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Glossary of Home/House Construction Terms

 

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A/C (Abbr) air conditioner or air conditioning.
A/C Circuit (Alternating Current) The flow of current through a conductor in alteranting directrions (first in one direction then in reverse). It is used exclusively in residential and commercial wiring because it provides greater flexibility in voltage selection and simplicity of equipment design. Usually alternates at 50 or 60 HZ.
A/C Condenser The outside fan unit of the Air Conditioning system. It removes the heat from the refrigerant and "turns" the gas back into a liquid and pumps the liquid back to the coil in the furnace.
A/C Disconnect The main electrical ON-OFF switch near the power consuming appliance like an air conditioner or hot tub.
Accelerator Any material added to paint, stucco, plaster or mortar which speeds up the natural set.
Acre Measure of land equal to 43,500 square feet.
ADA The Americans with Disabilities Act which gives civil rights protection to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, State and local government services, and telecommunications.
Addendum Written information adding to, clarifying or modifying a documents like a bid contract. An addendum is generally issued by the owner to the contractor during the bidding process and as such, addenda are intended to become part of the contract documents when the construction contract is executed.
Adhesion The property of a coating or sealant to bond to a surface. Cohesion is the bonding of a substance to itself.
Aerator A round screened that mixes water and air for a smoother flow. Usually installed in a faucet
Agent One authorized by a client (principal) to act in his/her stead or behalf and owes the client a "fiduciary duty" (Trust). Example: Construction Manager for fee but classified as an independent contractor for tax purposes. A construction manager for fee does not have any financial responsibility whereas a construction manager at-risk does have financial risk similar to a general contractor.
Aggregate Crushed stone or gravel that comes in a wide range of sizes that is used to as a base for concrete or for surface built-up roofs.
Agreement An arrangement between the parties regarding a commitement or method of action.
Air Filters Adhesive filters made of metal or various fibers are use to remove particles of lint and dust from air. These filters will remove as much as 90% of the dirt if they do not become clogged. The more common filters are of the throwaway or disposable type.
Air space The area between insulation facing and interior of exterior wall coverings. Normally a 1" air gap.
Alligatoring A type of paint degradation. A condition of paint or aged asphalt brought about by the loss of volatile oils and the oxidation caused by solar radiation. "Alligatoring" produces a pattern of cracks resembling an alligator hide and is ultimately the result of the limited tolerance of paint or asphalt to thermal expansion or contraction.
Allowance A sum of money set aside in the construction contract for items which have not been selected and specified in the construction contract. For example, selection of tile as a flooring may require an allowance for an underlayment material, or an electrical allowance which sets aside an amount of money to be spent on electrical fixtures.
Alterations A term used to describe partial construction work performed within an existing structure
Alternate Bid Amount stated in the bid to be added or deducted from the base bid amount proposed for alternate materials and/or methods of construction.
Aluminum Wire Conductors made of aluminum for carrying electricity. Aluminum generally is limited to the larger wire sizes like main service lines. Due to its lower conductivity, aluminum wire smaller than No. 12 iare no longer made. Aluminum is lighter and less expensive than copper but not as good a conductor. It also breaks easily and may overhead due to higher resistance.
Ammeter A device to measure the current flowing in a circuit
Amortization A payment plan by which a loan is reduced through monthly payments of principal and interest.
Amps (Amperes) The rate at which electricity flows through a conductor.
Anchor bolts Bolts to secure a wooden sill plate to concrete , or masonry floor or wall.
Anchor Bolts Bolts which fasten columns, girders or other members to concrete or masonry such as bolts used to anchor sills to masonry foundation. Foundation plates or sills shall be bolted to the foundation with not less than 1/2" diameter steel bolts embedded at least 7" into the concrete or reinforced masonry or 15" into unreinforced grouted masonry & spaced not more than & apart.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR) Annual cost of credit over the life of a loan, including interest, service charges, points, loan fees, mortgage insurance, and other items.
Application for Payment Contractor's written request for payment for completed portions of the work and, for materials delivered or stored and properly labeled for the respective project.
Apron The trim board that is installed beneath a window sill
Aprroach The area between the sidewalk and the street that leads to a driveway or the transition from the street as you approach a driveway.
Architect A licensed professional who designs and supervises the construction of buildings or other structures.
Architect-Engineer An individual or firm offering professional services as both architect and engineer.
Architects Basic Services A recognized series of phases performed by an architect as follows: 1st Schematic Design Phase, 2nd Design Development Phase, 3rd Construction Document Phase, 4th Bidding or Negotiated Phase, 5th Construction Phase.
Architects Rule (Ruler) Three sided ruler with different scales on each side. Also referred to as a "scale."
Architectural Drawing A line drawing showing plan and/or elevation views of the proposed building for the purpose of showing the overall appearance of the building.
Area wells Corrugated metal or concrete barrier walls installed around a basement window to hold back the earth
As-Built Drawings (also known as Record Drawings) Contract drawings marked up to reflect changes made during the construction process. It is good practice to make As-Built drawings by marking the changes on reproducible drawings such a sepias for the duplication purposes later.
Asphalt A dark brown to black, highly viscous, hydrocarbon produced from the residue left after the distillation of petroleum. Asphalt is used on roofs and highways as a waterproofing agent.
Assessment A tax levied on a property, or a value placed on the worth of a property.
Assumption Allows a buyer to assume responsibility for an existing loan instead of getting a new loan.
Astragal A molding, attached to one of a pair of swinging double doors, against which the other door strikes.
Attic access An opening that is placed in the ceiling of a home to provide access to the attic.
Attic Ventilators In houses, screened openings provided to ventilate an attic space.
Auger Boring tool that uses a screw thread to bull a bit into a hole.
Back Charge Billings for work performed or costs incurred by one party that, in accordance with the agreement, should have been performed or incurred by the party to whom billed. Owners bill back charges to general contractors, and general contractors bill back charges to subcontractors. Examples of back charges include charges for cleanup work or to repair something damaged by another subcontractor, such as a tub chip or broken window.
Back Nailing The practice of nailing roofing felts to the deck under the overlap, in addition to hot mopping, to prevent slippage of felts.
Backfill The replacement of excavated earth into a trench around or against a basement /crawl space foundationwall.
Backflow The flow of liquids through irrigation into the pipes of a potable or drinking water supply from any source which is opposite to the intended direction of flow. Backflow may contaminate source water.
Backflow Preventer A device or means to prevent backflow into the potable water supply.
Backhoe Self powered excavation equipment that digs by pulling a boom-mounted bucket towards itself. Used to dig holes below grade. It is used to dig basements and/or footings and to install drainage or sewer systems.
Backout Work the framing contractor does after the mechanical subcontractors (Heating-Plumbing-Electrical) finish their phase of work at the Rough (before insulation) stage to get the home ready for a municipal frame inspection. Generally, the framing contractor repairs anything disturbed by others and completes all framing necessary to pass a Rough Frame Inspection.
Ballast A transformer that steps up the voltage in a florescent lamp.
Balloon Payment A loan that has a series of monthly payments with the remaining balance due in a large lump sum payment at the end.
Balloon framed wall Framed walls (generally over 10' tall) that run the entire vertical length from the floor sill plate to the roof. This is done to eliminate the need for a gable end truss.
Balusters Vertical members in a railing used between a top rail and bottom rail or the stair treads. Sometimes referred to as 'pickets' or 'spindles'.
Balustrade The rail, posts and vertical balusters along the edge of a stairway or elevated walkway.
Barge board A decorative board covering the projecting rafter (fly rafter) of the gable end. At the cornice, this member is a fascia board.
Barometer Instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure.
Barrel Roof A roof design based on an arched.
Base or baseboard A trim board placed against the wall around the room next to the floor.
Basement window inserts The window frame and glass unit that is installed in the window buck.
Bat A half-brick
Batt A section of fiber-glass or rock-wool insulation measuring 15 or 23 inches wide by four to eight feet long and various thickness'. Sometimes "faced" (meaning to have a paper covering on one side) or "unfaced" (without paper).
Batt Insulation Strips of insulation ? usually fiberglass, that fit between studs or other framing. Usually about 8 feet long.
Batten Narrow strips of wood used to cover joints or as decorative vertical members over plywood or wide boards.
Batten Plate A formed piece of metal designed to cover the joint between two lengths of metal edge.
Bay window Any window space projecting outward from the walls of a building, either square or polygonal in plan.
Beam A structural member transversely supporting a load. A structural member carrying building loads (weight) from one support to another. Sometimes called a "girder".
Bearing header A beam placed perpendicular to joists and to which joists are nailed in framing for a chimney, stairway, or other opening. (b) A wood lintel. (c) The horizontal structural member over an opening (for example over a door or window).
Bearing partition A partition that supports any vertical load in addition to its own weight.
Bearing point A point where a bearing or structural weight is concentrated and transferred to the foundation
Bearing wall A wall that supports any vertical load in addition to its own weight.
Bed Or Bedding In glazing, the bead compound or sealant applied between a lite of glass or panel and the stationary stop or sight bar of the sash or frame. It is usually the first bead of compound or sealant to be applied when setting glass or panels.
Bedrock A subsurface layer of earth that is suitable to support a structure.
Bell Reducer In plumbing, a fitting shaped like a bell which has one opening of a smaller diameter used to reduce the size of the pipe in the line, and the opposite opening of larger diameter.
Bid A formal offer by a contractor, in accordance with specifications for a project, to do all or a phase of the work at a certain price in accordance with the terms and conditions stated in the offer.
Bid 1. An offer or proposal of a price
Bid Bond A written form of security executed by the bidder as principal and by a surety for the purpose of guaranteeing that the bidder will sign the contract, if awarded the contract, for the stated bid amount.
Bid Date/Time The due date and time set by the owner, architect or engineer for receiving bids.
Bid Form A standard written form furnished to all bidders for the purpose of obtaining the requested information and required signatures from the authorized bidding representatives.
Bid Opening The actual process of opening and tabulating bids submitted within the prescribed bid date/time and conforming with the bid procedures. A Bid Opening can be open (where the bidders are permitted to attend) or closed (where the bidders are not permitted to attend). (see Bid Date/Time, Open Bid, Closed Bid)
Bid Price The stipulated sum stated in the bidder?s bid.
Bid Shopper A buyer or client who seeks to play one proposed supplier or subcontractor against the other for the purpose of reducing a purchase price.
Bid shopping A practice by which contractors, both before and after their bids are submitted, attempt to obtain prices from potential subcontractors and material suppliers that are lower than the contractors' original estimates on which their bids are based, or after a contract is awarded, seek to induce subcontractors to reduce the subcontract price included in the bid.
Bid Tabulation A summary sheet listing all bid prices for the purpose of analysing the bid results. Bid tabulations include the required items of the invitation to bid and usually include bid amount, completion time, addendas included, contract exclusions, bonding rate, etc. Often times, the apparent low bidder is not the low bidder. (see Bid Form )
Bid Time (see Bid Date/Time)  
Bidding Getting prices from various contractors and/or subcontractors.
Bidding Documents The published advertisement or written invitation to bid , instructions to bidders, the bid form and the proposed contract documents including any acknowledged addenda issued prior to receipt of bids.
Bidding Period The calendar period allowed from issuance of bidding requirements and contract documents to the prescribed bid date/time. ( see Bid Date/Time)
Bidding requirements The procedures and conditions for the submission of bids. The requirements are included ion documents, such as the notice to bidders, advertisements for bids, instructions to bidders, invitations to bid, and sample bid forms.
Bidding Requirements The written minimum acceptable requirements set forth by the owner to the contractor during bidding process. The owner usually reserves the right to reject a bid if the Bidding Requirements are not met. (see Bidding Documents)
Bifold door Doors that are hinged in the middle for opening in a smaller area than standard swing doors. Often used for closet doors.
Binder A receipt for a deposit to secure the right to purchase a home at an agreed terms by a buyer and seller.
Bipass doors Doors that slide by each other and commonly used as closet doors.
Bite The dimension by which the framing system overlaps the edge of the glazing infill.
Bitumen Any of various mixtures of hydrocarbons occurring naturally or obtained through the distillation of coal or petroleum. (See Coat Tar Pitch and Asphalt)
Blankets Fiber-glass or rock-wool insulation that comes in long rolls 15 or 23 inches wide.
Blister An enclosed raised spot evident on the surface of a building. They are mainly caused by the expansion of trapped air, water vapor, moisture or other gases.
Block out To install a box or barrier within a foundation wall to prevent the concrete from entering an area. For example, foundation walls are sometimes "blocked" in order for mechanical pipes to pass through the wall, to install a crawl space door, and to depress the concrete at a garage door location.
Blocked (door blocking) Wood shims used between the door frame and the vertical structural wall framing members.
Blocked (rafters) Short "2 by 4's" used to keep rafters from twisting, and installed at the ends and at mid span.
Blocking Small wood pieces to brace framing members or to provide a nailing base for gypsum board or paneling.
Blocking In carpentry, the process of fastening together two pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in the interior angle.
Blow insulation Fiber insulation in loose form and used to insulate attics and existing walls where framing members are not exposed.
Blue Prints Architectural plans for a building or construction project, which are likely to include floor plans, footing and foundation plans, elevations, plot plans, and various schedules and or details.
Blue stake Another phrase for Utility Notification. This is when a utility company (telephone, gas, electric, cable TV, sewer and water, etc) comes to the job site and locates and spray paints the ground and/or installs little flags to show where their service is located underground.
Board Foot In carpentry, the equivalent of a board 1 foot square and 1 inch thick.
Bond Breaker A substance or a tape applied between two adjoining materials to prevent adhesion between them.
Bonding Company A properly licensed firm or corporation willing to execute a surety bond, or bonds, payable to the owner, securing the performance on a contract either in whole or in part; or securing payment for labor and materials.
Boom A truck used to hoist heavy material up and into place. Used to put trusses on a home or to set a heavy beam into place.
Bottom chord The lower or bottom horizontal member of a truss.
Bottom plate The "2 by 4's or 6's" that lay on the subfloor upon which the vertical studs are installed. Also called the 'sole plate'.
Bow (And Warp) A curve, bend or other deviation from flatness in glass.
Bracing Ties and rods used for supporting and strengthening various partS of a building used for lateral stability for columns and beams.
Brake Metal Sheet metal that has been bent to the desired configuration.
Breaker panel The electrical box that distributes electric power entering the home to each branch circuit (each plug and switch) and composed of circuit breakers.
Brick ledge Part of the foundation wall where brick (veneer) will rest.
Brick lintel The metal angle iron that brick rests on, especially above a window, door, or other opening.
Brick molding Trim used around an exterior windews and door jamb as a transition to brick or molding.
Brick tie A small, corrugated metal strip @ 1" X 6"- 8" long nailed to wall sheeting or studs. They are inserted into the grout mortar joint of the veneer brick, and holds the veneer wall to the sheeted wall behind it.
Brick veneer A vertical facing of brick laid against and fastened to sheathing of a framed wall or tile wall construction.
Bridging Small wood or metal members that are inserted in a diagonal position between the floor joists or rafters at mid-span for the purpose of bracing the joists/rafters & spreading the load.
Buck Often used in reference to rough frame opening members. Door bucks used in reference to metal door frame. See Window Bucks
Builder's Risk Insurance Insurance coverage on a construction project during construction, including extended coverage that may be added for the contract for the customer's protections.
Building Brick Brick for building purposes not especially treated for texture or color, formerly called "common brick." It is stronger than face brick.
Building Code The legal requirements set up by the prevailing various governing agencies covering the minimum acceptable requirements for all types of construction. (See Codes)
Building codes Community ordinances governing the manner in which a home may be constructed or modified.
Building Inspector/Official A qualified government representative authorized to inspect construction for compliance with applicable building codes, regulations and ordinances. Courts have ruled that building inspections are exempt from errors and omissions liabilities.
Building insurance Insurance covering the structure of the building.
Building paper A general term for papers, felts, and similar sheet materials used in buildings without reference to their properties or uses. Generally comes in long rolls.
Building Permit A written document issued by the appropriate governmental authority permitting construction to begin on a specific project in accordance with drawings and specifications approved by the governmental authority.
Building Process A term used to express every step of a construction project from it?s conception to final acceptance and occupancy.
Bull nose (drywall) Rounded drywall corners.
Bullfloat A tool used to finish and flatten a slab. After screeding, the first stage in the final finish of concrete, smoothes and levels hills and voids left after screeding. Sometimes substituted for darbying. A large flat or tool usually of wood, aluminum or magnesium with a handle.
Bundle A package of shingles. Normally, there are 3 bundles per square and 27 shingles per bundle.
Butt edge The lower edge of the shingle tabs.
Butt hinge The most common type. One leaf attaches to the door's edge, the other to its jamb.
Butt joint The junction where the ends of two timbers meet, and also where sheets of drywall meet on the 4 foot edge. To place materials end-to-end or end-to-edge without overlapping.
Butterfly Roof A roof assembly which pitches sharply from either side toward the center.
Buy down A prepayment (usually paid by a builder or developer) used to reduce monthly payments on a mortgage.
By fold door Doors that are hinged in the middle for opening in a smaller area than standard swing doors. Often used for closet doors.
C/D Circuit A circuit where electricity flows in one direction only, at a constant rate.
Caisson A 10" or 12" diameter hole drilled into the earth and embedded into bedrock 3 - 4 feet. The structural support for a type of foundation wall, porch, patio, monopost, or other structure. Two or more "sticks" of reinforcing bars (rebar) are inserted into and run the full length of the hole and concrete is poured into the caisson hole
Calcium Chloride A chemical used to speed up curing of concrete during damp conditions.
Canopy An overhanging roof.
Cant Strip A beveled support used at the intersection of the roof deck with vertical surfaces so that bends in the roofing membrane to form base flashings can be made without breaking the felts.
Cantilever A projecting beam or other structure supported only at one end.
Cantilevered void Foundation void material used in unusually expansive soils conditions. This void is "trapezoid" shaped and has vertical sides of 6" and 4" respectively.
Cap The upper member of a column, pilaster, door cornice, molding, or fireplace.
Cap flashing The portion of the flashing attached to a vertical surface to prevent water from migrating behind the base flashing.
Capital The principal part of a loan, i.e. the original amount borrowed.
Capital and interest A repayment loan and the most conventional form of home loan. The borrower pays an amount each month to cover the amount borrowed (or capital or principal) plus the interest charged on capital.
Cap rate The mortgage interest rate will not exceed a specified value during a certain period of time, but it may fluctuate up and down below that level.
Carbide Bit Tool used to drill holes in brick or block.
Casement Frames of wood or metal enclosing part (or all) of a window sash. May be opened by means of hinges affixed to the vertical edges.
Casement Window A window with hinges on one of the vertical sides and swings open like a normal door
Casing Wood trim molding installed around a door or window opening.
Caulk The application of sealant to a joint, crack or crevice. (n) A compound used for sealing that has minimum joint movement capability; sometimes called low performance sealant.
Caulking (1) A flexible material used to seal a gap between two surfaces e.g. between pieces of siding or the corners in tub walls. (2) To fill a joint with mastic or asphalt plastic cement to prevent leaks.
CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenate) A pesticide that is forced into wood under high pressure to protect it from termites, other wood boring insects, and decay caused by fungus
Ceiling joist One of a series of parallel framing members used to support ceiling loads and supported in turn by larger beams, girders or bearing walls. Also called roof joists.
Cellulose Insulation Ground up newspaper that is treated with a fire retardant.
Celotex ? Black fibrous board that is used as exterior sheething.
Cement The gray powder that is the "glue" in concrete. Portland cement. Also, any adhesive.
Ceramic tile A clay tile used to finish a floor or wall. Generally used in bathtub and shower enclosures and on counter tops.
Certificate Of Occupancy A document stating that a building is approved for occupancy. The building authority issues the Certificate of Occupancy.
CFM (cubic feet per minute) Measure of volume, A rating that expresses the amount of air a blower or fan can move. The volume of air (measured in cubic feet) that can pass through an opening in one minute.
Chair rail Interior trim material installed about 3-4 feet up the wall, horizontally. Most frequently installed in a dining room.
Chalk line A line made by snapping a taut string or cord dusted with chalk. Used for alignment purposes.
Change Order A written document between the owner and the contractor signed by the owner and the contractor authorizing a change in the work or an adjustment in the contract sum or the contract time. A change order may be signed by the architect or engineer, provided they have written authority from the owner for such procedure and that a copy of such written authority is furnished to the contractor upon request. The contract sum and the contract time may be changed only by change order. A change order may be in the form of additional compensation or time; or less compensation or time known as a Deduction (from the contract) the amount deducted from the contract sum by change order.
Change Order Proposal (See Change order) A change order proposal is the written document before it has been approved and effected by the Contractor and Owner. A change order proposal can be issued by either the contractor or the owner. The change order proposal becomes a change order only after it has been approved and effected by the Contractor and Owner.
Change Order Request A written document issued by the owner requesting an adjustment to the contract sum or an extension of the contract time; generally issued by the architect or owners representative.
Chase A framed enclosed space or channel in a wall, or through a ceiling for something to pass through.
Chemical Injection Grouting Leak repair technique usually used below grade in cracks and joints in concrete walls and floors that involves injection of sealant (usually urethane) that reacts with water to form a seal.
Chink To install small pieces of insulation around all exterior door and window frames, wall corners, and small gaps in the exterior wall.
Chip Board A manufactured wood panel made out of 1"- 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood in the exterior wall and roof sheathing. Also called OSB (Oriented Strand Board) or wafer board.
Circuit The path of electrical flow from a power source through an outlet and back to ground.
Circuit Breaker A device which looks like a switch and is usually located inside the electrical breaker panel or circuit breaker box. It is designed to (1) shut of the power to portions or all of the house and (2) to limit the amount of power flowing through a circuit (measured in amperes). 110 volt household circuits require a fuse or circuit breaker with a rating of 15 or a maximum of 20 amps. 220 volt circuits may be designed for higher amperage loads e.g. a hot water heater may be designed for a 30 amp load and would therefore need a 30 amp fuse or breaker.
Class "A" Optimum fire rating issued by Underwriter's Laboratories on roofing. The building codes in some areas require this type of roofing for fire safety.
Class "C" Minimum fire rating issued by the Underwriters' Laboratories for roofing materials.
Clean out An opening providing access to a drain line. Closed with a threaded plug.
Cleat A wedge-shaped piece (usually of metal) which serves as a support or check. A strip fastened across something to give strength or hold something in position.
Clip ties Sharp, cut metal wires that protrude out of a concrete foundation wall (that at one time held the foundation form panels in place).
Closed Bid/Estimate A service offered by constructionplace.com where only invited bidders or estimators are given access to the project specific RFP (Request for Proposal) information.stimator is given access to project specific RFP (Request for Proposal) information. This option is for those seeking bids/estimates from a prequalified and selected list of professionals or service. For security and easy access, the RFP poster receives an e-mail showing the list of bidders/estimators and links to View the RFP Details and View any Bids as they are received.This e-mail gives the poster the ability to file and track their respective RFP's using their own e-mail filing system. (see Open Bid/Estimate)
CO An abbreviation for "Certificate of Occupancy". This certificate is issued by the local municipality and is required before anyone can occupy and live within the home. It is issued only after the local municipality has made all inspections and all monies and fees have been paid.
Coating A layer of any liquid product spread over a surface for protection.
Codes Prevailing regulations, ordinances or statutory requirements set forth by governmental agencies associated with building construction practices and owner occupancy, adopted and administered for the protection of public health, life safety and welfare. (see Building Code)
Cold air return The ductwork (and related grills) that carries room air back to the furnace for re-heating.
Cold Applied Products that can be applied without heating. These are in contrast to products which need to be heated to be applied.
Cold Patch In roofing, a roof repair done with cold applied material.
Collar In roofing, a conical metal cap flashing used in conjunction with vent pipes or stacks usually located several inches above the plane of the roof, for the purpose of shedding water away from the base of the vent.
Collar beam Nominal 1- or 2-inch-thick members connecting opposite roof rafters. They serve to stiffen the roof structure.
Collar Beam In carpentry, a tie that keeps the roof from spreading. Connects similar rafters on opposite sides of roof.
Column A vertical structural compression member which supports loads.
Combustion air The duct work installed to bring fresh, outside air to the furnace and/or hot water heater. Normally 2 separate supplies of air are brought in: One high and One low.
Combustion chamber The part of a boiler, furnace or woodstove where the burn occurs; normally lined with firebrick or molded or sprayed insulation.
Compatible Two or more substances which can be mixed or blended without separating, reacting, or affecting either material adversely.
Component Any one part of an assembly associated with construction.
Composite Board An insulation board which has two different insulation types laminated together in 2 or 3 layers.
Compound A chemical formulation of ingredients used to produce a caulking, elastomeric joint sealant, etc.
Compression Gasket A gasket designed to function under compression.
Compression Set The permanent deformation of a material after removal of the compressive stress.
Compression web A member of a truss system which connects the bottom and top chords and which provides downward support.
Compressor A mechanical device that pressurizes a gas. A compressor is the main component of conventional heat pumps and air conditioners. In an air conditioning system, the compressor normally sits outside and has a large fan (to remove heat).
Concrete The mixture of Portland cement, sand, gravel, and water. Used to make sidewalks, patios, foundation walls, etc. It is commonly reinforced with steel rods (rebar) or wire screening (re-mesh).
Concrete block A hollow concrete 'brick' often 8" x 8" x 16" in size.
Concrete board A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass usually used as a tile backing material.
Condensation Beads or drops of water (and frequently frost in extremely cold weather) that accumulate on the inside of the exterior covering of a building. Use of louvers or attic ventilators will reduce moisture condensation in attics. A vapor barrier under the gypsum lath or dry wall on exposed walls will reduce condensation.
Condensation The appearance of moisture (water vapor) on the surface of an object caused by warm moist air coming into contact with a colder object.
Condensing unit The outdoor component of a cooling system. It includes a compressor and condensing coil designed to give off heat.
Conditions, Convenants, and Restrictions (CC and Rs) The standards that define how a property may be used and the protections the developer makes for the benefit of all owners in a subdivision.
Conduction The flow of heat from one part of a substance to another part. A piece of iron with one end placed in a fire will soon become warm from end to end, from the transfer of heat by the actual collision of the air molecules.
Conductivity The rate at which heat is transmitted through a material.
Conduit A tube for protecting electric wires.
Conduit, electrical A pipe, usually metal, in which wire is installed.
Construct To assemble and combine construction materials and methods to make a structure.
Construction The act or process of constructing.
Construction Contract A legal document which specifies the what, when, where, who and how much a construction project will require
Construction Cost 1. The direct contractor costs for labor, material, equipment, and services; contractors overhead and profit; and other direct construction costs. Construction cost does not include the compensation paid to the architect and engineer and consultants, the cost of the land, rights-of-way or other costs which are defined in the contract documents as being the responsibility of the owner. (see Soft Costs)
Construction Document Review The owners review of the borrowers construction documents (plans and specifications), list of materials, and cost breakdowns for the purpose of confirming that these documents and estimates are feasible and are in accordance with the proposed loan or project appraisal.
Construction Documents All drawings, specifications and addenda associated with a specific construction project.
Construction Documents A term used to represent all drawings, specifications, addenda, other pertinent construction information associated with the construction of a specific project.
Construction Documents Phase The third phase of the architect's basic services wherein the architect prepares working drawings, specifications and bidding information. Depending on the architects scope of services the architect may assists the owner in the preparation of bidding forms, the conditions of the contract and the form of agreement between the owner and contractor.
Construction drywall A type of construction in which the interior wall finish is applied in a dry condition, generally in the form of sheet materials or wood paneling as contrasted to plaster.
Construction Loan A loan provided by a lending institution specifically to construct or renovate a building.
Construction Management Organizing and directing men, materials, and equipment to accomplish the purpose of the designer.
Construction Management Contract A written agreement wherein responsibilities for coordination and accomplishment of overall project planning, design and construction are given to a construction management firm. The building team generally consists of the owner, contractor and designer or architect.
Construction Phase The fifth and final phase of the architect's basics services, which includes the architect's general administration of the construction contract(s).
Construction, frame A type of construction in which the structural components are wood or depend upon a wood frame for support.
Consultant One hired by the owner or client to give professional advise.
Continuity tester A device that tells whether a circuit is capable of carrying electricity.
Contract An agreement between two or more parties, especially one that is written and enforceable by law
Contract Administration The contractual duties and responsibilities of the architect and engineer during the construction phase of a specific project.
Contract Bond A written form of security from a surety company, on behalf of an acceptable prime or main contractor or subcontractor, guaranteeing complete execution of the contract and all supplemental agreements pertaining thereto and for the payment of all legal debts pertaining to the construction of the project.
Contract Documents A term used to represent all executed agreements between the owner and contractor; any general, supplementary or other contract conditions; the drawings and specifications; all addenda issued prior to execution of the contract; and any other items specifically stipulated as being included in the contract documents.
Contract Over-run (under-run) The difference between the original contract price and the final completed cost including all adjustments by approved change order.
Contract Payment Bond A written form of security from a surety company to the owner, on behalf of an acceptable prime or main contractor or subcontractor, guaranteeing payment to all persons providing labor, materials, equipment, or services in accordance with the contract.
Contract Performance Bond A written form of security from a surety company to the owner, on behalf of an acceptable prime or main contractor or subcontractor, guaranteeing the completion of the work in accordance with the terms of the contract.
Contract Period The elapsed number of working days or calendar days from the specified date of commencing work to the specified date of completion, as specified in the contract.
Contract Sum The total agreeable amount payable by the owner to the contractor for the performance of the work under the contract documents. (see Change Order)
Contract Time The time period set forth established in the contract documents for completing a specific project; usually stated in working days or calendar days. The contract time can only be adjusted by valid time extensions through change order.
Contracting Officer An official representative of the owner with specific authority to act in his behalf in connection with a specific project.
Contractor A company licensed to perform certain types of construction activities. In most states, the generals contractor's license and some specialty contractor's licenses don't require of compliance with bonding, workmen's compensation and similar regulations. Some of the specialty contractor licenses involve extensive training, testing and/or insurance requirements. There are various types of contractors:
Contractor's Option A written provision in the contract documents giving the contractor the option of selecting certain specified materials, methods or systems without changing in the contract sum.
Contractor's Qualification Statement A written statement of the Contractor's experience and qualifications submitted to the Owner during the contractor selection process. The American Institute of Architects publishes a standard Contractor's Qualification Statement form for this purpose.
Contractual Liability The liability assumed by a party under a contract.
Control joint Tooled, straight grooves made on concrete floors to "control" where the concrete should crack
Convection A method of transferring heat by the actual movement of heated molecules, usually by a freestanding unit such as a furnace.
Cooling load The amount of cooling required to keep a building at a specified temperature during the summer, usually 78° F, regardless of outside temperature.
Cooling Tower A large device mounted on roofs, consisting of many baffles over which water is pumped in order to reduce its temperature.
Coped 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
Coped joint Cutting and fitting woodwork to an irregular surface.
Coping A construction unit placed at the top of the parapet wall to serve as a cover for the wall.
Copper Pipe Types Type K has the heaviest or thickest wall and is generally used underground. It has a green stripe. (Kelly Green). Type L has a medium wall thickness and is most commonly used for water service and for general interior water piping. It has a blue stripe (Lavender Blue). Type M has a thin wall and many codes permit its use in general water piping installation. It has a red stripe. (Mad Red)
Corbel The triangular, decorative and supporting member that holds a mantel or horizontal shelf.
Core A small section cut from any material to show internal composition.
Corner bead A strip of formed sheet metal placed on outside corners of drywall before applying drywall 'mud'.
Corner boards Used as trim for the external corners of a house or other frame structure against which the ends of the siding are finished.
Corner braces Diagonal braces at the corners of the framed structure designed to stiffen and strengthen the wall.
Cornice A horizontal projecting course on the exterior of a building, usually at the base of the parapet.
Corrosion The deterioration of metal by chemical or electrochemical reaction resulting from exposure to weathering, moisture, chemicals or other agents or media.
Corrugated Folded or shaped into parallel ridges or furrows so as to form a symmetrically wavy surface.
Cost Breakdown A breakdowns of all the anticipated costs on a construction or
Cost Codes A numbering system given to specific kinds of work for the purpose of organizing the cost control process of a specific project.
Cost of Work All costs incurred by the contractor in the proper performance of the work required by the plans and specifications for a specific project.
Cost Plus Contract (see Cost Plus Fee Agreement)  
Cost Plus Fee Agreement (Cost-Plus) A written agreement with the owner under which the contractor or the architect and engineer is reimbursed for his/her direct and indirect costs and, in addition, is paid a fee for his services. The fee is usually stated as a stipulated sum or as a percentage of cost.
Counter flashing A metal flashing usually used on chimneys at the roofline to cover shingle flashing and used to prevent moisture entry.
Counterfort A foundation wall section that strengthens (and generally perpendicular to) a long section of foundation wall
Course 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.
Course A single layer of brick or stone or other building material.
Cove molding A molding with a concave face used as trim or to finish interior corners.
Covenants Rules usually developed by a builder or developer regarding the physical appearance of buildings in a particular geographic area. Typical covenants address building height, appropriate fencing and landscaping, and the type of exterior material (stucco, brick, stone, siding, etc) that may be used.
Crawl Space An open area between the floor of a building and the ground.
Credit rating A report ordered by a lender from a credit agency to determine a borrower's credit habits.
Cricket A second roof built on top of the primary roof to increase the slope of the roof or valley. A saddle shaped, peaked construction connecting a sloping roof with a chimney. Designed to encourage water drainage away from the chimney joint.
Cripple Short vertical "2 by 4's or 6's" frame lumber installed above a window or door.
Critical Path The set of activities that must be completed on time for the project completion date to be met. Activities on the critical path have no slack time.
Critical Path Method (C.P.M.) A planning scheduling and control line and symbol diagram drawn to show the respective tasks and activities involved in constructing a specific project.
Cross bridging Diagonal bracing between adjacent floor joists, placed near the center of the joist span to prevent joists from twisting.
Cross Tee Short metal "T" beam used in suspended ceiling systems to bridge the spaces between the main beams.
Crown molding A molding used on cornice or wherever an interior angle is to be covered, especially at the roof and wall corner.
CSI Construction Specification Institute
CSI Master Format The CSI Master Format is a system of numbers and titles for organizing construction information into a regular, standard order or sequence. By establishing a master list of titles and numbers Master Format promotes standardization and thereby facilitates the retrieval of information and improves construction communication. It provides a uniform system for organizing information in project manuals, for organizing project cost data, and for filing product information and other technical data.
Culvert Round, corrugated drain pipe (normally 15" or 18" in diameter) that is installed beneath a driveway and parallel to and near the street.
Cupola A small monitor or dome at the peak of a pitched roof.
Cupping A type of warping that causes boards to curl up at their edges.
Curb The short elevation of an exterior wall above the deck of a roof. Normally a 2 by 6 box (on the roof) on which a skylight is attached.
Curb A short wall or masonry built above the level of the roof that provides a means of flashing the deck equipment.
Curb stop Normally a cast iron pipe with a lid (@ 5" in diameter) that is placed vertically into the ground, situated near the water tap in the yard, and where a water cut-off valve to the home is located (underground). A long pole with a special end is inserted into the curb stop to turn off/on the water.
Current Date Line A vertical line on the chart indicating the current date.
Cut Off A piece of roofing membrane consisting of one or more narrow plies of felt usually moped in hot to seal the edge of insulation at the end of a day's work.
Cutback In roofing, basic asphalt or tar which has been "cut back" with solvents and oils so that the material become fluid.
Dado A groove cut into a board or panel intended to receive the edge of a connecting board or panel.
Daily Construction Report A written document and record that has two main purposes:
Damper A metal "door" placed within the fireplace chimney. Normally closed when the fireplace is not in use.
Dampproofing A process used on concrete, masonry or stone surfaces to repel water, the main purpose of which is to prevent the coated surface from absorbing rain water while still permitting moisture vapor to escape from the structure. (Moisture vapor readily penetrates coatings of this type.) "Dampproofing" generally applies to surfaces above grade; "waterproofing" generally applies to surfaces below grade.
Darby A flat tool used to smooth concrete flatwork immediately after screeding. See Bullfloating
Date of Agreement 1. Usually on the front page of the agreement
Date of Commencement of the Work The date established in a written notice to proceed from the owner to the contractor.
Date of Substantial Completion The date certified by the architect when the work or a designated portion thereof is sufficiently complete, in accordance with the contract documents, so the owner may occupy the work or designated portion thereof for the use for which it is intended.
Daylight The end of a pipe (the terminal end) that is not attached to anything.
Dead bolt An exterior security lock installed on exterior entry doors that can be activated only with a key or thumb-turn. Unlike a latch, which has a beveled tongue, dead bolts have square ends.
Dead light The fixed, non-operable window section of a window unit.
Dead Load The constant, design weight (of the roof) and any permanent fixtures attached above or below.
Deck, decked To install the plywood or wafer board sheeting on the floor joists, rafters, or trusses.
Dedicated circuit An electrical circuit that serves only one appliance (ie, dishwasher) or a series of electric heaters or smoke detectors.
Default Breach of a mortgage contract (not making the required payments).
Deflect To bend or deform under weight.
Delamination Separation of the plies in a panel due to failure of the adhesive. Usually caused by excessive moisture.
Demising Walls The boundaries that separate your space from your neighbors' and from the public corridor.
Demolition permit Authorization to tear down and remove an existing structure.
Design A graphical representation of a concept consisting of plan views, interior and exterior elevations, sections, and other drawings and details to depict the goal or purpose for a building or other structure.
Design-Build Construction When a Prime or Main contractor bids or negotiates to provide Design and Construction services for the entire construction project.
Design-Construct Contract A written agreement between and contractor and owner wherein the contractor agrees to provide both design and construction services.
Design-Development Phase The second phase of the architect's basic services wherein the architect prepares drawings and other presentation documents to fix and describe the size and character of the entire project as to architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical systems, materials and other essentials as may be appropriate; and prepares a statement of probable construction cost.
Dew Point The critical temperature at which vapor condenses from the atmosphere and forms water.
Direct Cost (or expense) All items of expense directly incurred by or attributable to a specific project, assignment or task. Direct Costs, Hard Costs, and Construction Costs are synonymous. (see Construction Costs and Hard Costs)
Disconnect A large (generally 20 Amp) electrical ON-OFF switch.
Discount rate A mortgage interest rate that is lower than the current rate for a certain period of time, e.g. 2.00% below variable rate for 2 years.
Door operator An automatic garage door opener.
Door stop The wooden style that the door slab will rest upon when it's in a closed position.
Doorjamb, interior The surrounding case into which and out of which a door closes and opens. It consists of two upright pieces, called side jambs, and a horizontal head jamb. These 3 jambs have the "door stop" installed on them.
Dormer An opening in a sloping roof, the framing of which projects out to form a vertical wall suitable for windows or other openings.
Double glass Window or door in which two panes of glass are used with a sealed air space between. Also known as Insulating Glass.
Double hung window A window with two vertically sliding sashes, both of which can move up and down.
Double Plate when two layers of 2 x 4's are placed on top of studs in framing a wall.
Double Strength In float glass, approximately 1/8" (3 mm.) thick.
Double Tee Refers usually to a precast roof deck panel poured with two fins in its underside to impart flexural rigidity.
Down payment The difference between the sales price and the mortgage amount. A downpayment is usually paid at closing.
Downspout The metal pipe used to drain water from a roof.
Drain tile A perforated, corrugated plastic pipe laid at the bottom of the foundation wall and used to drain excess water away from the foundation. It prevents ground water from seeping through the foundation wall. Sometimes called perimeter drain.
Draw The amount of progress billings on a contract that is currently available to a contractor under a contract with a fixed payment schedule.
Drawing Detail A top view drawing of a building or roof showing the roof perimeter and indicating the projections and roof mounted equipment, drawn to scale.
Drawing Outline A top view drawing of a building or roof showing only the perimeter drawn to scale.
Drip A member of a cornice or other horizontal exterior finish course that has a projection beyond the other parts for throwing off water.(or) A groove in the underside of a sill or drip cap to cause water to drop off on the outer edge instead of drawing back and running down the face of the building.
Drip cap A molding or metal flashing placed on the exterior topside of a door or window frame to cause water to drip beyond the outside of the frame.
Drip Edge A device designed to prevent water from running back or under an overhang.
Drippage Bitumen material that drips through roof deck joints, or over the edge of a roof deck.
Dry Glazing Also called compression glazing, a term used to describe various means of sealing monolithic and insulating glass in the supporting framing system with synthetic rubber and other elastomeric gasket materials.
Dry In To make a building waterproof.
Dry Seal Accomplishment of weather seal between glass and sash by use of strips or gaskets of Neoprene, EPDM, silicone or other flexible material. A dry seal may not be completely watertight.
Dry Sheet A ply mechanically attached to wood or gypsum decks to prevent asphalt or pitch from penetrating the deck and leaking into the building below.
Drywall Sheetrock (gypsum board) that covers the framing and taping, coating, and finishing to make the interior walls and ceilings of a building. Drywall is also used as a verb to refer to installation process.
Drywall (or Gypsum Wallboard (GWB), Sheet rock or Plasterboard) Wall board or gypsum- A manufactured panel made out of gypsum plaster and encased in a thin cardboard. Usually 1/2" thick and 4' x 8' or 4' x 12' in size. The panels are nailed or screwed onto the framing and the joints are taped and covered with a 'joint compound'. 'Green board' type drywall has a greater resistance to moisture than regular (white) plasterboard and is used in bathrooms and other "wet areas".
Drywall Hammer A special hammer used for nailing up gypsum board. It is also known as an ax or hatchet. Edges should be smooth and the corners rounded off. The head has a convex round & checkered head.
Duct A cylindrical or rectangular "tube" used to move air either from exhaust or intake. The installation is referred to as "duct work".
Ducts The heating system. Usually round or rectangular metal pipes installed for distributing warm (or cold) air from the furnace to rooms in the home. Also a tunnel made of galvanized metal or rigid fiberglass, which carries air from the heater or ventilation opening to the rooms in a building.
Dumbwaiter An elevator with a maximum footage of not more than 9 sq. ft. floor area; not more than 4" headroom and a maximum capacity of 500 lbs. used for carrying materials only.
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
Duration The length of an activity, excluding holidays and other non-working days.
Durometer The measurement of hardness of a material. A gauge to measure the hardness of an elastomeric material.
DWV (drain-waste-vent) The section of a plumbing system that carries water and sewer gases out of a home.
Earnest Money A sum paid to the seller to show that a potential purchaser is serious about buying.
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.
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 neighbors property.
Eave The part of a roof which projects out from the side wall, or the lower edge of the part of a roof that overhangs a wall.
Edge Clearance Nominal spacing between the edge of the glass product and the bottom of the glazing pocket (channel).
Edge Metal A term relating to brake or extruded metal around the perimeter of a roof.
EER Energy Efficiency Ratio; is figured by dividing BTU hours by watts.
Efflorescence The process by which water leeches soluble salts out of concrete or mortar and deposits them on the surface. Also used as the name for these deposits.
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
Elbow (ell) A plumbing or electrical fitting that lets you change directions in runs of pipe or conduit.
Electric lateral The trench or area in the yard where the electric service line (from a transformer or pedestal) is located, or the work of installing the electric service to a home.
Electric resistance coils Metal wires that heat up when electric current passes through them and are used in baseboard heaters and electric water heaters.
Electrical entrance package The entry point of the electrical power including: (1) the 'strike' or location where the overhead or underground electrical lines connect to the house, (2) The meter which measures how much power is used and (3) The 'panel' or 'circuit breaker box ' (or 'fuse box') where the power can be shut off and where overload devices such a fuses or circuit breakers and located.
Electrical permit A separate permit required for most electrical work.
Electrical Rough Work performed by the Electrical Contractor after the plumber and heating contractor are complete with their phase of work. Normally all electrical wires, and outlet, switch, and fixture boxes are installed (before insulation).
Electrical Trim Work performed by the electrical contractor when the house is nearing completion. The electrician installs all plugs, switches, light fixtures, smoke detectors, appliance "pig tails", bath ventilation fans, wires the furnace, and "makes up" the electric house panel. The electrician does all work necessary to get the home ready for and to pass the municipal electrical final inspection
Electrolytic Coupling A fitting required to join copper to galvanized pipe and gasketed to prevent galvanic action. Connecting pipes of different materials may result in electrolysis.
Elevation A side of a building.
Elevation sheet The page on the blue prints that depicts the house or room as if a vertical plane were passed through the structure.
Emulsion In roofing, a coating consisting of asphalt and fillers suspended in water.
End Lap The amount or location of overlap at the end of a roll of roofing felts in the
EPDM Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. A single ply membrane used as a water seal.
Equity The "valuation" that you own in your home, i.e. the property value less the mortgage loan outstanding.
Escrow The handling of funds or documents by a third party on behalf of the buyer and/or seller.
Escutcheon An ornamental plate that fits around a pipe extending through a wall or floor to hide the cut out hole
Estimate The amount of labor, materials, and other costs that a contractor anticipates for a project as summarized in the contractor's bid proposal for the project.
Estimating A process of calculating the amount of material, labor and equipment required for a given project necessary to complete the work as specified.
Evaporator coil The part of a cooling system that absorbs heat from air in your home. Also see condensing unit.
Excavate Dig the basement and or all areas that will need footings/foundations below ground.
Expansion Coefficient The amount that a specific material will vary in any one dimension with a change of temperature.
Expansion Joint A device used to permit a structure to expand or contract without breakage.
Expansive soils Earth that swells and contracts depending on the amount of water that is present. ("Betonite" is an expansive soil).
Exposed aggregate finish A method of finishing concrete which washes the cement/sand mixture off the top layer of the aggregate - usually gravel. Often used in driveways, patios and other exterior surfaces.
Extras Additional work requested of a contractor, not included in the original plan, which will be billed separately and will not alter the original contract amount, but increase the cost of building the home.
Extrusion An item formed by forcing a base metal (frequently aluminum) or plastic, at a malleable temperature, through a die to achieve a desired shape.
Eyebrow A flat, normally concrete, projection which protrudes horizontally from a building wall; Eyebrows are generally located above windows.
Façade The front of a building. Frequently, in architectural terms an artificial or decorative effort.
Face Brick Brick made especially for exterior use with special consideration of color, texture and size, and used as a facing on a building.
Face nail To install nails into the vertical face of a bearing header or beam.
Faced concrete To finish the front and all vertical sides of a concrete porch, step(s), or patio. Normally the "face" is broom finished.
Facility or Site Analysis A visual inspection of a building and on-site improvements for functional or physical deterioration; prepare optional Replacement Cost Estimate for making recommendations to improve functional and physical deficiencies to increase market value; AND/OR prepare a Reserve Study over five (5) years to increase Net Operating Income (NOI) for the facility.(See Site Analysis)
Facing brick The brick used and exposed on the outside of a wall. Usually these have a finished texture.
Factory Mutual Fm A major insurance agency who has established stringent guidelines for maximum construction integrity as it relates to fire and environmental hazards. Their specifications have become industry standards.
Fascia Horizontal boards attached to rafter/truss ends at the eaves and along gables. Roof drain gutters are attached to the fascia.
Fast Track Construction (Fast Tracking) A method of construction management which involves a continuous design-construction operation. When a prime or main contractor starts the construction work BEFORE the plans and specifications are complete. (See Design-Build Construction)
Fasteners A general term covering a wide variety of screws and nails which may be used for mechanically securing various components of a building.
Felt A very general term used to describe composition of roofing ply sheets, consisting of a mat of organic or inorganic fibers unsaturated, impregnated with asphalt or coal tar pitch, or impregnated and coated with asphalt.
Female Any part, such as a nut or fitting, into which another (male) part can be inserted. Internal threads are female.
Ferrous Refers to objects made of or partially made of iron, such as ferrous pipe.
Ferrule 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.
FHA strap 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.
Field measure To take measurements (cabinets, countertops, stairs, shower doors, etc.) in the home itself instead of using the blueprints.
Field Order A written order effecting a minor change or clarification in the work not involving an adjustment to the contract sum or an extension of the contract time.
Field Work Order A written request to a subcontractor or vendor, usually from the general or main contractor, site for services or materials.
Final Acceptance The action of the owner accepting the work from the contractor when the owner deems the work completed in accordance with the contract requirements. Final acceptance is confirmed by the owner when making the final payment to the contractor.
Final Inspection A final site review of the project by the contractor, owner or owner?s authorized representative prior to issuing the final certificate for payment.
Final Payment The last payment from the owner to the contractor of the entire unpaid balance of the contract sum as adjusted by any approved change orders. (see Final Acceptance)
Finger joint 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).
Finish Carpentry The hanging of all interior doors, installation of door molding, base molding, chair rail, built in shelves, etc.
Finish Coat The last coat applied in plastering intended as a base for paint or further decorating. Finish coat usually consists of calcified gypsum, lime and sometimes an aggregate. Some may require the addition of lime or sand on the job. The three basic methods of applying it are (1) trowel (2) flat and (3) spray.
Finish Date The date that an activity or project is completed.
Finish Grade Any surface which has been cut to or built to the elevation indicated for that point. Surface elevation of lawn, driveway or other improved surfaces after completion of grading operations.
Fire brick or block Brick made of refractory ceramic material which will resist high temperatures. Used in a fireplace and boiler.
Fire retardant chemical A chemical or preparation of chemicals used to reduce the flammability of a material or to retard the spread of flame.
Fire stop A solid, tight closure of a concealed space, placed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through such a space. In a frame wall, this will usually consist of 2 by 4 cross blocking between studs. Work performed to slow the spread of fire and smoke in the walls and ceiling (behind the drywall). Includes stuffing wire holes in the top and bottom plates with insulation, and installing blocks of wood between the wall studs at the drop soffit line. This is integral to passing a Rough Frame inspection. See also 'Fire block'.
Fireplace chase flashing pan A large sheet of metal that is installed around and perpendicular to the fireplace flue pipe. It's purpose is to confine and limit the spread of fire and smoke to a small area.
Fire-resistive or Fire rated Applies to materials that are not combustible in the temperatures of ordinary fires and will withstand such fires for at least 1 hour. Drywall used in the garage and party walls are to be fire rated, 5/8", Type X.
Fish tape A long strip of spring steel used for fishing cables and for pulling wires through conduit.
Fishplate (gusset) A wood or plywood piece used to fasten the ends of two members together at a butt joint with nails or bolts. Sometimes used at the junction of opposite rafters near the ridge line. Sometimes called a gang nail plate.
Fixed Fee A set contract amount for all labor, materials, equipment and services; and contractors overhead and profit for all work being performed for a specific scope of work.
Fixed Limit of Construction Costs A construction cost ceiling agreed to between the owner and architect or engineer for designing a specific project. (See Budget)
Fixed price contract A contract with a set price for the work. See Time and Materials Contract.
Fixed Rate Mortgage A loan where the initial payments are based on a certain interest rate for a stated period . The rate payable will not change during this period regardless of changes in the lender's standard variable rate.
Flagstone (flagging or flags) Flat stones (1 to 4 inches thick) used for walks, steps, floors, and vertical veneer (in lieu of brick).
Flakeboard A manufactured wood panel made out of 1"- 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood in the exterior wall and roof sheathing. Also called OSB or wafer board.
Flame retention burner An oil burner, designed to hold the flame near the nozzle surface. Generally the most efficient type for residential use.
Flash Point The critical temperature at which a material will ignite.
Flashing Weatherproof material installed between roof sheathing (or wall sheathing) and the finish materials to help keep moisture away from the sheathing.
Flashing Base The upturned edge of the watertight membrane formed at a roof termination point by the extension of the felts vertically over the cant strip and up the wall for a varying distance where they are secured with mechanical fasteners.
Flashing, Counter The formed metal secured to a wall, curb, or roof top unit to cover and protect the upper edge of a base flashing and its associated fasteners.
Flashing, Step Individual small pieces of metal flashing material used to flash around chimneys, dormers, and such projections along the slope of a roof. The individual pieces are overlapped and stepped up the vertical surface.
Flat mold Thin wood strips installed over the butt seam of cabinet skins.
Flat paint An interior paint that contains a high proportion of pigment and dries to a flat or lusterless finish.
Flat Seam A seam at the junction of sheet metal roof components that has been bent at the plane of the roof.
Flatwork Common word for concrete floors, driveways, basements, and sidewalks.
Fleet Averaging By using a point system, builders can show compliance with energy building requirements by using average figures for all air conditioning units in the same sub division.
Floating The next-to-last stage in concrete work, when you smooth off the job and bring water to the surface by using a hand float or bull float.
Floating wall A non-bearing wall built on a concrete floor. It is constructed so that the bottom two horizontal plates can compress or pull apart if the concrete floor moves up or down. Normally built on basements and garage slabs.
Floor Plan The basic layout of building or addition, which includes placement of walls, windows and doors as well as dimensions.
Flue Large pipe through which fumes escape from a gas water heater, furnace, or fireplace. Normally these flue pipes are double walled, galvanized sheet metal pipe and sometimes referred to as a "B Vent". Fireplace flue pipes are normally triple walled. In addition, nothing combustible shall be within one inch from the flue pipe.
Flue collar Round metal ring which fits around the heat flue pipe after the pipe passes out of the roof.
Flue damper An automatic door located in the flue that closes it off when the burner turns off; purpose is to reduce heat loss up the flue from the still-warm furnace or boiler.
Flue lining 2-foot lengths, fire clay or terra-cotta pipe (round or square) and usually madein all ordinary flue sizes. Used for the inner lining of chimneys with the brick or masonry work done around the outside. Flue linings in chimneys runs from one foot below the flue connection to the top of the chimney.
Fluorescent lighting A fluorescent lamp is a gas-filled glass tube with a phosphur coating on the inside. Gas inside the tube is ionized by electricity which causes the phosphur coating to glow. Normally with two pins that extend from each end.
Fly rafters End rafters of the gable overhang supported by roof sheathing and lookouts.
Folded Seam In sheet metal work, a joint between sheets of metal wherein the edges of the sheets are crimped together and folded flat.
Footer, footing Continuous 8" or 10" thick concrete pad installed before and supports the foundation wall or monopost.
Forced air heating A common form of heating with natural gas, propane, oil or electricity as a fuel. Air is heated in the furnace and distributed through a set of metal ducts to various areas of the house.
Form Temporary structure erected to contain concrete during placing and initial hardening.
Foundation The supporting portion of a structure below the first floor construction, or below grade, including the footings.
Foundation ties Metal wires that hold the foundation wall panels and rebar in place during the concrete pour.
Foundation waterproofing High-quality below-grade moisture protection. Used for below-grade exterior concrete and masonry wall damp-proofing to seal out moisture and prevent corrosion. Normally looks like black tar
Frame Inspection The act of inspecting the home's structural integrity and it's complianceto local municipal codes.
Framer The carpenter contractor that installs the lumber and erects the frame, flooring system, interior walls, backing, trusses, rafters, decking, installs all beams, stairs, soffits and all work related to the wood structure of the home. The framer builds the home according to the blueprints and must comply with local building codes and regulations.
Framing Lumber used for the structural members of a building, such as studs, joists, and rafters.
Frieze In house construction a horizontal member connecting the top of the siding with the soffit of the cornice.
Frost lid Round metal lid that is installed on a water meter pit.
Frost line The depth of frost penetration in soil and/or the depth at which the earth will freeze and swell. This depth varies in different parts of the country.
Fully Adhered A completely attached (adhered) roof membrane.
Furring strips Strips of wood, often 1 X 2 and used to shim out and provide a level fastening surface for a wall or ceiling.
Fuse A device often found in older homes designed to prevent overloads in electrical lines. This protects against fire. See also 'circuit breakers'.
Gable The end, upper, triangular area of a home, beneath the roof.
Galvanize To coat a metal with zinc by dipping it in molten zinc after cleaning.
Gambrel Roof A type of roof which has its slope broken by an obtuse angle, so that the lower slope is steeper than the upper slope. A double sloped roof having two pitches.
Gang nail plate A steel plate attached to both sides at each joint of a truss. Sometimes called a fishplate or gussett.
Gantt Chart The schedule of activities for a project. A Gantt Chart shows start and finish dates, critical and non-critical activities, slack time, and predecessor relationships.
Gas lateral The trench or area in the yard where the gas line service is located, or the work of installing the gas service to a home.
Gate valve A valve that lets you completely stop?but not modulate?the flow within a pipe.
Gauge The thickness of sheet metal and wire, etc.
General Conditions A written portion of the contract documents set forth by the owner stipulating the contractor?s minimum acceptable performance requirements including the rights, responsibilities and relationships of the parties involved in the performance of the contract. General conditions are usually included in the book of specifications but are sometimes found in the architectural drawings.
General Contractor A contractor responsible for all facets of construction of a building or renovation.
General Contractor A contractor who enters into a contract with the owner of a project for the construction of the project and who takes full responsibility for its completion, although the contractor may enter into subcontracts with others for the performance of specific parts or phases of the project.  
GFCI, or GFI Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter- 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.
GFRC Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete; Material used in wall systems that resembles but generally does not perform as well as concrete. Usually a thin cementitious material laminated to plywood or other lightweight backing.
Girder A main beam upon which floor joists rest, usually made of steel or wood.
Glazing The process of installing glass, which commonly is secured with glazier's points and glazing compound.
Globe valve A valve that lets you adjust the flow of water to any rate between fully on and fully off. Also see gate valve.
Gloss enamel A finishing paint material. Forms a hard coating with maximum smoothness of surface and dries to a sheen or luster (gloss)
Glued Laminated Beam (Glulam) A structural beam composed of wood laminations or lams. The lams are pressure bonded with adhesives to attain a typical thickness of 1 ½" . (It looks like 5 or more 2 X 4's are glued together).
Grade Ground level, or the elevation at any given point. Also the work of leveling dirt. Also the designated quality of a manufactured piece of wood.
Grade beam A foundation wall that is poured @ level with or just below the grade of theearth. An example is the area where the 8' or 16' overhead garage door "block out" is located, or a lower (walk out basement) foundation wall is poured
Grade Mw Moderate Weather grade of brick for moderate resistance to freezing used, for example, in planters.
Grade Sw Severe Weather grade of brick intended for use where high resistance to freezing is desired.
Grading permit Authorization to change the contour of the land.
Graduated Payment Mortgage (GPM) A fixed rate, fixed schedule loan. It starts with lower payments than a level payment loan; payments rise annually, with the entire increase being used to reduce the outstanding balance. The increase in payments may enable the borrower to pay off a 30-year loan in 15 to 20 years, or less
Grain The direction, size, arrangement, appearance, or quality of the fibers in wood.
Granules The mineral particles of a graded size which are embedded in the asphalt coating of shingles and roofing.
Grid The completed assembly of main and cross tees in a suspended ceiling system before the ceiling panels are installed. Also the decorative slats (munton) installed between glass panels.
Ground 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.
Ground fault 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.
Ground iron 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.
Grounding Rod Rod used to ground an electrical panel.
Groundwater Water from an aquifer or subsurface water source.
Grout Or Grouting A cement mortar mixture commonly used to fill joints and cavities of masonry.
Gunite A construction material composed of cement, sand or crushed slag and water mixed together and forced through a cement gun by pneumatic pressure, used in the construction of swimming pools.
Gusset 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.
Gutter Metal trough at the eaves of a roof to carry rain water from the roof to the
Gutter Strap Metal bands used to support the gutter.
Guy Wire A strong steel wire or cable strung from an anchor on the roof to any tall slender projection for the purpose of support.
Gypsum See Drywall
Gypsum Keene Cement Material used to obtain a smooth finish coat of plaster, for use over gypsum plastic base coats only and in areas not subject to moisture. It is the hardest plaster.
H Clip Small metal clips formed like an "H" that fits at the joints of two plywood (or wafer board) sheets to stiffen the joint. Normally used on the roof sheeting.
H V A C An abbreviation for Heat, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Hardware Metal accessories such as door knobs, towel bars, toilet paper holders, etc.
Hatch An opening in a deck; floor or roof. The usual purpose is to provide access from inside the building.
Haunch An extension, knee like protrusion of the foundation wall that a concrete porch or patio will rest upon for support.
Hawk A flat wood or metal tool 10 inches to 14 inches square with a handle used by plasterers to carry plaster mortar or mud.
Hazard Insurance Insurance for a building while it is under construction.
Header Framing members over windows, doors, or other openings.
Hearth The fireproof area directly in front of a fireplace. The inner or outer floor of a fireplace, usually made of brick, tile, or stone.
Heat meter An electrical municipal inspection of the electric meter breaker panel box.
Heat pump A mechanical device which uses compression and decompression of gas to heat and/or cool a house.
Heat Rough Work performed by the Heating Contractor after the stairs and interior walls are built. This includes installing all duct work and flue pipes. Sometimes, the furnace and fireplaces are installed at this stage of construction.
Heat Trim Work done by the Heating Contractor to get the home ready for the municipal Final Heat Inspection. This includes venting the hot water heater, installing all vent grills, registers, air conditioning services, turning on the furnace, installing thermostats, venting ranges and hoods, and all other heat related work.
Heating load The amount of heating required to keep a building at a specified temperature during the winter, usually 65° F, regardless of outside temperature.
Heel cut A notch cut in the end of a rafter to permit it to fit flat on a wall and on the top, doubled, exterior wall plate.
High Early Cement A portland cement sold as Type III sets up to its full strength faster than other types.
Highlights A light spot, area, or streak on a painted surface.
Hip A roof with four sloping sides. The external angle formed by the meeting of two sloping sides of a roof.
Hip Roof A roof which rises by inclining planes from all four sides of a building.
Hoistway A shaftway for the travel of one or more elevators.
Home run (electrical) The electrical cable that carries power from the main circuit breaker panel to the first electrical box, plug, or switch in the circuit.
Honey combs The appearance concrete makes when rocks in the concrete are visible and where there are void areas in the foundation wall, especially around concrete foundation windows.
Hose bib An exterior water faucet (sill cock).
Hot wire The wire that carries electrical energy to a receptacle or other device?in contrast to a neutral, which carries electricity away again. Normally the black wire. Also see ground.
Humidifier An appliance normally attached to the furnace, or portable unit device designed to increase the humidity within a room or a house by means of the discharge of water vapor.
Hurricane clip Metal straps that are nailed and secure the roof rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall plate. Sometimes called a Teco clip.
Hvac Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning.
Hydroelectric Elevator An elevator where liquid is pumped under pressure directly into the cylinder by a pump driven by an electric motor without an accumulator between the pump and cylinder.
I-Beam A steel beam with a cross section resembling the letter I. It is used for long spans as basement beams or over wide wall openings, such as a double garage door, when wall and roof loads bear down on the opening.
I-joist Manufactured structural building component resembling the letter "I". Used as floor joists and rafters. I-joists include two key parts: flanges and webs. The flange of the I joist may be made of laminated veneer lumber or dimensional lumber, usually formed into a 1 ½" width. The web or center of the I-joist is commonly made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). Large holes can be cut in the web to accommodate duct work and plumbing waste lines. I-joists are available in lengths up to 60 feet long joist is commonly made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). Large holes can be cut in the web to accommodate duct work and plumbing waste lines. I-joists are available in lengths up to 60 feet long
Improvements 1. A term sometimes used to describe TI'S or Tenant Improvements.
Incandescent lamp A lamp employing an electrically charged metal filament that glows at white heat. A typical light bulb.
Incompatibility Descriptive of two or more materials which are not suitable to be used together.
Indemnification Clause Provision in a contract in which one party agrees to be financially responsible for specified types of damages, claims, or losses.
Independent Contractor One free from the influence, guidance, or control of another or others and does not owe a "fiduciary duty". Example: architect, engineer, prime or main contractor, construction manager at-risk.
Index The interest rate or adjustment standard that determines the changes in monthly payments for an adjustable rate loan.
Indirect Cost (or expense) A contractor?s or consultant?s overhead expense; expenses indirectly incurred and not chargeable to a specific project or task. The terms Indirect costs and soft costs are synonymous . (see Soft Costs)
Infiltration The passage of air from indoors to outdoors and vice versa; term is usually associated with drafts from cracks, seams or holes in buildings.
Infiltration The process by which air leaks into a building. In either case, heat loss results. To find the infiltration heating load factor (HLF), the formula to account for the extra BTU's needed to heat the infiltrated air is:
Inside corner The point at which two walls form an internal angle, as in the corner of a room.
Inspection 1. The act of inspecting.
Inspection for Disbursement of Funds An independent vehicle for the disbursement and accounting of construction funds allowing construction obligations to be paid (progress payments) when work is completed, inspected and approved. Job Costs are reviewed prior to making disbursements to establish that the actual construction payments are within the confines of the original estimate confines or schedule of construction values.
Inspection List (punch list) A list prepared by the owner or his/her authorized representative of items of work requiring immediate corrective or completion action by the contractor.
Inspection Report Sometimes used to describe an Inspection List. (see Inspection List)
Inspector One who is appointed or employed to inspect something.
Insulating glass Window or door in which two panes of glass are used with a sealed air space between. Also known as Double glass.
Insulation Any material high in resistance to heat transmission that, when placed in the walls, ceiling, or floors of a structure, and will reduce the rate of heat flow.
Insulation board, rigid A structural building board made of coarse wood or cane fiber in ½ and 25/32 inch thickness. It can be obtained in various size sheets and densities.
Insulation Fasteners Any of several specialized mechanical fasteners designed to hold insulation down to a steel or a nailable deck.
Interest The cost paid to a lender for borrowed money.
Interior Finish A term used to represent the visible elements, materials and applications applied to a building?s interior excluding furniture, fixtures and equipment. (see FF&E)
Interply Between two layers of roofing felts that have been laminated together.
Invoice A list sent to a purchaser containing the items and charges of merchandise. (see Statement)
IRMA Insulated (or Inverted) Roof Membrane Assembly. In this system the roof membrane is laid directly on the roof deck, covered with extruded foam insulation and ballasted with stone, minimum of 1000 lbs. per square.
Irrigation Lawn sprinkler system.
J Channel Metal edging used on drywall to give the edge a better finished appearance when a wall is not "wrapped" Generally, basement stairway walls have drywall only on the stair side. J Channel is used on the vertical edge of the last drywall sheet
Jack post A type of structural support made of metal, which can be raised or lowered through a series of pins and a screw to meet the height required. Basically used as a replacement for an old supporting member in a building. See Monopost.
Jack rafter A rafter that spans the distance from the wall plate to a hip, or from a valley to a ridge.
Jamb The side and head lining of a doorway, window, or other opening. Includes studs as well as the frame and trim.
Joint The location between the touching surfaces of two members or components joined and held together by nails, glue, cement, mortar, or other means.
Joint cement or Joint compound A powder that is usually mixed with water and used for joint treatment in gypsum wallboard finish. Often called "spackle" or drywall mud.
Joint tenancy A form of ownership in which the tenants own a property equally. If one dies, the other automatically inherits the entire property.
Joint trench When the electric company and telephone company dig one trench and "drop" both of their service lines in.
Joist The horizontal framing members that support the floors.
Joist hanger A metal "U" shaped item used to support the end of a floor joist and attached with hardened nails to another bearing joist or beam.
Jumpers Water pipe installed in a water meter pit (before the water meter is installed), or electric wire that is installed in the electric house panel meter socket before the meter is installed. This is sometimes illegal.
Keeper The metal latch plate in a door frame into which a doorknob plunger latches.
Kelvin Thermometer scale on which a unit of measurement equals the Celsius degree.
Keyless A plastic or porcelain light fixture that operates by a pull string. Generally found in the basement, crawl space , and attic areas.
Keyway A slot formed and poured on a footer or in a foundation wall when another wall will be installed at the slot location. This gives additional strength to the joint/meeting point.
Kick Hole A defect frequently found in perimeter flashings arising from being stepped on or kicked. A small fracture of the base flashing in the area of the cant.
Kilowatt (kw) One thousand watts. A kilowatt hour is the base unit used in measuring electrical consumption. Also see watt.
King stud The vertical "2 X's" frame lumber (left and right) of a window or door opening, and runs continuously from the bottom sole plate to the top plate.
Knot In lumber, the portion of a branch or limb of a tree that appears on the edge or face of the piece.
Kraft A heavy, water resistant paper.
Kynar Coating Architectural coating that is UV stable and suitable for exterior use on aluminum and other metal surfaces.
Labor and Material Payment Bond 1. A written form of security from a surety (bonding) company to the owner, on behalf of an acceptable prime or main contractor or subcontractor, guaranteeing payment to the owner in the event the contractor fails to pay for all labor, materials, equipment, or services in accordance with the contract. (see Performance Bond and Surety Bond)
Ladder, Fixed A ladder which is permanently attached to a building.
Laminated shingles Shingles that have added dimensionality because of extra layers or tabs, giving a shake like appearance. May also be called "architectural shingles" or "three dimensional shingles."
Laminating Bonding together two or more layers of materials.
Landing A platform between flights of stairs or at the termination of a flight of stairs. Often used when stairs change direction. Normally no less than 3 ft. X 3 ft. square.
Lap To extend one material partially over another; the distance so extended.
Latch A beveled metal tongue operated by a spring loaded knob or lever. The tongue's bevel lets you close the door and engage the locking mechanism, if any, without using a key. Contrasts with dead bolt.
Lateral (electric, gas, telephone, sewer and water) The underground trench and related services (i.e., electric, gas, telephone, sewer and water lines) that will be buried within the trench.
Lath A building material of narrow wood, metal, gypsum, or insulating board that is fastened to the frame of a building to act as a base for plaster, shingles, or tiles.
Lattice An open framework of criss-crossed wood or metal strips that form regular, patterned spaces.
Lead A malleable metal once extensively used for flashings.
Leasehold Improvements A term used to mean Tenant Improvements. Generally, this term is used when building in retail stores as contrasted with the term Tenant Improvements which are generally associated with office buildings. The terms are often used interchangeably. (see TI'S)
Ledger (for a Structural Floor) The wooden perimeter frame lumber member that bolts onto the face of a foundation wall and supports the wood structural floor.
Ledger strip A strip of lumber nailed along the bottom of the side of a girder on which joists rest.    
Leech field A method used to treat/dispose of sewage in rural areas not accessible to a municipal sewer system. Sewage is permitted to be filtered and eventually discharged into a section of the lot called a leech field.   .
Level True horizontal. Also a tool used to determine level.    
Level Payment Mortgage A mortgage with identical monthly payments over the life of the loan.    
Leveling Rod A rod with graduated marks for measuring heights or vertical distances between given points and the line of sight of a leveling instrument. They are longer than a yardstick and are held by a surveyor in a vertical position.    
Lien An encumbrance that usually makes real or personal property the security for payment of a debt or discharge of an obligation.    
Lien Release A written document from the contractor to the owner that releases the Lien, Mechanic?s or Material following it?s satisfaction.    
Lien Waiver 1. An written document from a contractor, subcontractor, material supplier or other construction professional(s), having lien rights against an owner?s property, relinquishes all or part of those rights.    
Lien, Mechanic's or Material The right to take and hold or sell an owner?s property to satisfy unpaid debts to a qualified contractor for labor, materials, equipment or services to improve the property. (see Preliminary Lien Notice)    
Light Space in a window sash for a single pane of glass. Also, a pane of glass.    
Limit switch A safety control that automatically shuts off a furnace if it gets too hot. Most also control blower cycles.    
Lineal foot A unit of measure for lumber equal to 1 inch thick by 12 inches wide by 12 inches long. Examples: 1" x 12" x 16' = 16 board feet, 2" x 12" x 16' = 32 board feet.    
Lintel A horizontal structural member that supports the load over an opening such as a door or window.    
Live Load Loads produced by use and occupancy of the building or other structure and do not include construction or environmental loads such as wind load, snow load, ice load, rain load, seismic load, or dead load.    
Load bearing wall Includes all exterior walls and any interior wall that is aligned above a support beam or girder. Normally, any wall that has a double horizontal top plate.    
Loan The amount to be borrowed.    
Loan to value ratio The ratio of the loan amount to the property valuation and expressed as a percentage. E.g. if a borrower is seeking a loan of $200,000 on a property worth $400,000 it has a 50% loan to value rate. If the loan were $300,000, the LTV would be 75%. The higher the loan to value, the greater the lender's perceived risk. Loans above normal lending LTV ratios may require additional security.
Lookout A short wood bracket or cantilever that supports an overhang portion of a roof.
Lot A parcel of ground with boundaries determined by the county.
Louver A vented opening into the home that has a series of horizontal slats and arranged to permit ventilation but to exclude rain, snow, light, insects, or other living creatures.
Lumens Unit of measure for total light output. The amount of light falling on a surface of one square foot.
Lump Sum Agreement (See Stipulated Sum Agreement)  
Lump Sum Bid A single entry amount to cover all labor, equipment, materials, services, and overhead and profit for completing the construction of a variety of unspecified items of work without the benefit of a cost breakdown.
Lump Sum Contract A written contract between the owner and contractor wherein the owner agrees the pay the contractor a specified sum of money for completing a scope of work consisting of a variety of unspecified items or work.
Male Any part, such as a bolt, designed to fit into another (female) part. External threads are male.
Mansard Roof A roof which rises by inclined planes from all four sides of a building. The sloping roofs on all four sides have two pitches, the lower pitch usually very steep and the upper pitch less steep.
Mantel The shelf above a fireplace opening. Also used in referring to the decorative trim around a fireplace opening.
Manufactured wood A wood product such as a truss, beam, gluelam, microlam or joist which is manufactured out of smaller wood pieces and glued or mechanically fastened to form a larger piece. Often used to create a stronger member which may use less wood. See also Oriented Strand Board.
Manufacturer's specifications The written installation and/or maintenance instructions which are developed by the manufacturer of a product and which may have to be followed in order to maintain the product warrantee.
Masonry Stone, brick, concrete, hollow-tile, concrete block, or other similar building units or materials. Normally bonded together with mortar to form a wall.
Mastic heavy consistency compound that may remain adhesive and pliable with age. Is typically a waterproof compound applied to exterior walls and roof surfaces.
Maximum Occupancy Load The maximum number of people permitted in a room and is measured per foot for each width of exit door. The maximum is 50 per foot of exit.
Mechanics lien A lien on real property, created by statue in many years, in favor of persons supplying labor or materials for a building or structure, for the value of labor or materials supplied by them. In some jurisdictions, a mechanics lien also exists for the value of professional services. Clear title to the property cannot be obtained until the claim for the labor, materials, or professional services is settled. Timely filing is essential to support the encumbrance, and prescribed filing dates vary by jurisdiction.
Meeting Attendance Form A form consisting of three columns (individuals name, individuals title, and company the individual represents). This form is given to all persons attending any meeting. Each person attending the meeting will complete their respective information. The date of the meeting should be included for reference.
Meeting Notes A written report consisting of a project number, project name, meeting date and time, meeting place, meeting subject, a list of persons attending, and a list of actions taken and/or discussed during the meeting. Generally, this report is distributed to all persons attending the meeting and any other person having an interest in the meeting.
Melt Point The temperature at which the solid asphalt becomes a liquid.
Metal Edge Brake metal or metal extrusions which are secured at the perimeter of the roof to form a weathertight seal.
Metal lath Sheets of metal that are slit to form openings within the lath. Used as a plaster base for walls and ceilings and as reinforcing over other forms of plaster base.
Microlam A manufactured structural wood beam. It is constructed of pressure and adhesive bonded wood strands of wood. They have a higher strength rating than solid sawn lumber. Normally comes in l ½" thickness' and 9 ½", 11 ½" and 14" widths
Migration Spreading or creeping of a constituent of a compound onto/into adjacent surfaces. See bleeding.
Mil Thickness Measurement used to determine thickness of a coating. 1 mil = .001 inch (1/1000).
Milar (mylar) Plastic, transparent copies of a blueprint.
Milestone An activity with a duration of zero (0) and by which progress of the project is measured. A milestone is an informational marker only; it does not affect scheduling.
Millwork Generally all building materials made of finished wood and manufactured in millwork plants. Includes all doors, window and door frames, blinds, mantels, panelwork, stairway components (ballusters, rail, etc.), moldings, and interior trim. Does not include flooring, ceiling, or siding.
Miter joint The joint of two pieces at an angle that bisects the joining angle. For example, the miter joint at the side and head casing at a door opening is made at a 45° angle.
Molding A wood strip having an engraved, decorative surface.
Monitor A large structure rising above the surrounding roof planes, designed to give light and/or ventilation to the building interior.
Monopost Adjustable metal column used to support a beam or bearing point. Normally 11 gauge or Schedule 40 metal, and determined by the structural engineer
Mortar A mixture of cement (or lime) with sand and water used in masonry work.
Mortgage Loan secured by land.
Mortgage broker A broker who represents numerous lenders and helps consumers find affordable mortgages; the broker charges a fee only if the consumer finds a loan.
Mortgage company A company that borrows money from a bank, lends it to consumers to buy homes, then sells the loans to investors.
Mortgage deed Legal document establishing a loan on property.
Mortgage loan A contract in which the borrower's property is pledged as collateral. It is repaid in installments. The mortgagor (buyer) promises to repay principal and interest, keep the home insured, pay all taxes and keep the property in good condition.
Mortgage Origination Fee A charge for work involved in preparing and servicing a mortgage application (usually one percent of the loan amount).
Mortgagee The lender who makes the mortgage loan.
Mortise A slot cut into a board, plank, or timber, usually edgewise, to receive the tenon (or tongue) of another board, plank, or timber to form a joint.
Mud Cracks Cracks developing from the normal shrinkage of an emulsion coating when applied too heavily.
Mudsill Bottom horizontal member of an exterior wall frame which rests on top a foundation, sometimes called sill plate. Also sole plate, bottom member of interior wall frame.
Mullion A vertical divider in the frame between windows, doors, or other openings.
Muntin A small member which divides the glass or openings of sash or doors.
Muriatic acid Commonly used as a brick cleaner after masonry work is completed.
Mushroom The unacceptable occurrence when the top of a caisson concrete pier spreads out and hardens to become wider than the foundation wall thickness.
Nail inspection An inspection made by a municipal building inspector after the drywall material is hung with nails and screws (and before taping).
Natural finish A transparent finish which does not seriously alter the original color or grain of the natural wood. Natural finishes are usually provided by sealers, oils, varnishes, water repellent preservatives, and other similar materials.
Neat Plaster A base coat plaster which does not contain aggregates and is used where the addition of aggregates on the job is desired.
NEC (National Electrical Code) A set of rules governing safe wiring methods. Local codes?which are backed by law?may differ from the NEC in some ways.
Neutral wire Usually color-coded white, this carries electricity from an outlet back to the service panel. Also see hot wire and ground.
Newel post The large starting post to which the end of a stair guard railing or balustrade is fastened.
NM A type of ROMEX cable (nonmetallic sheathed cable that contains several conductors). The cable, which is flame-retardant, is limited to use in dry locations only and can not be exposed to excessive moisture.
Nonbearing wall A wall supporting no load other than its own weight.
Nosing The projecting edge of a molding or drip or the front edge of a stair tread.
Notch A crosswise groove at the end of a board.
Note A formal document showing the existence of a debt and stating the terms of repayment.
Nozzle The part of a heating system that sprays the fuel of fuel-air mixture into the combustion chamber.
Nuclear Meter A device used to detect moisture by measuring slowed, deflected neutrons.
O.C. On Center. A measurement term meaning a certain distance between like materials. Studs placed at 16" O.C. will be laid out so that there is 16" from the center of one stud to the center of the next.
Oakum Loose hemp or jute fiber that's impregnated with tar or pitch and used to caulk large seams or for packing plumbing pipe joints
Ohm's Law States that, in a given electrical circuit, the amount at current in amps is equal to the pressure in volts divided by the resistance in ohms. The formula is:
Open Bid/Estimate A service offered by constructionplace.com where any bidder or estimator is given access to project specific RFP (Request for Proposal) information. This option is for those seeking bids/estimates from any interested professionals or service with out prequalifying them. For security and easy access, the project poster receives an e-mail showing the links to View the RFP Details and View any Bids as they are received. This gives the RFP poster the ability to file and track the respective RFP's using their own e-mail filing system. (see Closed Bid/Estimate)
Open hole inspection When an engineer (or municipal inspector) inspects the open excavation and examines the earth to determine the type of foundation (caisson, footer, wall on ground, etc.) that should be installed in the hole.
Organic A term designating any chemical compound which contains carbon and hydrogen.
Oriented Strand Board or OSB A manufactured 4' X 8' wood panel made out of 1"- 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood.
Outrigger An extension of a rafter beyond the wall line. Usually a smaller member nailed to a larger rafter to form a cornice or roof overhang.
Outside corner The point at which two walls form an external angle, one you usually can walk around.
Overhang That part of the roof structure which extends horizontally beyond the vertical plane of the exterior walls of a building.
Owner-Architect Agreement A written form of contract between architect and client for professional architectural services.
Owner-Builder A term used to describe an Owner who takes on the responsibilities of the general contractor to build a specific project.
Owner-Construction Agreement Contract between owner and contractor for a construction project.
Owner-Construction Management Agreement Contract between construction manager and client for professional services.
Oxidize To combine with oxygen in the air.
P trap Curved, "U" section of drain pipe that holds a water seal to prevent sewer gasses from entering the home through a fixtures water drain.
Pad out, pack out To shim out or add strips of wood to a wall or ceiling in order that the finished ceiling/wall will appear correct.
Padding A material installed under carpet to add foot comfort, isolate sound, and to prolong carpet life.
Paint A combination of pigments with suitable thinners or oils to provide decorative and protective coatings. Can be oil based or latex water based.
Pallets Wooden platforms used for storing and shipping material. Forklifts and hand trucks are used to move these wooden platforms around.
Panel A thin flat piece of wood, plywood, or similar material, framed by stiles and rails as in a door (or cabinet door), or fitted into grooves of thicker material with molded edges for decorative wall treatment.
Paper, building A general term for papers, felts, and similar sheet materials used in buildings without reference to their properties or uses. Generally comes in long rolls.
Parapet A wall placed at the edge of a roof to prevent people from falling off.
Parapet Wall A low wall around the perimeter of a roof deck.
Parge Coat A thin application of plaster for coating a wall.
Parking Strip The area in front of a building between the sidewalk and the street usually landscaped with grass. The parking strip serves as a buffer between the road and pedestrians walking on the sidewalk.
Particle board Plywood substitute made of course sawdust that is mixed with resin and pressed into sheets. Used for closet shelving, floor underlayment, stair treads, etc.
Parting stop or strip A small wood piece used in the side and head jambs of double hung windows to separate the upper sash from the lower sash.
Partition A wall that subdivides spaces within any story of a building or room.
Paver, paving Materials?commonly masonry?laid down to make a firm, even surface.
Pedestal A metal box installed at various locations along utility easements that contain electrical, telephone, or cable television switches and connections.
Penalty clause A provision in a contract that provides for a reduction in the amount otherwise payable under a contract to a contractor as a penalty for failure to meet deadlines or for failure of the project to meet contract specifications.
Penny As applied to nails, it originally indicated the price per hundred. The term now series as a measure of nail length and is abbreviated by the letter "d". Normally, 16d (16 "penny") nails are used for framing
Penthouse A relatively small structure built above the plane of the roof.
Percolation test or perc. test Tests that a soil engineer performs on earth to determine the feasibility of installing a leech field type sewer system on a lot. A test to determine if the soil on a proposed building lot is capable of absorbing the liquid affluent from a septic system.
Performance bond An amount of money (usually 10% of the total price of a job) that a contractor must put on deposit with a governmental agency as an insurance policy that guarantees the contractors' proper and timely completion of a project or job.
Performance Bond 1. A written form of security from a surety (bonding) company to the owner, on behalf of an acceptable prime or main contractor or subcontractor, guaranteeing payment to the owner in the event the contractor fails to perform all labor, materials, equipment, or services in accordance with the contract.
Performance Specifications The written material containing the minimum acceptable standards and actions, as may be necessary to complete a project. Including the minimum acceptable quality standards and aesthetic values expected upon completion of the project.
Perimeter drain 3" or 4" perforated plastic pipe that goes around the perimeter (either inside or outside) of a foundation wall (before backfill) and collects and diverts ground water away from the foundation. Generally, it is "daylighted" into a sump pit inside the home, and a sump pump is sometimes inserted into the pit to discharge any accumulation of water.
Perlite An aggregate formed by heating and expanding siliceous volcanic glass.
Permeability A measure of the ease with which water penetrates a material.
Permit A governmental municipal authorization to perform a building process as in:
PERT An abbreviation for Program Evaluating and Review Technique. (see Activity; Critical Path Method)
PERT Schedule A diagram that illustrates, charts and reports a projects estimated start and completion times; and work in progress.
Pier A column of masonry, usually rectangular in horizontal cross section, used to support other structural members. Also see Caisson.
Pigment A powdered solid used in paint or enamel to give it a color.
Pigtails, electrical The electric cord that the electrician provides and installs on an appliance such as a garbage disposal, dishwasher, or range hood.
Pilot hole A small diameter, pre-drilled hole that guides a nail or screw.
Pilot light A small, continuous flame (in a hot water heater, boiler, or furnace) that ignites gas or oil burners when needed.
Pitch The incline slope of a roof or the ratio of the total rise to the total width of a house, i.e., a 6 foot rise and 24-foot width is a one-fourth pitch roof. Roof slope is expressed in the inches of rise, per foot of horizontal run.
PITI Principal, interest, taxes and insurance (the four major components of monthly housing payments).
Plan 1. A line drawing (by floor) representing the horizontal geometrical section of the walls of a building. The section (a horizontal plane) is taken at an elevation to include the relative positions of the walls, partitions, windows, doors, chimneys, columns, pilasters, etc.
Plan Checker A term sometimes used to describe a building department official who examines the building permit documents.
Plan Submittal Submission of construction plans to the city or county in order to obtain a Building Permit.
Plan view Drawing of a structure with the view from overhead, looking down.
Planner A person who forms a scheme or method for doing something; an arrangement of means or steps for the attainment of some object; a scheme, method, design; a mode of action.
Plans A term used to represent all drawings including sections and details; and any supplemental drawings for complete execution of a specific project.
Plat A map of a geographical area as recorded by the county.
Plate Normally a 2 X 4 or 2 X 6 that lays horizontally within a framed structure, such as:
Plate Line The top horizontal line of a building wall upon which the roof rests.
Platform Framing/Platform Construction The process of constructing a building in one or more consecutively installed platforms. (Usually one story constitutes a platform.)
Plenum The main hot-air supply duct leading from a furnace.
Plenum Chamber Chamber or container for moving air under a slight positive pressure to which one or more ducts are connected.
Plot plan An overhead view plan that shows the location of the home on the lot. Includes all easements, property lines, set backs, and legal descriptions of the home. Provided by the surveyor.
Plot Plan A bird?s eye view showing how a building sits on the building lot, typically showing setbacks (how far the building must sit from the road), easements, rights of way, and drainage.
Plough, plow To cut a lengthwise groove in a board or plank. An exterior handrail normally has a ploughed groove for hand gripping purposes
Plumb Exactly vertical and perpendicular.
Plumb bob A lead weight attached to a string. It is the tool used in determining plumb.
Plumbing boots Metal saddles used to strengthen a bearing wall/vertical stud(s) where a plumbing drain line has been cut through and installed.
Plumbing ground The plumbing drain and waste lines that are installed beneath a basement floor.
Plumbing jacks Sleeves that fit around drain and waste vent pipes at, and are nailed to, the roof sheeting.
Plumbing permit A separate permit required for new plumbing and larger modifications of existing plumbing systems.
Plumbing rough Work performed by the plumbing contractor after the Rough Heat is installed. This work includes installing all plastic ABS drain and waste lines, copper water lines, bath tubs, shower pans, and gas piping to furnaces and fireplaces. Lead solder should not be used on copper piping.
Plumbing stack A plumbing vent pipe that penetrates the roof.
Plumbing trim Work performed by the plumbing contractor to get the home ready for a final plumbing inspection. Includes installing all toilets (water closets), hot water heaters, sinks, connecting all gas pipe to appliances, disposal, dishwasher, and all plumbing items.
Plumbing waste line Plastic pipe used to collect and drain sewage waste.
Plywood A panel (normally 4' X 8') of wood made of three or more layers of veneer, compressed and joined with glue, and usually laid with the grain of adjoining plies at right angles to give the sheet strength.
Point load A point where a bearing/structural weight is concentrated and transferred to the foundation.
Pointing The process where joints between masonry units, brick, etc., are filled with mortar.
Ponding A condition where water stands on a roof for prolonged periods due to poor
Pop Out See stucco popout
Porosity The density of substance and its capacity to pass liquids.
Portland cement Cement made by heating clay and crushed limestone into a brick and then grinding to a pulverized powder state.
Portland Cement A mixture of certain minerals which when mixed with water form a gray colored paste and cure into a very hard mass.
Post A vertical member of wood, steel, concrete or other material that transfers weight from the top of the post to whatever the post is resting on.
Post & Beam Construction Most common type of wall framing, using posts which carry horizontal beams on which joists are supported. It allows for fewer bearing partitions, & less material.
Power The energy rate, usually measured in watts. Power equals voltage times amps. or W = E x 1. The heavier the flow of amps at a given supply, the higher the rate at which energy is being supplied and used.
Power vent A vent that includes a fan to speed up air flow. Often installed on roofs.
Precast Concrete building components which are formed and cured at a factory and then transported to a work site for erection.
Pre-Construction Planning and Team Building A process used for the purpose of establishing below market dollar budget(s), overall project scheduling and design criteria; also identification and selection of the most feasible planning, design and construction team.
Predecessor An activity that must be completed before another activity can begin.
Preliminary Drawings 1. The drawings that precede the final approved drawings.
Preliminary Lien Notice A written notice given to the property owner of a specific project by the subcontractors and any person or company furnishing services, equipment or materials to that project. The notice states if bills are not paid in full for the labor, services, equipment, or materials furnished or to be furnished, a mechanic's lien leading to the loss, through court foreclosure proceedings, of all or part of the property being so improved may be placed against the property even through the owner has paid the prime contractor in full. The notice explains how the owner can protect himself against this consequence by 1. requiring the prime contractor to furnish a signed release by the person or firm thus giving the owner notice before making payment to the prime contractor or 2. any other method or device which is appropriate under the circumstances. The state of California mandates that a Preliminary Lien Notice must be given to the property owner not more than 20 days after starting the work on the specific project.
Premium Amount payable on a loan.
Pre-qualification of prospective bidders A screening process wherein the owner or his/her appointed representative gathers background information from a contractor or construction professional for selection purposes. Qualifying considerations include competence, integrity, dependability, responsiveness, bonding rate, bonding capacity, work on hand, similar project experience, and other specific owner requirements.
Preservative . Any pesticide substance that, for a reasonable length of time, will prevent the action of wood destroying fungi, insect borers, and similar destructive agents when the wood has been properly coated or impregnated with it. Normally an arsenic derivative. Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) is an example.
Pressure Relief Valve (PRV) A device mounted on a hot water heater or boiler which is designed to release any high steam pressure in the tank to prevent tank explosions.
Pressure Treated Lumber Lumber that is treated in such a way that the sealer is forced into the pores of the wood.
Pressure-treated wood Lumber that has been saturated with a preservative.
Prime Contract A written contract directly between a prime or main contractor or subcontractor for work on a specific project.
Prime Contractor Any contractor having a contract directly with the owner.
Primer A material of relatively thin consistency applied to a surface for the purpose of
Principal The original amount of the loan, the capital.
Professional Engineer One who is professionally engaged in a branch of engineering.
Program An ordered list of events to take place or procedures to be followed for a specific project.
Progress Payment A payment from the owner to the contractor determined by calculating the difference between the completed work and materials stored and a predetermined schedule of values or unit costs. (see Schedule of values; Unit Costs).
Progress Schedule A line diagram showing proposed and actual starting and completion times the respective project activities. (see Activity)
Project A word used to represent the overall scope of work being performed to complete a specific construction job.
Project Cost All costs for a specific project including costs for land, professionals, construction, furnishings, fixtures, equipment, financing and any other project related costs.
Project Directory A written list of all parties connected with a specific project. The list usually includes a classification or description of the party (i.e.., Owner, Architect, Attorney, General Contractor, Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, etc.); name, address, telephone and FAX numbers opposite their respective classifications or description. It is particularly important that the emergency or after hour telephone numbers are included. These numbers should be kept confidential if requested by the respective parties.
Project Manager (Project Management) A qualified individual or firm authorized by the owner to be responsible for coordinating time, equipment, money, tasks and people for all or specified portions of a specific project. (see Construction Manager)
Project Manual A organized book setting forth the bidding requirements, conditions of the contract and the technical work specifications for a specific project. (see Specifications)
Project Representative A qualified individual authorized by the owner to assist in the administration of a specific construction contract.
Property Inspections and Reports A limited visual inspection to identify the general features and major deficiencies of the property. Any area not exposed to view, is concealed, or is inaccessible is not included in this inspection.
Property survey A survey to determine the boundaries of your property. The cost depends on the complexity of the survey.
Proposal A written offer from a bidder to the owner, preferably on a prescribed proposal form, to perform the work and to furnish all labor, materials, equipment and/or services for the prices and terms quoted by the bidder. ( see Bid)
Pump mix Special concrete that will be used in a concrete pump. Generally, the mix has smaller rock aggregate than regular mix.
Punch list A list of discrepancies that need to be corrected by the contractor.
Punch out To inspect and make a discrepancy list.
Purchase Order A written document from a buyer to a seller to purchase materials, services, equipment or supplies with acceptable purchase terms indicated.
Purlins A horizontal structural member spanning between beams or trusses to support a roof deck. In slope glazing, purlins are the horizontal framing members.
Push Stick In hardware, a tool used when cutting a short board on a table saw.
Putty A type of dough used in sealing glass in the sash, filling small holes and crevices in wood, and for similar purposes.
PVC or CPVC Poly Vinyl Chloride A type of white or light gray plastic pipe sometimes used for water supply lines and waste pipe.
Pvdf Architectural coating. See Kynar Coating.
Qualified An individual or firm with a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing; or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience, has successfully demonstrated his/her abilities to identify and solve or resolve problems associated with a specific subject matter or project type.
Quarry tile A man-made or machine made clay tile used to finish a floor or wall. Generally 6" X 6" X 1/4" thick .
Quarter round A small trim molding that has the cross section of a quarter circle.
R factor or value A measure of a materials resistance to the passage of heat. New homewalls are usually insulated with 4" of batt insulation with an R value of R13, and a ceiling insulation of R-30
R.F.I. 1. An abbreviation for Request for Information.
Rabbet A rectangular longitudinal groove cut in the corner edge of a board or plank.
Radial Saw A circular saw which hangs from a horizontal arm or beam and slides back and forth. The arm pivots from side to side to allow for angle cuts and bevels. When sawing finish plywood, the good side should face up as the saw cuts on the down stroke.
Radiant heating A method of heating, usually consisting of a forced hot water system with pipes placed in the floor, wall, or ceiling. Also electrically heated panels.
Radiation Energy transmitted from a heat source to the air around it. Radiators actually depend more on convection than radiation.
Radiator A heating unit which is supplied heat through a hot water system.
Radon A naturally-occurring, heavier than air, radioactive gas common in many parts of the country. Radon gas exposure is associated with lung cancer. Mitigation measures may involve crawl space and basement venting and various forms of vapor barriers.
Radon system A ventilation system beneath the floor of a basement and/or structural wood floor and designed to fan exhaust radon gas to the outside of the home
Rafter Lumber used to support the roof sheeting and roof loads. Generally, 2 X 10's and 2 X 12's are used. The rafters of a flat roof are sometimes called roof joists.
Rafter, hip A rafter that forms the intersection of an external roof angle.
Rafter, valley A rafter that forms the intersection of an internal roof angle. The valley rafter is normally made of double 2 inch thick members.
Raggle Block A specially designed masonry block having a slot or opening into which the top edge of the roof flashing is inserted and anchored.
Rail The top and bottom frame members of a door or window (not the jamb).
Railroad tie Black, tar and preservative impregnated, 6" X 8" and 6'8' long wooden timber that was used to hold railroad track in place. Normally used as a member of a retaining wall.
Rake The angle of slope of a roof rafter, or the inclined portion of a cornice.
Rake fascia The vertical face of the sloping end of a roof eave.
Rake siding The practice of installing lap siding diagonally
Ranch A single story, one level home.
Rankin Thermometer scale on which unit of measurement equals the Fahrenheit degree.
Ready mixed concrete Concrete mixed at a plant or in trucks en route to a job and delivered ready for placement.
Rebar, reinforcing bar Ribbed steel bars installed in foundation concrete walls, footers, and poured in place concrete structures designed to strengthen concrete. Comes in various thickness' and strength grade.
Receptacle An electrical outlet. A typical household will have many 120 volt receptacles for plugging in lams and appliances and 240 volt receptacles for the range, clothes dryer, air conditioners, etc.
Record Drawings (see As-Built Drawings)  
Recording fee A charge for recording the transfer of a property, paid to a city, county, or other appropriate branch of government.
Redline, red lined prints Blueprints that reflect changes and that are marked with red pencil.
Reducer A fitting with different size openings at either end and used to go from a larger to a smaller pipe.
Reflective insulation Sheet material with one or both faces covered with aluminum foil.
Refrigerant A substance that remains a gas at low temperatures and pressure and can be used to transfer heat. Freon is an example and is used in air conditioning systems.
Register A fixture through which conditioned air flows. In a gravity heating system, it is located near the baseboard. In an air conditioning system, it is located close to the thermostat.
Reglaze To replace a broken window.
Reimbursable Expenses (or Costs) Amounts expended for or on account of the project which, in accordance with the terms of the appropriate agreement, are to be reimbursed by the owner.
Reinforced Concrete A combination of steel and concrete using the best properties of each. The steel consists of rebar or reinforcing bars varying from 3/8 " to 2 1/4 "in diameter and is placed before concrete is poured.
Reinforced Masonry Masonry units, reinforcing steel, grout and/or mortar combined to act together to strengthen the masonry structure.
Release of Lien A written action properly executed by and individual or firm supplying labor, materials or professional services on a project which releases his mechanic's lien against the project property. (see Mechanic's Lien)
Relief valve A device designed to open if it detects excess temperature or pressure.
Remote Remote electrical, gas, or water meter digital readouts that are installed near the front of the home in order for utility companies to easily read the home owners usage of the service.
Replacement Cost Estimate A cost of constructing a building or structure that would have similar utility, but constructed with modern materials, current building standards, design and layout less depreciation. A land value and cost of on-site improvements can be added if desired.
Resident Architect An architect permanently assigned at a job site who supervises the construction work for the purpose of protecting the owner's interests during construction.
Resident Engineer (inspector) An individual permanently assigned at a job site for the purpose of representing the owner's interests during the construction phase. (see Owner's Inspector)
Restrictions of areas or regions of land within specific geographical areas based on permitted building size, character, and uses as established by governing urban authorities.  
Retaining wall A structure that holds back a slope and prevents erosion.
Retentions Amounts withheld from progress billings until final and satisfactory project completion.
RFP 1. An abbreviation for Request for Proposal.
Ridge The horizontal line at the junction of the top edges of two sloping roof surfaces.
Ridge board The board placed on the ridge of the roof onto which the upper ends of other rafters are fastened.
Ridge shingles Shingles used to cover the ridge board.
Rigid Metal Conduit This conduit resembles plumbing pipe, protecting wires from damage.
Rim joist A joist that runs around the perimeter of the floor joists and home.
Rise The vertical distance from the eaves line to the ridge. Also the vertical distance from stair tread to stair tread (and not to exceed 7 ½").
Riser Each of the vertical boards closing the spaces between the treads of stairways.
Riser and panel The exterior vertical pipe (riser) and metal electric box (panel) the electrician provides and installs at the "Rough Electric" stage.
Road base A aggregate mixture of sand and stone.
Rock 1, 2, 3 When referring to drywall, this means to install drywall to the walls and ceilings (with nails and screws), and before taping is performed.
Roll Out A loose term used to describe the rapid succession (completion) of similar projects over a given time period.
Roll roofing Asphalt roofing products manufactured in roll form. 36-inch wide rolls with and 108 square feet of material. Weights are generally 45 to 90 pounds per roll.
Roll, rolling To install the floor joists or trusses in their correct place. (To "roll the floor" means to install the floor joists).
Romex A name brand of nonmetallic sheathed electrical cable that is used for indoor wiring.
Romex A name brand of nonmetallic sheathed electrical cable that is used for indoor wiring.
Roof jack Sleeves that fit around the black plumbing waste vent pipes at, and are nailed to, the roof sheeting.
Roof joist The rafters of a flat roof. Lumber used to support the roof sheeting and roof loads. Generally, 2 X 10's and 2 X 12's are used.
Roof sheathing or sheeting The wood panels or sheet material fastened to the roof rafters or trusses on which the shingle or other roof covering is laid.
Roof System General term referring to the waterproof covering, roof insulation, vapor barrier, if used and roof deck as an entity.
Roof valley The "V" created where two sloping roofs meet.
Rough opening The horizontal and vertical measurement of a window or door opening before drywall or siding is installed.
Rough Plumbing All plumbing that should be done before the finish trades (sheetrock, painting, etc), including all waste lines and supply water lines that are in the walls or framing of the building. See also: Plumbing, Sub Rough, and Finish Plumbing.
Rough sill The framing member at the bottom of a rough opening for a window. It is attached to the cripple studs below the rough opening.
Rough-in The initial stage of a plumbing, electrical, heating, carpentry, and/or other project, when all components that won't be seen after the second finishing phase are assembled. See also Heat Rough, Plumbing Rough, and Electrical Rough.
Rpm Revolutions per Minute.
Rubber Tired Roller A roller with rubber tires commonly used for compacting trimmed subgrade or aggregate base or clay type soils.
Run The horizontal distance between the eaves and the ridge of the roof, being half the
Run, roof The horizontal distance from the eaves to a point directly under the ridge. One half the span.
Run, stair the horizontal distance of a stair tread from the nose to the riser.
Saber Saw a saw that cuts on the upstroke, good side of wood faces down.
Sack mix The amount of Portland cement in a cubic yard of concrete mix. Generally, 5 or 6 sack is required in a foundation wall.
Saddle 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.
Saddle A ridge in the roof deck, whose top divides two sloping parts of the roof so that water will be diverted to the roof drains.
Safety Report The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 clearly states the common goal of safe and healthful working conditions. A Safety Report is prepared following a regularly scheduled project safety inspection of the specific project.
Sales contract 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.
Sand float finish Lime that is mixed with sand, resulting in a textured finish on a wall.
Sanitary sewer 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.
Sash 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.
Sash balance A device, usually operated by a spring and designed to hold a single hung window vent up and in place
Saturated felt A felt which is impregnated with tar or asphalt.
Scale The relationship between actual measurements on a page of plans or blue prints and the actual measurements of the building represented by the plans or blue prints.
Schedule A plan for performing work or achieving an objective.
Schedule (window, door, mirror) A table on the blueprints that list the sizes, quantities and locations of the windows, doors and mirrors.
Schedule of Values A statement furnished by the contractor to the architect or engineer reflecting the portions of the contract sum allotted for the various parts of the work and used as the basis for reviewing the contractor's applications for progress payments. *455
Schematic A preliminary sketch or diagram representing the proposed intent of the designer.
Schematic Design Phase The first phase of the architect's basic services in which the architect consults with the owner to ascertain the requirements of the project and prepares schematic design studies consisting of drawings and other documents showing the scale and project components for the owner?s approval.
Scheme 1. A chart, a diagram, or an outline of a system being proposed
Scope of Work A written range of view or action; outlook; hence, room for the exercise of faculties or function; capacity for achievement; all in connection with a designated project. (See Performance Specifications)
Scrap out The removal of all drywall material and debris after the home is "hung out" (installed) with drywall.
Scratch coat The first coat of plaster, which is scratched to form a bond for a second coat.
Screed, concrete To level off concrete to the correct elevation during a concrete pour.
Screed, plaster A small strip of wood, usually the thickness of the plaster coat, used as a guide for plastering.
Screeding The wood or metal straightedge used to strike off or level newly placed concrete when doing cement work. Screeds can be the leveling device used or the form work used to level or establish the level of the concrete. Screeds can be hand used or mechanical.
Scribing Cutting and fitting woodwork to an irregular surface.
Scupper (1) An opening for drainage in a wall, curb or parapet. (2) The drain in a downspout or flat roof, usually connected to the downspout.
Scupper An outlet in the wall of a building or a parapet wall for drainage of water from a flat roof.
Scutch A bricklayer?s cutting tool used for dressing and trimming brick to a special shape. It resembles a small pick
Sealer A finishing material, either clear or pigmented, that is usually applied directly over raw wood for the purpose of sealing the wood surface.
Seasoning Drying and removing moisture from green wood in order to improve its usability.
Selvage The unsurfaced strip along a sheet of roll roofing which forms the under portion at the lap in the application of the roof covering.
Semigloss paint or enamel A paint or enamel made so that its coating, when dry, has some luster but is not very glossy. Bathrooms and kitchens are normally painted semi-gloss
Septic permit A health department authorization to build or modify a septic system.
Septic system An on site waste water treatment system. It usually has a septic tank which promotes the biological digestion of the waste, and a drain field which is designed to let the left over liquid soak into the ground. Septic systems and permits are usually sized by the number of bedrooms in a house.
Service entrance panel Main power cabinet where electricity enters a home wiring system.
Service equipment Main control gear at the service entrance, such as circuit breakers, switches, and fuses.
Service lateral Underground power supply line.
Setback Thermostat A thermostat with a clock which can be programmed to come on or go off at various temperatures and at different times of the day/week. Usually used as the heating or cooling system thermostat.
Sewage ejector A pump used to 'lift' waste water to a gravity sanitary sewer line. Usually used in basements and other locations which are situated bellow the level of the side sewer.
Sewer lateral The portion of the sanitary sewer which connects the interior waste water lines to the main sewer lines. The side sewer is usually buried in several feet of soil and runs from the house to the sewer line. It is usually 'owned' by the sewer utility, must be maintained by the owner and may only be serviced by utility approved contractors. Sometimes called side sewer.
Sewer stub The junction at the municipal sewer system where the home's sewer line is connected.
Sewer tap The physical connection point where the home's sewer line connects to the main municipal sewer line.
Shake A wood roofing material, normally cedar or redwood. Produced by splitting a block of the wood along the grain line. Modern shakes are sometimes machine sawn on one side. See shingle.
Shear block Plywood that is face nailed to short (2 X 4's or 2 X 6's) wall studs (above a door or window, for example). This is done to prevent the wall from sliding and collapsing.
Sheathing, sheeting The structural wood panel covering, usually OSB or plywood, used over studs, floor joists or rafters/trusses of a structure.
Shed Roof A roof having only one slope or pitch, with only one set of rafters which fall from a higher to a lower wall.
Sheet metal duct work The heating system. Usually round or rectangular metal pipes and sheet metal (for Return Air) and installed for distributing warm (or cold) air from the furnace to rooms in the home.
Sheet metal work All components of a house employing sheet metal, such as flashing, gutters, and downspouts.
Sheetrock Panels made primarily from gypsum installed over the framing to form the interior walls and ceilings. Sheetrock is often called gypsum board.
Shim A small piece of scrap lumber or shingle, usually wedge shaped, which when forced behind a furring strip or framing member forces it into position. Also used when installing doors and placed between the door jamb legs and 2 X 4 door trimmers. Metal shims are wafer 1 1/2" X 2" sheet metal of various thickness' used to fill gaps in wood framing members, especially at bearing point locations.
Shingles Small units of material which are laid in a series of overlapping rows as a roof covering on pitched roofs.
Shingles, siding Various kinds of shingles, used over sheathing for exterior wall covering of a structure.
Shoe moulding Molding used next to the floor on interior base board. Sometimes called a carpet strip.
Shoring A temporary support erected in a trench or other excavation to support the walls from caving in.
Short circuit A situation that occurs when hot and neutral wires come in contact with each other. Fuses and circuit breakers protect against fire that could result from a short.
Shutter Usually lightweight louvered decorative frames in the form of doors located on the sides of a window. Some shutters are made to close over the window for protection.
Side sewer The portion of the sanitary sewer which connects the interior waste water lines to the main sewer lines. The side sewer is usually buried in several feet of soil and runs from the house to the sewer line. It is usually 'owned' by the sewer utility, must be maintained by the owner and may only be serviced by utility approved contractors. Sometimes called sewer lateral.
Siding The finished exterior covering of the outside walls of a frame building.
Siding, (lap siding) Slightly wedge-shaped boards used as horizontal siding in a lapped pattern over the exterior sheathing. Varies in butt thickness from ½ to ¾ inch and in widths up to 12".
Sill (1) The 2 X 4 or 2 X 6 wood plate framing member that lays flat against and bolted to the foundation wall (with anchor bolts) and upon which the floor joists are installed. Normally the sill plate is treated lumber. (2) The member forming the lower side of an opening, as a door sill or window sill.
Sill cock An exterior water faucet (hose bib).
Sill Plate The framing member anchored to the foundation wall upon which studs and other framing members will be attached. It is the bottom plate of your exterior walls.
Sill plate (mudsill) Bottom horizontal member of an exterior wall frame which rests on top a foundation, sometimes called mudsill. Also sole plate, bottom member of an interior wall frame.
Sill seal Fiberglass or foam insulation installed between the foundation wall and sill (wood) plate. Designed to seal any cracks or gaps.
Sill Sealer A material placed between the top of the foundation wall and the sill plate. Usually a foam strip, the sill sealer helps make a better fit and eliminate water problems.
Sill Step The first step coming directly off a building at the door openings.
Single hung window A window with one vertically sliding sash or window vent.
Single Ply A descriptive term signifying a roof membrane composed of only one layer of material such as EPDM, Hypalon or PVC.
Single Tee The name given to a type of precast concrete deck which has one stiffening rib integrally cast into slab.
Site The place where a structure or group of structures was, or is to be located (a construction site).
Sky Dome A type of skylite exhibiting a characteristic translucent plastic domed top.
Skylight A structure on a roof that is designed to admit light and is somewhat above the plane of the roof surface.
Slab on grade A type of foundation with a concrete floor which is placed directly on the soil. The edge of the slab is usually thicker and acts as the footing for the walls.
Slab On Grade A type of construction in which footings are needed but little or no foundation wall is poured.
Slab, concrete Concrete pavement, i.e. driveways, garages, and basement floors.
Slab, door A rectangular door without hinges or frame.
Slack Time The flexibility with non-critical jobs that allows their start dates to be adjusted without affecting the project completion date.
Slag Concrete cement that sometimes covers the vertical face of the foundation void material.
Slate A dark gray stratified stone cut relatively thin and installed on pitched roofs in a
Sleeper Usually, a wood member embedded in concrete, as in a floor, that serves to support and to fasten the subfloor or flooring.
Sleeve(s) Pipe installed under the concrete driveway or sidewalk, and that will be used later to run sprinkler pipe or low voltage wire.
Slope The incline angle of a roof surface, given as a ratio of the rise (in inches) to the run (in feet). See also pitch.
Slump The "wetness" of concrete. A 3 inch slump is dryer and stiffer than a 5 inch slump.
Soffit The underside of a part or member of a building extending out from the plane of the building walls.
Soft Costs Soft Costs are cost items in addition to the direct Construction Cost. Soft Costs generally include architectural and engineering, legal, permits and fees, financing fees, construction Interest and operating expenses, leasing and real estate commissions, advertising and promotion, and supervision. (see Construction Cost)
Softening Point The temperature at which a substance changes from a hard material to a softer and more viscous material.
Soil pipe A large pipe that carries liquid and solid wastes to a sewer or septic tank.
Soil stack A plumbing vent pipe that penetrates the roof.
Sole plate Bottom horizontal member of a frame wall.
Sole plate The bottom, horizontal framing member of a wall that's attached to the floor sheeting and vertical wall studs.
Solid bridging A solid member placed between adjacent floor joists near the center of the span to prevent joists or rafters from twisting.
Sonotube Round, large cardboard tubes designed to hold wet concrete in place until it hardens.
Sound attenuation Sound proofing a wall or subfloor, generally with fiberglass insulation.
Space heat Heat supplied to the living space, for example, to a room or the living area of a building.
Spacing The distance between individual members or shingles in building construction.
Spalling The chipping or flaking of concrete, bricks, or other masonry where improper drainage or venting and freeze/thaw cycling exists.
Span The clear distance that a framing member carries a load without support between structural supports. The horizontal distance from eaves to eaves.
Spec home A house built before it is sold. The builder speculates that he can sell it at a profit.
Special Conditions A section of the conditions of the contract, other than the General Conditions and Supplementary Conditions, which may be prepared for a particular project. Specific clauses setting forth conditions or requirements peculiar to the project under consideration, and covering work or materials involved in the proposal and estimate, but not satisfactorily covered by the General Conditions. (See General Conditions)
Specifications or Specs A narrative list of materials, methods, model numbers, colors, allowances, and other details which supplement the information contained in the blue prints. Written elaboration in specific detail about construction materials and methods. Written to supplement working drawings.
Splash block Portable concrete (or vinyl) channel generally placed beneath an exterior sill cock (water faucet) or downspout in order to receive roof drainage from downspouts and to divert it away from the building.
Splitting The formation of long cracks completely through a membrane. Splits are frequently associated with lack of allowance for expansion stresses. They can also
Spud The removal of gravel or heavy accumulations of bitumen from roof membranes by means of chipping or scraping.
Square A unit of measure-100 square feet-usually applied to roofing and siding material. Also, a situation that exists when two elements are at right angles to each other. Also a tool for checking this.
Squeegie Fine pea gravel used to grade a floor (normally before concrete is placed).
Stack The vertical pipe of a system of soil, waste or vent piping
Stack (trusses) To position trusses on the walls in their correct location.
Stack Vent Also called a waste vent or soil vent, it is the extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain connected to the stack.
Stair carriage or stringer Supporting member for stair treads. Usually a 2 X 12 inch plank notched to receive the treads; sometimes called a "rough horse."
Stair landing A platform between flights of stairs or at the termination of a flight of stairs. Often used when stairs change direction. Normally no less than 3 ft. X 3 ft. square.
Stair rise The vertical distance from stair tread to stair tread (and not to exceed 7 ½").
Standard Details A drawing or illustration sufficiently complete and detailed for use on other projects with minimum or no changes.
Standard Dimension A measurement unique to a specific manufactured item.
Standard practices of the trade(s) One of the more common basic and minimum construction standards. This is another way of saying that the work should be done in the way it is normally done by the average professional in the field.
Standards of Professional Practice A listing of minimum acceptable ethical principals and practices adopted by qualified and recognized professional organizations to guide their members in the conduct of specific professional practice.
Standing Seam A type of joint often used on metal roofs.
Start Date The date that an activity or project begins.
Starter strip Asphalt roofing applied at the eaves that provides protection by filling in the spaces under the cutouts and joints of the first course of shingles.
Statement A copy or summary of any account covering a stated period. (See Invoice)
Static Load The total amount of permanent non moving weight that is applied to given surface areas.
Static vent A vent that does not include a fan.
Statute of Limitations The period of time in which legal action must be brought for an alleged damage or injury. The period commences with the discovery of the alleged damage or injury; or in construction industry cases with completion of the work or services performed. Legal advise should be obtained.
STC (Sound Transmission Class) The measure of sound stopping of ordinary noise.
Steel inspection A municipal and/or engineers inspection of the concrete foundation wall, conducted before concrete is poured into the foundation panels. Done to insure that the rebar (reinforcing bar), rebar nets, void material, beam pocket plates, and basement window bucks are installed and wrapped with rebar and complies with the foundation plan.
Step flashing Flashing application method used where a vertical surface meets a sloping roof plane. 6" X 6" galvanized metal bent at a 90 degree angle, and installed beneath siding and over the top of shingles. Each piece overlaps the one beneath it the entire length of the sloping roof (step by step).
Stick built A house built without prefabricated parts. Also called conventional building.
Stile The side frame members of a door or window (not the jamb).
Stipulated Sum Agreement A written agreement in which a specific amount is set forth as the total payment for completing the contract. (See Lump Sum Contract)
Stool The flat molding fitted over the window sill between jambs and contacting the bottom rail of the lower sash. Also another name for toilet.
Stop box Normally a cast iron pipe with a lid (@ 5" in diameter) that is placed vertically into the ground, situated near the water tap in the yard, and where a water cut-off valve to the home is located (underground). A long pole with a special end is inserted into the curb stop to turn off/on the water.
Stop Order A formal, written notification to a contractor to discontinue some or all work on a project for reasons such as safety violations, defective materials or workmanship, or cancellation of the contract.
Stop valve A device installed in a water supply line, usually near a fixture, that permits an individual to shut off the water supply to one fixture without interrupting service to the rest of the system.
Stops Moldings along the inner edges of a door or window frame. Also valves used to shut off water to a fixture.
Storm sash or storm window . An extra window usually placed outside of an existing one, as additional protection against cold weather.
Storm sewer A sewer system designed to collect storm water and is separated from the waste water system.
Story That part of a building between any floor or between the floor and roof.
Strike The plate on a door frame that engages a latch or dead bolt.
String Line A nylon line usually strung tightly between supports to indicate both direction and elevation, used in checking grades or deviations in slopes or rises. Used in landscaping to level the ground.
String, stringer A timber or other support for cross members in floors or ceilings. In stairs, the supporting member for stair treads. Usually a 2 X 12 inch plank notched to receive the treads
Strip flooring Wood flooring consisting of narrow, matched strips.
Structural Design A term used to represent the proportioning of structural members to carry loads in a building structure.
Structural floor A framed lumber floor that is installed as a basement floor instead of concrete. This is done on very expansive soils.
Structural Systems (frames) The load bearing assembly of beams and columns on a foundation. The beams and columns are generally fabricated off site and assembled on site. Other systems such as non load bearing walls, floors, ceilings and roofs are generally constructed within and on the structural system.
Structure 1. Something constructed
Stucco Refers to an outside plaster finish made with Portland cement as its base.
Stud A vertical wood framing member, also referred to as a wall stud, attached to the horizontal sole plate below and the top plate above. Normally 2 X 4's or 2 X 6's, 8' long (sometimes 92 5/8"). One of a series of wood or metal vertical structural members placed as supporting elements in walls and partitions.
Stud The evenly spaced, vertical framing members of a wall. See also: Wood grades.
Stud shoe A metal, structural bracket that reinforces a vertical stud. Used on an outside bearing wall where holes are drilled to accommodate a plumbing waste line.
Sub An abbreviation for Subcontractor.
Sub Contractor A contractor who specializes in a particular trade such as waterproofing.
Sub Rough That part of a building?s plumbing system that is done before the cement is poured.
Subcontract A written form of agreement between the prime or main contractor and another contractor or supplier for the satisfactory performance of services or delivery or material as set forth in the plans and specifications for a specific project.
Subcontractor A qualified subordinate contractor to the prime or main contractor.
Subcontractor Bond A written document from a subcontractor given to the prime or main contractor by the subcontractor guaranteeing performance of his/her contract and payment of all labor, materials, equipment and service bills associated with the subcontract agreement.
Subfloor The framing components of a floor to include the sill plate, floor joists, and deck sheeting over which a finish floor is to be laid.
Sublet To subcontract all or a portion of a contracted amount.
Substantial Completion (see Date of Substantial Completion)  
Substitution A proposed replacement or alternate offered in lieu of and represented as being equivalent to a specified material or process.
Substrate A part or substance which lies below and supports another.
Substructure The supporting part of a structure; the foundation.
Sub-subcontractor An individual or firm having a written contract with a subcontractor to perform a portion of the work.
Sub-surface Investigation 1. A term used to represent an examination of soil conditions below the ground.
Successor 1. One that succeeds another
Sump Pit or large plastic bucket/barrel inside the home designed to collect ground water from a perimeter drain system.
Sump pump A submersible pump in a sump pit that pumps any excess ground water to the outside of the home.
Superstructure The part of a building or other structure above the foundation.
Supervision 1.The act, process, or function of supervising construction materials, methods and processes for a specific project
Supplemental Conditions (See Supplementary Conditions)  
Supplementary Conditions A written section of the contract documents supplementing and qualifying or modifying the contracts general conditions. (See Conditions of the Contract)
Supplier An individual or firm who supplies and/or fabricates materials or equipment for a specific portion of a construction project but does not perform any labor on the project. ( see Vendor)
Surety (see Bonding Company)  
Suspended ceiling A ceiling system supported by hanging it from the overhead structural framing.
Sway brace Metal straps or wood blocks installed diagonally on the inside of a wall from bottom to top plate, to prevent the wall from twisting, racking, or falling over "domino" fashion.
Switch A device that completes or disconnects an electrical circuit.
T & G, tongue and groove A joint made by a tongue (a rib on one edge of a board) that fits into a corresponding groove in the edge of another board to make a tight flush joint. Typically, the subfloor plywood is T & G.
T bar Ribbed, "T" shaped bars with a flat metal plate at the bottom that are driven into the earth. Normally used chain link fence poles, and to mark locations of a water meter pit.
T&M 1. An abbreviation for a contracting method called Time and Materials
Tab The exposed portion of strip shingles defined by cutouts.
Tail beam A relatively short beam or joist supported in a wall on one end and by a header at the other.
Take off The material necessary to complete a job.
Taping Applying joint tape over embedding compound in the process of joint treatment of drywall.
Teco Metal straps that are nailed and secure the roof rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall plate. Sometimes called a hurricane clip.
Tee A "T" shaped plumbing fitting.
Tempered Strengthened. Tempered glass will not shatter nor create shards, but will "pelletize" like an automobile window. Required in tub and shower enclosures and locations, entry door glass and sidelight glass, and in a windows when the window sill is less than 16" to the floor.
Tenant's Rentable Square Feet Usable square feet plus a percentage (the core factor) of the common areas on the floor, including hallways, bathrooms and telephone closets, and some main lobbies. Rentable square footage is the number on which a tenant's rent is usually based.
Tenant's Usable Square Feet The square footage contained within the demising walls. (see Demising Walls)
Termite shield A shield, usually of galvanized metal, placed in or on a foundation wall or around pipes to prevent the passage of termites.
Termites Wood eating insects that superficially resemble ants in size and general appearance, and live in colonies.
Terra cotta A ceramic material molded into masonry units.
Texture Paint One which may be manipulated by brush, trowel or other to give various patterns.
Thermal Movement The measured amount of dimensional change that a material exhibits as it is warmed or cooled.
Thermal Shock The stress built up by sudden and appreciable changes in temperature.
Thermoplastic Material Solid material which is softened by increasing temperatures and hardened by decreasing temperatures.
Thermoply ? Exterior laminated sheathing nailed to the exterior side of the exterior walls. Normally ¼ " thick, 4 X 8 or 4 x 10 sheets with an aluminumized surface.
Thermostat A device which relegates the temperature of a room or building by switching heating or cooling equipment on or off.
Threshold The bottom metal or wood plate of an exterior door frame. Generally they are adjustable to keep a tight fit with the door slab.
Thw Moisture and heat resistant thermoplastic conductor. It is flame retardant, moisture and heat resistant and can be used in dry or wet locations.
Tie IN ? In roofing, a term used to describe the joining of a new roof with the old.
Time (as time of the essence associated with a construction contract) A provision in a construction contract by the owner that punctual completion within the time limits or periods in the contract is a vital part of the contract performance and that failure to perform on time is a breach and the injured party is entitled to damages in the amount of loss sustained.
Time and materials contract A construction contract which specifies a price for different elements of the work such as cost per hour of labor, overhead, profit, etc. A contract which may not have a maximum price, or may state a 'price not to exceed'.
Time of Completion The date or number of calendar or working days stated in the contract to substantially complete the work for a specific project. (see Date of Substantial Completion)
Time-and-a-half A term meaning any individuals normal billing hourly rate is increased by a multiple of 1.5 following predetermined normal working hours.
Timely Completion Completing the work of the contract before the date required.
Tinner Another name for the heating contractor.
Tip up The downspout extension that directs water (from the home's gutter system) away from the home. They typically swing up when mowing the lawn, etc.
TI'S (Tenant Improvements) TI'S is a term used to define the interior improvements of the project after the Building Envelope is complete. TI'S usually include finish floor coverings; ceilings; partitions; doors, frames, hardware; fire protection; HVAC consisting of branch distribution duct work, control boxes, and registers; electrical consisting of lighting, switches, power outlets, phone/data outlets, exit and energy lighting; window coverings; general conditions; and the general contractor?s fee. The cost of tenant improvements are generally born by the tenant and the costs of tenant improvements will vary with every building, and with tenant requirements. (see Work Letter)
Title Evidence (usually in the form of a certificate or deed) of a person's legal right to ownership of a property.
Title 24 A federal set of laws that mandates the construction industry to conserve energy.
TJI or TJ Manufactured structural building component resembling the letter "I". Used as floor joists and rafters. I-joists include two key parts: flanges and webs. The flange or from of the I joist may be made of laminated veneer lumber or dimensional lumber, usually formed into a 1 ½" width. The web or center of the I-joist is commonly made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). Large holes can be cut in the web to accommodate duct work and plumbing waste lines. I-joists are available in lengths up to 60'' long.
Toenailing To drive a nail in at a slant. Method used to secure floor joists to the plate.
Tongue And Groove A type of flooring where the tongue of one board is joined to the groove of another board
Top chord The upper or top member of a truss.
Top plate Top horizontal member of a frame wall supporting ceiling joists, rafters, or other members.
Top plate Top horizontal member of a frame wall supporting ceiling joists, rafters, or other members.
Top Plate Top horizontal member of a frame wall.
Torching Applying direct flame to a membrane for the purpose of melting, heating or adhering.
Transit A surveyors instrument used by builders to establish points and elevations both vertically and horizontally. It can be used to line up stakes or to plumb walls or the angle of elevation from a horizontal plane can be measured.
Transmittal A written document used to identify information being sent to a receiving party. The transmittal is usually the cover sheet for the information being sent and includes the name, telephone/FAX number and address of the sending and receiving parties. The sender may include a message or instructions in the transmittal. It is also important to include the names of other parties the information is being sent to on the transmittal form.
Transmitter (garage door) The small, push button device that causes the garage door to open or close.
Trap A plumbing fitting that holds water to prevent air, gas, and vermin from backing up into a fixture.
Travel Time Wages paid to workmen under certain union contracts and under certain job conditions for the time spent in traveling from their place of residence to and from the job.
Tread The walking surface board in a stairway on which the foot is placed.
Treated lumber A wood product which has been impregnated with chemical pesticides such as CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenate) to reduce damage from wood rot or insects. Often used for the portions of a structure which are likely to be in contact with soil and water. Wood may also be treated with a fire retardant.
Tremie A tube with removable sections and a funnel at the top used in concrete application. The bottom is kept beneath the surface of the concrete and raised as the form is filled and is used to pour concrete underwater.
Trim (plumbing, heating, electrical) The work that the "mechanical" contractors perform to finish their respective aspects of work, and when the home is nearing completion and occupancy.
Trimmer The vertical stud that supports a header at a door, window, or other opening.
Truss An engineered and manufactured roof support member with "zig-zag" framing members. Does the same job as a rafter but is designed to have a longer span than a rafter.
Tub trap Curved, "U" shaped section of a bath tub drain pipe that holds a water seal to prevent sewer gasses from entering the home through tubs water drain.
Turnkey A term used when the subcontractor provides all materials (and labor) for a job.
Turpentine A petroleum, volatile oil used as a thinner in paints and as a solvent in varnishes
U.B.C. (Uniform Building Code) The Uniform Building Code is one of the family of codes and related publications published by the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) and other organizations, such as the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which have similar goals as far as code publications are concerned. The Uniform Building Code is designed to be compatible with these other codes, as together they make up the enforcement tools of a jurisdiction.
UL (Underwriters' Laboratories) An independent testing agency that checks electrical devices and other components for possible safety hazards.
Ultraviolet The invisible rays of the spectrum of light which are at its violet end. Sometimes abbreviated U.V.
Undercoat A coating applied prior to the finishing or top coats of a paint job. It may be the first of two or the second of three coats. Sometimes called the Prime coat.
Underground plumbing The plumbing drain and waste lines that are installed beneath a basement floor.
Underlayment A ¼" material placed over the subfloor plywood sheeting and under finish coverings, such as vinyl flooring, to provide a smooth, even surface. Also a secondary roofing layer that is waterproof or water resistant, installed on the roof deck and beneath shingles or other rooffinishing layer
Underwriter's Laboratories Label (UL) A label on a product or manufactured item showing the material is regularly tested by, and complies with the minimum standards of the Underwriter's Laboratories specification for safety and quality.
Uniform System (see CSI Format)  
Union A plumbing fitting that joins pipes
Unit Price Contract A written contract wherein the owner agrees to pay the contractor a specified amount of money for each unit of work successfully completed as set forth in the contract.
Unit Prices A predetermined price for a measurement or quantity of work to be performed within a specific contract. The designated unit price would include all labor materials, equipment or services associated with the measurement or quantity established.
Uprights Vertical members supporting the sides of a trench.
Utility easement The area of the earth that has electric, gas, or telephone lines. These areas may be owned by the homeowner, but the utility company has the legal right to enter the area as necessary to repair or service the lines.
Valley The "V" shaped area of a roof where two sloping roofs meet. Water drains off the roof at the valleys.
Valley flashing Sheet metal that lays in the "V" area of a roof valley.
Valuation An inspection carried out for the benefit of the mortgage lender to ascertain if a property is a good security for a loan.
Valuation fee Th fee paid by the prospective borrower for the lender's inspection of the property. Normally paid upon loan application.
Valve A device to stop, start or regulate the flow of liquid or gas through or from piping.
Vapor The gaseous form of any substance.
Vapor barrier A building product installed on exterior walls and ceilings under the drywall and on the warm side of the insulation. It is used to retard the movement of water vapor into walls and prevent condensation within them. Normally, polyethylene plastic sheeting is used.
Variable rate An interest rate that will vary over the term of the loan.
Vendor One that sells materials or equipment not fabricated to a special design.
Veneer Extremely thin sheets of wood. Also a thin slice of wood or brick or stone covering a framed wall.
Vent A pipe or duct which allows the flow of air and gasses to the outside. Also, another word for the moving glass part of a window sash, i.e. window vent.
Vent Pipe A vertical pipe of relatively small dimensions which protrudes through a roof to provide for the ventilation of gasses.
Vent Stack A vertical vent pipe installed for the purpose of providing circulation of air to and from any part of a drainage system.
Ventilator Device installed on the roof for the purpose of ventilating the interior of the building.
Venting The process of installing roof vents in a roof assembly to relieve vapor
Verbal Quotation A written document used by the contractor to receive a subcontract or material cost proposal over the telephone prior to the subcontractor or supplier sending their written proposal via mail or facsimile.
Vermiculite A mineral used as bulk insulation and also as aggregate in insulating and acoustical plaster and in insulating concrete floors.
Vermiculite An aggregate somewhat similar to perlite that is used as an aggregate in lightweight roof decks and deck fills. It is formed from mica, a hydrous silicate.
Veterans Administration (VA) A federal agency that insures mortgage loans with very liberal down payment requirements for honorably discharged veterans and their surviving spouses.
Viscosity The internal frictional resistance offered by a fluid to change of shape or to the relative motion or flow of its parts.
Visqueen A 4 mil or 6 mil plastic sheeting.
Void Cardboard rectangular boxes that are installed between the earth (between caissons) and the concrete foundation wall. Used when expansive soils are present.
Voltage A measure of electrical potential. Most homes are wired with 110 and 220 volt lines. The 110 volt power is used for lighting and most of the other circuits. The 220 volt power is usually used for the kitchen range, hot water heater and dryer.
Voltmeter measures the voltage flowing through a circuit. The circuit must be closed to allow the voltage to flow.
W C An abbreviation for water closet (toilet).
Wafer board A manufactured wood panel made out of 1"- 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood in the exterior wall and roof sheathing.
Walk-Through A final inspection of a home before "Closing" to look for and document problems that need to be corrected.
Walkways Designated areas for foot traffic.
Wall out When a painter pray paints the interior of a home.
Warping Any distortion in a material.
Warranty In construction there are two general types of warranties. One is provided by the manufacturer of a product such as roofing material or an appliance. The second is a warranty for the labor. For example, a roofing contract may include a 20 year material warranty and a 5 year labor warranty. Many new homebuilders provide a one year warranty. Any major issue found during the first year should be communicated to the builder immediately. Small items can be saved up and presented to the builder for correction periodically through the first year after closing.
Waste pipe and vent Plumbing plastic pipe that carries waste water to the municipal sewage system.
Water board Water resistant drywall to be used in tub and shower locations. Normally green or blue colored
Water closet Another name for toilet.
Water meter pit (or vault) The box /cast iron bonnet and concrete rings that contains the water meter.
Water table The location of the underground water, and the vertical distance from the surface of the earth to this underground water.
Water tap The connection point where the home water line connects to the main municipal water system.
Water Vapor Moisture existing as a gas in air.
Water-repellent preservative A liquid applied to wood to give the wood water repellant properties
Wattage The electrical unit of power. KILOWATTS is 1000 watts and electric customers are billed on how many kilowatts of power they have used.
Weatherization Work on a building exterior in order to reduce energy consumption for heating or cooling. Work involving adding insulation, installing storm windows and doors, caulking cracks and putting on weather-stripping.
Weatherstrip Narrow sections of thin metal or other material installed to prevent the infiltration of air and moisture around windows and doors.
Weep Hole A hole which allows for drainage of entrapped water from masonry or glazing structures.
Weep hole A small holes in storm window frames that allow moisture to escape.
Weld The joining of components together by fusing. In thermoplastics, refers to bonding together of the membrane using heat or solvents.
Whole house fan A fan designed to move air through and out of a home and normally installed in the ceiling.
Wind bracing Metal straps or wood blocks installed diagonally on the inside of a wall from bottom to top plate, to prevent the wall from twisting, racking, or falling over "domino" fashion.
Wind Uplift The upward force exerted by wind traveling across a roof.
Window buck Square or rectangular box that is installed within a concrete foundation or block wall. A window will eventually be installed in this "buck" during the siding stage of construction
Window frame The stationary part of a window unit; window sash fits into the window frame.
Window sash The operating or movable part of a window; the sash is made of window panes and their border.
Wire nut A plastic device used to connect bare wires together.
Wire Size Conductors for building wiring are available in AWG (American Wire Gauge) sizes ranging from No. 14 to 4/0. The larger the number size, the smaller the diameter. For example #10 is smaller than #8. The larger the diameter of a wire, the lesser the resistance.
Wonderboard ? A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing material. Commonly used on bathtub decks.
Work The successful performance of the entire scope of the project being performed for a specific construction project including labor, materials, equipment, and other associated items necessary to fulfill all obligations under the contract.
Work Letter A written statement (often called Exhibit B to a lease or rental agreement) of the specific materials and quantities the owner will provide at his own expense. The work letter defines the building standards, including the type of ceiling , the type and number of light fixtures, the size and construction of the suite-entry and interior doors. Building standards define the quality of tenant spaces. Generally, a Work Letter is associated with the leasing or renting of office space by a tenant within a Building Envelope. (see TI'S and Building Envelope)
Work Order A written order, signed by the owner or his representative, of a contractual status requiring performance by the contractor without negotiation of any sort.
Working Drawing A drawing sufficiently complete with plan and section views, dimensions, details, and notes so that whatever is shown can be constructed and/or replicated without instructions but subject to clarifications. (see Drawings)
Wrapped drywall Areas that get complete drywall covering, as in the doorway openings of bifold and bipass closet doors.
Y A "Y" shaped plumbing fitting.
Yard of concrete One cubic yard of concrete is 3' X 3' X 3' in volume, or 27 cubic feet. One cubic yard of concrete will pour 80 square feet of 3 ½" sidewalk or basement/garage floor.
Yoke The location where a home's water meter is sometimes installed between two copper pipes, and located in the water meter pit in the yard.
Z-bar flashing Bent, galvanized metal flashing that's installed above a horizontal trim board of an exterior window, door, or brick run. It prevents water from getting behind the trim/brick and into the home.
Zone The section of a building that is served by one heating or cooling loop because it has noticeably distinct heating or cooling needs. Also, the section of property that will be watered from a lawn sprinkler system.
Zone valve A device, usually placed near the heater or cooler, which controls the flow of water or steam to parts of the building; it is controlled by a zone thermostat.
Zoning Restrictions of areas or regions of land within specific geographical areas based on permitted building size, character, and uses as established by governing urban authorities.
Zoning Permit A document issued by a governing urban authority permitting land to be used for a specific purpose.

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