The ratio of stress to strain.

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 sum paid to the seller to show that a potential purchaser is serious about buying.

- The horizontal exterior roof overhang.

- 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.

Partially treated liquid sewage flowing from any part of a disposal system to a place of final disposition.

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.

The sensation produced by the combined effects of temperature, relative humidity, and air movement.

The ability of a material to return to its original position after a load has been removed.

A macromolecular material that returns to its approximate initial dimensions and shape after being subjected to substantial deformation.

The property of a material that causes it to return to its original shape upon removal of a deforming load.

Having the properties of an elastomer.

- 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 Btu output divided by the input in watts. The higher the EER the more efficient the equipment.

The greatest stress a material can withstand without permanent deformation upon the release of the stress.

- 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.

Metal wires that heat up when electric current passes through them and are used in baseboard heaters and electric water heaters.

The movement of electrons in an electric conductor.

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 ability of a material to conduct an electric current.