Dura board, dura rock
A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing material. Commonly used on bathtub decks. Sometimes called Wonder board
Easement
- 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.
Dwelling Unit
An independent living area which includes its own private cooking and bathing facilities.
Earthquake Strap
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.
E Value
The ratio of stress to strain.
Due-on-sale
A clause in a mortgage contract requiring the borrower to pay the entire outstanding balance upon sale or transfer of the property.
Earnest Money
A sum paid to the seller to show that a potential purchaser is serious about buying.
Dynamic Load
Any load that is nonstatic.
Eaves
- The horizontal exterior roof overhang.
DWV (drain-waste-vent)-
The section of a plumbing system that carries water and sewer gases out of a home.
EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio)
The Btu output divided by the input in watts. The higher the EER the more efficient the equipment.
Effective Temperature
The sensation produced by the combined effects of temperature, relative humidity, and air movement.
Elastic Deformation
The ability of a material to return to its original position after a load has been removed.
Elastic Limit
The greatest stress a material can withstand without permanent deformation upon the release of the stress.
Effluent
Partially treated liquid sewage flowing from any part of a disposal system to a place of final disposition.
Elastomer
A macromolecular material that returns to its approximate initial dimensions and shape after being subjected to substantial deformation.
Elastomeric
Having the properties of an elastomer.
Elasticity
The property of a material that causes it to return to its original shape upon removal of a deforming load.
Efflourescence
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.
Egress
- 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