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A/C- An abbreviation for air conditioner or air
conditioning.
A/C Condenser- The outside fan unit of the Air
Conditioning system. It removes the heat from the freon gas and "turns"
the gas back into a liquid and pumps the liquid back to the coil in the
furnace.
A/C Disconnect- The main electrical ON-OFF switch
near the A/C Condenser.
Aerator- The round screened screw-on tip of a
sink spout. It mixes water and air for a smooth flow.
Aggregate- A mixture of sand and stone and a
major component of concrete.
Air space - The area between insulation facing
and interior of exterior wall coverings. Normally a 1" air gap.
Allowance(s) - A sum of money set aside in the
construction contract for items which have not been selected and
specified in the construction contract. For example, selection of tile
as a flooring may require an allowance for an underlayment material, or
an electrical allowance which sets aside an amount of money to be spent
on electrical fixtures.
Amortization - A payment plan by which a loan is
reduced through monthly payments of principal and interest.
Anchor bolts- Bolts to secure a wooden sill plate
to concrete , or masonry floor or wall.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)- Annual cost of
credit over the life of a loan, including interest, service charges,
points, loan fees, mortgage insurance, and other items.
Appraisal An expert valuation of property.
Apron- A trim board that is installed beneath a
window sill
Architect - One who has completed a course of
study in building and design, and is licensed by the state as an
architect. One who draws up plans.
Area wells- Corrugated metal or concrete barrier
walls installed around a basement window to hold back the earth
Assessment - A tax levied on a property, or a
value placed on the worth of a property.
Assumption - Allows a buyer to assume
responsibility for an existing loan instead of getting a new loan.
Astragal- A molding, attached to one of a pair of
swinging double doors, against which the other door strikes.
Attic access- An opening that is placed in the
drywalled ceiling of a home providing access to the attic.
Attic Ventilators- In houses, screened openings
provided to ventilate an attic space.
Backfill
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Back Charge- Billings for work performed or costs
incurred by one party that, in accordance with the agreement, should
have been performed or incurred by the party to whom billed. Owners bill
back charges to general contractors, and general contractors bill back
charges to subcontractors. Examples of back charges include charges for
cleanup work or to repair something damaged by another subcontractor,
such as a tub chip or broken window.
Backfill- The replacement of excavated earth into
a trench around or against a basement /crawl space foundationwall.
Backing- Frame lumber installed between the wall
studs to give additional support for drywall or an interior trim related
item, such as handrail brackets, cabinets, and towel bars. In this way,
items are screwed and mounted into solid wood rather than weak drywall
that may allow the item to break loose from the wall. Carpet backing
holds the pile fabric in place.
Backout- Work the framing contractor does after
the mechanical subcontractors (Heating-Plumbing-Electrical) finish their
phase of work at the Rough (before insulation) stage to get the home
ready for a municipal frame inspection. Generally, the framing
contractor repairs anything disturbed by others and completes all
framing necessary to pass a Rough Frame Inspection.
Ballast- A transformer that steps up the voltage
in a florescent lamp.
Balloon - A loan that has a series of monthly
payments with the remaining balance due in a large lump sum payment at
the end.
Balloon framed wall- Framed walls (generally over
10' tall) that run the entire vertical length from the floor sill plate
to the roof. This is done to eliminate the need for a gable end truss.
Balusters- Vertical members in a railing used
between a top rail and bottom rail or the stair treads. Sometimes
referred to as 'pickets' or 'spindles'.
Balustrade- The rail, posts and vertical
balusters along the edge of a stairway or elevated walkway.
Barge- Horizontal beam rafter that supports
shorter rafters.
Barge board- A decorative board covering the
projecting rafter (fly rafter) of the gable end. At the cornice, this
member is a fascia board.
Base or baseboard- A trim board placed against
the wall around the room next to the floor.
Basement window inserts- The window frame and
glass unit that is installed in the window buck.
Base shoe- Molding used next to the floor on
interior base board. Sometimes called a carpet strip.
Bat - A half-brick.
Batt - A section of fiber-glass or rock-wool
insulation measuring 15 or 23 inches wide by four to eight feet long and
various thickness'. Sometimes "faced" (meaning to have a paper covering
on one side) or "unfaced" (without paper).
Batten- Narrow strips of wood used to cover
joints or as decorative vertical members over plywood or wide boards.
Bay window- Any window space projecting outward
from the walls of a building, either square or polygonal in plan.
Beam- A structural member transversely supporting
a load. A structural member carrying building loads (weight) from one
support to another. Sometimes called a "girder".
Bearing partition- A partition that supports any
vertical load in addition to its own weight.
Bearing point- A point where a bearing or
structural weight is concentrated and transferred to the foundation
Bearing wall- A wall that supports any vertical
load in addition to its own weight.
Bearing header- (a) A beam placed perpendicular
to joists and to which joists are nailed in framing for a chimney,
stairway, or other opening. (b) A wood lintel. (c) The horizontal
structural member over an opening (for example over a door or window).
Bedrock- A subsurface layer of earth that is
suitable to support a structure.
Bid- A formal offer by a contractor, in
accordance with specifications for a project, to do all or a phase of
the work at a certain price in accordance with the terms and conditions
stated in the offer.
Bid bond- A bond issued by a surety on behalf of
a contractor that provides assurance to the recipient of the
contractor's bid that, if the bid is accepted, the contractor will
execute a contract and provide a performance bond. Under the bond, the
surety is obligated to pay the recipient of the bid the difference
between the contractor's bid and the bid of the next lowest responsible
bidder if the bid is accepted and the contractor fails to execute a
contract or to provide a performance bond.
Bid security Funds or a bid bond submitted with a
bid as a guarantee to the recipient of the bid that the contractor, if
awarded the contract, will execute the contract in accordance with the
bidding requirements of the contract documents.
Bid shopping- A practice by which contractors,
both before and after their bids are submitted, attempt to obtain prices
from potential subcontractors and material suppliers that are lower than
the contractors' original estimates on which their bids are based, or
after a contract is awarded, seek to induce subcontractors to reduce the
subcontract price included in the bid.
Bidding requirements- The procedures and
conditions for the submission of bids. The requirements are included ion
documents, such as the notice to bidders, advertisements for bids,
instructions to bidders, invitations to bid, and sample bid forms.
Bifold door- Doors that are hinged in the middle
for opening in a smaller area than standard swing doors. Often used for
closet doors.
Binder- A receipt for a deposit to secure the
right to purchase a home at an agreed terms by a buyer and seller.
Bipass doors- Doors that slide by each other and
commonly used as closet doors.
Blankets- Fiber-glass or rock-wool insulation
that comes in long rolls 15 or 23 inches wide.
Blocked (door blocking)- Wood shims used between
the door frame and the vertical structural wall framing members.
Blocked (rafters)- Short "2 by 4's" used to keep
rafters from twisting, and installed at the ends and at mid-span.
Blocking- Small wood pieces to brace framing
members or to provide a nailing base for gypsum board or paneling.
Block out- To install a box or barrier within a
foundation wall to prevent the concrete from entering an area. For
example, foundation walls are sometimes "blocked" in order for
mechanical pipes to pass through the wall, to install a crawl space
door, and to depress the concrete at a garage door location.
Blow insulation- Fiber insulation in loose form
and used to insulate attics and existing walls where framing members are
not exposed.
Blue print(s) - A type of copying method often
used for architectural drawings. Usually used to describe the drawing of
a structure which is prepared by an architect or designer for the
purpose of design and planning, estimating, securing permits and actual
construction.
Blue stake- Another phrase for Utility
Notification. This is when a utility company (telephone, gas, electric,
cable TV, sewer and water, etc) comes to the job site and locates and
spray paints the ground and/or installs little flags to show where their
service is located underground.
Blow insulation- Fiber insulation in loose form
and used to insulate attics and existing walls where framing members are
not exposed.
Board foot- A unit of measure for lumber equal to
1 inch thick by 12 inches wide by 12 inches long. Examples: 1" x 12" x
16' = 16 board feet, 2" x 12" x 16' = 32 board feet
Bond or bonding - An amount of money (usually
$5,000-$10,000) which must be on deposit with a governmental agency in
order to secure a contractor's license. The bond may be used to pay for
the unpaid bills or disputed work of the contractor. Not to be confused
with a 'performance bond'. Such bonds are rarely used in
residential construction, they are an insurance policy which guarantees
proper completion of a project.
Boom- A truck used to hoist heavy material up and
into place. To put trusses on a home or to set a heavy beam into place.
Bottom chord - The lower or bottom horizontal
member of a truss.
Bottom plate- The "2 by 4's or 6's" that lay on
the subfloor upon which the vertical studs are installed. Also called
the 'sole plate'.
Brace- An inclined piece of framing lumber
applied to wall or floor to strengthen the structure. Often used on
walls as temporary bracing until framing has been completed.
Breaker panel- The electrical box that
distributes electric power entering the home to each branch circuit
(each plug and switch) and composed of circuit breakers.
Brick ledge- Part of the foundation wall where
brick (veneer) will rest.
Brick lintel- The metal angle iron that brick
rests on, especially above a window, door, or other opening.
Brick mold-Trim used around an exterior door jamb
that siding butts to.
Brick tie- A small, corrugated metal strip @ 1" X
6"- 8" long nailed to wall sheeting or studs. They are inserted into the
grout mortar joint of the veneer brick, and holds the veneer wall to the
sheeted wall behind it.
Brick veneer- A vertical facing of brick laid
against and fastened to sheathing of a framed wall or tile wall
construction.
Bridging- Small wood or metal members that are
inserted in a diagonal position between the floor joists or rafters at
mid-span for the purpose of bracing the joists/rafters & spreading the
load.
Buck- Often used in reference to rough frame
opening members. Door bucks used in reference to metal door frame. See
Window Bucks
Builder's Risk Insurance- Insurance coverage on a
construction project during construction, including extended coverage
that may be added for the contract for the customer's protections.
Building codes- Community ordinances governing
the manner in which a home may be constructed or modified.
Building insurance- Insurance covering the
structure of the building.
Building paper- A general term for papers, felts,
and similar sheet materials used in buildings without reference to their
properties or uses. Generally comes in long rolls.
Built-up roof- A roofing composed of three to
five layers of asphalt felt laminated with coal tar, pitch, or asphalt.
The top is finished with crushed slag or gravel. Generally used on flat
or low-pitched roofs.
Bull nose (drywall)- Rounded drywall corners.
Bundle - A package of shingles. Normally, there
are 3 bundles per square and 27 shingles per bundle.
Butt edge- The lower edge of the shingle tabs.
Butt hinge- The most common type. One leaf
attaches to the door's edge, the other to its jamb.
Butt joint- The junction where the ends of two
timbers meet, and also where sheets of drywall meet on the 4 foot edge.
To place materials end-to-end or end-to-edge without overlapping.
Buy down- A subsidy (usually paid by a builder or
developer) to reduce monthly payments on a mortgage.
By fold door- Doors that are hinged in the middle
for opening in a smaller area than standard swing doors. Often used for
closet doors.
By pass doors- Doors that slide by each other and
commonly used as closet doors.
C.O.
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CO- An abbreviation for "Certificate of
Occupancy". This certificate is issued by the local municipality and
is required before anyone can occupy and live within the home. It is
issued only after the local municipality has made all inspections and
all monies and fees have been paid.
Caisson- A 10" or 12" diameter hole drilled into
the earth and embedded into bedrock 3 - 4 feet. The structural support
for a type of foundation wall, porch, patio, monopost, or other
structure. Two or more "sticks" of reinforcing bars (rebar) are inserted
into and run the full length of the hole and concrete is poured into the
caisson hole
Cantilever- An overhang. Where one floor extends
beyond and over a foundation wall. For example at a fireplace location
or bay window cantilever. Normally, not extending over 2 feet.
Cantilevered void- Foundation void material used
in unusually expansive soils conditions. This void is "trapezoid" shaped
and has vertical sides of 6" and 4" respectively.
Cap- The upper member of a column, pilaster, door
cornice, molding, or fireplace.
Cap flashing- The portion of the flashing
attached to a vertical surface to prevent water from migrating behind
the base flashing.
Capital- The principal part of a loan, i.e. the
original amount borrowed.
Capital and interest- A repayment loan and the
most conventional form of home loan. The borrower pays an amount each
month to cover the amount borrowed (or capital or principal) plus
the interest charged on capital.
Capped rate- The mortgage interest rate will not
exceed a specified value during a certain period of time, but it will
fluctuate up and down below that level.
Casement- Frames of wood or metal enclosing part
(or all) of a window sash. May beopened by means of hinges affixed to
the vertical edges.
Casement Window- A window with hinges on one of
the vertical sides and swings open like a normal door
Casing- Wood trim molding installed around a door
or window opening.
Caulking- (1) A flexible material used to seal a
gap between two surfaces e.g. between pieces of siding or the corners in
tub walls. (2) To fill a joint with mastic or asphalt plastic cement to
prevent leaks.
CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenate)- A pesticide that
is forced into wood under high pressure to protect it from termites,
other wood boring insects, and decay caused by fungus
Celotex ™- Black fibrous board that is used as
exterior sheething.
Ceiling joist- One of a series of parallel
framing members used to support ceiling loads and supported in turn by
larger beams, girders or bearing walls. Also called roof joists.
Cement- The gray powder that is the "glue" in
concrete. Portland cement. Also, any adhesive.
Ceramic tile- A man-made or machine-made clay
tile used to finish a floor or wall. Generally used in bathtub and
shower enclosures and on counter tops.
CFM (cubic feet per minute)- A rating that
expresses the amount of air a blower or fan can move. The volume of air
(measured in cubic feet) that can pass through an opening in one minute.
Chair rail- Interior trim material installed
about 3-4 feet up the wall, horizontally.
Chalk line- A line made by snapping a taut string
or cord dusted with chalk. Used for alignment purposes.
Change order- A written document which modifies
the plans and specifications and/or the price of the construction
Contract.
Chase- A framed enclosed space around a flue pipe
or a channel in a wall, or through a ceiling for something to lie in or
pass through.
Chink- To install fiberglass insulation around
all exterior door and window frames, wall corners, and small gaps in the
exterior wall.
Chip Board- A manufactured wood panel made out of
1"- 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood in
the exterior wall and roof sheathing. Also called OSB (Oriented Strand
Board) or wafer board.
Circuit- The path of electrical flow from a power
source through an outlet and back to ground.
Circuit Breaker- A device which looks like a
switch and is usually located inside the electrical breaker panel or
circuit breaker box. It is designed to (1) shut of the power to portions
or all of the house and (2) to limit the amount of power flowing through
a circuit (measured in amperes). 110 volt household circuits require a
fuse or circuit breaker with a rating of 15 or a maximum of 20 amps. 220
volt circuits may be designed for higher amperage loads e.g. a hot water
heater may be designed for a 30 amp load and would therefore need a 30
amp fuse or breaker.
Class "A"- Optimum fire rating issued by
Underwriter's Laboratories on roofing. The building codes in some areas
require this type of roofing for fire safety.
Class "C"- Minimum fire rating issued by the
Underwriters' Laboratories for roofing materials.
Clean out- An opening providing access to a drain
line. Closed with a threaded plug.
Clip ties- Sharp, cut metal wires that protrude
out of a concrete foundation wall (that at one time held the foundation
form panels in place).
Cold air return- The ductwork (and related
grills) that carries room air back to the furnace for re-heating.
Collar- Preformed flange placed over a vent pipe
to seal the roofing above the vent pipe opening. Also called a vent
sleeve.
Collar beam- Nominal 1- or 2-inch-thick members
connecting opposite roof rafters. They serve to stiffen the roof
structure.
Column- A vertical structural compression member
which supports loads.
Combustion air- The duct work installed to bring
fresh, outside air to the furnace and/or hot water heater. Normally 2
separate supplies of air are brought in: One high and One low.
Combustion chamber- The part of a boiler, furnace
or woodstove where the burn occurs; normally lined with firebrick or
molded or sprayed insulation.
Compression web- A member of a truss system which
connects the bottom and top chords and which provides downward support.
Compressor- A mechanical device that pressurizes
a gas in order to turn it into a liquid, thereby allowing heat to be
removed or added. A compressor is the main component of conventional
heat pumps and air conditioners. In an air conditioning system, the
compressor normally sits outside and has a large fan (to remove heat).
Concrete- The mixture of Portland cement, sand,
gravel, and water. Used to make garage and basement floors, sidewalks,
patios, foundation walls, etc. It is commonly reinforced with steel rods
(rebar) or wire screening (mesh).
Concrete block - A hollow concrete 'brick' often
8" x 8" x 16" in size.
Concrete board - A panel made out of concrete and
fiberglass usually used as a tile backing material.
Condensate line- The copper pipe that runs from
the outside air conditioning condenser to the inside furnace ( where the
a/c coil is located).
Condensation- Beads or drops of water (and
frequently frost in extremely cold weather) that accumulate on the
inside of the exterior covering of a building. Use of louvers or attic
ventilators will reduce moisture condensation in attics. A vapor barrier
under the gypsum lath or dry wall on exposed walls will reduce
condensation.
Condensing unit - The outdoor component of a
cooling system. It includes a compressor and condensing coil designed to
give off heat.
Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions (CC and Rs)
- The standards that define how a property may be used and the
protections the developer makes for the benefit of all owners in a
subdivision.
Conduction- The direct transfer of heat energy
through a material.
Conductivity- The rate at which heat is
transmitted through a material.
Conduit, electrical- A pipe, usually metal, in
which wire is installed.
Construction Contract - A legal document which
specifies the what-when-where-how-how much and by whom in a construction
project. A good construction contract will include:
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The contractors registration number. |
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A statement of work quality such as 'Standard Practices of the
Trades' or 'according to Manufacturers Specifications'. |
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A set of Blue Prints or Plans |
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A construction timetable including starting and completion
dates. |
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A set of Specifications |
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A Fixed Price for the work, or a Time and Materials formula. |
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A Payment Schedule. |
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Any Allowances. |
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A clause which outlines how any disputes will be resolved. |
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A written Warrantee. |
Construction drywall- A type of construction in
which the interior wall finish is applied in a dry condition, generally
in the form of sheet materials or wood paneling as contrasted to
plaster.
Construction, frame- A type of construction in
which the structural components are wood or depend upon a wood frame for
support.
Continuity tester- A device that tells whether a
circuit is capable of carrying electricity.
Contractor- A company licensed to perform certain
types of construction activities. In most states, the generals
contractor's license and some specialty contractor's licenses don't
require of compliance with bonding, workmen's compensation and similar
regulations. Some of the specialty contractor licenses involve extensive
training, testing and/or insurance requirements. There are various types
of contractors:
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· General contractor - responsible for the execution,
supervision and overall coordination of a project and may also
perform some of the individual construction tasks. Most general
contractors are not licensed to perform all specialty trades and
must hire specialty contractors for such tasks, e.g. electrical,
plumbing. |
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· Remodeling contractor - a general contractor who specializes
in remodeling work. |
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· Specialty contractor - licensed to perform a specialty task
e.g. electrical, side sewer, asbestos abatement. |
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· Sub contractor - a general or specialty contractor who works
for another general contractor. |
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Control joint- Tooled, straight grooves made on
concrete floors to "control" where the concrete should crack
Convection- Currents created by heating air,
which then rises and pulls cooler air behind it. Also see radiation.
Conventional loan A mortgage loan not insured by
a government agency (such as FHA or VA)
Convertibility The ability to change a loan from
an adjustable rate schedule to a fixed rate schedule.
Cooling load- The amount of cooling required to
keep a building at a specified temperature during the summer, usually
78° F, regardless of outside temperature.
Coped- Removing the top and bottom flange of the
end(s) of a metal I-beam. This is done to permit it to fit within, and
bolted to, the web of another I-beam in a "T" arrangement
Coped joint- Cutting and fitting woodwork to an
irregular surface.
Corbel- The triangular, decorative and supporting
member that holds a mantel or horizontal shelf.
Corner bead- A strip of formed sheet metal placed
on outside corners of drywall before applying drywall 'mud'.
Corner boards- Used as trim for the external
corners of a house or other frame structure against which the ends of
the siding are finished.
Corner braces- Diagonal braces at the corners of
the framed structure designed to stiffen and strengthen the wall.
Cornice- Overhang of a pitched roof , usually
consisting of a fascia board, a soffit and appropriate trim moldings.
Counter flashing- A metal flashing usually used
on chimneys at the roofline to cover shingle flashing and used to
prevent moisture entry.
Counterfort- A foundation wall section that
strengthens (and generally perpendicular to) a long section of
foundation wall
Course- A row of shingles or roll roofing running
the length of the roof. Parallel layers of building materials such as
bricks, or siding laid up horizontally.
Cove molding- A molding with a concave face used
as trim or to finish interior corners.
Crawl space- A shallow space below the living
quarters of a house, normally enclosed by the foundation wall and having
a dirt floor.
Credit rating- A report ordered by a lender from
a credit agency to determine a borrower's credit habits.
Cricket- A second roof built on top of the
primary roof to increase the slope of the roof or valley. A
saddle-shaped, peaked construction connecting a sloping roof with a
chimney. Designed to encourage water drainage away from the chimney
joint.
Cripple- Short vertical "2 by 4's or 6's" frame
lumber installed above a window or door.
Cross bridging- Diagonal bracing between adjacent
floor joists, placed near the center of the joist span to prevent joists
from twisting.
Cross Tee- Short metal "T" beam used in
suspended ceiling systems to bridge the spaces between the main beams.
Crown molding- A molding used on cornice or
wherever an interior angle is to be covered, especially at the roof and
wall corner.
Culvert- Round, corrugated drain pipe (normally
15" or 18" in diameter) that is installed beneath a driveway and
parallel to and near the street.
Cupping- A type of warping that causes boards to
curl up at their edges.
Curb- The short elevation of an exterior wall
above the deck of a roof. Normally a 2 by 6 box (on the roof) on which a
skylight is attached.
Curb stop- Normally a cast iron pipe with a lid
(@ 5" in diameter) that is placed vertically into the ground, situated
near the water tap in the yard, and where a water cut-off valve to the
home is located (underground). A long pole with a special end is
inserted into the curb stop to turn off/on the water.
Cut-in brace- Nominal 2-inch-thick members,
usually 2 by 4's, cut in between each stud diagonally.
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Dado- A groove cut into a board or panel intended
to receive the edge of a connecting board or panel.
Damper- A metal "door" placed within the
fireplace chimney. Normally closed when the fireplace is not in use.
Dampproofing- The black, tar like waterproofing
material applied to the exterior of a foundation wall.
Daylight- The end of a pipe (the terminal end)
that is not attached to anything.
Dead bolt- An exterior security lock installed on
exterior entry doors that can be activated only with a key or
thumb-turn. Unlike a latch, which has a beveled tongue, dead bolts have
square ends.
Dead light- The fixed, non-operable window
section of a window unit.
Deck, decked- To install the plywood or wafer
board sheeting on the floor joists, rafters, or trusses.
Dedicated circuit- An electrical circuit that
serves only one appliance (ie, dishwasher) or a series of electric
heaters or smoke detectors.
Default- Breach of a mortgage contract (not
making the required payments).
De-humidistat- A control mechanism used to
operate a mechanical ventilation system based upon the relative humidity
in the home.
Delamination- Separation of the plies in a panel
due to failure of the adhesive. Usually caused by excessive moisture.
Disconnect- A large (generally 20 Amp) electrical
ON-OFF switch.
Discount rate- A mortgage interest rate that is
lower than the current rate for a certain period of time, e.g. 2.00%
below variable rate for 2 years.
Doorjamb, interior- The surrounding case into
which and out of which a door closes and opens. It consists of two
upright pieces, called side jambs, and a horizontal head jamb. These 3
jambs have the "door stop" installed on them.
Door operator- An automatic garage door opener.
Door stop- The wooden style that the door slab
will rest upon when it's in a closed position.
Dormer- An opening in a sloping roof, the framing
of which projects out to form a vertical wall suitable for windows or
other openings.
Double glass- Window or door in which two panes
of glass are used with a sealed air space between. Also known as
Insulating Glass.
Double hung window- A window with two vertically
sliding sashes, both of which can move up and down.
Down payment- The difference between the sales
price and the mortgage amount. A downpayment is usually paid at closing.
Downspout- A pipe, usually of metal, for carrying
rainwater down from the roof's horizontal gutters.
Drain tile- A perforated, corrugated plastic pipe
laid at the bottom of the foundation wall and used to drain excess water
away from the foundation. It prevents ground water from seeping through
the foundation wall. Sometimes called perimeter drain.
Draw- The amount of progress billings on a
contract that is currently available to a contractor under a contract
with a fixed payment schedule.
Drip- (a) A member of a cornice or other
horizontal exterior finish course that has a projection beyond the other
parts for throwing off water.(b) A groove in the underside of a sill or
drip cap to cause water to drop off on the outer edge instead of drawing
back and running down the face of the building.
Drip cap- A molding or metal flashing placed on
the exterior topside of a door or window frame to cause water to drip
beyond the outside of the frame.
Dry in- To install the black roofing felt (tar
paper) on the roof.
Drywall (or Gypsum Wallboard (GWB), Sheet rock or
Plasterboard)- Wall board or gypsum- A manufactured panel made out
of gypsum plaster and encased in a thin cardboard. Usually 1/2" thick
and 4' x 8' or 4' x 12' in size. The panels are nailed or screwed onto
the framing and the joints are taped and covered with a 'joint
compound'. 'Green board' type drywall has a greater resistance to
moisture than regular (white) plasterboard and is used in bathrooms and
other "wet areas".
Ducts- The heating system. Usually round or
rectangular metal pipes installed for distributing warm (or cold) air
from the furnace to rooms in the home. Also a tunnel made of galvanized
metal or rigid fiberglass, which carries air from the heater or
ventilation opening to the rooms in a building.
Due-on-sale- A clause in a mortgage contract
requiring the borrower to pay the entire outstanding balance upon sale
or transfer of the property.
Dura board, dura rock- A panel made out of
concrete and fiberglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing material.
Commonly used on bathtub decks. Sometimes called Wonder board
DWV (drain-waste-vent)- The section of a plumbing
system that carries water and sewer gases out of a home.
Easement
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Earnest Money- A sum paid to the seller to show
that a potential purchaser is serious about buying.
Earthquake Strap- A metal strap used to secure
gas hot water heaters to the framing or foundation of a house. Intended
to reduce the chances of having the water heater fall over in an
earthquake and causing a gas leak.
Easement- A formal contract which allows a party
to use another party's property for a specific purpose. e.g. A sewer
easement might allow one party to run a sewer line through a neighbors
property.
Eaves- The horizontal exterior roof overhang.
Egress- A means of exiting the home. An egress
window is required in every bedroom and basement. Normally a 4' X 4'
window is the minimum size required
Elbow (ell)- A plumbing or electrical fitting
that lets you change directions in runs of pipe or conduit.
Electric lateral- The trench or area in the yard
where the electric service line (from a transformer or pedestal) is
located, or the work of installing the electric service to a home.
Electric resistance coils- Metal wires that heat
up when electric current passes through them and are used in baseboard
heaters and electric water heaters.
Electrical entrance package- The entry point of
the electrical power including: (1) the 'strike' or location where the
overhead or underground electrical lines connect to the house, (2) The
meter which measures how much power is used and (3) The 'panel' or
'circuit breaker box ' (or 'fuse box') where the power can be shut off
and where overload devices such a fuses or circuit breakers and located.
Electrical Rough- Work performed by the
Electrical Contractor after the plumber and heating contractor are
complete with their phase of work. Normally all electrical wires, and
outlet, switch, and fixture boxes are installed (before insulation).
Electrical Trim- Work performed by the electrical
contractor when the house is nearing completion. The electrician
installs all plugs, switches, light fixtures, smoke detectors, appliance
"pig tails", bath ventilation fans, wires the furnace, and "makes up"
the electric house panel. The electrician does all work necessary to get
the home ready for and to pass the municipal electrical final inspection
Elevation sheet- The page on the blue prints that
depicts the house or room as if a vertical plane were passed through the
structure.
Equity- The "valuation" that you own in your
home, i.e. the property value less the mortgage loan outstanding.
Escrow - The handling of funds or documents by a
third party on behalf of the buyer and/or seller.
Estimate- The amount of labor, materials, and
other costs that a contractor anticipates for a project as summarized in
the contractor's bid proposal for the project.
Escutcheon- An ornamental plate that fits around
a pipe extending through a wall or floor to hide the cut out hole
Estimating- The process of calculating the cost
of a project. This can be a formal and exact process or a quick and
imprecise process.
Evaporator coil- The part of a cooling system
that absorbs heat from air in your home. Also see condensing unit.
Expansion joint- Fibrous material (@1/2" thick)
installed in and around a concrete slab to permit it to move up and down
(seasonally) along the non-moving foundation wall.
Expansive soils- Earth that swells and contracts
depending on the amount of water that is present. ("Betonite" is an
expansive soil).
Exposed aggregate finish- A method of finishing
concrete which washes the cement/sand mixture off the top layer of the
aggregate - usually gravel. Often used in driveways, patios and other
exterior surfaces.
Extras- Additional work requested of a
contractor, not included in the original plan, which will be billed
separately and will not alter the original contract amount, but increase
the cost of building the home.
FHA
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FHA strap- Metal straps that are used to repair a
bearing wall "cut-out", and to "tie together" wall corners, splices, and
bearing headers. Also, they are used to hang stairs and landings to
bearing headers.
Face nail- To install nails into the vertical
face of a bearing header or beam.
Faced concrete- To finish the front and all
vertical sides of a concrete porch, step(s), or patio. Normally the
"face" is broom finished.
Facing brick- The brick used and exposed on the
outside of a wall. Usually these have a finished texture.
Fascia- Horizontal boards attached to
rafter/truss ends at the eaves and along gables. Roof drain gutters are
attached to the fascia.
Felt- Tar paper. Installed under the roof
shingles. Normally 15 lb. or 30 lb.
Female- Any part, such as a nut or fitting, into
which another (male) part can be inserted. Internal threads are female.
Ferrule- Metal tubes used to keep roof gutters
"open". Long nails (ferrule spikes) are driven through these tubes and
hold the gutters in place along the fascia of the home.
Field measure- To take measurements (cabinets,
countertops, stairs, shower doors, etc.) in the home itself instead of
using the blueprints.
Finger joint- A manufacturing process of
interlocking two shorter pieces of wood end to end to create a longer
piece of dimensional lumber or molding. Often used in jambs and casings
and are normally painted (instead of stained).
Fire block- Short horizontal members sometimes
nailed between studs, usually about halfway up a wall. See also 'Fire
stop'.
Fire brick- Brick made of refractory ceramic
material which will resist high temperatures. Used in a fireplace and
boiler.
Fireplace chase flashing pan- A large sheet of
metal that is installed around and perpendicular to the fireplace flue
pipe. It's purpose is to confine and limit the spread of fire and smoke
to a small area.
Fire-resistive or Fire rated- Applies to
materials that are not combustible in the temperatures of ordinary fires
and will withstand such fires for at least 1 hour. Drywall used in the
garage and party walls are to be fire rated, 5/8", Type X.
Fire retardant chemical- A chemical or
preparation of chemicals used to reduce the flammability of a material
or to retard the spread of flame.
Fire stop- A solid, tight closure of a concealed
space, placed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through such a
space. In a frame wall, this will usually consist of 2 by 4 cross
blocking between studs. Work performed to slow the spread of fire and
smoke in the walls and ceiling (behind the drywall). Includes stuffing
wire holes in the top and bottom plates with insulation, and installing
blocks of wood between the wall studs at the drop soffit line. This is
integral to passing a Rough Frame inspection. See also 'Fire block'.
Fishplate (gusset)- A wood or plywood piece used
to fasten the ends of two members together at a butt joint with nails or
bolts. Sometimes used at the junction of opposite rafters near the ridge
line. Sometimes called a gang nail plate.
Fish tape- A long strip of spring steel used for
fishing cables and for pulling wires through conduit.
Fixed price contract- A contract with a set price
for the work. See Time and Materials Contract.
Fixed rate- A loan where the initial payments are
based on a certain interest rate for a stated period . The rate payable
will not change during this period regardless of changes in the lender's
standard variable rate.
Fixed Rate Mortgage- A mortgage with an interest
rate that remains the same over the years.
Flagstone (flagging or flags)- Flat stones (1 to
4 inches thick) used for walks, steps, floors, and vertical veneer (in
lieu of brick).
Flakeboard- A manufactured wood panel made out of
1"- 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood in
the exterior wall and roof sheathing. Also called OSB or wafer board.
Flame retention burner- An oil burner, designed
to hold the flame near the nozzle surface. Generally the most efficient
type for residential use.
Flashing- Sheet metal or other material used in
roof and wall construction to protect a building from water seepage.
Flat mold- Thin wood strips installed over the
butt seam of cabinet skins.
Flat paint- An interior paint that contains a
high proportion of pigment and dries to a flat or lusterless finish.
Flatwork- Common word for concrete floors,
driveways, basements, and sidewalks.
Floating- The next-to-last stage in concrete
work, when you smooth off the job and bring water to the surface by
using a hand float or bull float.
Floating wall- A non-bearing wall built on a
concrete floor. It is constructed so that the bottom two horizontal
plates can compress or pull apart if the concrete floor moves up or
down. Normally built on basements and garage slabs.
Fluorescent lighting- A fluorescent lamp is a
gas-filled glass tube with a phosphur coating on the inside. Gas inside
the tube is ionized by electricity which causes the phosphur coating to
glow. Normally with two pins that extend from each end.
Flue- Large pipe through which fumes escape from
a gas water heater, furnace, or fireplace. Normally these flue pipes are
double walled, galvanized sheet metal pipe and sometimes referred to as
a "B Vent". Fireplace flue pipes are normally triple walled. In
addition, nothing combustible shall be within one inch from the flue
pipe.
Flue collar- Round metal ring which fits around
the heat flue pipe after the pipe passes out of the roof.
Flue damper- An automatic door located in the
flue that closes it off when the burner turns off; purpose is to reduce
heat loss up the flue from the still-warm furnace or boiler.
Flue lining- 2-foot lengths, fire clay or
terra-cotta pipe (round or square) and usually madein all ordinary flue
sizes. Used for the inner lining of chimneys with the brick or masonry
work done around the outside. Flue linings in chimneys runs from one
foot below the flue connection to the top of the chimney.
Fly rafters- End rafters of the gable overhang
supported by roof sheathing and lookouts.
Footer, footing- Continuous 8" or 10" thick
concrete pad installed before and supports the foundation wall or
monopost.
Forced air heating - A common form of heating
with natural gas, propane, oil or electricity as a fuel. Air is heated
in the furnace and distributed through a set of metal ducts to various
areas of the house.
Form- Temporary structure erected to contain
concrete during placing and initial hardening.
Foundation- The supporting portion of a structure
below the first floor construction, or below grade, including the
footings.
Foundation ties- Metal wires that hold the
foundation wall panels and rebar in place during the concrete pour.
Foundation waterproofing- High-quality
below-grade moisture protection. Used for below-grade exterior concrete
and masonry wall damp-proofing to seal out moisture and prevent
corrosion. Normally looks like black tar.
Frame Inspection- The act of inspecting the
home's structural integrity and it's complianceto local municipal codes.
Framer-The carpenter contractor that installs the
lumber and erects the frame, flooring system, interior walls, backing,
trusses, rafters, decking, installs all beams, stairs, soffits and all
work related to the wood structure of the home. The framer builds the
home according to the blueprints and must comply with local building
codes and regulations.
Framing- Lumber used for the structural members
of a building, such as studs, joists, and rafters.
Frieze- In house construction a horizontal member
connecting the top of the siding with the soffit of the cornice.
Frost lid- Round metal lid that is installed on a
water meter pit.
Frost line- The depth of frost penetration in
soil and/or the depth at which the earth will freeze and swell. This
depth varies in different parts of the country.
Furring strips- Strips of wood, often 1 X 2 and
used to shim out and provide a level fastening surface for a wall or
ceiling.
Fuse- A device often found in older homes
designed to prevent overloads in electrical lines. This protects against
fire. See also 'circuit breakers'.
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GF C I, or G F I- Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter- an ultra sensitive plug designed to shut off all electric
current. Used in bathrooms, kitchens, exterior waterproof outlets,
garage outlets, and "wet areas". Has a small reset button on the plug.
Gable- The end, upper, triangular area of a home,
beneath the roof.
Gang nail plate- A steel plate attached to both
sides at each joint of a truss. Sometimes called a fishplate or gussett.
Gate valve- A valve that lets you completely
stop—but not modulate—the flow within a pipe.
General Contractor A contractor who enters into a
contract with the owner of a project for the construction of the project
and who takes full responsibility for its completion, although the
contractor may enter into subcontracts with others for the performance
of specific parts or phases of the project.
Gas lateral- The trench or area in the yard where
the gas line service is located, or the work of installing the gas
service to a home.
Girder- A large or principal beam of wood or
steel used to support concentrated loads at isolated points along its
length.
Glazing- The process of installing glass, which
commonly is secured with glazier's points and glazing compound.
Globe valve- A valve that lets you adjust the
flow of water to any rate between fully on and fully off. Also see gate
valve.
Gloss enamel- A finishing paint material. Forms a
hard coating with maximum smoothness of surface and dries to a sheen or
luster (gloss)
Glued Laminated Beam (Glulam)- A structural beam
composed of wood laminations or lams. The lams are pressure bonded with
adhesives to attain a typical thickness of 1 ½" . (It looks like 5 or
more 2 X 4's are glued together).
Grade- Ground level, or the elevation at any
given point. Also the work of leveling dirt. Also the designated quality
of a manufactured piece of wood.
Grade beam- A foundation wall that is poured @
level with or just below the grade of theearth. An example is the area
where the 8' or 16' overhead garage door "block out" is located, or a
lower (walk out basement) foundation wall is poured
Graduated Payment Mortgage (GPM) - A fixed-rate,
fixed-schedule loan. It starts with lower payments than a level payment
loan; payments rise annually, with the entire increase being used to
reduce the outstanding balance. The increase in payments may enable the
borrower to pay off a 30-year loan in 15 to 20 years, or less.
Grain- The direction, size, arrangement,
appearance, or quality of the fibers in wood.
Grid- The completed assembly of main and cross
tees in a suspended ceiling system before the ceiling panels are
installed. Also the decorative slats (munton) installed between glass
panels.
Ground- Refers to electricity's habit of seeking
the shortest route to earth. Neutral wires carry it there in all
circuits. An additional grounding wire or the sheathing of the
metal-clad cable or conduit—protects against shock if the neutral leg is
interrupted.
Ground fault- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI,
GFI)- an ultra sensitive plug designed to shut off all electric current.
Used in bathrooms, kitchens, exterior waterproof outlets, garage
outlets, and "wet areas". Has a small reset button on the plug.
Ground iron- The plumbing drain and waste lines
that are installed beneath the basement floor. Cast iron was once used,
but black plastic pipe (ABS) is now widely used.
Groundwater- Water from an aquifer or subsurface
water source.
Grout- A wet mixture of cement, sand and water
that flows into masonry or ceramic crevices to seal the cracks between
the different pieces. Mortar made of such consistency (by adding water)
that it will flow into the joints and cavities of the masonry work and
fill them solid.
Gusset- A flat wood, plywood, or similar type
member used to provide a connection at the intersection of wood members.
Most commonly used at joints of wood trusses. They are fastened by
nails, screws, bolts, or adhesives.
Gutter- A shallow channel or conduit of metal or
wood set below and along the (fascia) eaves of a house to catch and
carry off rainwater from the roof.
Gyp board- Drywall. Wall board or gypsum- A panel
(normally 4' X 8', 10', 12', or 16')made with a core of Gypsum
(chalk-like) rock, which covers interior walls and ceilings.
Gypsum plaster- Gypsum formulated to be used with
the addition of sand and water for base-coat plaster.
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H Clip- Small metal clips formed like an "H" that
fits at the joints of two plywood (or wafer board) sheets to stiffen the
joint. Normally used on the roof sheeting.
Hardware- All of the "metal" fittings that go
into the home when it is near completion. For example, door knobs, towel
bars, handrail brackets, closet rods, house numbers, door closers, etc.
The Interior Trim Carpenter installs the "hardware".
Haunch- An extension, knee like protrusion of the
foundation wall that a concrete porch or patio will rest upon for
support.
Hazard insurance - Protection against damage
caused by fire, windstorms, or other common hazards. Many lenders
require borrowers to carry it in an amount at least equal to the
mortgage.
Header- (a) A beam placed perpendicular to joists
and to which joists are nailed inframing for a chimney, stairway, or
other opening. (b) A wood lintel. (c) The horizontal structural member
over an opening (for example over a door or window).
Hearth- The fireproof area directly in front of a
fireplace. The inner or outer floor of a fireplace, usually made of
brick, tile, or stone.
Heating load- The amount of heating required to
keep a building at a specified temperature during the winter, usually
65° F, regardless of outside temperature.
Heat meter- An electrical municipal inspection of
the electric meter breaker panel box.
Heat pump- A mechanical device which uses
compression and decompression of gas to heat and/or cool a house.
Heat Rough- Work performed by the Heating
Contractor after the stairs and interior walls are built. This includes
installing all duct work and flue pipes. Sometimes, the furnace and
fireplaces are installed at this stage of construction.
Heat Trim- Work done by the Heating Contractor to
get the home ready for the municipal Final Heat Inspection. This
includes venting the hot water heater, installing all vent grills,
registers, air conditioning services, turning on the furnace, installing
thermostats, venting ranges and hoods, and all other heat related work.
Heel cut- A notch cut in the end of a rafter to
permit it to fit flat on a wall and on the top, doubled, exterior wall
plate.
Highlights- A light spot, area, or streak on a
painted surface.
Hip- A roof with four sloping sides. The external
angle formed by the meeting of two sloping sides of a roof.
Hip roof- A roof that rises by inclined planes
from all four sides of a building.
Home run (electrical)- The electrical cable that
carries power from the main circuit breaker panel to the first
electrical box, plug, or switch in the circuit.
Honey combs- The appearance concrete makes when
rocks in the concrete are visible and where there are void areas in the
foundation wall, especially around concrete foundation windows.
Hose bib- An exterior water faucet (sill cock).
Hot wire- The wire that carries electrical energy
to a receptacle or other device—in contrast to a neutral, which carries
electricity away again. Normally the black wire. Also see ground.
Humidifier- An appliance normally attached to the
furnace, or portable unit device designed to increase the humidity
within a room or a house by means of the discharge of water vapor.
Hurricane clip- Metal straps that are nailed and
secure the roof rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall plate.
Sometimes called a Teco clip.
H V A C- An abbreviation for Heat, Ventilation,
and Air Conditioning
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I-beam- A steel beam with a cross section
resembling the letter I. It is used for long spans as basement
beams or over wide wall openings, such as a double garage door, when
wall and roof loads bear down on the opening.
I-joist- Manufactured structural building
component resembling the letter "I". Used as floor joists and rafters.
I-joists include two key parts: flanges and webs. The
flange or from of the I joist may be made of laminated veneer lumber
or dimensional lumber, usually formed into a 1 ½" width. The web
or center of the I-joist is commonly made of plywood or oriented strand
board (OSB). Large holes can be cut in the web to accommodate duct work
and plumbing waste lines. I-joists are available in lengths up to 60
feet long
Incandescent lamp- A lamp employing an
electrically charged metal filament that glows at white heat. A typical
light bulb.
Index- The interest rate or adjustment standard
that determines the changes in monthly payments for an adjustable rate
loan.
Infiltration- The passage of air from indoors to
outdoors and vice versa; term is usually associated with drafts from
cracks, seams or holes in buildings.
Inside corner- The point at which two walls form
an internal angle, as in the corner of a room.
Insulating glass- Window or door in which two
panes of glass are used with a sealed air space between. Also known as
Double glass.
Insulation board, rigid- A structural building
board made of coarse wood or cane fiber in ½- and 25/32-inch thickness.
It can be obtained in various size sheets and densities.
Insulation- Any material high in resistance to
heat transmission that, when placed in the walls, ceiling, or floors of
a structure, and will reduce the rate of heat flow.
Interest - The cost paid to a lender for borrowed
money.
Interior finish- Material used to cover the
interior framed areas of walls and ceilings
Irrigation- Lawn sprinkler system.
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J Channel- Metal edging used on drywall to give
the edge a better finished appearance when a wall is not "wrapped"
Generally, basement stairway walls have drywall only on the stair side.
J Channel is used on the vertical edge of the last drywall sheet
Jack post- A type of structural support made of
metal, which can be raised or lowered through a series of pins and a
screw to meet the height required. Basically used as a replacement for
an old supporting member in a building. See Monopost.
Jack rafter- A rafter that spans the distance
from the wall plate to a hip, or from a valley to a ridge.
Jamb- The side and head lining of a doorway,
window, or other opening. Includes studs as well as the frame and trim.
Joint- The location between the touching surfaces
of two members or components joined and held together by nails, glue,
cement, mortar, or other means.
Joint cement or Joint compound- A powder that is
usually mixed with water and used for joint treatment in
gypsum-wallboard finish. Often called "spackle" or drywall mud.
Joint tenancy- A form of ownership in which the
tenants own a property equally. If one dies, the other automatically
inherits the entire property.
Joint trench- When the electric company and
telephone company dig one trench and "drop" both of their service lines
in.
Joist- Wooden 2 X 8's, 10's, or 12's that run
parallel to one another and support a floor or ceiling, and supported in
turn by larger beams, girders, or bearing walls.
Joist hanger- A metal "U" shaped item used to
support the end of a floor joist and attached with hardened nails to
another bearing joist or beam.
Jumpers- Water pipe installed in a water meter
pit (before the water meter is installed), or electric wire that is
installed in the electric house panel meter socket before the meter is
installed. This is sometimes illegal.
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Keeper- The metal latch plate in a door frame
into which a doorknob plunger latches.
Keyless- A plastic or porcelain light fixture
that operates by a pull string. Generally found in the basement, crawl
space , and attic areas.
Keyway- A slot formed and poured on a footer or
in a foundation wall when another wall will be installed at the slot
location. This gives additional strength to the joint/meeting point.
Kilowatt (kw)- One thousand watts. A kilowatt
hour is the base unit used in measuring electrical consumption. Also see
watt.
King stud- The vertical "2 X's" frame lumber
(left and right) of a window or door opening, and runs continuously from
the bottom sole plate to the top plate.
Knot- In lumber, the portion of a branch or limb
of a tree that appears on the edge or face of the piece.
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Laminated shingles - Shingles that have added
dimensionality because of extra layers or tabs, giving a shake-like
appearance. May also be called "architectural shingles" or
"three-dimensional shingles."
Laminating- Bonding together two or more layers
of materials.
Landing- A platform between flights of stairs or
at the termination of a flight of stairs. Often used when stairs change
direction. Normally no less than 3 ft. X 3 ft. square.
Lap- To cover the surface of one shingle or roll
with another.
Latch- A beveled metal tongue operated by a
spring-loaded knob or lever. The tongue's bevel lets you close the door
and engage the locking mechanism, if any, without using a key. Contrasts
with dead bolt.
Lateral (electric, gas, telephone, sewer and water)-
The underground trench and related services (i.e., electric, gas,
telephone, sewer and water lines) that will be buried within the trench.
Lath- A building material of narrow wood, metal,
gypsum, or insulating board that is fastened to the frame of a building
to act as a base for plaster, shingles, or tiles.
Lattice- An open framework of criss-crossed wood
or metal strips that form regular, patterned spaces.
Ledger (for a Structural Floor)- The wooden
perimeter frame lumber member that bolts onto the face of a foundation
wall and supports the wood structural floor.
Ledger strip- A strip of lumber nailed along the
bottom of the side of a girder on which joists rest.
Leech field- A method used to treat/dispose of
sewage in rural areas not accessible to a municipal sewer system.
Sewage is permitted to be filtered and eventually discharged into a
section of the lot called a leech field.
Let-in brace- Nominal 1 inch-thick boards applied
into notched studs diagonally. Also, an "L" shaped, long (@ 10') metal
strap that are installed by the framer at the rough stage to give
support to an exterior wall or wall corner.
Level- True horizontal. Also a tool used to
determine level.
Level Payment Mortgage- A mortgage with identical
monthly payments over the life of the loan.
Lien- An encumbrance that usually makes real or
personal property the security for payment of a debt or discharge of an
obligation.
Light- Space in a window sash for a single pane
of glass. Also, a pane of glass.
Limit switch- A safety control that automatically
shuts off a furnace if it gets too hot. Most also control blower cycles.
Lineal foot- A unit of measure for lumber equal
to 1 inch thick by 12 inches wide by 12 inches long. Examples: 1" x 12"
x 16' = 16 board feet, 2" x 12" x 16' = 32 board feet.
Lintel- A horizontal structural member that
supports the load over an opening such as a door or window.
Load bearing wall- Includes all exterior walls
and any interior wall that is aligned above a support beam or girder.
Normally, any wall that has a double horizontal top plate.
Loan- The amount to be borrowed.
Loan to value ratio- The ratio of the loan amount
to the property valuation and expressed as a percentage. E.g. if a
borrower is seeking a loan of $200,000 on a property worth $400,000 it
has a 50% loan to value rate. If the loan were $300,000, the LTV would
be 75%. The higher the loan to value, the greater the lender's perceived
risk. Loans above normal lending LTV ratios may require additional
security.
Lookout- A short wood bracket or cantilever that
supports an overhang portion of a roof.
Louver- A vented opening into the home that has a
series of horizontal slats and arranged to permit ventilation but to
exclude rain, snow, light, insects, or other living creatures.
Lumens- Unit of measure for total light output.
The amount of light falling on a surface of one square foot.
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Male- Any part, such as a bolt, designed to fit
into another (female) part. External threads are male.
Mantel- The shelf above a fireplace opening. Also
used in referring to the decorative trim around a fireplace opening.
Manufactured wood- A wood product such as a
truss, beam, gluelam, microlam or joist which is manufactured out of
smaller wood pieces and glued or mechanically fastened to form a larger
piece. Often used to create a stronger member which may use less wood.
See also Oriented Strand Board.
Manufacturer's specifications- The written
installation and/or maintenance instructions which are developed by the
manufacturer of a product and which may have to be followed in order to
maintain the product warrantee.
Masonry- Stone, brick, concrete, hollow-tile,
concrete block, or other similar building units or materials. Normally
bonded together with mortar to form a wall.
Mastic- A pasty material used as a cement (as for
setting tile) or a protective coating (as for thermal insulation or
waterproofing)
Mechanics lien- A lien on real property, created
by statue in many years, in favor of persons supplying labor or
materials for a building or structure, for the value of labor or
materials supplied by them. In some jurisdictions, a mechanics lien also
exists for the value of professional services. Clear title to the
property cannot be obtained until the claim for the labor, materials, or
professional services is settled. Timely filing is essential to support
the encumbrance, and prescribed filing dates vary by jurisdiction.
Metal lath- Sheets of metal that are slit to form
openings within the lath. Used as a plaster base for walls and ceilings
and as reinforcing over other forms of plaster base.
Microlam- A manufactured structural wood beam. It
is constructed of pressure and adhesive bonded wood strands of wood.
They have a higher strength rating than solid sawn lumber. Normally
comes in l ½" thickness' and 9 ½", 11 ½" and 14" widths
Milar (mylar)- Plastic, transparent copies of a
blueprint.
Millwork- Generally all building materials made
of finished wood and manufactured in millwork plants. Includes all
doors, window and door frames, blinds, mantels, panelwork, stairway
components (ballusters, rail, etc.), moldings, and interior trim. Does
not include flooring, ceiling, or siding.
Miter joint- The joint of two pieces at an angle
that bisects the joining angle. For example, the miter joint at the side
and head casing at a door opening is made at a 45° angle.
Molding- A wood strip having an engraved,
decorative surface.
Monopost- Adjustable metal column used to support
a beam or bearing point. Normally 11 gauge or Schedule 40 metal, and
determined by the structural engineer
Mortar- A mixture of cement (or lime) with sand
and water used in masonry work.
Mortgage- Loan secured by land.
Mortgage broker - A broker who represents
numerous lenders and helps consumers find affordable mortgages; the
broker charges a fee only if the consumer finds a loan.
Mortgage company - A company that borrows money
from a bank, lends it to consumers to buy homes, then sells the loans to
investors.
Mortgage deed- Legal document establishing a loan
on property.
Mortgagee- The lender who makes the mortgage
loan.
Mortgage loan- A contract in which the borrower's
property is pledged as collateral. It is repaid in installments. The
mortgagor (buyer) promises to repay principal and interest, keep the
home insured, pay all taxes and keep the property in good condition.
Mortgage Origination Fee- A charge for work
involved in preparing and servicing a mortgage application (usually one
percent of the loan amount).
Mortise- A slot cut into a board, plank, or
timber, usually edgewise, to receive the tenon (or tongue) of another
board, plank, or timber to form a joint.
Mudsill- Bottom horizontal member of an exterior
wall frame which rests on top a foundation, sometimes called sill plate.
Also sole plate, bottom member of interior wall frame.
Mullion- A vertical divider in the frame between
windows, doors, or other openings.
Muntin- A small member which divides the glass or
openings of sash or doors.
Muriatic acid- Commonly used as a brick cleaner
after masonry work is completed.
Mushroom- The unacceptable occurrence when the
top of a caisson concrete pier spreads out and hardens to become wider
than the foundation wall thickness.
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Nail inspection- An inspection made by a
municipal building inspector after the drywall material is hung with
nails and screws (and before taping).
Natural finish- A transparent finish which does
not seriously alter the original color or grain of the natural wood.
Natural finishes are usually provided by sealers, oils, varnishes, water
repellent preservatives, and other similar materials.
NEC (National Electrical Code)- A set of rules
governing safe wiring methods. Local codes—which are backed by law—may
differ from the NEC in some ways.
Neutral wire- Usually color-coded white, this
carries electricity from an outlet back to the service panel. Also see
hot wire and ground.
Newel post- The large starting post to which the
end of a stair guard railing or balustrade is fastened.
Nonbearing wall- A wall supporting no load other
than its own weight.
Nosing- The projecting edge of a molding or drip
or the front edge of a stair tread.
Notch- A crosswise groove at the end of a board.
Note- A formal document showing the existence of
a debt and stating the terms of repayment.
Nozzle- The part of a heating system that sprays
the fuel of fuel-air mixture into the combustion chamber.
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O C- On Center- The measurement of spacing for
studs, rafters, and joists in a building from the center of one member
to the center of the next.
Oakum- Loose hemp or jute fiber that's
impregnated with tar or pitch and used to caulk large seams or for
packing plumbing pipe joints
Open hole inspection- When an engineer (or
municipal inspector) inspects the open excavation and examines the earth
to determine the type of foundation (caisson, footer, wall on ground,
etc.) that should be installed in the hole.
Oriented Strand Board or OSB- A manufactured 4' X
8' wood panel made out of 1"- 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a
substitute for plywood.
Outrigger- An extension of a rafter beyond the
wall line. Usually a smaller member nailed to a larger rafter to form a
cornice or roof overhang.
Outside corner- The point at which two walls form
an external angle, one you usually can walk around.
Overhang- Outward projecting eave-soffit area of
a roof; the part of the roof that hangs out or over the outside wall.
See also Cornice.
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