Glossary of Commercial Construction Terms
“Scientia Est Potentia”
Knowledge is power, and this definitive glossary of terms for commercial construction will arm you with the powerful vocabulary you need to get your designs communicated in-person, over zoom, or on paper.
Glossary of Commercial Construction Terms
The world's most popular CAD (computer-aided drafting) software product for the personal computer by Autodesk, Inc. Anything that can be drawn on a drawing board can be drawn by AutoCAD. See also Revit.
A girder arranged parallel to the main girder for supporting the platform motor base, operator’s cab, control panels, etc., to reduce the torsional forces that such load would otherwise impose on the main crane girder.
A code term involving the permitted practice of holding a fire door in the open position providing the door closes upon detection. Generally the detection must be from the presence of visible or invisible particles of combustion. Fusible links are not usually considered acceptable because of slower response time. Any listed closer can be used in combination with an electromagnetic holder and a photo electric or ionization type smoke detector. Labeled or listed spring hinges could be used as well as hydraulic door closers. Some special applications of swinging, sliding and rolling fire doors primarily in industrial applications are permitted to be used with fusible links, weights and pulleys. Later product introductions are more sophisticated and provide more flexibility for building operation. These are hydraulic door closers incorporating hold open mechanisms allowing the door to be held open in many degrees of opening positions. The most recent product introduction along these lines is the so-called "swing free" unit. Instead of using a hold open mechanism, the energy of the closer is negated and the door is allowed to be operated as if it were not equipped with a closer. Upon detection of visible or invisible particles of combustion, the closing mechanism engages and the closer causes the door to return to the closed and latched position. These automatic closing arrangements are fail safe in that upon power failure, the door closes. All are listed by a nationally recognized independent testing laboratory and are under an in-plant follow-up inspection service.
The power mechanism causing the opening and closing of a door upon receipt of a actuating signal.
All specified dynamic live loads other than the basic design loads which the building must safely withstand, such as cranes, material handling systems, machinery, elevators, vehicles, and impact loads.
A lock having a latch bolt or a dead bolt operated by a key or a thumb turn or both. This lock is often used in addition to another lock, which may or may not be key operated but which has a latch bolt operated by knobs or levers.
- A load whose line of action passes through the centroid of the member's cross-sectional area and is perpendicular to the plane of the section. A longitudinal load that acts at the centroid of a member and perpendicular to it's cross section.
Hinged at the top and swinging out at the bottom, operated by a cranking mechanism. Usually rectangular, and wider than they are long. A window that pivots near the top edge of the sash and projects toward the exterior.
An architectural projection that provides weather protection, identity or decoration and is wholly sup ported by the building to which it is attached. An awning is comprised of a light weight, rigid skeleton structure over which a covering is attached.
- A non-profit organization whose major goal is to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and related joining disciplines.
Doors that are hinged in the middle for opening in a smaller area than standard swing doors. Often used for closet doors.
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.
A subsidy (usually paid by a builder or developer) to reduce monthly payments on a mortgage.
A structural member transversely supporting a load. A structural member carrying building loads (weight) from one support to another. Sometimes called a "girder". A straight horizontal structural loadbearing member spanning a distance between supports.
Board for the Coordination of Model Codes; part of the Council of American Building Officials Association (CABO).
A section of fiber-glass or rock-wool insulation measuring 15 or 23 inches wide by four to eight feet long and various thicknesses. Sometimes "faced" (meaning to have a paper covering on one side) or "unfaced" (without paper).
Any window space projecting outward from the walls of a building, either square or polygonal in plan.
Narrow strips of wood used to cover joints or as decorative vertical members over plywood or wide boards. Narrow strip of wood, plastic, metal or gypsum board used to conceal an open joint.
A term used to express the luminous intensity of a light source. It is the same magnitude as a candela.
Curvature built into a beam or truss to compensate for loads that will be encountered when in place and load is applied. The crown is placed upward. Insufficient camber results in unwanted deflection when the member is loaded.
Council of American Building Officials Association, made up of representatives from three model codes. Issues National Research Board (NRB) research reports.
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, mono-post, or other structure. Two or more "sticks" of reinforcing bars (rebar) are inserted into and run the full length of the hole and concrete is poured into the caisson hole A watertight structure within which work can be carried out below the surface of water.
The US Department of Health and Human Services and the International Agency for Research on Cancer have determined that cadmium is a known human carcinogen, associated with lung cancer. Additionally, acute and long-term exposures can lead to lung and kidney damage, bone loss, hypertension. In sufficient quantities, cadmium is lethal. Cadmium’s extreme toxicity means that overexposure can occur even when only trace amounts are present, such as during smelting and electroplating activities. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
The movement of a liquid through small openings of fibrous material by the adhesive force between the liquid and the material.
Foundation void material used in unusually expansive soils conditions. This void is "trapezoid" shaped and has vertical sides of 6" and 4" respectively.
Triangular section laid at the intersection of two surfaces to ease or eliminate effect of a sharp angle or projection.
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.
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.
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.
The portion of the flashing attached to a vertical surface to prevent water from migrating behind the base flashing.
A groove in a member used to create an opening that is too wide to be bridged by a drop of water, thus eliminating the passage of water by capillary action.
A groove cut into a board or panel intended to receive the edge of a connecting board or panel.
The black, tar like waterproofing material applied to the exterior of a foundation wall.
A control mechanism used to operate a mechanical ventilation system based upon the relative humidity in the home.
A unit for measuring sound energy or power. Adopted for convenience in representing vastly different sound pressures.
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.
A metal "door" placed within the fireplace chimney. Normally closed when the fireplace is not in use. A movable vane used to vary the volume of air passing through a duct, inlet, or outlet.
Separation of elements to reduce or eliminate the transfer of sound, heat or physical loads from one element to the other.
Maximum allowable deflection is dictated by the bending limit of the finish material under the required design load (e.g., usually 5 psf for interior partitions).
Change in shape of a body brought about by the application of a force internal or external. Internal forces may result from temperature, humidity or chemical changes. External forces from applied loads can also cause deformation.
An electrical circuit that serves only one appliance (i.e., dishwasher) or a series of electric heaters or smoke detectors.
Displacement that occurs when a load is applied to a member or assembly. The dead load of the member or assembly itself causes some deflection as may occur in roofs or floors at mid-span. Under applied wind loads maximum deflection occurs at mid-height in partitions and walls.
- A formal contract which allows a party to use another party's property for a specific purpose. e.g. A sewer easement might allow one party to run a sewer line through a neighbor’s property. A limited right, whether temporary or permanent, to use the property of another in a certain way. This may include the right of access to water, light and air, right-of-way, etc.
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.
- 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
The sensation produced by the combined effects of temperature, relative humidity, and air movement.
A macromolecular material that returns to its approximate initial dimensions and shape after being subjected to substantial deformation.
A white soluble salt deposit on the surface of concrete and masonry, usually caused by free alkalies leached from the mortar by moisture moving through it.
Partially treated liquid sewage flowing from any part of a disposal system to a place of final disposition.
The greatest stress a material can withstand without permanent deformation upon the release of the stress.
The Btu output divided by the input in watts. The higher the EER the more efficient the equipment.
The ability of a material to return to its original position after a load has been removed.
The property of a material that causes it to return to its original shape upon removal of a deforming load.
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).
- 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.
To finish the front and all vertical sides of a concrete porch, step(s), or patio. Normally the "face" is broom finished.
A window made by bonding 1 inch (25.4 mm) thick glass pieces with an epoxy resin matrix or reinforced concrete.
The fan and heat exchanger for cooling and heating that are assembled in a common cabinet.
The brick used and exposed on the outside of a wall. Usually these have a finished texture.
Method that telescopes or overlaps traditional design-construction process. Overlapping phases as opposed to sequential phases is keynote of the concept.
The temperature scale on which. at standard atmospheric pressure. the boiling point of water is 212 degrees Fahrenheit, the freezing point is 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and absolute zero is 2459.69 degrees Fahrenheit.
Horizontal boards attached to rafter/truss ends at the eaves and along gables. Roof drain gutters are attached to the fascia. Board fastened to the ends of the rafters or joists forming part of a cornice.
Condition of material under stress that has lost, to some degree, its power of resistance as a result of repeated application of stress, particularly if stress reversals occur as with positive and negative cyclical loading.
A measure of the ability of a material or structural member to carry a load without failure when the loading is applied a specified number of times.
The number of cycles of loading of a specified type that a specified material can withstand before failure.
The moisture content of wood at which the cell walls are saturated but there is no water in the cell cavities.
Any part, such as a nut or fitting, into which another (male) part can be inserted. Internal threads are female.
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.
Tar paper. Installed under the roof shingles. Normally 15 lb. or 30 lb. A sheet material made using a fiber mat that has been saturated and topped with asphalt.
An area that allows light to pass into a building, commonly referring to glazed windows. Also, the arrangement of windows in an exterior wall.
Corrosion that develops by galvanic action when two dissimilar metals are in contact in the atmosphere.
The end, upper, triangular area of a home, beneath the roof. Uppermost portion of the end wall of a building that comes to a triangular point under a sloping roof.
- The process of installing glass, which commonly is secured with glazier's points and glazing compound.
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.
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.
An inorganic mixture that has been fused at a high temperature and cooled without crystallization.
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.
A large or principal beam of wood or steel used to support concentrated loads at isolated points along its length. Beam, especially a long, heavy one; the main beam supporting floor joists or other smaller beams.
An elevator with the traction sheave connected to a spur gear that is driven by a worm gear connected to the shaft of the electric motor.
A steel plate attached to both sides at each joint of a truss. Sometimes called a fishplate or gusset.
A finishing paint material. Forms a hard coating with maximum smoothness of surface and dries to a sheen or luster (gloss)
- 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).
A valve that lets you adjust the flow of water to any rate between fully on and fully off. Also see gate valve.
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. 1. Related to soil, the elevation or slope of the ground.2. In relation to lumber, a means of classifying lumber or other wood products based on specified quality characteristics.
- A foundation wall that is poured @ level with or just below the grade of the earth. An example is the area where the 8' or 16' overhead garage door "block out" is located, or a lower (walk out basement) foundation wall is poured A ground-level reinforced structural member that supports the exterior wall of a structure and bears directly upon columns or piers.
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.
Halogenated Fire Retardants (HFRs) are a broad class of flame retardants containing chlorine or bromine that have aroused concern due to their exponential accumulation in human beings in recent years. HFRs are persistent bioaccumulative toxins, meaning that they accumulate in organisms and the broader environment, often reaching alarmingly high concentrations as they travel up the food chain. In addition, certain halogenated products have shown evidence of harm to humans and other animal species. According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, for example, the toxicity endpoints of concern for Penta-PBDE include adverse effects on neurological development, reproduction, thyroid hormone disruption and possible liver toxicity. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A general term used to describe a panel made from interfelted lignocellulose fibers consolidated under heat and pressure.
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".
An extension, knee like protrusion of the foundation wall that a concrete porch or patio will rest upon for support. A projection used to support a member, such as a beam.
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.
The inherent capacity of a substance to cause an adverse effect to health or the environment. “Hazard” is not synonymous with “risk” and/or “exposure”. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A botanical group of trees that have broad leaves that are shed in the winter (it does not refer to the hardness of the wood).
The energy needed to warm outside air leaking into a building through cracks around doors, windows, and other places.
A standardized format, managed by the Health Product Declaration Collaborative, for reporting building product contents and their known associated hazard data. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A structural member fastened between two parallel full-length framing members to support cut off members at the openings.
(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).
An effect of exposure to a toxic chemical, such as carcinogenicity or reproductive toxicity. RSEI considers both cancer and non-cancer chronic human health endpoints in calculating toxicity weights. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
Form of energy thought to be characterized by the rate of vibration of the molecules of a substance. The hotter the substance, the faster the molecules vibrate. On the other hand, when there is no heat present it is thought the molecules will be at rest, which theoretically occurs at absolute zero, -459.7°F (-273.15°C or 0.0°K).
A wood joist made of an assembly of laminated veneer wood top and bottom flanges and a web of plywood or oriented strandboard.
Manufactured structural building component resembling the letter "I". Used as floor joists and rafters. I-joists include two key parts: flangesand webs. The flange of the I joist may be made of laminated veneer lumber or dimensional lumber, usually formed into a 1 ½" width. The webor 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
International Conference of Building Officials, a nonprofit organization that publishes the Uniform Building Code.
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.
Sound generated by impact on the floor or other parts of a building that is carried through the building.
Obsolete rating system for floor-ceiling construction in isolating impact noise. INR ratings can be converted to approximate IIC ratings by adding 51 points; however, a variation of 1 or 2 points may occur.
An index of the extent to which a floor assembly transmits impact noise from a room above to the room below.
Single-number rating used to compare and evaluate the performance of floor-ceiling constructions in isolating impact noise. The advantages of this rating system are positive values and the correlation with Sound Transmission Class (STC) values -- both providing approximately equal isolation at a particular value. The IIC rating is used by building agencies for specifying minimum sound-control performance of assemblies in residential construction.
An unintended substance present in a material/mixture as manufactured that was not an intentionally used substance in the production of the material/mixture. It may originate from the starting materials or be the result of secondary or incomplete reactions during the manufacturing process. For example, a chemical substance as supplied in commerce that is 99.0% pure is a mixture of the pure chemical substance and 1.0% of impurities. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A mass of molten metal cast in a mold and solidified to be stored until used for forging or rolling into a finished product.
A route of exposure by which substances enter the body through the mouth. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A rafter that spans the distance from the wall plate to a hip, or from a valley to a ridge.
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
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 Mono-post.
A form of ownership in which the tenants own a property equally. If one dies, the other automatically inherits the entire property.
The location between the touching surfaces of two members or components joined and held together by nails, glue, cement, mortar, or other means.
A powder that is usually mixed with water and used for joint treatment in gypsum-wallboard finish. Often called "spackle" or drywall mud.
The side and head lining of a doorway, window, or other opening. Includes studs as well as the frame and trim. One of the finished upright sides of a door or window frame.
A plastic gypsum mixture used to cover the joints and fasteners in gypsum wallboard installations.
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. Metal shape formed for hanging on the main beam to provide support for the end of a 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. Small beam that supports part of the floor, ceiling or roof of a building.
When the electric company and telephone company dig one trench and "drop" both of their service lines in.
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.
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.
In lumber, the portion of a branch or limb of a tree that appears on the edge or face of the piece.
A plastic or porcelain light fixture that operates by a pull string. Generally found in the basement, crawl space , and attic areas.
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.
A hard, high-strength, white, quick-setting finishing plaster made from burnt gypsum and alum.
(1) A chamber with controlled humidity, temperature, and airflow in which lumber is dried.(2) A low-pressure steam room in which green concrete units are cured.
One thousand watts. A kilowatt hour is the base unit used in measuring electrical consumption. Also see watt.
Program allowing a manufacturer to place Underwriters Laboratories Inc. labels on his products that have met UL requirements. A UL representative visits the manufacturing location to obtain samples of the products for testing by UL. In some cases, samples are also purchased on the open market for testing. The public is thereby assured that products bearing the UL label continually meet UL specifications.
Glass panels that have outer layers of glass laminated to an inner layer of transparent plastic.
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."
A structural lumber manufactured from wood veneers so that the grain of all veneers runs parallel to the axis of the member.
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.
Heat involved with the action of changing the state of a substance, such as changing water to steam.
A general term used to describe the source of artificial light. Often called a bulb or tube.
- 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.
According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, the environmental levels of lead have increased more than 1000-fold over the last three centuries, due almost exclusively to human activities. Lead exposure is damaging to virtually every organ and system in the human body, but is particularly damaging to the brain and central nervous system—profoundly so for young children and developing fetuses. Lead exposure is correlated with decreased IQ and delayed learning in children; scientific research has identified no safe level of lead exposure, and effects are irreversible. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
The wooden perimeter frame lumber member that bolts onto the face of a foundation wall and supports the wood structural floor.
A force acting generally in a horizontal direction, such as wind against an exterior wall or soil pressure against a foundation wall.
An open framework of criss-crossed wood or metal strips that form regular, patterned spaces.
The underground trench and related services (i.e., electric, gas, telephone, sewer and water lines) that will be buried within the trench.
Stone, brick, concrete, hollow-tile, concrete block, or other similar building units or materials. Normally bonded together with mortar to form a wall.
The shelf above a fireplace opening. Also used in referring to the decorative trim around a fireplace opening.
Any part, such as a bolt, designed to fit into another (female) part. External threads are male.
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.
The property of a metal that permits it to be formed mechanically, such as by rolling or forging, without fracturing.
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.
Property of a body that resists acceleration and produces the effect of inertia. The weight of a body is the result of the pull of gravity on the body's mass.
The bonding of materials by adhesives that enter the pores and harden, forming a mechanical link.
A manufacturer-provided form that contains brief information regarding chemical and physical hazards, health effects, proper handling, storage, and personal protection appropriate for use of a particular chemical in an occupational environment. MSDSs are being replaced by safety data sheets under the Globally Harmonized System (adapted from EPA Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Glossary). https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
Properties exhibited by a material's reaction to applied forces, such as tensile strength and compressive strength.
A group of one or more chemicals that together comprise a component or input to a finished product. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A pasty material used as a cement (as for setting tile) or a protective coating (as for thermal insulation or waterproofing) A doughlike compound available in many different formulations designed for use as sealants and adhesives.
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.
The trademarked title of a uniform system for indexing construction specifications published by the Construction Specifications Institute and Construction Specifications Canada.
A large, single concrete footing equal in area to the area covered by the footprint of the building.
An inspection made by a municipal building inspector after the drywall material is hung with nails and screws (and before taping).
The protrusion of the nail usually attributed to the shrinkage of or use of improperly cured wood framing.
The loosening of nails holding gypsum board to a wall or ceiling. It produces a bulge in the surface of the gypsum panel.
A substance intentionally engineered to achieve size-dependent properties and functions with one or more external dimensions or an internal structure measuring less than 100 nanometers. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
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.
A set of rules governing safe wiring methods. Local codes—which are backed by law—may differ from the NEC in some ways.
National Conference of States on Building Codes and Standards, a nonprofit organization formed to increase interstate cooperation and coordinate intergovernmental reforms of building codes.
A gypsum plaster with no aggregates or fillers added. Sometimes called unfibered gypsum.
A steel or wood beam that is run through an opening in a bearing wall and used to support the wall and related loads as work on the foundation below the wall is performed.
A substance that can damage the central nervous system. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
Usually color-coded white, this carries electricity from an outlet back to the service panel. Also see hot wire and ground.
The plane through a member (at the geometric center of the section in symmetrical members) where the fibers are neither under tensile nor compressive stress.
The large starting post to which the end of a stair guard railing or balustrade is fastened.
A particular use of land or a structure which is in violation of the applicable zoning code. Generally, if the use was established prior to the code rule which it contravenes, it may continue to exist.
A single number indicated by the amount of airborne sound energy absorbed into a material. The arithmetic average of sound absorption coefficients at 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 Hz.
Owner, Architect, Contractor. Used most often when referring to OAC meetings, or groups of project leads.
The production of gases from the chemical deterioration of a substance over time, and the release of gases from materials into the air. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
The measurement of spacing for studs, rafters, and joists in a building from the center of one member to the center of the next.
Outlines current indoor air quality guidelines for the workplace. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
Loose hemp or jute fiber that's impregnated with tar or pitch and used to caulk large seams or for packing plumbing pipe joints A caulking material made from hemp fibers treated with tar.
Interval between two sounds having a basic frequency ratio of two. The formula is 2n times the frequency, where n is the desired octave interval. The octave band frequency given in sound test results is usually the band center frequency, thus the 1000 Hz octave band encompasses frequencies from 707 Hz to 1414 Hz (n = ± 1/2). The 1000 Hz one-third-octave band encompasses frequencies from 891 Hz to 1122 Hz (n = ± 1/6).
A manufactured 4' X 8' wood panel made out of 1"- 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood.
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.
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.
A panel made from wood strands that have their strand face oriented in the long direction of the panel.
A box that is part of the electrical wiring system that contains one or more receptacles.
The use of human health, environmental, and other product information by project teams to select preferable materials and products, and by manufacturers to improve materials and products https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A prefabricated steel truss made of welded members, used for floor and roof construction.
Outward projecting eave-soffit area of a roof; the part of the roof that hangs out or over the outside wall. See also Cornice.
A material installed under carpet to add foot comfort, isolate sound, and to prolong carpet life.
Curved, "U" section of drain pipe that holds a water seal to prevent sewer gasses from entering the home through a fixtures water drain.
To shim out or add strips of wood to a wall or ceiling in order that the finished ceiling/wall will appear correct.
A combination of pigments with suitable thinners or oils to provide decorative and protective coatings. Can be oil based or latex water based.
A panel that includes fuses or circuit breakers used to protect the circuits in a building from overloads.
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.
The application of a portland cement plaster on masonry and concrete walls to make them less permeable to water.
A thin flat piece of wood, plywood, or similar material, framed by stiles and rails as in a door (or cabinet door), or fitted into grooves of thicker material with molded edges for decorative wall treatment.
Wooden platforms used for storing and shipping material. Forklifts and hand trucks are used to move these wooden platforms around.
A metal form used to form the cavities between joists in cast-in-place concrete floors and roofs.
An infectious biological agent such as bacteria, virus and fungus that is capable of causing disease in its host. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A wall built on the dividing line between two adjoining parcels, in which each owner has an equal share of ownership.
Plywood substitute made of course sawdust that is mixed with resin and pressed into sheets. Used for closet shelving, floor underlayment, stair treads, etc.
A man-made or machine-made clay tile used to finish a floor or wall. Generally 6" X 6" X 1/4" thick. A large clay tile used for finished flooring.
Forcing out of plumb of structural components, usually by wind, seismic stress or thermal expansion or contraction.
A measure of a materials resistance to the passage of heat. New home walls are usually insulated with 6" of batt insulation with an R value of R-21, and a ceiling insulation of R-49.
A method of heating, usually consisting of a forced hot water system with pipes placed in the floor, wall, or ceiling. Also electrically heated panels.
- A measure of insulation. A measure of a materials resistance to the passage of heat. The higher the R value, the more insulating "power" it has. For example, typical new home's walls are usually insulated with 6" of batt insulation with an R value of R-21, and a ceiling insulation of R-49.
Cross members of panel doors or of a sash. Also, a wall or open balustrade placed at the edge of a staircase, walkway bridge, or elevated surface to prevent people from falling off. Any relatively lightweight horizontal element, especially those found in fences (split rail).
A rafter that forms the intersection of an internal roof angle. The valley rafter is normally made of double 2-inch-thick members.
A ventilation system beneath the floor of a basement and/or structural wood floor and designed to fan exhaust radon gas to the outside of the home
- Lumber used to support the roof sheeting and roof loads. Generally, 2 X 10's and 2 X 12's are used. The rafters of a flat roof are sometimes called roof joists. That member forming the slanting frame of a roof or top chord of a truss. Also known as hip, jack or valley rafter depending on its location and use.
The principle that states that wall cladding can be made watertight by placing wind-pressurized air chambers behind the joints, which reduces the air pressure differentials between the inside and outside that could cause water to move through the joints.
A naturally-occurring, heavier than air, radioactive gas common in many parts of the country. Radon gas exposure is associated with lung cancer. Mitigation measures may involve crawl space and basement venting and various forms of vapor barriers.
- Black, tar and preservative impregnated, 6" X 8" and 6'-8' long wooden timber that was used to hold railroad track in place. Normally used as a member of a retaining wall.
Energy transmitted from a heat source to the air around it. Radiators actually depend more on convection than radiation. Transfer of heat energy through space by wave motion. Although the radiant energy of heat is transmitted through space, no heat is present until this energy strikes and is absorbed by an object. Not all of the radiant heat energy is absorbed; some is reflected to travel in a new direction until it strikes another object. The amount reflected depends on the nature of the surface that the energy strikes. This fact explains the principle of insulating foil and other similar products that depend on reflection of radiant heat for their insulating value. Radiant heat travels in straight lines in all directions at about the speed of light. In radiant heating systems, heat is often radiated down from the ceiling. As it strikes objects in the room, some is absorbed and some reflected to other objects. The heat that is absorbed warms the object, which, in turn, warms the surrounding air by conduction. This warmed air sets up gentle convection currents that circulate throughout the room.
An electrical outlet. A typical household will have many 120 volt receptacles for plugging in lams and appliances and 240 volt receptacles for the range, clothes dryer, air conditioners, etc. A device installed in an electrical outlet box to receive a plug to supply electric current to portable equipment.
Measure of sound absorption of a surface, equivalent to 1 sq. ft. of a perfectly absorptive surface.
A small second roof built behind the back side of a fireplace chimney to divert water around the chimney. Also, the plate at the bottom of some—usually exterior—door openings. Sometimes called a threshold. A ridge in a roof deck that divides two sloping parts, diverting water toward roof drains.
A sewer system designed for the collection of waste water from the bathroom, kitchen and laundry drains, and is usually not designed to handle storm water. A sewer that receives sanitary sewage without the infusion of other water such as rain, surface water, or other clear water drainage.
The amount of Portland cement in a cubic yard of concrete mix. Generally, 5 or 6 sack is required in a foundation wall.
Fire stop material in the space between floor slab and curtain wall in multi-story construction.
Installation of fire safety insulation around floor perimeters, between floor slab and spandrel panels. Insulation helps retain integrity of fire resistance ratings.
A contract between a buyer and seller which should explain: (1) What the purchase includes, (2) What guarantees there are, (3) When the buyer can move in, (4) What the closing costs are, and (5) What recourse the parties have if the contract is not fulfilled or if the buyer cannot get a mortgage commitment at the agreed upon time.
Southern Building Code Congress International, nonprofit organization that publishes the Standard Building Code.
A device, usually operated by a spring and designed to hold a single hung window vent up and in place
A single light frame containing one or more lights of glass. The frame that holds the glass in a window, often the movable part of the window.
Small piece or block of wood that bridges several members or provides a connection or fastening between them.
The removal of all drywall material and debris after the home is "hung out" (installed) with drywall.
A tool used to strike off the surface of freshly poured concrete so it is flush with the top of the form.
A table on the blueprints that list the sizes, quantities and locations of the windows, doors and mirrors.
Ribbed, "T" shaped bars with a flat metal plate at the bottom that are driven into the earth. Normally used chain link fence poles, and to mark locations of a water meter pit.
A type of sill construction used in balloon framing in which the header joist is placed inside the studs and is butted by the floor joists.
A joint made by a tongue (a rib on one edge of a board) that fits into a corresponding groove in the edge of another board to make a tight flush joint. Typically, the subfloor plywood is T & G.
Measurement of the intensity (not quantity) of heat. The Fahrenheit (°F) scale places the freezing point of water at 32° and the boiling point at 212°. The Centigrade or Celsius (°C) scale, used by most countries and in scientific work, places the freezing point of water at 0° and the boiling point at 100°. On the Kelvin (K) scale, the unit of measurement equals the Celsius degree and measurement begins at absolute zero 0° (-273°C).
Strengthened. Tempered glass will not shatter nor create shards, but will "pelletize" like an automobile window. Required in tub and shower enclosures and locations, entry door glass and sidelight glass, and in a windows when the window sill is less than 16" to the floor.
Metal straps that are nailed and secure the roof rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall plate. Sometimes called a hurricane clip.
- A "T" shaped plumbing fitting. Precast concrete or metal structural members in the shape of the letter T.
A relatively short beam or joist supported in a wall on one end and by a header at the other.
A process used to strengthen glass by raising the temperature of the glass to near the softening point and then blowing jets of cold air on both sides suddenly to chill it and create surface tension in the glass.
Maximum tensile stress that can be developed in a given material under axial tensile loading. Also the measure of a material's ability to withstand stretching.
Underwriters Laboratories Inc., founded by NBFU, and now operated in affiliation with American Insurance Assn. UL is a not for profit laboratory operated for the purpose of testing devices, systems and materials as to their relation to life, fire and casualty hazard in the interest of public safety.
Coefficient of heat transfer, "U" equals 1 divided by (hence, the reciprocal of) the total of the resistances of the various materials, air spaces and surface air films in an assembly. See Thermal Resistance.
An independent testing agency that checks electrical devices and other components for possible safety hazards.
Uniform Building Code - document promulgated by the International Conference of Building Officials.
The maximum stress, such as tensile, compressive, or shear, that a material can withstand.
A method of non-destructive testing of materials that uses high frequency sound vibrations to find defects in the material.
Products with a ULEF certification have ultra-low emitting formaldehyde resins which have been shown to have formaldehyde emissions below the limits established by CARB Phase 2. The ULEF certification originated with CARB, and has since been adopted by the EPA for the TSCA Title VI regulation. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
A ¼" material placed over the subfloor plywood sheeting and under finish coverings, such as vinyl flooring, to provide a smooth, even surface. Also a secondary roofing layer that is waterproof or water-resistant, installed on the roof deck and beneath shingles or other roof-finishing layer.
A coating applied prior to the finishing or top coats of a paint job. It may be the first of two or the second of three coats. Sometimes called the Prime coat.
Sheet material, such as hardboard, that is laid over the subfloor to provide a smooth, stiff surface for the finish flooring.
Formaldehyde is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the State of California as a known human carcinogen. Common health effects at low levels of exposure to this volatile organic compound include irritation and sensitization as well as acting as an asthma trigger. Long-term exposure is associated with nasal cancers and leukemia. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources
- The fee paid by the prospective borrower for the lender's inspection of the property. Normally paid upon loan application.
An inspection carried out for the benefit of the mortgage lender to ascertain if a property is a good security for a loan.
The "V" shaped area of a roof where two sloping roofs meet. Water drains off the roof at the valleys. The intersection of two inclined surfaces.
A building product installed on exterior walls and ceilings under the drywall and on the warm side of the insulation. It is used to retard the movement of water vapor into walls and prevent condensation within them. Normally, polyethylene plastic sheeting is used.
Calcined gypsum plaster specially formulated to provide specific workability, strength, hardness and abrasion resistance characteristics when applied in thin coats (1/16" to 3/32" nom.) over veneer gypsum base or other approved base. The term thin coat plaster is sometimes used in reference to veneer plaster.
Material used to slow the flow of water vapor through walls and other spaces where this vapor may condense at a lower temperature.
A pipe or duct which allows the flow of air and gasses to the outside. Also, another word for the moving glass part of a window sash, i.e. window vent.
Extremely thin sheets of wood. Also a thin slice of wood or brick or stone covering a framed wall. A thin sheet of material used to cover another surface.
A gypsum board product designed to serve as the base for the application of gypsum veneer plaster.
The tendency of one part of a member to move vertically in relationship to the adjacent part.
A final inspection of a home before "Closing" to look for and document problems that need to be corrected.
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.
A protective or decorative finish wall covering applied to the lower part of an interior wall.
A mat-formed panel made of wood wafers randomly arranged and bonded with a waterproof binder.
In construction there are two general types of warranties. One is provided by the manufacturer of a product such as roofing material or an appliance. The second is a warranty for the labor. For example, a roofing contract may include a 20 year material warranty and a 5 year labor warranty. Many new homebuilders provide a one year warranty. Any major issue found during the first year should be communicated to the builder immediately. Small items can be saved up and presented to the builder for correction periodically through the first year after closing.
Liquid that penetrates the pores of wood and prevents moisture from penetrating without altering the desirable qualities of the wood.
The property of a mortar that prevents the rapid loss of water by absorption into the masonry units.
Water resistant drywall to be used in tub and shower locations. Normally green or blue colored
A process used to drive off the remaining water from clay products before they are fired in the kiln.
In a concrete or mortar mixture, the ratio fo the amount of water (minus that held by the aggregates) to the amount of cement used.
System used to water drought tolerant landscapes and other xeriscape environments where water efficiency is necessary. The most commonly used system is drip irrigation.
Landscaping that thrives with little or no water. In addition to reducing water consumption, xeriscaping reduces waste, maintenance, costs, and fertilizer use.
One cubic yard of concrete is 3' X 3' X 3' in volume, or 27 cubic feet. One cubic yard of concrete will pour 80 square feet of 3 ½" sidewalk or basement/garage floor.
With regards to zoning, an open, unoccupied space on all sides of a building, based on the required setbacks.
The section of a building that is served by one heating or cooling loop because it has noticeably distinct heating or cooling needs. Also, the section of property that will be watered from a lawn sprinkler system. Area established by a governing body for specific use, such as residential, commercial, or industrial use.
The zone below the ground in which all of the spaces between soil grains contain both water and air.
Bent, galvanized metal flashing that's installed above a horizontal trim board of an exterior window, door, or brick run. It prevents water from getting behind the trim/brick and into the home.
A device, usually placed near the heater or cooler, which controls the flow of water or steam to parts of the building; it is controlled by a zone thermostat.
The zone below the ground in which all of the spaces between soil grains are filled completely with water.
A governmental process and specification which limits the use of a property e.g. single family use, high rise residential use, industrial use, etc. Zoning laws may limit where you can locate a structure. Also see building codes. The legal means whereby land use is regulated and controlled for the general welfare.
The location where a home's water meter is sometimes installed between two copper pipes, and located in the water meter pit in the yard.
Carpet formed by weaving on a loom that inserts each tuft of pile individually into the backing.