Building Terms – For Homeowners
Even if you don’t know them all, every homeowner should have quick access to these building terms. Many parts of the home have mysterious and sometimes confusing names. Use this glossary for help.
Contractors and tradespeople like to throw fancy words around when describing their work or when trying to make a sale. So it’s good that you know what these terms mean and not be fooled.
Also, when it comes to researching, buying, ordering or repairing your home, you need to know the right name for the right part.
This is a “living” list and will change and be added to all the time. If you can’t find a certain term here, kindly let me know and I will get you the definition. I’ll also add it to this list and give you credit for the request. Some of these terms link back to articles used in this site.
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- ACAsphalt concrete paving. A rolled oil-based, sand and gravel material used for driveway and parking area surfaces.
- AeratorA removable screen on the spout of the faucet to soften the flow of the water and filter out stray sand and sediment particles. Learn More
- AFCIAn electrical device called an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter. It senses arcing in an electical circuit and shuts it down in order to prevent fire risks. Learn More
- Air conditionerA system used to chill warm air and distribute it through the home in order to reduce the temperature.
- Air gapA plumbing vent designed to prevent water from back flowing into the potable water stream and causing contamination. Commonly used with dishwashers.
- Ampere or Amp The flow rate of electricity through the electrical wiring.
- Anchor boltsBolts that extend up through mudsill from the foundation to secure the mudsill in place.
- Angle stopWater shut-off valve(s) located beneath sinks or adjacent to toilets and other fixtures that allow the water supply to be turned off for repair or maintenance of the fixture.
- Anode rodA sacrificial aluminum or magnesium rod used to prevent rusting. Used primarily on the interior of water heater tanks to extend the life of the water heater by approximately 5 years.
- Apron1) the trim just below a sill applied to the wall surface, 2) a hardened surface area adjoining the garage openings.
- AquiferA natural subterranean body of water.
- ArborAn arched open framework over a walkway.
- As per codeA collection of legal requirements for buildings designed to protect the safety, health, and general welfare of people who work and live in them.
- AsbestosA common, pervasive hazardous mineral fiber found in many older buildings. Used in construction until the 1960’s to insulate and protect flammable building materials from hot objects. Also found in many drywall ceilings and plasters made before the 1970’s.
- Ash dumpSmall door at the bottom of the firebox interior of older wood burning fireplaces to push the ashes out. A cleanout door was located on the exterior at the back of the fireplace in order to collect the ashes for disposal.
- AstragalTrim board that is attached to the active side of a French door or double window. It acts as a stop, a weatherstripping mount, prevents air/water entry and is a cosmetic trim.
- AtticThe attic is a space above the living area between the roof framing and the ceiling framing. Tends to become overheated in summer. Learn More
- AwningAn exterior mounted framework over a door or window to provide shade or protection from weather.
- Awning windowA window that swings upward to open.
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- Back splashA trim material spanning across the back of the countertop and up the wall.
- Backflow preventerPlumbing device which allows water to flow in only one direction.
- BalconyAn upper level platform attached to an exterior wall and extending outward to form a space accessible from a window or door.
- BalusterSpaced vertical supports for railings.
- BalustradeAny row of balusters
- Barrel vaultA continuous arched roof or ceiling structure so named because of its appearance similar to a barrel on its side.
- Base boardsWood or rubber trim strip along the base of the wall extending above the floor.
- BasementA space below a structure excavated into the ground.
- Basin wrenchA special long-handled wrench for working on faucets mounted behind sinks and lavatories.
- Basket strainerLarger diameter kitchen sink stopper made of slotted metal to prevent clogging material from entering the drain.
- BathroomA room with a toilet, a sink, and a tub and/or shower is considered a FULL bathroom. A room with toilet and sink only is considered a half-bath or wash room.
- BattensWood nailing strips used to attach roofing tiles to the structure.
- Bay windowA window system that extends out past the wall line forming a larger interior space.
- BeamHorizontal structural support member
- BedroomA room typically for sleeping. It must be a minimum of 70 square feet, have one wall at least 7’ long, have a minimum ceiling height of 7’ over at least 50% of the space, it must have two means of egress (entry and exit) one is typically a door from the interior of the home and the other a(...)
- Bi-pass doorsRolling closet door panels that slide on tracks to open and close.
- Bird’s mouthA descriptive name for the cut made in a roof rafter so that it sits properly supported atop the exterior wall framing.
- Biscuit jointA trim and cabinet joining technique to strengthen the connection between wood members.
- Board and battAn exterior siding method using vertical boards or panels with trim boards (batts) nailed over the joints.
- BollardA steel post or pipe filled with concrete and embedded into the ground to protect sensitive areas from damage.
- Bond wireElectrical grounding wire attached to both the water inlet and outlet of a tank-type water heater.
- Braided hoseFlexible connector hoses for water that are manufactured with a woven protective metal mesh exterior.
- Breaker panelA metal wall panel containing circuit breakers.
- BTUAbbreviation for British Thermal Unit, a standard unit for measuring heat gain or loss.
- BulkheadA horizontal or inclined door providing access to a cellar.
- Bull’s eyeCircular or oval shaped windows.
- BurnersThe heating elements of a cooktop, oven, stove, furnace, boiler or water heater.
- Burrito systemA linear subsurface interceptor drain system consisting of a perforated drain pipe at the bottom of a trench, surrounded by drain rock and the entire assembly completely wrapped with filter fabric.
- ButtAlternative term for door hinge.
- Buttery
- ButtressA support for a large expanse of wall surface
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- Cabinet pullA handle or knob used to open a cabinet door or drawer.
- CantileverAny structural member or construction extending unsupported at one end.
- Cartridges:A container used for holding plumbing filters or other material.
- Casement windowA window that cranks or swings open to the side.
- CasinThe wall trim around a door or window
- CasitaA small shaded enclosure adjacent to a pool.
- Catch basinReceptor or reservoir in the ground that receives surface water runoff or drainage.
- CaulkingA flexible, adhesive substance used to fill gaps between surfaces or materials.
- CenteringThe temporary framework or falsework necessary for the support of individual stones or masonry when constructing an arch span.
- Central vacuumA build-in vacuum system consisting of a powerful motor and filter connected to piping permanently installed in the framing of the home.
- Ceramic tileHeat fired clay tile.
- CesspoolA lined excavation in the ground that receives the discharge of a sewer drainage system.
- Chair railA trim piece, usually wood that runs across the walls at about the height of the back of a chair. Used originally to protect the wall.
- ChandelierCeiling mounted hanging light fixture containing several light sources or bulbs.
- ChandleryHistorically this is a room devoted to the making and storage of candles. Prior to the invention of light bulbs, candles provided most of the available light for people after sunset. The cost of candles was enormous. For large estates the entire process of managing lighting and the making and(...)
- CharringAn ancient method of preserving wood by burning or charring the surface layer. This renders the treated layer unfit for attack by micro organisms and insects.
- Chase
- CheeksThe inward angled sides of the chimney firebox.
- Chimney capA decorative termination for the flue atop the chimney.
- Chimney effectThe movement of air through a structure from the lower floors to the upper floors by the natural convection of heat rising.
- Circuit breakerAn electrical device located in a distribution panel used for discontinuing current to electrical circuits, receptacles, fixtures, switches, appliances etc. Used mainly to protect the circuit from overload.
- Clerestory windowWindows placed high on the wall for light
- CO detectorA detection alarm to alert occupants of the presence of carbon monoxide in the living area.
- ColumnA vertical structural support member
- CompressorThe externally located part of the air conditioning system used to remove heat from the cooling system.
- ConclusionA project conclusion strategy includes a user guide, homeowner training, punch list, maintenance plan and budget.
- CondensationMoisture that accumulates in a building caused by warm moist air coming into contact with cold surfaces, frequently on the surface of glass or tiles or other uninsulated surfaces.
- ConductionHeat transfer by means of molecular agitation within a structure.
- Conductor head
- ConductorsThese are the high voltage wires distributing electricity from the main panels to the lights, switches and outlets.
- ConduitIn electrical work, a channel that carries wires for protection and safety. Other types of conduit are EMT or RIGID.
- Confined spaceAny space in the home that has access for inspections and repairs but is unfit for human occupation. Examples are crawlspaces and attics.
- Control jointA joint or groove made in a concrete surface to attempt to minimize and control the location and direction of inevitable cracking.
- Convection ovenAn appliance made to circulate hot air within the confines of the oven cavity to create more even temperatures and faster cooking time.
- CopingTile, brick or concrete edging or wall cap treatment.
- CorbelA support or brace for a rafter or other roof projection.
- Corner beadMetal angle metal attached to the vulnerable outside corners of drywall junctions prior to finishing to protect them from impact and create attractive crisp edges.
- CorniceThe part of a roof that projects out from the wall.
- CorrosionDecay, deterioration or oxidation of a substance, usually metal.
- CourseA row of masonry units. Brick, block, stone etc.
- CourtA safe, enclosed space or assembly for decisions, contests, games or leisure activity
- Cover plateA hard cleanable surface surrounding an electrical switch or outlet to protect the wall from damage or finger prints.
- Cowboy/cowgirlAny person engaged in the lifestyle of professionally handling, caring for, riding, managing or competing with, horses, cattle and livestock.
- Crawl spaceAn unfinished space below a building between the ground and the floor framing.
- CreosoteCarbon deposits left in stovepipes and chimneys from condensed wood smoke.
- CricketA sloped metal area on the roof usually behind a chimney or wall to ensure the proper runoff of water.
- Cripple stud
- Crown moldingTrim material placed at the junction of the ceiling and wall.
- CulvertA passage for water below ground level.
- CupolaAn vented box structure elevated above the roof ridge to create a chimney affect for moving air by convection up from the ground and out the roof.
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- DairyA room devoted to the storage or processing of milk, butter, cheese or other milk products.
- DamperA movable plate that regulates the draft of a stove, fireplace, or furnace. Also used in furnace distribution ducts to regulate and balance flow to the heat register.
- Dead boltSolid, throw-bolt type lock mechanism with no spring action.
- DeckA level unobstructed surface.
- Defensible spaceThe area 100’ from any structure in a Wildland/Urban interface area.
- DegreeA unit of temperature measurement either in Fahrenheit or Celsius.
- Demand water heaterA water heater that heats and distributes hot water “on demand” without the use of a tank to store the hot water.
- Dew pointThe temperature at which moisture in the air condenses into liquid water.
- DGAn abbreviated name for decomposed granite material used for walkways, patios and driveways.
- Dimmer switchAn electrical switch that can regulate the voltage being delivered. Used for varying the intensity of lighting.
- Dip tubeA water pipe, usually plastic, that delivers cold water to the bottom of a tank-type water heater.
- DisposalAn appliance attached to the kitchen sink drain that grinds up food waste prior to washing down the drain.
- Door buttsHinges
- Door stopA device that properly aligns and seals a closed door into position or prevents an open door from damaging the wall.
- DoorjambA wood frame surrounding a door.
- DoorknobDevice turned by hand to unlatch and open a door.
- DormerA structure projecting from a sloped roof, usually with a window.
- Dovetail jointsA strong and accurate method of joining wood together at the corners of cabinets and drawers.
- Downdraft ventAn appliance used to extract steam and cooking smoke by sucking the air down through filters and ducts from the surface of the cooktop to the exterior of the structure.
- DownspoutA pipe, usually metal or plastic used to carry water from the roof gutters to the ground or drainage system.
- Drip edge
- Drip panA reservoir device placed under appliances or wet areas to prevent damage to floors and finishes from accidental leakage.
- Dry rotA fungus infestation caused by trapped moisture that destroys wood.
- Dry wellA pit that is designed to contain drainage water until it can be absorbed into the soil.
- DryvitTrade name for an exterior siding system similar to stucco in appearance but consisting of foam sheets covered in a fiberglass mesh and coated with a textured/granulated coating to emulate stucco.
- DrywallSee gypsum board
- DuctsTubes and channels used to move or distribute air from heating, cooling or exhaust systems.
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- EasementThe right to use land owned by another, such as a utility company’s right-of-way.
- EaveThat part of a roof that projects over an exterior wall.
- Eave ventsScreened openings in the eaves to allow fresh air to circulate through the attic.
- EfflorescenceA white powdery deposit of minerals and salts left on the surface of concrete and masonry by evaporated moisture.
- EffluentTreated sewage broken down to liquid form.
- EgressA means or place of going out; exit.
- ElbowAn L-shaped pipe fitting.
- Electrical mastPipe protruding from the roof where the main service wires from the utility pole attach to the house.
- ElectricianA skilled professional licensed to install and repair electrical systems.
- ElectrostaticA type of air filter that employs a charge of stationary electricity to attract passing dust particles from the air.
- EmbersSmall windborne sparks and firebrands generated by wildfires.
- Energy disperserAn arrangement of rock or gravel placed below the outfall of a drain system to prevent erosion of the surrounding ground.
- EnfiladeAn uninterrupted sight line occurring through a series of open doors in perfect alignment.
- EscutcheonThe trim around plumbing pipes where they pass through a wall surface.
- Expansion jointA soft joint separating large sections of concrete or stucco surfaces to minimize damage from expansion and contraction of the material.
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- FAUForced air unit AKA a central heating furnace consisting of a burner, blower, filter, flue and combustion air ducts.
- FencingA barrier structure placed to separate exterior spaces.
- FenestrationExterior glass surfaces.
- Fir escapingLandscape planning, design, plant selections, irrigation and hardscaping to reduce the potential for fire hazard.
- Flapper valveA floppy rubber diaphram used to control the flushing of a toilet.
- FlashingMetal or other impervious material used to prevent water from entering at building joints.
- Float valveThe water fill-valve in the toilet tank controlled by a float shut-off.
- Flow restrictorThese are devices installed into faucets and shower heads by the manufacturers to limit flow rates in order to save water. These are legislated by some state governments.
- FlueThe opening in a chimney through which smoke passes.
- FluorideA chemical added in minute amounts to municipal drinking water to help prevent tooth decay.
- FootingThe bottom portion of a structure’s foundation that rests upon undisturbed soil.
- FormworkTemporary assembled materials, usually made of wood or metal that create a shaped enclosure for the placement of plastic or semi-liquid concrete.
- FoundationA permanent solid stone or concrete base for a structure.
- Foundation ventsScreened openings around the perimeter of the foundation to allow fresh air to circulate in the crawlspace.
- FRBFiberglas Reinforced Plastic material used to make sheets of water resistant wall paneling.
- Fresh air exchangerA device used to provide fresh air into a highly sealed living space with minimal loss of energy. See HRV.
- Furring stripsThin strips of wood or other material used to level or straighten finish surfaces.
- FuseA device located in an electrical circuit that will fail in the event the circuit is overloaded and shut the circuit off. These have mostly been replaced now by circuit breakers.
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- GableThe flat exterior wall portion of the end of a building that extends upward to the peak of the roof.
- GabletSmall gables occurring over dormers.
- Garage door releaseAn emergency release mechanism to disconnect the door from the drive motor for manual operation of the door.
- GateA operable passageway in a fence.
- GFCIGround fault circuit interrupter; a quick tripping circuit breaker that stops the flow of electricity within 1/40 second of sensing a short or current leak. Designed for use in areas where there is potential risk of shock such as outdoors, around kitchen and bathroom sinks and in(...)
- GirderA primary structural beam onto which floor or ceiling joists are supported.
- GlazerA skilled technician trained to work with glass.
- GlazingIndividual panes of window or door glass usually held in place with stops or putty
- GraphiteLubricant for use on locks and other delicate mechanism.
- GroundA conducting connection between an electric circuit or equipment and the earth or some other grounded body.
- GroutA thin cement mortar material used for leveling and filling masonry and tile joint applications.
- Gutter protectionFilter devices attached to rain gutters to prevent leaves and debris from entering the gutter, downspout and drain system
- Gypsum board
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- HallA space enclosed by walls and a roof. Historically the largest room in a structure. Homes were either built around a courtyard (open unroofed areas) in warm, temperate climates, or totally enclosed halls in colder, rainy climates.
- Hand sprayerA hose with a handheld wand for shower or faucet.
- Hard WaterWater with 7 grains or more of dissolved solids per gallon.
- HardwareCommon term referring to any metal connectors or hard-wearing trim used in the structure. Finish hardware examples would be hinges, locks, latches, pulls, knobs etc. Rough examples are nails, bolts, staples, straps, nuts, bolts and washers.
- HatchA passageway for access to the crawlspace or attic.
- Hay trolleyA rail and pulley system that ran the length of the underside of the roof peak and extended to the exterior of most barns. It was used to lift and distribute hay to the interior of the barn hay loft.
- HayhoodThe protruding roof area at one end of the upper gable of a barn roof.
- HayloftAn open attic area at the roof peak of a barn to store hay.
- HeaderA horizontal structural framing support spanning over doors and window openings.
- HearthFire resistant area that projects out from in front of the floor of the fireplace.
- Heat balancingAdjustment of the delivery of warm air throughout a structure to achieve an even heat temperature across all rooms.
- Heat exchangerAn apparatus used to transfer heat from an isolated source to an end use.
- HeelThe portion of the “birds mouth” rafter cut that rests on the top plate of the wall framing.
- HEPA filtersHigh-efficiency particle arrestor, these are special air filters for removing very small particles from the air.
- HingeA simple mechanism, usually metal, that allows a door or window to swing or rotate open.
- HipThe angled part of the roof where one plane meets another. Hips usually extend from ridge to lower edge of the roof.
- Hold downsSpecial heavy metal anchors used to secure the structure to the foundation at key locations.
- HomeAn assembly of materials that enclose a weatherproof space for human living.
- HRVA heat recovery ventilator exchanges stale interior air with fresh exterior air while “recovering” most of the heat from the stale air prior to its being exhausted.
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- I-joistA stable, engineered, and fabricated joist material especially well-suited for flat planes and long spans.
- IgnitorThese are electronic devices used to induce heat or a spark on demand to ignite a natural gas or propane burner.
- IGUInsulated glazing units AKA dual pane glass, are glass panels constructed from two sheets of glass with an air space between to provide an insulation barrier.
- Incandescent lightingLight fixtures utilizing filament bulb light sources as opposed to LED’s
- Induction cooktopA highly energy efficient appliance that generates heat by creating an oscillating magnetic field within a ferrite (iron or steel) cooking vessel or a special pad that then transfers heat to a non-ferrite vessel.
- InglenookA built-in sitting area adjacent to the structure of the fireplace.
- Insulating battsLong strips of insulation material, premanufactured to specific widths to fit between wall studs, ceiling joists or rafters.
- Insulating foamExpanding foam insulation material sprayed directly onto the framing.
- InsulationAny material used to prevent thermal migration from outside to the inside of a structure. Insulation values are measured in R-values with higher being better.
- Interceptor drainSee Burrito drain
- IslandAn assembly of cabinets with a countertop in the center of the kitchen.
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- JacksWaterproof penetrations through the roof for plumbing vents and electrical masts.
- JettyAn area where a structures upper floor extends out past and slightly cantilevers out over the lower floor exterior walls.
- JoistA horizontal structural member that supports the floor or ceiling system.
- JoystickHand grip used to control movement of an object.
- Junction boxA metal box required by building code to contain splices in wires.
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- KDLumber grade meaning Kiln Dried to reduce shrinkage in the field after installation. Post kiln drying, lumber should have a moisture content between 6-10%.
- Kick plateA metal trim plate mounted to the bottom door rail to protect it from shoe marks and damage.
- King studThe structural stud on either side of the door or window header.
- Knob and tubeOlder obsolete electric wiring where insulated wires are supported with porcelain knobs and tubes when passing through wood construction members.
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- Ladder fuelsLow dead branches, grasses, shrubs, plants and other combustible which could act to spread fire from the ground to the upper canopy of trees.
- LaddersA portable climbing tool to allow human access to high places.
- LarderHistorically, this was the place, usually a small cool room where animal fat, grease, bacon was kept and processed.
- LatchA simple mechanism used to hold a gate, door or window closed. Some can be equipped with locks.
- LatexA milky, often sticky fluid extruded by cut plants that coagulates on contact with air. Synthesized for use in paints, coatings and caulks that can be emulsified and cleaned up with water.
- LavatoryA bathroom sink
- Leach fieldA large saturation area where the liquids from a septic tank are returned to, and absorbed by, the ground. Usually designed in pairs that can be rotated from time to time.
- Leaded windowsWindows constructed of smaller pieces of glass held together with a lead or metal came material. AKA stained glass or Tiffany glass.
- LeatheringA term used to describe the texturing of stone countertops.
- LEDLight emitting diodes are next-generation, low-power, long-life replacements for filament light bulbs.
- LedgerHorizontal structural member through-bolted to a flat surface to support joists, rafters or trellis members.
- LightsIndividual panes of glass in a door or window.
- Line setA bundle of pipes and wires used to move air conditioner coolant to/from the compressor on the exterior and the air handler on the interior of the structure.
- LinoleumA durable, attractive and eco-friendly flooring material made from layers of linseed oil and crushed cork applied to a canvas backing. Once obsolete it is making a resurgence.
- LotThe total area of owned property surrounding a building site.
- LouverAn opening obstructed by horizontally angled slats that deflect the weather.
- Low water cutoffA shut off valve that turns off a boiler or water heater with low water.
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- Main Service PanelThe main electrical panel with meter attached
- MaintenanceThe act of preventing deterioration and avoiding breakdowns in a building system.
- ManifoldA closely arranged series of plumbing or irrigation pipes and valves leading from a main source pipe.
- MantleDecorative area or shelf directly above the fireplace opening.
- MildewA specific type of mold that appears on the surfaces of moist organic areas under certain ideal conditions.
- Mission CriticalA life sustaining or protective feature without which collateral damage will be sustained.
- Mixing valveValve on single handled plumbing fixtures that mixes hot and cold water to the proper temperature for use.
- Moisture barrierAn impermeable layer beneath a floor that prevents moisture from migrating to the surface.
- MoldA deep penetrating fungus that grows under moist humid conditions.
- Mud sillThe wood member placed directly on top of the foundation wall in wood frame construction.
- Mud tunnelTubes made of dirt used by termites to travel from the ground to the wood structure.
- MullionAn internal vertical structural member of a window or door.
- MuntinA panel or pane divider in a window or door.
- Muriatic acidUsed to clean mortar and grout from masonry surfaces.
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- Nail popA bump or flaw in the surface of drywall created by a nail head.
- Newel postThe main handrail termination post for a stairway.
- NosingThe leading edge of a stair tread
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- OutfallThe exposed or daylight end of a drainage system where the collected water spills out.
- OutletAn electrical receptacle for connecting an electrical device or cord.
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- P-trapThe curved drain pipe located directly under a sink.
- ParapetWalls build around a flat roof to create a cosmetic affect.
- Particle boardA heavy and dense wood sheet product made from compressing and gluing sawdust together.
- PassivationThe process of treating the surface of stainless steel to clean, polish and to make it less reactive to corrosive elements in the environment. Also know as pickling. Passivation, is a treatment method to protect the metal from corroding through—making the material “passive” to the surrounding(...)
- PatioAn outdoor entertaining space
- PaversBrick, concrete or stone blocks like cobblestones when placed together form a solid but porous surface for patios, walks and driveways.
- Pendant lightsLight fixtures that hang down individually from a mount on the ceiling
- PergolaA framework over a walkway or patio to support vegetation and create a shaded area beneath.
- Perimeter drainA system of drains used to divert water away from a building foundation.
- PicketsIndividual boards on a low front fence usually spaced apart.
- PicklingThe process of treating the surface of stainless steel to clean, polish and to make it less reactive to corrosive elements in the environment. Also know as passivation.
- PiersA cylindrical foundation component used to extend and support the foundation down to deeper more structurally sound soil or bedrock.
- PilastersVertical support column usually attached to the surface of a wall.
- Pilot lightA constantly burning small flame used to ignite large burners of furnaces or hot water heating devices in older equipment. These have been made obsolete as newer appliances are now equipped with energy saving ignitors.
- Pipe fittingAssembling piping together to form a plumbing system.
- PlasterA hard cement-based material used for interior wall surface finishes.
- Plastic laminateA counter top material made from layers of laminated plastic. A trade name is Formica.
- PlenumAn air chamber from which conditioned air is distributed to the individual room ducts.
- PlumberA licensed professional contractor trained to install and repair plumbing systems.
- PlumbingThe piping, drain and fixture system used to deliver and remove potable and waste water from your home.
- PlywoodA strong wood sheet product made from thin layers of wood built-up and glued together.
- Pocket doorAn interior door that slides into the wall cavity rather than swinging out into the space.
- PointingA method of repairing mortar joints in masonry construction.
- PorcelainConsidered the finest of the ceramic potteries and made by firing at 2200 to 2600 degrees F.
- PorchA covered area outside of an exterior door for protection from the weather.
- Powder-post beetlesWood destroying insects that turn wood into a fine powdery residue.
- Pressure regulatorA plumbing device usually mounted on the main line that limits incoming water pressure
- Pressure treated woodWood members treated to resist rot with a chemical preservative under pressure.
- PumpA mechanical device used to move liquid through a system of pipes.
- Punch listA to do list of items needing repair.
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- QuoinThe interlocking corner stones at the intersection of two a masonry exterior walls.
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- RabbetA joinery groove cut in a board to receive another piece of wood.
- RadiatorA device used to transfer heat to the air.
- RadonNaturally occurring toxic gas in the earth that is caused by the radioactive decay of the element radium.
- RafterRoof framing members.
- Rafter tailThat portion of the rafter that extends past the exterior wall.
- RailA handrail or the horizontal portion of a window or door panel.
- RailingThe handrail and protective barrier for a stair or elevated patio or deck.
- Rain chainsDecorative lengths of chain used to replace downspouts.
- Rain cupsSimilar to rain chains but with cups instead of chain links designed to catch and control the flow of the water.
- Rain guttersChannels at the lower edge of the roof used to catch rain runoff and direct it to the downspouts.
- RakeThe angle or slope of an incline or to remove mortar from a masonry joint.
- RangeA combination appliance consisting of cooktop and lower oven.
- RaspAn extremely course file used to shape and quickly remove material from a piece of wood
- RazeTo demolish or remove.
- Re-circulator systemA system of a small pump and water lines that keep hot water immediately available to the various fixtures.
- RebarSteel used to reinforce structural concrete.
- ReceptacleAn outlet for connecting an electrical device or cord.
- RectoryThe dwelling of an Anglican rector
- Reflected planA building plan that portrays the view looking upward from floor to ceiling.
- RegisterHeating/cooling system outflow grills located in each room or space for the distribution of heated or cooled air.
- Relief valveAlso known as a TP Relief Valve (temperature and pressure relief valve) used to relieve pressure on the interior of water heaters to protect them from exploding.
- RepointingThe repair process of removing damaged mortar from between masonry units and replacing it with new mortar. (not to be confused with tuckpointing which is an installation aesthetic and not a repair.)
- ResawThe process of ripping a board lengthwise on edge.
- Resilient floorGeneric term for vinyl sheet flooring
- Return GrillHeating/cooling system intake grills used to remove air from a space to be moved and conditioned through the system and returned to the space through the registers.
- Reverse OsmosisA process of forcing water through a membrane in order to block or remove some dissolved and larger impurities.
- RidgeThe uppermost horizontal line of the roof.
- Ridge ventA vented opening along the ridge of the roof to allow circulating air to pass out through the roof.
- Rim joistA perimeter horizontal board attached to and running across the ends of the joist array, usually with blocking in between the joists.
- RiserThe vertical portion or back of the stair step.
- RomexElectrical cables that have multiple conductors protected by a non-metallic coating or sheath.
- Roof feltBituminous asphalt impregnated felt sheathing is used under the primary roofing material to provide a separation barrier and second layer of water resistance.
- Roof pitchThe slope of a roof stated in rise over run ie. 4:12 = 4” vertical for every 12” horizontal.
- Root barrierA professionally installed system to prevent invasive tree roots from damaging site or structure.
- RopeA flexible material made of fibers or strands woven into long lengths. Rope is possibly the oldest and most utilized of all building materials. It is used as a construction material, as a tool or both.
- Running waterWater in motion passing through the plumbing piping system.
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- Sash weightsCounter weights connected to the operable sashes of double hung windows to make them easier to move.
- SauceryThis was an area of the kitchen where the preparation of sauces was conducted in larger estates. Sauces were often family secrets and the recipe’s were unwritten and highly guarded by a trusted servant of the kitchen called a saucerer.
- ScaffoldingA supportive temporary work structure used during the construction or repair process to provide a safe platform from which to work.
- Schluter stripsTrademarked line of products used for edging, terminations and joints between tiled surfaces and other materials.
- SconcesWall mounted light fixtures
- SculleryA historical term for a small room traditionally devoted to the cutting up and preparation of certain foods, washing of dishes and sometime the laundering of clothing
- ScupperA penetration through a parapet wall to allow water to escape.
- ScutcheonAn area or reveal creating a shadowbox effect where a door or window is setback deeply from the face of the wall surface.
- ScuttleAn attic access hatch with hinged, upward swinging cover.
- Sediment trapA short vertical length of gas pipe located on the main gas line before the appliance used to catch loose particles. Also known as drip tee, dirt leg.
- SedimentsSolid particles like sand moving in suspension through water lines.
- SeepageSlow water leaks occurring in piping or through basement walls.
- Seismic valveAn automatic gas shut off valve triggered by seismic events.
- Self-cleaning ovenAn oven capable of generating temperatures high enough to burn away spills leaving only ash behind. These appliances are equipped with safety locks to prevent accidentally opening them at high temperatures.
- Septic tankA watertight collection vault that receives sewage from the plumbing drains and uses natural bacteria to biologically break it down into liquid form.
- SetbacksDimensions set by the planning or building department to determine the distance any construction must be from the property line.
- Sewage ejectorA system to pump wastewater and sewage from an area where gravity removal is impossible.
- Sewer clean outA cap on the sewer line that allows access for observation, cleaning or maintenance.
- ShakesHand split cedar roofing.
- SheathingThe structural covering of boards or wallboards, placed over exterior studding or rafters of a structure.
- SheetrockSee gypsum board
- Ship lapA type of horizontal exterior siding where the layers of material overlap similar in appearance to a wood ship.
- ShoringConstruction elements used to provide protective, temporary bracing to support the work efforts until they are completed.
- ShouldersThe wider structural exterior portion of the fireplace just below the chimney.
- Shower panWaterproofing system beneath the shower finishes that prevents leaks.
- ShuttersStorm shutters are moveable exterior barriers that can be swung over windows to provide shade or storm protection.
- Side liteA glazed panel adjacent to an entry door.
- SillThe exterior trim across the bottom edge of windows that protrudes out beyond the wall surface.
- Simpson connectorsA trademarked line of structural metal connectors used for framing.
- SiteThe area of land on which the home is positioned.
- Skip sheathingA method of roof sheathing where a lath of spaced boards are nailed across the rafters and to which is attached the roof shingles. This allows air to circulate below the shingles preventing premature deterioration.
- SkylightRoof mounted window that allows light into the living space below.
- SlabA flat layer of concrete approximately 4” thick.
- SleepersStrips of pressure treated wood laid over concrete to provide nailing for installation of floor framing.
- Smoke detectorA sensor device to detect smoke in the living and sleeping areas of the home and alert the occupants.
- Smooth wallA type of drywall finish where the wall is completely smooth.
- SnakeA plumbing tool used to clear clogged drains.
- SoffitThe underside of a roof overhang or eave.
- Soft-close hardwareCabinet hinges and slides designed to close softly without slamming.
- SolderingThe joining of copper pipe together with fittings.
- SolventAny liquid agent used to dissolve another material.
- SpacklePaste or putty-like material used to patch small holes in drywall surfaces.
- Spark arrestorA screen device placed on top of a chimney to catch embers. It is strongly recommended if the home has a wood shake roof or is located in a fire prone area.
- SpiceryHistorically this is the room where some of the most valuable assets of the household were kept. The spices. This was usually a secure area and attended to by a trusted head spicer. Coffees, teas, salt, pepper and other exotic spices brought from around the world at great cost were kept in(...)
- Splash blockA hard surfaced sloped area below a downspout used to prevent erosion and direct rainwater away from the foundation of the structure.
- Splashes or backsplashThis is a vertical water resistant plane running up the wall at the back of the countertop. It is used to protect the wall from splashing water.
- SpoutThe fitting that directs and delivers water into a fixture for use.
- SqueegeeA tool to remove water from the surface of glass during the cleaning process. Keep one handy for big shower enclosures.
- Standing seam roofMetal roof where the joints between the panels are made with a short, vertical, overlapping seam connection.
- StewardshipThe long-term careful and responsible management and care of something important.
- StockyardA holding pen for cattle on the way to market.
- StoolThe horizontal bottom part of a window opening that extends into the interior living space.
- StoppersThe devices at the bottom of tubs and sinks that prevent water from escaping.
- Strike plateA piece of hardware metal mounted to the door jamb for the door latch or plunger to rub against while closing so as to not damage the wood.
- StringerThe key structural element of a stair with notches cut into it to form the steps and risers.
- StuccoA cement plaster used for the finish siding on exterior surfaces of buildings.
- StudsWood or metal framing members used to assemble walls.
- Sump pumpA small electric pump used to remove water.
- SwaleA shallow depression in the soil to channel surface water.
- SwitchAn electrical device mounted on the wall to turn a light or appliance on and off.
- SyphonA tube that when completely filled with water has the ability to move fluid uphill against the will of gravity without the use of mechanical pumping. Used extensively in toilets to empty the bowl after use.
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- T/P relief valveThe emergency temperature and pressure relief valve on a water heater tank.
- T/STrouble Shoot
- Tack stripA narrow board with short angled spikes mounted to the subfloor next to the wall in order to hold carpeting tight to the wall
- TermitesWood destroying insects the size and appearance of winged ants.
- T>ongue and groove is a strong method of joining parts together through interlocking them with a groove and tab milled into the material.
- The TradesA term used to describe the various types of building skills required for construction.
- ThermostatA control device for monitoring and controlling the interior room temperature by cycling the heating/cooling system on or off.
- ThresholdThe portion of an exterior door frame that you must step over and that seals the bottom edge of the door to prevent air and debris from blowing into the space
- Toe kickThe space at the bottom of base cabinets that recedes back from the front surface.
- ToenailA technique of fastening structural members together by driving a nail from an angle.
- Transom windowA fixed or awning window placed above a door.
- TreadThe flat part of the stair used as a step.
- Tree-way switchAn electrical wiring technique that allows a fixture to be controlled from more than one switch location.
- TrellisSee pergola
- TrussA triangular shaped structural assembly for spanning large spaces or distances. Commonly used for roof framing.
- TuckpointingThe addition of a second color (usually contrasting) or texture to an existing mortar joint. This can give the appearance of very thin, hairline type joints. Not to be confused with repointing (see above).
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- UnderlaymentA thin layer of board material placed over the subfloor prior to the installation of any resilient or linoleum flooring.
- Utility sinkA large sink used for heavier purposes and cleaning usually located in laundry areas or garages.
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- ValleyThe inside angle formed by the junction of two sloping sides of a roof.
- VanityA bathroom make-up or sink cabinet
- Vapor barrierMaterial used to retard the flow of moist air into wall cavities to prevent condensation.
- VeneerA vertical siding finish layer applied to a structural support system. This can be virtually any material wood, brick, stone etc.
- VentilationThe means by which circulating air is introduced or removed from a structure.
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- WainscotA finish treatment to the walls that runs from the floor to the chair rail height about half way up.
- Wall coveringsPapers, fabrics, paneling and other finish treatments applied to the surface of the interior walls.
- Wall platesTop and bottom horizontal framing members to which wall studs are attached. Once wall sections are in place a third top plate is installed spanning over the others to straighten and strengthen the stud wall assemblies.
- Warm floorsA heating system based upon warming of the floor surface which then radiates into the spaces above.
- WashletA toilet seat system trademarked by Toto that includes a bidet and drying feature.
- Waste linesThese are the drain pipes that carry away used water from the home.
- Water testsThe scientific examination of water samples for the presence of hazardous substances.
- WaterhammerBanging sounds in water pipes, frequently heard when turning off flowing water.
- WaterlineThese are the small connector lines used to supply fixtures with water from the angle stops. These can be decorative if exposed.
- WaterpipeThese are the main water pipes running throughout the structure.
- Wax ringA circular gasket made of thick wax used to seal the bottom of the toilet to the sewer drain pipe.
- Weather-strippingMaterial used to prevent the passage of air around doors and windows.
- Weep holesSmall openings that allow water to escape from an enclosed area.
- Wet-pipeA term used in plumbing to describe the constant state of a water carrying system. Used frequently to describe the piping for pressurized fire sprinkler systems.
- Widow’s peakSee hay hood. Extended peak at one gable end of a barn.
- Widow’s watchAn enclosed rooftop platform which created an improved view.
- Window sashThe moveable window framework holding the glass.
- Window wallsExterior glass barriers that incorporate entire wall sections.
- Wine refrigeratorA refrigerator-like appliance with one or more zones designed to maintain a constant temperature for storing wines.
- Wood puttyA paste-like material used to fill nail holes in trim.
- Wood stainStains are suspended in a liquid vehicle and applied to wood surfaces in order to darken or enhance the appearance. Depending on the wood, stains do not typically penetrate deeply into the material and require a protective film or finish coat.
- World viewYour mental model of reality. Comprehensive ideas & attitudes about the world, yourself, and your life. Beliefs and personally customized theories about the world and how it works which is your de facto truth regardless of any connection to actual truth.
- WUIWildland/Urban Interface, areas where human habitation and wildland coexist.
