns.

Thermoplastic Material

This is a solid material which is softened by increasing temperatures and hardened by decreasing temperatures.

Thermoply™

A proprietary exterior laminated paper sheathing nailed to the exterior side of the exterior walls. Normally ¼ ” thick and comes in 4’ X 8’ or 4’ x 10’ sheets. It sometimes comes with an aluminized surface.

Three Dimensional Shingles

Laminated shingles that have added dimensionality because of extra layers or tabs, giving a shake-like appearance and may also be referred to as “architectural shingles”.

Threshold

The bottom metal or wood plate of an exterior door frame that acts as an air and dust seal. Generally they are adjustable to keep a tight fit with the door slab.

Tie-In

In roofing, a term used to describe the joining of a new roof with the old.

Tilt-Up Wall

A type of construction using cast concrete units which are pre-formed. When cured, they are tilted to their vertical position and secured by mechanical fasteners to prior erected structural steel. They may also be referred to as pre-cast construction.

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.

Toe Bead

Sealant applied at the intersection of the outboard glazing stop and the bottom of the glazing channel; must be sized to also provide a seal to the edge of the glass.

Toe Nailing

To drive a nail in at a slant. Method used to secure floor joists to the plate.

Tongue and Groove

A type of flooring where the tongue of one board is joined to the groove of another board

Tooling

The operation of pressing in and striking a sealant in a joint to press the sealant against the sides of a joint and secure good adhesion; the finishing off of the surface of a sealant in a joint so that it is flush with the surface.

Top Chord

This is the upper or top member of a truss.

Top Mopping

The mopping on of finished coat of hot bitumen on a built-up roof.

Top Plate

Top horizontal member of a frame wall, supporting the ceiling joists, rafters, or other members.

Torching

Applying direct flame to a membrane for the purpose of melting, heating or adhering.

Townhouse

See “Multiple single-family dwelling.”

Transit

The instrument used by builders for establishing the points and elevations, both vertically and horizontally. It can be used to line up stakes or to plumb walls or the angle of elevation from a horizontal plane can be measured.

Transmitter (Garage Door)

This is 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.

Trim (Plumbing, Heating or 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 and is sometimes referred to as a “jack stud”.

Truss

(a) 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. (b) A lightweight, rigid framework designed to be stronger than a solid beam of the same weight.

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.

Tuck Pointing

The re-grouting of defective mortar joints in a masonry or brick wall.

Turnkey

A term used when the subcontractor provides all materials (and labor) for a job.

Turpentine

A petroleum, volatile oil used as a thinner for paints and as a solvent in varnishes

UL (Underwriters’ Laboratories)

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. It is sometimes referred to as the Prime coat.

Underground Plumbing

The plumbing drain and waste lines that are installed beneath a basement floor.

Underlayment

Sheeting installed to provide a smooth, sound base for a finish material. Typically 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 land which contains the 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.

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.

Valve

A device to stop, start or regulate the flow of liquid or gas through or from piping.

Veining

In roofing, the characteristic lines or “stretch marks” which develop during the aging process of soft bitumen’s.

Veneer

(a) Extremely thin sheets of wood. (b) A thin slice of wood or brick or stone covering a framed wall.

Visqueen

Durable polyethylene sheeting between 4 and 10 mils thick .

WC

An abbreviation for water closet (toilet).

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.

Walk ways

Designated areas for foot traffic.

Warping

Any distortion in a material.

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 Cement Ratio

The strength of a concrete mixture depends on the water cement ratio. The water and cement form a paste. If the paste is made with more water, the concrete becomes weaker. Traditionally, concrete mixes have been identified in terms of the ratio of cement to fine aggregate to coarse aggregate. For example, the ratio 1:2:4 refers to a mix which consists of 1 cu. ft. of cement, 2 cu. ft. of sand and 4 cu. ft. of gravel. Cement and water are the two chemically active elements in concrete and when combined, form a paste or glue which coats and surrounds the particles of aggregate and upon hardening binds the entire mass together.

Water Closet

Another term used for a toilet.

Water Meter Pit (or Vault)

The box /cast iron bonnet and concrete rings that contains the water meter.

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.

Webbing

A reinforcing fabric used with mastics and coatings to prevent patches from cracking.

Weld

The joining of components together by fusing. In thermoplastics, refers to bonding together of the membrane using heat or solvents.

Wet Seal

Application of an elastomeric sealant between the glass and sash to form a weather tight seal.

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.

Wind Uplift

The upward force exerted by wind traveling across a roof.

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

(a) The sides, top, and sill of the window which forms a box around window sashes and other components. (b) The stationary part of a window unit; window sash fits into the window frame.

Window Sash

The operational or movable part of a window made of window panes and their border.

Wire Size

Conductors for building wiring are available in AWG (American Wire Gauge) sizes ranging from No. 14 to 4/0. The larger the number size, the smaller the diameter. For example #10 is smaller than #8. As the diameter of the wire increases, the greater resistance decreases.

Wonderboard™

A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing material. Commonly used on bathtub decks.

Wood Fiber Plaster

Consists of calcified gypsum integrally mixed with selected coarse cellulose fibers which provide bulk and greater coverage. It is formulated to produce high-strength base coats for use in highly fire-resistant ceiling assemblies.

Wrapped Drywall

Areas that get complete drywall covering, as in the doorway openings of bi-fold and bi-pass closet doors.

Y

This is 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.

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