A heat-transfer device in which the atmospheric air cools warm water flowing through the tower, usually by evaporation.

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

A unit designed to transfer heat from hot water or steam to the air by convection.

A mortgage loan not insured by a government agency (such as FHA or VA)

The amount of cooling required to keep a building at a specified temperature during the summer, usually 78° F, regardless of outside temperature.

Currents created by heating air, which then rises and pulls cooler air behind it. Also see radiation. Process of heat carried from one point to another by movement of a liquid or a gas (i.e., air). Natural convection is caused by expansion of the liquid or gas when heated. Expansion reduces the density of the medium, causing it to rise above the cooler, more dense portions of the medium. Gravity heating systems are examples of the profitable use of natural convection. The air, heated by the furnace, becomes less dense (consequently lighter) and rises, distributing heat to the various areas of the house without any type of blower. When a blower is used, the heat transfer method is called "forced convection."

- A strip of formed sheet metal placed on outside corners of drywall before applying drywall 'mud'.

The triangular, decorative and supporting member that holds a mantel or horizontal shelf.

The ability to change a loan from an adjustable rate schedule to a fixed rate schedule.

Cutting and fitting woodwork to an irregular surface.

Structural framing member used to resist diagonal loads that cause racking of walls and panels due to wind and seismic forces. May consist of a panel or diaphragm, or diagonal flat strap or rod. Bracing must function in both tension and compression. If brace only performs in tension, two diagonal tension members must be employed in opposing directions as "X" bracing.

Timber or other member forming the corner of a frame. May be solid or built-up as a multi-piece member.

Overhang of a pitched roof , usually consisting of a fascia board, a soffit and appropriate trim moldings.

Used as trim for the external corners of a house or other frame structure against which the ends of the siding are finished.

Diagonal braces at the corners of the framed structure designed to stiffen and strengthen the wall.

A metal flashing usually used on chimneys at the roofline to cover shingle flashing and used to prevent moisture entry.

A foundation wall section that strengthens (and generally perpendicular to) a long section of foundation wall

A land parcel that fronts on two contiguous streets. The short side is generally considered to be the front of the lot.

The deterioration of a metal or of concrete by chemical or electrochemical reaction caused by exposure to the weather.

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.