Measure of sound absorption of a surface, equivalent to 1 sq. ft. of a perfectly absorptive surface.

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.

Fire stop material in the space between floor slab and curtain wall in multi-story construction.

Lime that is mixed with sand, resulting in a textured finish on a wall.

Installation of fire safety insulation around floor perimeters, between floor slab and spandrel panels. Insulation helps retain integrity of fire resistance ratings.

Waste material containing human excrement and other liquid wastes.

A sedimentary rock formed from sand.

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 wood near the outside of the log just under the bark.

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.

The amount of Portland cement in a cubic yard of concrete mix. Generally, 5 or 6 sack is required in a foundation wall.

Small piece or block of wood that bridges several members or provides a connection or fastening between them.

Southern Building Code Congress International, nonprofit organization that publishes the Standard Building Code.

A felt which is impregnated with tar or asphalt.

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.

A table on the blueprints that list the sizes, quantities and locations of the windows, doors and mirrors.

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.

The first coat of plaster, which is scratched to form a bond for a second coat. The first coat of gypsum plaster that is applied to the lath.