An inert material added to a plastic resin to alter the strength and working properties and to lower the cost.

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.

Any part, such as a nut or fitting, into which another (male) part can be inserted. Internal threads are female.

Metal tubes used to keep roof gutters "open". Long nails (ferrule spikes) are driven through these tubes and hold the gutters in place along the fascia of the home.

A panel made from vegetable fibers and binding agents.

Iron-based metallic materials.

An area that allows light to pass into a building, commonly referring to glazed windows. Also, the arrangement of windows in an exterior wall.

The moisture content of wood at which the cell walls are saturated but there is no water in the cell cavities.

To take measurements (cabinets, countertops, stairs, shower doors, etc.) in the home itself instead of using the blueprints.

The completed floor surface on which building occupants walk.

The topcoat of plaster on a wall or ceiling.

Brick made of refractory ceramic material which will resist high temperatures. Used in a fireplace and boiler.

Short horizontal members sometimes nailed between studs, usually about halfway up a wall. See also 'Fire stop'.

The elevation of the ground surface after completion of all work.

A manufacturing process of interlocking two shorter pieces of wood end to end to create a longer piece of dimensional lumber or molding. Often used in jambs and casings and are normally painted (instead of stained).

The third or final coat of gypsum plaster.

Measure of elapsed time during which an assembly continues to exhibit fire resistance under specified conditions of test and performance. As applied to elements of buildings, it shall be measured by the methods and to the criteria defined in ASTM. Methods E119, Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials; ASTM Methods E152, Fire Tests of Door Assemblies; ASTM Methods E814, Fire Test of Through-Penetration Fire Stops; or ASTM Methods E163, Fire Tests of Window Assemblies.

The flooring that is left exposed to view.

A hydrated lime used in finish coats of plaster and in ornamental plasters.