Construction Dictionary

-A-
A/C – Abbreviation for air conditioning.
A/C Condenser – The outside fan unit of the air conditioning system.
A-Grade – Stain grade, and not finger-jointed wood.
Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)- An interest rate that changes with market conditions.
Aerator – The round screened screw-on tip of a sink faucet. It mixes water and air for smooth water flow.
Aggregate – A mixture of sand and rock and a major component of concrete.
AIA – The American Institute of Architects.
Air Hammer – A banging noise in plumbing pipes caused by air infiltration.
Air Space – The area between insulation and exterior wall covering, normally 1-inch.
Airway – The space between roof insulation and roof boards that allows for movement of air.
Allowance(s) – 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, a lighting allowance, or an electrical allowance which sets aside an amount of money to be spent on electrical fixtures. The owner is responsible for the costs that exceed the allowance.
Amortization – Scheduling loan in monthly installments.
Anchor Bolts – Bolts in concrete slabs to secure a wooden sill or bottom plate.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR) – The annual cost of credit over the life of a loan, including interest, service charges, points, loan fees, mortgage insurance, and other loan items.
Appraisal – Determining the fair market value of property or home based upon comparable sales in the area.
Appreciation – The increase in the value of property.
Apron – A piece of wood trim under a window.
Architect – The individual that designs and drafts houseplans.
Asphalt – A residue from evaporated petroleum, insoluble in water but soluble in gasoline. Melts when heated. Used for driving and parking lots.
Assumption – A transaction allowing the buyer of a home to assume financial responsibility for an existing loan on the home instead of applying for a new loan.
Astragal – A molding, attached to one of a pair of swinging double doors, against which the other door makes contact.
Attic Access – An opening in the ceiling providing access to the attic.
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Back Charge - Billing for work charged by one party that should have been performed by another party. Owners bill back charges to contractors, and contractors bill back charges to subcontractors.
Backfill – Placing dirt as needed in site work.
Backing – Lumber installed between the studs to give additional support for drywall or an interior trim related item, such as handrail brackets, cabinets, and towel bars. In this way, items are screwed and mounted into solid wood rather than just sheetrock that may allow the item to break loose from the wall.
Backsplash – Material that is installed behind the countertop. It protects the wall from splash on the walls.
Balloon – A loan which has a series of monthly payments (1, 5, 10 or more years) with the remaining balance due in a lump sum payment at the end of the amortization period.
Balloon Framed Wall – Framed walls that run the entire vertical length with a single piece of lumber from the sub floor to the roof.
Baluster – Pickets in a stair.
Ballustrade – The rail, posts and vertical balusters along the outside edge of a stairway.
Base Molding/Baseboard – Decorative molding which is installed on the wall where it meets the floor.
Bat – A half-brick.
Batt – A section of fiberglass or other insulation designed for either walls 16” or 24” on center. The “R” values range from 11” to 19” in walls and R-30 to R-60 in attics.
Batten – Narrow strips of wood used to cover joints.
Batter Boards – 2 x 4 or 2 x 6 members erected to lay out the footing and foundation.
Bay Window – A window space projecting outward from the wall of a building.
Beam – A horizontal framing member, either of wood (dimensional or engineered) or of steel designed to support load-bearing walls.
Bearing Partition – A partition wall that supports only its own weight.
Bearing Point – The point on the bottom of the roof or floor truss that is designed to support the load.
Bearing Wall – A wall that supports any load-bearing wall.
Bi-Fold – An interior door hinged in the middle, and mounted on a track.
Bid – An offer by a contractor, in accordance with specifications for a project, to do the work at a price in accordance with the terms and conditions stated in the offer.
Bidding – A practice by which contractors and owners obtain prices from potential subcontractors and material suppliers to either obtain a lower bid or to confirm that the price in place is acceptable.
Binder – Down payment upon a contract.
Bi-Pass Doors – Doors that slide by each other and mounted on a track.
Blocking – Wood to strengthen framing members or to provide a nailing base for sheetrock or other wall finishes.
Blown Insulation – Insulation in loose form used to insulate attics.
Board Foot – A unit of measure for lumber equal to 1 inch thick, by 12 inches wide, by 12 inches long.
Boom – A truck used to hoist heavy material into place, to put trusses on a home, or to place sheetrock in a home.
Boric Acid – A chemical used for insect control, placed in external walls prior to wall insulation.
Bottom Cord – The lower or bottom horizontal member of a truss.
Bottom Plate – The part of the wall that rests on the sub floor or slab upon which the studs are attached.
Brace – A piece of lumber applied to wall or floor to strengthen the structure. Often used on walls as temporary bracing.
Breaker – A devise used to interrupt the electrical current in case of a short or power overload.
Brick Lintel – The metal angle iron that brick rests on above a window, door, or other opening, to carry the weight of the brick to be placed above.
Brick Tie – Metal which is nailed to the wall, and then embedded in the mortar joint of a brick veneer wall. It is used to support the brick veneer.
Brick Veneer – Brick “siding.” Brick is typically not structural but merely a veneer or cosmetic finish.
Brick Mould – Moulding often used around exterior doors and windows. It may be made of wood or a synthetic (non-rot) material.
Bridging – Blocking material between joists.
Broom Finish – A surface treatment for concrete flatwork like driveways. It is accomplished by lightly dragging the wet surface of the concrete with a broom.
Buffer Zone – An area used to separate two lots.
Builders Grade – A term used for a grade of material, usually not high-end or custom quality.
Builders Risk Insurance – Insurance to protect the construction lender and owner against losses during the construction process.
Building Codes – Adopted by a jurisdiction which establishes construction requirements to insure safe and healthy construction standards.
Building Official – The local public employee charged with enforcing the Building Code.
Building Paper – A general term for papers, felts, and similar materials used in home building to protect the structure during construction.
Building Permit – Issued by a jurisdiction allowing construction to proceed.
Built-Up Roof – Flat roof built with multi layers of roofing felt. Often called a Composition Roof.
Bull-nose Corner Bead – Rounded drywall corners.
Bundle – A package of shingles. Normally there are 3 or 4 bundles of shingles per square depending on the weight of the shingle.
Butt Hinge – The most common type. One portion attaches to the door’s edge, the other to its jamb.
Butt Joint – To place materials end-to-end or end-to-edge without overlapping.
Buydown – A subsidy to reduce the monthly payments on a mortgage loan.
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-C-
Cantilever – That portion of a floor that extends beyond another floor.
Cap – The upper member of a column or pilaster.
Cap Flashing – The portion of the flashing attached to prevent water from getting behind the base flashing.
Casement Window – A type of window which has sashes, hinged on the edge, and which are opened by turning a handle.
Cased Opening – A doorway trimmed with wood jambs, casing, or sheetrock.
Casement Frames/Sash – Frames enclosing part or all of the sash, which may be opened by means of hinges fixed to the vertical edges.
Casing – Interior trim material used around doors, windows, under windowsills; comes in varying widths and styles.
Caulk – A material squeezed from a tube which is used to seal spaces.
Ceiling Joist – The horizontal framing member which forms the ceiling and supports the ceiling drywall.
Certificate of Occupancy – A document issued by the building department when the home is completed and ready for occupancy, having passed all building inspections. It is required for loan closing.
CFM (cubic feet per minute) – A rating that expresses the amount of air moved by a blower or fan in one minute.
Chair Rail – A decorative trim material that runs horizontally on the wall. Common heights are 30 inches, 36 inches, and 42 inches above the finished floor.
Chalk Line – A line made by snapping a taut string or cord dusted with chalk. It is used to layout walls for framing.
Change Order – A document which modifies the plans and specifications and/or the price of the construction contract. It is billed separately and does not alter the original contract amount, but will increase the cost of building the home.
Chase – A framed enclosed space for something to pass through and be concealed.
Chase Top – A cap that goes on top of the chimney to keep out the rain, but has a hole for the flue pipe.
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 shut off the power to portions or all of the house and to limit the amount of power flowing through a circuit.
Clean Out – An opening providing access to a PVC drain line that is closed with a threaded plug.
Clear Trim – Stain grade wood, the same as “A” or select grade.
Clerestory – A window created by extending one plane of the roof up beyond the ridgeline, and then down.
Closing – When the final documents are executed to complete the construction loan. A certificate of Occupancy, all final inspections, and a final survey are usually required.
Closing Costs – Expenses associated with loan closing, including attorney fees, prorated taxes, prepaid mortgage, property insurance, documentary stamps, and recording fees.
Collar Beam – Wood members connecting opposite roof rafters. They serve to strengthen the roof structure.
Collar Tie – A horizontal framing member used to tie two roof rafters together, keeping the rafters from racking.
Collateral – Something of value that is pledged to protect a lender’s interest. In a home loan, the home itself is the collateral, less the down payment.
Column – A vertical structural compression member which supports loads.
Combustion Air – Ductwork installed to bring in fresh, outside air. A compressor is the main component of conventional heat pumps and air conditioners. The compressor normally is outside and the air handler inside the home.
Concrete – A mixture of Portland cement, sand, gravel, and water; commonly reinforced with steel rods (rebar) or wire screening (mesh).
Concrete Block – A hollow concrete member available in 4” x 8,” 8” x 8,” 10” x 10,” or 12” x 12.”
Condensate Line – The copper pipe that runs from the outside air conditioning condenser to the inside where the air conditioner is located.
Condensing Unit – The outdoor component of a cooling system. It includes a compressor and condensing coil.
Conditions – Statements included in your lot purchase agreement or construction loan agreement, describing exactly how things should be executed in order to have a valid contract.
Conduction – The direct transfer of heat energy through a material.
Conduit – A pipe, usually metal or PVC, in which electrical wire or plumbing is installed.
Construction Loan – The loan you get to finance the construction of your home. It will be replaced with a permanent loan when the home is completed.
Control Joint – A joint in concrete flatwork that is designed to allow for some movement in the material. Types include cut joints, pressure treated 1 x 4 and synthetic joints.
Conventional Loan – A mortgage loan not insured by a government agency.
Convertibility – The ability to change a loan from an adjustable rate schedule to a fixed rate schedule.
Cool Deck – A type of concrete-like paving material, often used for patios and around swimming pools.
Corner Bead – A metal strip that is nailed to outward drywall corners prior to applying joint compound. Its purpose is to protect the corner from damage; styles are square, bullnose, or rounded.
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. Types include wood, solid vinyl, and other synthetics.
Corner Bracing – Diagonal lumber cut in or plywood applied at the corners of the home during framing to stiffen the wall and prevent racking.
Cornice – The overhang portion of the roof. It includes the fasia and the soffit.
Counter Flashing – A metal flashing usually used on chimneys at the roofline to cover shingle flashing and used to prevent water intrusion.
Countertop – The top of the cabinet or vanity. Types include: solid surface, ceramic tile, marble, Corian, laminate, granite, wood, and a variety of synthetics.
Cove Molding – A three-sided molding with concave face, used wherever small angles are to be covered.
Crawl Space – The space between the first floor joists and the ground.
Credit Rating – A report ordered by a lender from a recognized credit bureau to determine if the borrower is a good credit risk.
Cricket – A structure built behind a chimney to shed water and prevent leaks.
Cripple – A short stud that supports a windowsill.
Critical Path – Construction activities that must be completed on time in order to prevent a delay in construction of other subcontractor trades.
Crown – A slight bow in wood; should be placed in the same direction, usually up.
Crown Moulding – A trim material used at the juncture of the walls and the ceiling. May be in 1, 2 or multiple pieces or stages and painted or stained.
Cultured Marble – A synthetic material used for countertops and lavatories that resembles marble.
Culvert – A round, corrugated drainpipe that is installed beneath a driveway, with either round or sloped/mitered ends.
Cupping – Warping that causes boards to curl up at their edges.
Cut-In Brace – Bracing cut in between studs diagonally.
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-D-
Damper – A metal “door” placed in the fireplace chimney used to determine the flow of air.
Deadbolt – An exterior security lock installed on entry doors that can be activated only with a key or thumb-turn. Unlike a latch, which has a beveled tongue, deadbolts have square ends.
Deadwood – Wood installed during framing of walls and trusses to provide a nailing surface for the drywall.
Dedicated Circuit – An electrical circuit that serves only one specified electrical need.
Default – Failing to abide by the terms of a loan.
Delamination – The separation of the plies in a panel due to failure of the adhesive. Usually caused be excessive moisture.
Disconnect – An electrical ON/OFF switch.
Dormer – An architectural roof detail with a small roof and window. It may let in light or may be a false dormer leading only to the attic.
Doorjamb – The surrounding case into which a door closes and opens. It consists of two side jambs, and a horizontal head jamb.
Door Slab – A door unit without hinges or frames.
Door Stop – The device that the door strikes when it’s in an open position, either hinged or on the floor.
Double Cylinder Deadbolt – A deadbolt that requires a key to be opened from either side of the door.
Double Hung Window – A type of window in which both top and bottom sashes are operable.
Down Payment – The difference between the sales price and the mortgage amount on a home. The down payment is usually paid at closing.
Downspout – The part of the gutter system that brings the water down to the ground.
Draw – The action of the chimney in pulling air from the room, through the fireplace, up, and out.
Draw – A partial release of funds from the construction loan. Several draws are usually made during the course of the construction process.
Drywall – A paper-covered gypsum material typically used for walls in residential construction. Also called sheetrock.
Due-on-Sale – A clause in a mortgage contract requiring the borrower to pay the entire outstanding balance upon sale or transfer of the property. A mortgage with a due-on-sale clause is not assumable.
Duct – A metal, fiberboard, or flexible insulated tube through which conditioned air is delivered to each room.
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-E-
Earnest Money – A binder or down payment.
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 causing a gas leak.
Easement – The right of one to the use of or access to a portion of another’s property. The power company has an easement to maintain their lines.
Easing – A curved handrail stair part.
Eaves – The horizontal exterior roof overhang.
Efflorescence – A white powdery substance that can form on new block, brick, or stucco finishes. It is composed of water soluble salts that are present in masonry materials and that rise to the surface via water evaporation.
Egress – A means of exiting the home. An egress window is required in every bedroom.
Energy Efficiency Rating – A rating given all appliances that indicates how efficiently the appliance operates.
Engineered Slab – A concrete slab that has pre-stressed or post-tensioned steel in it. This technique strengthens the slab.
Equity – The market value of your home less the payoff on the mortgage.
Escrow – An amount paid monthly with your mortgage payment and held in a special account to pay taxes and insurance when they come due.
Estimate – The amount of labor, materials, and other costs that a contractor or subcontractor anticipates for a project as summarized in the contractor’s bid proposal for the project.
Estimating – The process of calculating the cost of a project. This can be a formal and exact process or a quick and imprecise process. Both materials and labor are estimated.
Exhaust Fans – Required over the range and in bathrooms without windows.
Expansion Joint – A joint in concrete flatwork and masonry construction that is designed to allow for some movement in the material, and to help control cracking. Similar to a control joint.
Expansive Soil – Soil with a heavy clay content that has the characteristic of expanding when it absorbs moisture, and contracting during dry conditions; also known as pipe clay.
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.
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-F-
Face Frame – The front of kitchen and bathroom cabinets, to which the hinged doors attach.
Face Nailing – Nailing through a finished, exposed surface so that the flat top of the nail head is still visible after nailing.
Facing Brick – Brick made with fired clay and used for appearance, as opposed to common brick made from concrete like a concrete block.
Fair Market Value – The price at which a lot or home would probably sell for, and based on an appraisal.
Fall – Slope of the property.
Fannie Mae – The Federal National Mortgage Association. It provides a secondary market for mortgages.
Farm Home – A federal housing program operated by the Department of Agriculture to provide assistance for those seeking housing primarily in rural areas.
Fascia – The vertical component of the roof overhang.
Felt – 15 or 30 pound material used to protect roof plywood or OSB.
FHA – The Federal Housing Authority, operated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It provides housing assistance by guaranteeing certain qualifying mortgages from private lenders.
Filler Board – Cabinet-grade wood used to fill gaps that occur between cabinets and wall openings.
Fillers – A wood putty used in preparation for painting to fill holes or cracks in wood.
Fillet – A stair part trim material used in handrails between the balusters.
Finger Joint – An industrial method of putting short pieces of wood together end-to-end to make long pieces. It doesn’t stain very well because of the different colors of wood it contains. It is designed for painting.
Finish Electrical – The installation of the switches, outlets, lighting fixtures, fans, and appliances.
Finish Grade – The final elevation after all grading has been done.
Finish Grading – The process of establishing the final elevations and drainage patterns around the home.
Finish HVAC – The installation of the furnace, air conditioner, registers, filters, thermostats, and timers, if used.
Finish Plumbing –The installation of the sink, vanity bowls, tub, water heater, and faucets.
Fire Block – Short horizontal members sometimes nailed between studs, usually about halfway up a wall.
Fire Brick – Brick made of refractory ceramic material which will resist high temperatures.
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 usually consists of 2 x 4 cross-blocking between studs.
Fixed Price Contract – A contract with a set price for the work.
Fixed Rate Mortgage – A mortgage whose interest rate remains constant over the life of a loan.
Flashing – Strips of metal over openings in the outside wall and at critical areas in the roof to prevent water intrusion.
Flat Paint – An interior paint that contains a high proportion of pigment and dries to a flat or lusterless finish.
Flatwork – Common word for concrete floors, driveways, basements, and sidewalks.
Flitch Beam – A beam created by bolting together a sandwich of two 2x’s and a piece of steel.
Float Time – The time that a non-critical activity can be delayed without delaying the project.
Flood Plain – The area along a stream, creek, lake, or river that is subject to flooding during unusually heavy rain. Flood evaluation certificates are required when building on a flood prone property.
Floor Covering – Finished floor, carpet, ceramic or vinyl tile, hardwood, etc.
Floor Joist – The horizontal framing member that defines the floor and supports the flooring.
Flue – The pipe or tiled stack in the chimney through which the smoke is exhausted.
Flue Damper – An automatic door located in the flue that closes when the burner is off. The purpose is to reduce heat loss up the flue.
Footing – Concrete on which the foundation wall sits. A trench to be filled with concrete with the width and depth determined by the plans designer, engineer or architect.
Footing Drain – A perforated pipe laid in a bed of crushed stone along the footing to carry water away from the footing.
Footing Pad – A footing for a pier or column.
Forced Air – A means of delivering heat to the home.
Foreclosure – The legal process the bank uses to get its money if you fail to pay.
Formica – A familiar brand name for a plastic laminate used for countertops in kitchen and bathrooms.
Form Boards - Used in pouring concrete to form the edges of the slab, footing, or foundation wall.
Foundation – Concrete structure on which the home is built. May be on-grade or off-grade.
Foundation Ties – Metal wires that hold the foundation wall panels and rebar in place during the concrete pour.
Foundation Waterproofing – Below-grade moisture protection. Used for below-grade exterior concrete and masonry wall damp-proofing to seal out moisture and prevent corrosion.
Frame Construction – A type of construction in which the structural parts are wood or depend upon a wood frame for support.
Framer – The carpentry subcontractor that installs the lumber and erects the frame, flooring system, interior walls, backing, trusses, rafters, decking; installs all beams, stairs, soffits, windows, exterior doors, and all work related to the dry-in structure of the home.
Framing – The building of the wood shell of a home.
Framing Inspection – Inspection of the completed dried-in structure.
French Door – A door which has a large glass area; may be divided with grids or be clear.
Frieze Board – Part of the overhang on the outer wall just below the soffit.
Frost Line – The depth to which the ground freezes during the winter.
Furring Down – Framing in areas below the ceiling to conceal ductwork or to fill the space above the kitchen wall cabinets.
Furring Strips – Strips of wood, often 1 x 2 and used to shim and provide a level fastening surface for a wall or ceiling.
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-G-
Gable – The end of a gabled roof.
Gable Roof – A roof pitched up to a ridgeline with triangular areas at each end.
Gable Truss – A truss with vertical members for attachment of sheathing, installed in the gable end of the building.
Gable Vent – A vent in the gable end of the roof. It may be triangular, square, round, rectangular, octagonal, or many other shapes.
Gabled Louvers – A vent with louvers located at the peak of gable ends.
Gang Nail Plate – A steel plate attached to both sides at each joint of a truss.
Girder – A supporting element that rests on the foundation walls or piers and supports the floor system.
Glazing – The glass in the windows.
Gooseneck – A handrail stair part.
Grade – Ground level, or the relative elevation at any given point.
Grade Marking – Marking on wood that indicates its grade based on appearance or structural characteristics.
Grading – Leveling or cutting the grade in preparation to build the foundation.
Grain – The direction, size, appearance, and quality of the fibers in wood.
Graphite Lubricant – A finely-powdered graphite used as a lubricant.
Greatroom – A single living space that combines the living room and den.
Grid – The completed assembly of main and cross tees in a suspended ceiling system before the ceiling panels are installed. May also refer to the wooden, aluminum, or vinyl panes in a window.
Ground Fault Breaker – A special electrical breaker for use in circuits that trip easily. They are usually located in damp or moist areas.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) – A specialized electrical device that will interrupt electrical power when an electrical loss of ground occurs. Normally installed in areas where moisture/water may be present.
Grounding Outlet – An electrical outlet that accommodates plugs with three prongs. The third prong is for the ground wire.
Grout – The material into which ceramic tile and pavers is set, and which fills the space between tiles.
Gutters – The metal troughs that catch and direct rain water from the roof, through downspouts, to the ground.
Gypsum Board – Sheetrock usually in 4’ x 8’ or 4’ x 12’ sheets, and ½” or 5/8” thick. White board is used for drywall, blue board for hardcoat and green board for moist areas such as tubs and showers. 5/8” and ½” ceiling board is used on ceilings with trusses or rafters 24” on center.
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-H-
H-Clip – An “H” shaped clip used to stabilize the end of plywood roofing between the trusses or rafters. H-clips come in aluminum or steel (recommended).
Hardcoat – Plaster finish for interior walls and ceilings applied over blue board (gypsum).
Hardware – Miscellaneous trim in a home such as door handles and locks, window pulls and locks, door stops, etc.
Hazard Insurance – Short-term insurance that protects during construction against damage caused by fire, windstorm, or other common hazards. Lenders require borrowers to carry it in an amount at least equal to the loan amount.
Header – A structural framing member that spans an exterior opening over a door or window.
Hearth – The fireproof material in front of the fireplace; may be flushed or raised.
Hip Roof – A roof with four sloping sides. The angle formed by two sloping sides of a roof. The most wind resistant roof style.
Hollow Core – An interior door composed of two outer layers (the skin), with a hollow core.
Honeycomb – When rocks in concrete are visible or when there are voids in the foundation wall.
Horizontal Slider – Window in which the sash sections slide horizontally to open.
Hose Bib – An outside water faucet.
Hurricane Clip – Metal straps that are nailed and secure the roof rafters and trusses to the top double plate.
HVAC – Heating, Ventilating, and air conditioning.
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-I-
I-Beam – Steel beams which are “I” shaped in cross section, with horizontal flanges top and bottom, and a vertical web connecting them.
Index – The economic barometer to which the rate of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage is tied.
Industry Standards – Generally accepted standards of quality for construction. They can vary from location to location and even with the price range of homes in the same location.
Infiltration – The movement of air through the cracks and spaces in a wall, floor, or ceiling.
Inside Corner – Where two walls meet with the angle pointing away from you.
Inspection – Examination of the work at various stages of construction by inspectors from the municipal building department, FHA, VA, or the lender.
Insulated Glass – Windows or doors in which two panes of glass are used with a sealed air space between; also known as “double pane.”
Insulation – Material used to increase the resistance of thermal conductivity in a wall, floor, or ceiling; may also be used to reduce the transference of sound.
Insulation Baffle – A device used to keep ceiling insulation off the overhangs, thus allowing air to draw from the soffit vents to the attic vent.
Insulation Board – A sheathing board used to wrap the exterior walls of a home. May be structural or non-structural, depending on the local or state codes.
Interest – The cost paid to a lender for the use of borrowed money, released from the lender during construction based on a predetermined draw schedule.
Interior Finish – Material used to cover the interior framed walls and ceilings.
Irrigation – Landscape sprinkler system.
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-J-
Jack – A stud that supports a header windowsill, also known as a cripple.
Jack Rafter – The shorter rafters attached to hip or valley rafters.
Jalousie – A window composed of narrow horizontal strips of glass, which are opened with a crank.
Jamb – The wood or metal that covers the studs and header of a window or door opening.
Joint Compound – The paste-like material used to fill and smooth the joints between gypsum.
Joint Ownership – Ownership in which multiple tenants own a property equally.
Joist – A horizontal framing member used as a floor or ceiling support.
Joist Hanger – A metal fastener used to support the end of a joist.
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-K-
Keeper Plate – The metal plate that keeps a door lock latch firmly in place.
Keyless Light – A non-decorative porcelain light fixture that operates by a pull string used in the basement, crawl space, and attic areas.
Kick Plate – A member used to fasten stair stringers to the foundation and to resist “kick” or thrust associated with stairs.
Knee Kicker – A device used to manually stretch carpet during installation.
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-L-
Ladder – Roof framing used to create the overhang at a gable end.
Laminated Beam – A beam made up of several pieces of wood that have been glued together under pressure.
Laminated Shingles – Shingles that are dimensional due to extra layers or tabs, giving a shake-like appearance. May also be called “architectural shingles” or “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 directions. Normally no less than 3 feet by 3 feet square. Landing also refers to the area outside an exterior door.
Landscaping – The final preparation of the yard including installation of landscape materials – sod, plants, shrubs, trees, etc.
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 stucco, plaster, shingles, or tiles.
Lattice – An open framework of criss-crossed wood or metal strips that form regular, patterned spaces.
Ledger Strip – Wood nailed to a beam or girder to support floor joists. May also be deadwood for framing soffits or other drop down areas.
Let-In Brace – 1 x 4 or 1 x 6 boards applied into notched studs, diagonally to brace corners.
Letter of Commitment – A lender’s commitment to fund the permanent loan to owner obtaining a construction loan.
Level – True horizontal. Also a tool used to determine if a surface is level.
Lien – A legal, financial claim placed against a piece of property by a subcontractor or supplier, usually because of an unpaid or disputed bill. A lien will prevent the property from being sold or a loan until it is resolved.
Lightweight Concrete – Concrete made with an aggregate that is lighter than crushed stone or gravel.
Linear Foot – A unit of measure for lumber equal to 1 inch thick by 12 inches wide by 12 inches long.
Lintel – A reinforced concrete header used in masonry construction to bridge the top of window and door opening.
Load Bearing Wall – Walls which carry the weight or load from the roof to the foundation.
Loan – The amount borrowed for construction or mortgage.
Loan to Value Ratio – The ratio of the loan amount to the property value and expressed as a percentage.
Lockset – A door lock.
Lookout – Framing members used to create the overhang when common framing.
Lot Clearing – Removing vegetation and topsoil to prepare for construction.
Louver – A vented or non-vented opening into the gable arranged to allow ventilation but to exclude rain, snow, and insects.
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Mantle – The shelf or ledge over the fireplace.
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.
Manufacture’s Specifications – The written installation instructions which are developed by the manufacturer of a product which should be followed in order to maintain the product warranty.
Masonry – Stone, brick, concrete, hollow-tile, concrete block, or other similar building materials.
Mastic – A construction adhesive that is thick and waterproof; used on roofs.
Mechanics Lien – A lien on real property, created by statute in most states, in favor of persons supplying labor or materials for a building or structure, for the value of labor or materials they supplied.
Microlam – A manufactured structural wood beam made of adhesive bonded wood.
Mouldings – Strips of ornamental wood used around doors and windows. Also used for base molding, tile moldings, as chair rails and for exterior area molding. Mouldings finish the junction of different materials or shapes.
Monolithic Slab – A concrete slab that combines the footing and the slab in one pour, thus the name “mono.”
Mortar – A mixture of cement with sand and water used in masonry work.
Mortgage – The pledge of real estate as collateral for the repayment of a debt. The debt is typically a loan to purchase the property.
Mortgage Broker – A broker who represents numerous lenders and helps consumers find a mortgage; the broker charges a fee only if the consumer takes a loan.
Mortgage Commitment – A written communication by a lender, agreeing to make a mortgage loan on a specific property, specifying the loan amount, length of time and conditions of the loan.
Mortgage Origination Fee – A charge by a lender for the work involved in preparing and servicing a mortgage application.
Mortgagee – The lender who makes a mortgage loan.
Mull – An interior trim material used to cover the space between two windows hung together (twin windows) or between a door and its sidelite.
Mullion – A wood trim divider in the frame between windows, doors, or other openings.
Muriatic Acid – A liquid used in construction to clean brick and concrete, though most brick manufacturers recommend the use of a soap detergent to protect the color of mortar.
Mutton – The divider which create the panes in a divided-lite window or door.
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Nailing Inspection – An inspection made by a building inspector after the drywall material is hung with nails and screws but before taping, or for sheathing inspections for walls and roofs.
Nail Pops/Shiners – Nails that come loose from a stud, caused by normal wood shrinkage and home settlement.
Natural Finish – A clear finish which does not seriously alter the original color or grain of the natural wood. Natural finishes are usually provided by polyurethane sealers, oils, varnishes, or water repellent preservatives.
Newel Post – The post in a stair system.
Non-Bearing Wall – A wall supporting no load other than its own weight.
Nook – A small room or space associated with another room, e.g., a breakfast nook.
Note – A formal document showing the existence of a debt and stating the terms of repayment.
Nosing – The projecting edge of a moulding or drip or the front edge of a stair tread.
Notice of Commencement – A recorded public document stating all parties of a construction project, i.e., owner, lender, and builder.
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Off-Grade – Foundation above grade using a wood floor system as a subfloor.
On Center (O.C.) – The measurement of spacing for studs, rafters, and joists in a building from the center of one member to the center of the next, e.g., studs are 12” OC, 16” OC, or 24” OC.
On-Grade – At ground level or supported directly on the ground.
Opaque Stain – A stain that hides the wood grain beneath.
Operating Capital – Personal cash available for construction expenses that come due before construction loan funds are used.
Option – A contractual agreement when one party pays for the right to purchase a piece of property within a certain time period for a fixed price. During this time the seller takes the property off the market.
Oriented Strand Board or OSB – A manufactured 4’ x 8,’ 4’ x 9,’ or 4’ x 10’ wood panel made from 1” - 2” wood chips and glue. Used as a substitute for plywood in sheathing walls and roofs.
Overhang – That portion of the roof system that hangs over the wall below. It includes the fascia (vertical) and the soffit (horizontal), sometimes called the soffit or cornice. The gable end overhang is called the rake.
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P-Trap – The U-shaped part of the waste pipe below a sink or lavatory that traps some of the water and prevents sewer gas from coming back into the house.
Partition – A wall that divides spaces within any building or room.
Payment Schedule – A schedule of payments to a contractor paid as stages of work are completed.
Pediment – A decorative, ornamental trim used over exterior doors.
Penny – Unit of measure for sizing nails. Abbreviated “d,” as in 12d, and pronounced “12 penny.”
Perc Test – A soil boring to determine if the soil is suitable for the installation of a septic tank or if a special size tank and drainfield are required.
Permanent Loan – The long-term loan for the home that is typically paid off over a period of 15 to 30 years. It pays off and replaces the short-term construction loan.
Permeability – A measure of the rate which water penetrates a material.
Picture Mould – An interior trim material used for wainscotings and other wall decorative trim.
Piers – Vertical columns of brick or block. Built as supports for girders or beams in off-grade construction.
Pigtails, electrical – The electric cord on appliances such as garbage disposals, dishwashers, or range hoods.
Pilaster – A pier, which has one side integral with a masonry wall.
Pilings – A footing/foundation system in which pilings are driven into the ground to the point where they will support the load of the home or placed in concrete for structural strength.
Pilot Hole – A small, pre-drilled hole that guides a nail or screw.
Pinning the House – Staking the four outside corners of the home, either by owner, contractor or surveyor.
Pitch – The slope of the roof measured in number of feet of rise per foot of horizontal distance, e.g., 7/12 is 7” of rise for each 12” of horizontal.
PITI – The principal, interest, taxes, and insurance portions of your monthly house payment.
Plan View – Drawing of a structure with the view from overhead.
Planning Commission – That municipal body which passes on such questions as zoning and architectural review.
Plat – An official drawing of the lot prepared by a surveyor or contractor which shows the lengths and directions of property lines, the location of easements, roads, sidewalls, etc.
Plate – Normally a 2 x 4 or 2 x 6 that lays horizontally in a framed structure, also known as a sill plate, sole plate, button plate, or top plate.
Plot Plan – An overhead view plan that shows the location of the home on the lot including all easements, property lines, set backs, and legal descriptions of the property. It may also locate the well, septic tank, driveway, and sidewalks.
Plumb – Straight up and down or perpendicular to the earth.
Plumb Bob – A lead weight attached to a string used in determining if an item is plumb.
Plumbing Fixtures and Trim – Bathtub, lavatory, kitchen sink, shower, faucets, handles, etc.
Plumbing Stack – A plumbing vent pipe that penetrates the roof.
Plumbing Waste Line – PVC or cast iron pipe used to collect and drain sewage waste. Cast iron is recommended in two-story applications.
Plywood – A panel of wood made of three or more layers of veneer, compressed and jointed with glue.
Pocket Door – A type of door that opens by sliding into a pocket concealed in the wall.
Pointing – The filling and finishing of broken mortar and stone cement masonry joints.
Point Load - A point where a bearing or structural weight is concentrated and transferred to the foundation.
Points – An up-front fee that is charged to increase the lender’s yield of a loan, or to reduce the interest rate paid by the borrower. One point equals one percent of the loan amount.
Ponding – The collection of water on driveways, walkways, or lawns. Ponding for excessive periods of time indicates grading problems.
Post-Tensioned Slab – An engineered slab in which steel cables run in sleeving are embedded from side-to-side in the slab. When the slab has been poured the steel is stretched and secured at each end. The tension in the cables places the slab under compression, which strengthens the slab.
Power Roof Ventilator – A thermostatically controlled, motor-driven device to vent hot air from the attic space.
Prepayment – Payment of all or part of a debt prior to its maturity. Most mortgagegs today have no penalty for prepayment.
Pressure-Treated Wood – Wood that has been impregnated with a solution that penetrates the wood and acts as a preservative, inhibiting rotting.
Prime Rate – The interest rate lenders charge their largest corporate customers.
Primer – The first, base coat of paint designed to seal raw surfaces and hold succeeding finish coats.
Principle – The amount borrowed in a loan, excluding interest and other charges.
Profile – The decorative material used on the wall in areas such as fireplaces.
Prompt Payment Discount – An amount which you can deduct from your bill if you pay certain suppliers by a certain time each month. It is an incentive to pay your bills on time or even early to receive a discount.
Property Survey – A survey to determine the boundaries of property and determining encroachments. Three surveys- foundation, boundary, and final- are usually required for construction.
Pump Mix – Special concrete to be used in a concrete pump. Generally, the mix has smaller rock aggregate than regular mix.
Punch List – A written or verbal list of items to be completed or corrected by a given contractor.
Punch Out – Finishing all of the tasks required to complete the home. Involves repairing damaged items, touching up paint, replacing defective work, or finishing work left incomplete.
Putty – A pliable material used in filling small holes and crevices in wood, or other construction material.
PVC – Plastic pipe used for water supply lines and waste lines.
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Quarter Round/Shoe Moulding – Moulding used next to the floor on interior baseboard. A quarter round is ¾”; shoe mould is ½” in width.
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Radiant Heat – Heat that radiates out from a source, heating the air around it.
Rafter – One of a series of structural members of a roof designed to support roof loads. The rafters of a flat roof are sometimes called roof joists.
Ready Mixed Concrete – Concrete mixed and delivered ready for placement on the job.
Rebar – Ribbed steel bars, 20 feet long, installed in concrete footers and poured in place; designed to strengthen concrete. Comes in various thicknesses and strengths.
Recording Fee – A charge for recording the transfer of a property, paid to a city, county, or other appropriate branch of government.
Red Tag – A correction notice left in the permit box when an inspector fails an inspection; usually written on red and white paper.
R-Factor – A measure of a material’s resistance to the passage of heat.
Reinforcing – Steel rods in the footing or wire mesh in the foundation slab or concrete flatwork.
Resilient Flooring – Vinyl flooring used in areas such as kitchens, halls, bathrooms and laundry rooms. It is capable of withstanding shock without permanent deformation.
Restrictive Covenants – Rules recorded as part of subdivision documents which govern the character of the neighborhood, such as the minimum size of the homes to be built; architectural restrictions such as brick, side-entry garage, etc.
Retaining Wall – A wall used to effect a dynamic change of grade and prevent erosion.
Return Air – The ductwork that carries room air back to the air conditioner for re-circulation.
Ridge – The top edge of the roof where the two sloping surfaces meet.
Ridge Board – The board placed on the ridge of the roof on which other rafters are attached.
Ridge Line – The horizontal line defined by the ridge.
Ridge Vent – A vent that is installed on the ridge of the roof. The roof decking is cut back from the ridgeline a few inches on each side, so that hot air can be vented through the vent.
Right-of-Way – An area on each side of the street owned by the municipality, used for sanitary and storm sewers, utility pipes and electrical lines, and sidewalks.
Riser – The vertical member of a stair step.
Rollover Loan – A construction loan that converts automatically to the permanent loan, once the construction is completed, without having another closing.
Roof – Includes the roof structure, sheathing, felt paper, and the finish roof.
Roof Decking – The plywood, or OSB that is applied to the roof rafters or trusses to dry-in the roof.
Roof Sheathing – The wood panels or sheet material fastened to the roof rafters or trusses on which the shingle or other finish roof is applied. Sheathing should be installed with a spacer on roofs, walls, and gables to allow expansion and contraction.
Roof Trusses – Prefabricated units connected by metal plates which are engineered to span lengths on the house plans.
Rosette – A decorative handrail stair component.
Rough Electrical – The installation of the wiring, switch boxes, receptacle boxes, and the electric panel.
Rough Framing – Dry-in stage of construction including exterior and interior walls, wall and roof sheathing, deadwood, blocking, and installation of windows and exterior doors.
Rough HVAC – The installation of the ductwork, and setting the air handler.
Rough Openings – The framed openings for doors and windows, the size of which is determined by the manufacturer.
Rough Plumbing – The installation of the supply, vent, and waste lines in the walls and floors of the home.
Rough Stake – To stake the approximate location of the house in preparation of setting batter boards..
Roughing-In – The first stage of plumbing, electrical, heating, and low voltage such as security systems and surround sound.
R-Value – The resistance of materials to heat passing through. The higher the number, the greater the insulating value.
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Sales Contract – A contract between a buyer and seller which explains, in detail, what the purchase includes, any guarantees, when the buyer can move in, the closing costs, and what recourse the parties have if the contract is not fulfilled.
Sanitary Sewer – A sewer system designed for the collection of waste water from the bathroom, kitchen and laundry drains.
Scaling – In concrete, the breaking away of the top surface of the concrete, caused by a freeze/thaw cycle. In painting, the flaking or peeling away of paint.
Scrap-Out – The removal of construction debris during building.
Scratch Coat – The first coat of hard coat, which is scratched to form a bond for the second coat.
Screed – To level concrete to the correct elevation when placing concrete.
Scuttle Hole – An access hole to the attic space, minimum 22 ½” x 36,” but may be larger.
Sealer – A finishing material, either clear or pigmented, applied directly over raw wood to seal the surface of the wood.
Security – Collateral. Something of value pledged to guarantee the repayment of a loan.
Self-Percolation Test – Digging and filling a hole with water to determine how well the soil allows rainwater to percolate into the ground.
Semi-Gloss – Paint with a shiny finish between glossy and flat, used in trim paint.
Septic Tank – A concrete, metal or plastic container that holds affluent before passage into the drain field.
Setback – The distance that zoning requires the home to be set back from the front, rear or side property lines.
Sewer Stub – The junction where the sewer line is connected.
Sewer Tap – The connection of the home’s sewer line at the main sewer.
Sheathing – The skin of the house. Materials nailed to the outside of the studs and to the roof rafters or trusses.
Shim – A wedge-shaped piece of wood, used to help hold an object (door, cabinet, window) in place.
Shoe Mould – A ½” interior trim material used with wood flooring, ceramic and vinyl tile at the juncture of the baseboard and the floor, in a quarter round shape.
Shutter – Decorative frames located on the sides of a window. Some operable shutters are made to cover the window for protection, and others are inoperable. Available in wood or vinyl, louvered or paneled.
Sidelite – A narrow window on one or both sides of an exterior door.
Sill Plate – The 2 x 4, 2 x 6, or 2 x 8 that rests on the foundation wall. Is treated wood, on a slab; non-treated in off-grade construction.
Sill Seal – Foam gasket to be used underneath exterior wall bottom plate to prevent air and insect intrusion.
Single Cylinder Deadbolt – A deadbolt that allows opening from inside with only a thumb bar, not a key.
Single Hung Window – A window that only the bottom sash opens.
Site Evaluation – A pre-construction review of any issues on the property on which construction is about to commence.
Skirt Board – Dimensional lumber which runs at the edge of the treads and risers of the stairs.
Skylight – An operable or inoperable window located on the roof.
Slab – The concrete structure that acts as the foundation and subfloor.
Sleeve(s) – Pipe installed under driveway or sidewalk, and that will be used for conduit water lines or wire, etc.
Slider – A window that one or both sashes open by sliding horizontally.
Slope – The incline angle of a roof, given as the ratio of the rise in inches to the run in feet.
Soffit – The horizontal underside of the roof overhang.
Soffit Vent – A vent in the soffit to provide ventilation to the attic.
Soil Test – Four 10-foot-deep holes drilled at the four corners of the house site to determine soil conditions for foundation construction.
Soil Treatment – Spraying the soil with an insecticide to prevent termites.
Sole Plate or Bottom Plate– The bottom, horizontal framing member of a wall that’s attached to the slab or subfloor studs.
Sonotube – Brand name of round, dense cardboard tubes designed to build concrete columns.
Sound Attenuation – Sound-proofing a wall or subfloor.
Spackle – See joint compound.
Span – The horizontal distance between the supports of a floor joist, ceiling joist, roof rafter, beam, or girder.
Spec Home – A home that is built for sale on a speculative basis versus a custom home built under contract.
Specifications – A written list, which details how the home is to be constructed and the types, makes, models and manufactures of each product in the home.
Specs – Same as specifications.
Splash Block – A concrete or plastic trough at the end of a downspout to divert water and prevent erosion around the base of the foundation wall.
Square – Forming a right (90 degree) angle.
Stain Grade – Trim that is suitable for staining; not finger jointed.
Stair Landing – A platform between flights of stairs or at the termination of a flight of stairs. Also used when stairs change direction. Usually no less than 3’ x 3’ square.
Stair Rise – The vertical rise from stair tread to stair tread, and not to exceed 7 ¾”.
Starter Strip – Shingles applied at the eaves of the roof before the first course of shingles.
Step Flashing – Metal flashing bent at 90 degrees used where a vertical surface meets a sloping roof plane, installed beneath siding and over the top of shingles.
Stepped Footing – A footing that is dug, formed, and poured so that it steps up or down as required to fit on a sloping lot. It is stepped in 8” increments to accommodate laying concrete block.
Stick Built – Framing a roof from dimensional lumber, versus using manufactured roof trusses.
Stool – The window sill material: wood, ceramic, marble, etc.
Stop – An interior trim material used around windows and fixed glass to cover the joint between the frame and the track.
Storm Sewer – A sewer system designed to collect storm water and is separated from the waste water system.
Strike – The plate on a doorframe that engages a latch or deadbolt.
Stringer – The notched board that forms the basis of a set of steps or stairway. The treads and risers are nailed to the stringers.
Structural Elements – Those portions of the home that carry the weight or load from the roof to the ground. They include the footings, foundation, floor, wall, and roof system.
Stucco – Textured mortar applied to the exterior of the home as a finish, either over concrete block or metal lathe.
Stud – The vertical member of a wall system, spaced 12, 16, or 24” on center.
Stud Framing – A framing method that distributes structural loads to each of a series of 2 x 4’s or 2 x 6 studs.
Sub – Same as subcontractor.
Sub Facia – Dimensional lumber (usually 2 x 6) that is wrapped or covered to form the facia.
Sub Flooring – The bottom layer of a two-floor system – usually plywood or OSB, tongue and groove.
Subcontractor – A self-employed tradesman who performs a specific task (carpentry, plumbing, etc.) on a home.
Sump Pump – A submersible pump that expels any excess ground water to the outside of the home.
Superintendent – Overseas the construction project: ordering the materials, schedules, subcontractors, supervising the work and reports to the contractor or owner.
Supply Pipes – Plumbing that supplies hot and cold water to the fixtures in the kitchen, laundry, and bath.
Suspended Ceiling – A ceiling grid system with tiles supported by hanging from the structural framing, usually a commercial application.
Swale – A shallow depression in the finished grading, designed to carry water away from home.
Switched Outlet – An electrical outlet wired so that the power is controlled by a wall switch.
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T-Astragal – A piece of trim used between the two doors of a bi-hinge or double hung door.
Tack Strips – A wood strip with exposed tack points that is attached to the sub-flooring and holds stretched wall-to-wall carpeting in position.
Take-Off – The quantity of materials necessary to complete a job.
Tap – Sewer waste line or supply lines tapping into the municipal utilities.
Taping – Covering drywall joints with paper tape and joint compound.
Telephone Pre-Wire – The installation of telephone wires and outlet boxes during the rough framing of the home.
Temporary Electrical Service – A temporary pole with an electric meter and outlet, to provide power to the jobsite.
Term – The length of a loan in months.
Termite – Wood-eating insects that live in colonies.
Termite Shield – A shield, usually of galvanized metal, placed in or on a foundation wall or around pipes to prevent the entry of termites.
Terms – Conditions of a contract which establish the price, down payment, method of payment, and closing date.
Thermostat – A device which regulates the temperature of a room or home; establishing the temperature by switching heating or cooling equipment on or off.
Three-Way Switch – An electrical switch designed to allow a light fixture to be controlled from two locations. Two switches plus the light fixture equals “three”-way.
Tie Down Straps – Used to anchor roof trusses or rafters to the top plate of the exterior wall.
Time and Materials Contract – A construction contract which specifies a price for different elements of the work such as cost per hour of labor, man hour, or day.
Title – Evidence of a person’s legal right to ownership of a property.
Title Insurance – Insurance against loss suffered if someone else claims ownership of the property you have purchased.
Toenailing – To drive a nail in at an angle.
Tongue and Groove Flooring – Wood-flooring shaped with a flange or tongue along one edge, and a groove along the other. Adjacent pieces interlock for strength.
Top Cord – The upper or top member of a truss.
Top Plate(s) – The horizontal 2 x 4 or 2 x 6 at the top of a framed wall, where the studs are nailed.
Transom – A narrow window above a door or window.
Trap – A plumbing fitting that holds water to prevent air or gas from backing up into a fixture.
Tread – The part of the step on which you walk or “tread.”
Treated Lumber – A wood product which has been treated to reduce damage from wood rot or insects. Often used for the portions of a structure which are likely to be in contact with concrete, soil or water.
Tray Ceiling – A ceiling that has been stepped up in one or more increments.
Trim – Finished wood installed to cover joints for decoration, whether interior or exterior.
Trim Carpentry – Hanging interior doors, running baseboards, window sills, crown, chair, quarter round and lock-out.
Trimmer – Joists used to define an opening; usually doubled.
Trusses – Prefabricated roofs and floors connected by metal plates that are engineered to span distances.
Turnaround – An additional section of driveway where cars can be turned around.
Turnkey – A term used when a contractor or subcontractor provides all materials and labor for a job at a fixed guaranteed price.
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Underlayment – A material placed over the subfloor to provide a smooth, even surface for the finished floor.
Unfaced Batt – Fiberglass insulation sized to fit between two studs or joists which does not have a paper backing.
Utility Easement – The location of the property that has electric, gas, cable, or telephone lines. The utility company has the legal right to enter this area as needed to repair or service the lines.
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Variable-Rate Mortgage – Where the loan rate changes with market conditions, abbreviated VRM.
Vaulted Ceiling –A ceiling that rises either within the trusses or common framed.
Veneer – A surfacing material. The outside “skin” of a home such as brick, siding, stucco, etc.
Vent – A pipe or duct which allows the flow of air and gasses to the outside.
Vent Pipes – Plumbing pipes that vent gasses from the home.
Visqueen – Plastic sheeting in various thicknesses and sizes.
Volute – A stair part that terminates the handrail at the bottom of the stairs.
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Walk-Through – The final inspection of a home before closing to identify problems that need to be corrected before the final payment is made to the contractor or subcontractor.
Wall Ties – The metal pieces that tie masonry veneer to the frame of the home, or, when pouring concrete, the metal pieces that hold concrete foundation wall forms in place until the concrete cures.
Warranty – A promise, either written or implied, that the material and workmanship of a product is free of defects or will meet a specified level of performance over a period of time.
Washers – Round, rigid rubber or plastic discs used as a sealing device in water faucet valves.
Washouts – An area where water has produced soil erosion.
Waste Pipes – The plumbing system which carries away the affluent of the home from kitchens, bathrooms, laundry, etc.
Water Closet – A toilet.
Water Tap – The connection point where the home water line connects to the municipal water system.
Weatherstripping – Used to seal an opening around a window or door.
Weep Hole – A hole or plastic insert in the mortar of brick veneer, designed to allow moisture in the wall to drain to the outside.
Whole House Fan – A fan mounted in the ceiling which vents the “whole” home.
Wind Bracing – Bracing installed on a wall or roof system to prevent twisting, or racking in high winds.
Window Balance – A counter-balance device in window housing that assists with the opening and closing of a window, and then keeps the window in position.
Wire Mesh – A heavy gauge wire welded together and used to reinforce concrete.
Working Drawings – Houseplans including the floorplans, elevations, foundation plans, roof plan, typical wall section, and other details necessary for construction.
Wrapped Opening – A window or door opening which is wrapped in sheetrock versus trimmed in wood.
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Zone – The portion of a home that is conditioned and on a separate thermostat.
Zoned System – HVAC designed to independently service from two to five different areas of the home.
Zoning – Municipal regulations governing land use.
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