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. A viscous mixture of Portland cement, water, and aggregate used to fill cavities in concrete. Also refers to a specially formulated mortar used to fill under the baseplates of steel columns and in connection in precast concrete.

An open gate used to cover, conceal, protect, or decorate an opening.

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.

A conducting connection between an electrical circuit and the earth or a conducting body that serves in place of the earth.

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.

The plane below which the soil is saturated with water. Also called Groundwater Table or Water Table.

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.

A device providing protection from electric shock by de-energizing a circuit within an established period of time when the current to ground exceeds a predetermined value that is less than that needed to activate a standard overcurrent protective device.

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. Wood or metal plate riveted, bolted, glued or pressed (wood trusses) over joints to transfer stresses between connected members.

Water from an aquifer or subsurface water source. Water that exists below the surface of the earth and passes through the subsoil.

- 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.

A panel having a gypsum core and a paper covering providing a bonding surface for plaster.

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.

A gypsum panel with a water-repellent core. Used for sheathing exterior walls.

A gypsum panel used as the base on which to bond tile or gypsum wallboard.

A gypsum panel used as the base on which to bond tile or gypsum wallboard.

Gypsum formulated to be used with the addition of sand and water for base-coat plaster. Ground gypsum that has been calcined and mixed with additives to control setting time and working qualities.

Hydrous calcium sulfate.