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Roofing Terms Glossary |
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AAMA Architectural Aluminum
Manufacturers Association. ABOVE-GRADE The portion of a
building that is above ground level. ACCELERATOR - Any material
added to stucco, plaster or mortar which speeds up the natural set. ADHESION The property of a
coating or sealant to bond to the surface to which it is applied. ADHESIVE
FAILURE
Loss of bond of a coating or sealant from the surface to which it is applied. AGGREGATE - Crushed stone,
slag or water-worn gravel that comes in a wide range of sizes that is used to
surface built-up roofs. ALLIGATORING - 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. ALUMINUM
WIRE -
Conductors made of aluminum for carrying electricity. Aluminum generally is
limited to the larger wire sizes. Due to its lower conductivity, aluminum
wire smaller than No. 12 is not made. Aluminum is lighter and less expensive
than copper but not as good a conductor. It also breaks easily. AMPS
(AMPERES) -
The rate at which electricity flows through a conductor. AMMETER - Device to measure
the current flowing in a circuit 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. ANGLE
IRON
A piece of iron that forms a right angle and is used to span openings and
support masonry at the openings. In brick veneer, they are used to secure the
veneer to the foundation. Also known as shelf angle. ANNEALING In the
manufacturing of float glass, it is the process of controlled cooling done in
a lehr to prevent residual stresses in the glass.
Re-annealing is the process of removing objectionable stresses in glass by
re-heating to a suitable temperature followed by controlled cooling. ANTI-WALK
BLOCKS
Elastomeric blocks that limit lateral glass movement in the glazing channel
which may result from thermal, seismic, wind load effects, building movement,
and other forces that may apply. 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 tradesman who
designs and produces plans for buildings, often overseeing the building
process. ARCHITECTS
RULE (ruler) -
Three sided ruler with different scales on each side. Also referred to as a
"scale." 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. AUGER In carpentry, a
wood-boring tool used by a carpenter to bore holes BACKER
ROD
In glazing, a polyethylene or polyurethane foam material installed under
compression and used to control sealant joint depth, provide a surface for
sealant tooling, serve as a bond breaker to prevent three-sided adhesion, and
provide an hour-glass contour of the finished bead. BACKFILL (1) filling in any
previously excavated area. (2) in carpentry, the
process of fastening together two pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in
the interior angle. 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
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. It is used to dig basements and/or footings and to install drainage
or sewer systems. BACK
NAILING -
The practice of nailing roofing felts to the deck under the overlap, in
addition to hot mopping, to prevent slippage of felts. BALLOON
FRAMING
In carpentry, the lightest and most economical form of construction, in which
the studding and corner plates are set up in continuous lengths from the
first floor line or sill to the roof plate. BAROMETER - Instrument for
measuring atmospheric pressure. BARREL
ROOF -
A roof design which in cross section is arched. BASE
PLY -
An asphalt-saturated and/or coated felt installed as the first ply with 4
inch laps in a built-up roof system under the following felts which can be
installed in a shingle-like fashion. BATTEN
PLATE -
A formed piece of metal designed to cover the joint between two lengths of
metal edge. BATT
INSULATION-
Strips of insulation usually fiberglass, that fit
between studs or other framing. BEAD In glazing, an
applied sealant in a joint irrespective of the method of application, such as
caulking bead, glazing bead, etc. Also a molding or stop used to hold glass
or panels in position. BEAM Structural
support member (steel, concrete, lumber) that transfers weight from one
location to another. 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. 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. BELOW-GRADE The portion of a
building that is below ground level. BENT
GLASS
Flat glass that has been shaped while hot into curved shapes. BEVEL (of a door) is
the angle of the front edge of a door usually from 1/8" to 2". BID
BOND
Security posted by a bidder to ensure performance in accordance with a bid. BIDDING - Getting prices
from various contractors and/or subcontractors. BID
DOCUMENTS
Drawings, details, and specifications for a particular project. 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) BLEEDING A migration of a
liquid to the surface of a component or into/onto an adjacent material. 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. BLOCKING In carpentry, the
process of fastening together two pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in
the interior angle. 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. 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. BOND
PLASTER -
In addition to gypsum, bond plaster contains 2-5% lime by weight and chemical
additives which improve the bond with dense non-porous surfaces such as
concrete. It is used as a base coat. 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. BROWNCOAT- The coat of plaster
directly beneath the finish coat. In three-coat work, the brown is the second
coat. BTU - British Thermal
Unit - The amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of one
pound of water through a change of one degree F. BUBBLING In glazing, open
or closed pockets in a sealant caused by release, production or expansion of
gasses. BUILDING
BRICK -
Brick for building purposes not especially treated for texture or color,
formerly called "common brick." It is stronger than face brick. BUILDING
PERMIT -
Written authorization from the city, county or other governing regulatory
body giving permission to construct or renovate a building. A building permit
is specific to the building project described in the application. 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. BUTTERFLY
ROOF -
A roof assembly which pitches sharply from either side toward the center. BUTTERING In glazing,
application of sealant or compound to the flat surface of some member before
placing the member in position, such as the buttering of a removable stop
before fastening the stop in place. BUTT
GLAZING
The installation of glass products where the vertical glass edges are without
structural supporting mullions. BUTYL Type of
non-curing and non-skinning sealant made from butylene. Usually used for
internal applications. BX
- ARMORED CABLE -
A factory assembly of insulated conductors inside a flexible metallic
covering. It can be run except where exposed to excessive moisture and should
not be run below grade. It must always be grounded and uses its armor as an
equipment ground. It is difficult to pull out old wires or insert new ones. CALCIUM
CHLORIDE -
A chemical used to speed up curing of concrete during damp conditions. CANOPY - An overhanging
roof. CANTILEVER - A projecting beam or
other structure supported only at one end. 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. CAP
SHEETS
In roofing, one to four plies of felt bonded and top coated with bitumen that
is laid over an existing roof as a treatment for defective roofs. CAPE
CHISEL
Tool used to clean out mortar joints on brick. CARBIDE
BIT
Tool used to drill holes in brick or block. CAULK
(v) 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. C/D
CIRCUIT -
A circuit where electricity flows in one direction only, at a constant rate. CELLULOSE
INSULATION -
Ground up newspaper that is treated with a fire retardant. CEMENT
MIXTURES -
Rich - 1 part cement, 2 parts sand, 3 parts coarse
aggregate. Used for concrete roads and waterproof structures. Standard - 1
part cement, 2 parts sand, 4 parts coarse aggregate. Used for reinforced work
floors, roofs, columns, arches, tanks, sewers, conduits, etc. Medium - 1 part
cement, 2 1/2 parts sand, 5 parts coarse aggregate. Used for foundations,
walls, abutments, piers, etc. Lean - 1 part cement, 3 parts sand, 6 parts
coarse aggregate. Used for all mass concrete work, large foundations, backing
for stone masonry, etc. Mixtures are always listed Cement to Sand to
Aggregate CEMENT
TYPES -
Type I Normal - is general purpose cement suitable for practically all uses
in residential construction but should not be used where it will be in
contact with high sulfate soils or be subject to excessive temperatures
during curing. Type II Moderate is used where precaution against moderate
sulfate attack is important, as in drainage structures where sulfate
concentrations in groundwaters are higher than
normal. Type III High Early Strength is used when high strengths are desired
at very early periods, usually a week or less. It is used when it is
desirable to remove forms as soon as possible or to put the concrete into
service quickly. Type IV Low Heat is special cement for use where the amount
and rate of heat generated during curing must be kept to a minimum. The
development of strength is slow and is intended in large masses of concrete
such as dams. Type V Sulfate Resisting is a special cement intended for use
only in construction exposed to severe sulfate action, such as western states
having soils of high alkali content. 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) - The measure of volume of air. When testing
systems, find the CFM by multiplying the face velocity times the free area in
square feet. The face velocity is the amount of air passing through the face
of an outlet or return. Free area is the total area of the openings in the
outlet or inlet through which air can pass. CHAIR
RAIL -
A molding that runs horizontally along the wall at about 3 feet from the
ground. In storefront, window wall, or curtain wall systems, a chair rail is
an aluminum extrusion applied horizontally to the inside of the system 3 feet
from the floor to create a barrier in floor-to-ceiling glazing applications. CHANNEL
GLAZING -
The installation of glass products into U-shaped glazing channels. The
channels may have fixed stops; however, at least one glazing stop on one edge
must be removable. CHECKING - A pattern of
surface cracks running in irregular lines. When found in the top pour of an
asphalt built-up roof, checking is the preliminary stage of alligatoring. 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. CIRCUIT
BREAKER -
Simple switch-like device which automatically opens a circuit when the rated
current is exceeded as in the case of a short circuit. 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. COAL
TAR PITCH (Tar) -
A bituminous material which is a byproduct from the coking of coal. It is
used as the waterproofing material for tar and gravel built-up roofing. COATING - A layer of any
liquid product spread over a surface for protection. COHESIVE
FAILURE -
Internal splitting of a compound resulting from over-stressing of the
compound. 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
In carpentry, a tie that keeps the roof from spreading. Connects similar
rafters on opposite sides of roof. 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. 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. CONDUCTOR (1) In roofing, a pipe
for conveying rain water from the roof gutter to a drain, or from a roof
drain to the storm drain; also called a leader, downspout, or downpipe. (2)
In electrical contracting, a wire through which a current of electricity
flows, better known as an electric wire. 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. CONDUIT - A tube for
protecting electric wires. CONSTRUCTION
LOAN -
A loan provided by a lending institution specifically to construct or
renovate a building. CONTROL
JOINT -
A control joint controls or accommodates movement in the surface component of
a roof. CONVECTION - A method of
transferring heat by the actual movement of heated molecules, usually by a
freestanding unit such as a furnace. COOLING
TOWER -
A large device mounted on roofs, consisting of many baffles over which water
is pumped in order to reduce its temperature. 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) CORE - A small section cut
from any material to show internal composition. 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 Renovation
project. COUPLING In plumbing, a
short collar with only inside threads at each end, for receiving the ends of
two pipes which are to be fitted and joined together. A right/left coupling
is one used to join 2 gas pipes in limited space. COURSE - A single layer of brick
or stone or other building material. 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. CRAZING - A series of
hairline cracks in the surface of weathered materials, having a web-like
appearance. Also, hairline cracks in pre-finished metals caused by bending or
forming. (see brake metal) CUPOLA - A small monitor or dome
at the peak of a pitched roof. CURB - A short wall or
masonry built above the level of the roof that provides a means of flashing
the deck equipment. CURING In concrete
application, the process in which mortar and concrete harden. The length of
time is dependent upon the type of cement, mix proportion, required strength,
size and shape of the concrete section, weather and future exposure
conditions. The period may be 3 weeks or longer for lean concrete mixtures
used in structures such as dams or it may be only a few days for richer
mixes. Favorable curing temperatures range from 50 to 70 degrees F. Design
strength is achieved in 28 days. CURING
AGENT
One part of a multi-part sealant which, when added to the base, will cause
the base to change its physical state by chemical reaction between the two
parts. CURTAIN
WALL
A thin wall, supported by the structural steel or concrete frame of the
building independent of the wall below. Also a metal (most often aluminum)
framing system on the face of a building containing vision glass panels and
spandrel panels made of glass, aluminum, or other material. CUTBACK In roofing, basic
asphalt or tar which has been "cut back" with solvents and oils so
that the material become fluid. 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 DAMPER - Valve for
controlling airflow. When ordering registers, make sure each supply outlet
has a damper so the air flow can be adjusted and turned off. Dampers maybe
either manually or automatically operated. Automatic dampers are required for
exhaust air ducts. 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.) "Damp proofing"
generally applies to surfaces above grade; "waterproofing"
generally applies to surfaces below grade. DARBY - A flat tool used
to smooth concrete flatwork immediately after screening. See Bullfloating DEAD
LOAD -
The constant, design-weight (of the roof) and any permanent fixtures attached
above or below. DECK - An elevated platform.
"Deck" is also commonly used to refer to the above-ground floors in
multi-level parking garage. DEFLECT - To bend or deform underweight. DEFLECTION The amount of
bending movement of any part of a structural member perpendicular to the axis
of the member under an applied load. DESIGN
PRESSURE
Specified pressure a product is designed to withstand. DEW
POINT -
The critical temperature at which vapor condenses from the atmosphere and
forms water. DISTORTION Alteration of viewed
images caused by variations in glass flatness or inhomogeneous portions
within the glass. An inherent characteristic of heat-treated glass. DORMER - The house-like
structure which projects from a sloping roof. DOUBLE-GLAZING In general, any use of
two lites of glass, separated by an air space, within an opening, to improve
insulation against heat transfer and/or sound transmission. In insulating
glass units the air between the glass sheets is thoroughly dried and the
space is sealed, eliminating possible condensation and providing superior
insulating properties. 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. DOWNSPOUT - The metal pipe used to
drain water from a roof. DRAWING
OUTLINE -
A top view drawing of a building or roof showing only the perimeter drawn to
scale. 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. 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. "DROPPING"
A STRINGER
In carpentry, means cutting short on the bottom of a stairs, to allow for
thickness of the first tread. 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 making the
interior walls and ceilings of a building. Drywall is also used as a verb to
refer to installation process. 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. DRYWALL
NAIL -
Nails used for hanging regular drywall that is to be taped and finished later
must have adequate holding power and a head design that does not cut the face
paper. They must also be of the proper depth to provide exactly 1 inch
penetration into the framing member. Nails commonly used are
chemically-etched and are designed with a cupped head. DUCT - A cylindrical or
rectangular "tube" used to move air either from exhaust or intake.
The installation is referred to as "duct work". 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. DUROMETER The measurement of hardness of a material. A gauge to measure the hardness of an elastomeric material. EPDM - Ethylene
Propylene Diene Monomer. A single ply membrane consisting of Synthetic
rubber; usually 45 or 60 mils. Application can be ballasted, Fully
adhered or mechanically attached. 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. EIFS Exterior
Insulating Finish System; exterior wall cladding system consisting primarily
of polystyrene foam board with a textured acrylic finish that resembles
plaster or stucco. ELASTOMER An elastic
rubber-like substance, such as natural or synthetic rubber. ELASTOMERIC Of or pertaining
to any of the numerous flexible membranes that contain rubber or plastic. ELECTROLYTIC
COUPLING -
A fitting required to join copper to galvanized pipe and casketed to prevent
galvanic action. Connecting pipes of different materials may result in
electrolysis. ELEVATION - A side of a
building. EMISSIVITY the measure of a
surfaces ability to emit long-wave infrared radiation. EMT - Electrical
Metallic Tubing- This electrical pipe, also called thin-wall conduit, may be
used for both concealed and exposed areas. It is the most common type of
raceway used in single family and low rise residential and commercial
buildings. EMULSION - In roofing, a
coating consisting of asphalt and fillers suspended in water. END
DAMS
Internal flashing (dam) that prevents water from moving laterally within a
curtain wall or window wall system. END
LAP -
The amount or location of overlap at the end of a roll of roofing felts in
the Application. 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. EXTERIOR
GLAZED
Glazing infills set from the exterior of the building. EXTERIOR
STOP
The molding or bead that holds the lite or panel in place when it is on the
exterior side of the lite or panel. 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. FAΗADE - 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
GLAZING
A system having a triangular bead of compound applied with a putty knife,
after bedding, setting, and clipping the glazing infill in place on a
rabetted sash. 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 - Any cover board
or framed metal assembly at the edge or eaves of a flat, sloping, or
overhanging roof which is placed in a vertical position to protect the edge
of the roof assembly. 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. FENESTRATION Any glass panel,
window, door, curtain wall or skylight unit on the exterior of a building. FERROUS - Refers to objects
made of or partially made of iron, such as ferrous pipe. FILLET
BEAD
Caulking or sealant placed in such a manner that it forms an angle between
the materials being caulked. FINISH In hardware,
metal fastenings on cabinets which are usually exposed such as hinges and
locks. 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 further decorating
or as a final decorative surface. 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
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-RATED Descriptive of
materials that has been tested for use in fire walls. FIRE
WALL -
Any wall built for the purpose of restricting or preventing the spread of
fire in a building. Such walls of solid masonry or concrete generally
sub-divide a building from the foundations to two or more feet above the
plane of the roof. FISH
TAPE (Fish Wire)
Material used to advance wire through a conduit. FLAKE - A scale-like
particle. To lose bond from a surface in small thin pieces. Sometimes a paint
film "flakes". 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. FLASH
POINT -
The critical temperature at which a material will ignite. FLASHING,
THRU-WALL -
Flashing extended completely through a masonry wall. Designed and applied in
combination with counter-flashings, to prevent water which may enter the wall
above from proceeding downward in the wall or into the roof deck or roofing
system. FLAT
GLASS
A general term that describes float glass, sheet, glass, plate glass, and
rolled glass. FLAT
SEAM -
A seam at the junction of sheet metal roof components that has been bent at
the plane of the roof. 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. FLEXIBLE
METAL CONDUIT
Conduit similar to armored cable in appearance but does not have the
pre-inserted conductors. FLOAT
GLASS
Glass formed on a bath of molten tin. The surface in contact with the tin is
known as the tin surface or tin side. The top surface is known as the
atmosphere surface or air side. FLOOR
PLAN -
The basic layout of building or addition, which includes placement of walls,
windows and doors as well as dimensions. FLOOR
PLATE
See Floor Plan. FLUSH
GLAZING (Pocket Glazing) The setting of a lite of glass or panel into a
four-sided sash or frame opening containing a recessed "U" shaped
channel without removable stops on three sides of the sash or frame and one
channel with a removable stop along the fourth side. FOLDED
SEAM -
In sheet metal work, a joint between sheets of metal wherein the edges of the
sheets are crimped together and folded flat. FOOTINGS - Wide pours of
cement reinforced with re-bar (reinforcing bar) that support foundation
walls, pillars, or posts. Footings are part of the foundation and are often
poured before the foundation walls. FOOT
PRINT
See Floor Plan. FULLY
ADHERED -
A completely attached (adhered) roof membrane. FULLY
TEMPERED GLASS
Flat or bent glass that has been heat-treated to a high surface and/or edge
compression to meet the requirements of ASTM C 1048, kind FT. Fully tempered
glass, if broken, will fracture into many small pieces (dice) which are more
or less cubical. Fully tempered glass is approximately four times stronger
than annealed glass of the same thickness when exposed to uniform static
pressure loads. FURNACE: A heating system that
uses the principle of thermal convection. When air is heated, it rises and as
the air cools it settles. Ducts are installed to carry the hot air from the
top of the furnace to the rooms. Other ducts, called cold air returns, return
the cooler air back to the furnace. GABLE - The end of a
building as distinguished from the front or rear side. The triangular end of
an exterior wall from the level of the eaves to the ridge of a double-sloped
roof. 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. GALVANIZE - To coat a metal
with zinc by dipping it in molten zinc after cleaning. GASKETS pre-formed
shapes, such as strips, grommets, etc., of rubber or rubber-like composition,
used to fill and seal a joint or opening either alone or in conjunction with
a supplemental application of a sealant. GAUGE - The thickness of
sheet metal and wire, etc. GENERAL
CONTRACTOR -
A contractor responsible for all facets of construction of a building or
renovation. GFI
or GFCI -
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters - Special devices capable of opening a
circuit when even a small amount of current is flowing through the grounding
system. 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. GLASS A hard, brittle
substance, usually transparent, made by fusing silicates under high
temperatures with soda, lime, etc. GLAZE
COAT
In roofing, a light, uniform mopping of bitumen on exposed felts to protect
them from the weather, pending completion of the job. GLAZING
(n)
A generic term used to describe an infill material such as glass, panels,
etc. (v) the process of installing an infill material into a prepared opening
in windows, door panels, partitions, etc. GLAZING
BEAD
In glazing, a strip surrounding the edge of the glass in a window or door
which holds the glass in place. GLAZING
CHANNEL
In glazing, a three-sided, U-shaped sash detail into which a glass product is
installed and retained. GRADE
MW -
Moderate Weather grade of brick for moderate resistance to freezing used, for
example, in planters. GRADE
NW -
No Weather brick intended for use as a back-up or interior masonry. GRADE
SW -
Severe Weather grade of brick intended for use where high resistance to
freezing is desired. GRANULES - The mineral
particles of a graded size which are embedded in the asphalt coating of
shingles and roofing. GRAVEL - Loose fragments
of rock used for surfacing built-up roofs, in sizes varying from 1/8" to
1 3/4". GROUND
SYSTEM -
The connection of current-carrying neutral wire to the grounding terminal in
the main switch which in turn is connected to a water pipe. The neutral wire
is called the ground wire. GROUNDING
ROD -
Rod used to ground an electrical panel. GROUT
OR GROUTING -
A cement mortar mixture commonly used to fill joints and cavities of masonry. GAUGE
BOARD (Spot Board) -
Board used to carry grout needed to patch small jobs. GUN
CONSISTENCY
Sealant formulated in a degree of viscosity suitable for application through
the nozzle of a caulking gun. 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. GUTTER - Metal trough at
the eaves of a roof to carry rain water from the roof to the Downspout. 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. 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. 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. HEAT
STRENGTHENED GLASS
Flat or bent glass that has been heat-treated to a specific surface and/or
edge compression range to meet the requirements of ASTM C 1048, kind HS.
Heat-strengthened glass is approximately two times as strong as annealed
glass of the same thickness when exposed to uniform static pressure loads.
Heat-strengthened glass is not considered safety glass and will not
completely dice as will fully tempered glass. HEEL
BEAD
Sealant applied at the base of a channel, after setting the lite or panel and
before the removable stop is installed, one of its purposes being to prevent
leakage past the stop. HERMETIC
SEAL
Vacuum seal (between panes of a double-paned window i.e. insulated glass unit
or IGU). Failure of a hermetic seal causes permanent fogging between the
panels of the IGU. HIGH
EARLY CEMENT -
A portland cement sold as Type III sets up to its
full strength faster than other types. 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. HONEYCOMB (1) Areas in a
foundation wall where the aggregate (gravel) is visible. Honeycombs can be
usually be remedied by applying a thin layer of grout or other cement product
over the affected area. (2) Method by which concrete is poured and not
puddled or vibrated, allowing the edges to have voids or holes after the
forms are removed. HUB In plumbing, the
enlarged end of a pipe which is made to provide a connection into which the
end of the joining pipe will fit. 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. 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. 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
DRAIN
In roofing, a drain positioned on a roof at some location other than the
perimeter. It drains surface water inside the building through closed pipes
to a drainage system. INSULATING
GLASS UNIT
Two or more lites of glass spaced apart and
hermetically sealed to form a single-glazed unit with an air space between
each lite. (Commonly called IG units.) INSULATION (1) Generally, any
material which slows down or retards the flow or transfer of heat. Building
insulation types are classified according to form as loose fill, flexible,
rigid, reflective, and foamed-in-place. All types are rated according to
their ability to resist heat flow (R-Value). (2) In electrical contracting,
rubber, thermoplastic, or asbestos wire covering. The thickness of insulation
varies with wire size and type of material, application or other code
limitations. INSULATION
FASTENERS -
Any of several specialized mechanical fasteners designed to hold insulation
down to a steel or a nailable
deck. INTERIOR
GLAZED
Glazing infills set from the interior of the
building. INTERLAYER In glazing, any
material used to bond two lites of glass and/or
plastic together to form a laminate. INTERPLY - Between two
layers of roofing felts that have been laminated together. 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. JAMB - The frame in
which a door or window sits. JOINT The space or
opening between two or more adjoining surfaces. JOIST - The horizontal framing
members that support the floors. KELVIN - Thermometer scale
on which a unit of measurement equals the Celsius degree. 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. KNIFE
CONSISTENCY
Compound formulated in a degree of firmness suitable for application with a
putty knife such as used for face glazing and other sealant applications. 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. LADDER,
FIXED -
A ladder which is permanently attached to a building. LAMINATED
GLASS
Two or more lites of glass permanently bonded
together with one or more inter-layers. LAP - To extend one
material partially over another; the distance so extended. LEAD - A malleable metal
once extensively used for flashings. LEAN-TO-ROOF - the sloping roof
of a building addition having its rafters or supports pitched against and
supported by the adjoining wall of a building. 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. LINTEL - or header - A
horizontal piece of wood or steel over an opening such as a window or door. to support the walls immediately above the opening.
Lintels can also be steel or stone. LIQUID-APPLIED
MEMBRANE -
Generally applied to cast-in-place concrete surfaces in one or more coats to
provide fully-adhered waterproof membranes which conform to all contours. LIQUIDATED
DAMAGES
A monetary amount agreed upon by two parties to a contract prior to
performance under the contract that specifies what a
either party owes the other if that party defaults under the contract. LITE Another term for a pane
of glass. Sometimes spelled "light" in industry literature but
spelled "lite" in this text to avoid confusion with light as in
"visible light." 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. LOT - A parcel of
ground with boundaries determined by the county. LOOSE LAID In roofing, a membrane "laid loosely", i.e., not adhered, over a roof deck or BURM. 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. MASON'S
HAMMER or BRICKLAYER'S HAMMER Tool shaped like a chisel to trim brick
or stone. 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. MELT
POINT -
The temperature at which the solid asphalt becomes a liquid. MEMBRANE - A generic term
relating to a variety of sheet goods used for certain built-up roofing
repairs and application. METAL
EDGE -
Brake metal or metal extrusions which are secured at the perimeter of the
roof to form a weathertight seal. 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). MINERAL
SPIRITS -
A by-product of petroleum, clear in color, a solvent for asphaltic coatings. MOCK
UP TESTING
Controlled air, water and structural performance testing of existing or new
glazing systems. MODULUS Stress at a given
strain. Also tensile strength at a given elongation. MOLDING Finish wood such
as door and window trim. MONITOR,
SAW-TOOTH -
A type of monitor characterized by sharp angled pitches and vertical
sections, usually arranged in rows much like teeth of a saw. MONITOR - A large structure
rising above the surrounding roof planes, designed to give light and/or
ventilation to the building interior. MOPPING In roofing, a layer of
hot bitumen mopped between plies of roofing felt. Full mopping is the
application of bitumen by mopping in such a manner that the surface being
mopped is entirely coated with a reasonably uniform coating. Spot Mopping is
the procedure of applying hot bitumen in a random fashion of small daubs, as
compared to full mopping. Sprinkle mopping is a special application of
installing insulation to the decks. It is done by dipping a roof mop into hot
bitumen and sprinkling the material onto the deck. Strip Mopping is the
application of bitumen in parallel bands. MORTAR
TYPES -
Type M is suitable for general use and is recommended specifically for
masonry below grade and in contact with earth, such as foundations, retaining
walls and walks. Type M is the strongest type. Type S is suitable for general
use and is recommended where high resistance to lateral forces is required.
Type N is suitable for general use in exposed masonry above grade and is
recommended specifically for exterior walls subject to severe exposures. Type
0 is recommended for load-bearing walls of solid units where the compressive
stresses do not exceed 100 lbs. per square inch and the masonry wall not be subjected to freezing and thawing in the presence of
excessive moisture. MUD
CRACKS -
Cracks developing from the normal shrinkage of an emulsion coating when
applied too heavily. MULLION A horizontal or
vertical member that supports and holds such items as panels, glass, sash, or
sections of a curtain wall. MUNTINS Horizontal or
vertical bars that divide the sash frame into smaller lites
of glass. Muntins are smaller in dimensions and
weight than mullions. NAILER - A piece of lumber
secured to non-nailable decks and walls by bolts or
other means, which provides a suitable backing onto which roof components may
be mechanically fastened. NEAT
PLASTER -
A base coat plaster which does not contain aggregates and is used where the
addition of aggregates on the job is desired. NEOPRENE A synthetic
rubber having physical properties closely resembling those of natural rubber.
It is made by polymerizing chloroprenes, and the
latter is produced from acetylene and hydrogen chloride. 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. NMC
(Non Metallic Conduit) A type of ROMEX cable (nonmetallic sheathed
cable that contains several conductors). NMC may be used in damp or corrosive
locations as well as dry areas. NON-DESTRUCTIVE - A phrase
describing a method of examining the interior of a component whereby no
damage is done to the component itself. NON-DRYING (Non-Curing) A
sealant that does not set up or cure. See Butyl. NON-SAG A sealant
formulation having a consistency that will permit application in vertical
joints without appreciable sagging or slumping. A performance characteristic
which allows the sealant to be installed in a sloped or vertical joint
application without appreciable sagging or slumping. NON-SKINNING Descriptive of a
product that does not form a surface skin. NON-STAINING Characteristic of a
compound that will not stain a surface. NOZZLE The tubular tip of a
caulking gun through which the compound is extruded. 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. OHMMETER In electrical
contracting, a device to measure the resistance across a load. They are never
used on a live circuit. It is used to track down broken wires. 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: I
(Current) = V voltage or V = I x R R
resistance or R = V/I OIL-CANNING - The term
describing distortion of thin-gauge metal panels which are fastened in a
manner restricting normal thermal movement. ORGANIC - A term
designating any chemical compound which contains carbon and hydrogen. OVERHANG - That part of the
roof structure which extends horizontally beyond the vertical plane of the
exterior walls of a building. OXIDIZE - To combine with
oxygen in the air. 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. PATTERNED
GLASS
On type of rolled glass having a pattern impressed on one or both sides. Used
extensively for light control, bath enclosures and decorative glazing.
Sometimes call "rolled," "figured,"
or "obscure" glass. PAVER
STONES -
Usually pre-cast concrete slabs used to create a traffic surface. PENTHOUSE - A relatively
small structure built above the plane of the roof. PERFORMANCE
AND PAYMENT BOND
Guaranty by a surety company that if a contractor fails to perform under a
contract, the surety company will complete the work. PERLITE - An aggregate
formed by heating and expanding siliceous volcanic glass. PERMANENET
SET
The amount by which a material fails to return to its original dimensions
after being deformed by an applied force or load. PHOTO-OXIDATION - Oxidation caused
by rays of the sun. PITCH - A term frequently
used to designate coal tar pitch. PLAN
SUBMITTAL -
Submission of construction plans to the city or county in order to obtain a
Building Permit. PLANS - See Blue Prints. PLAT - A map of a
geographical area as recorded by the county. 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
CHAMBER -
Chamber or container for moving air under a slight positive pressure to which
one or more ducts are connected. PLOT
PLAN -
A birds 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. PLYWOOD -Wooden panels
formed by gluing thin sheets of wood together, with the grain of adjacent
layers arranged at right angles. POCKET
(CHANNEL)
A three-sided, U-shaped opening in a sash or frame to receive glazing infill.
Contrasted to a rabbet, which is a two-sided,
L-shaped sections as with face glazed window sash. POINTING - The process where
joints between masonry units, brick, etc., are filled with mortar. POLISHED
WIRED GLASS
Wired glass that has been ground and polished on both surfaces. POLYMER - A substance
consisting of large molecules which have been formed from smaller molecules
of similar make-up. POLYSULFIDE
SEALANT
Polysulfide liquid polymer sealant which is mercaptan
terminated, long chain aliphatic polymers containing disulfide linkages. They
can be converted to rubbers at room temperature without shrinkage upon
addition of a curing agent. POLYURETHANE
SEALANT
An organic compound formed by reaction of a glycol with and isocyanate. POLYVINYL
CHLORIDE (PVC)
Polymer formed by polymerization of vinyl chloride monomer. Sometimes called
vinyl. PONDING - A condition where
water stands on a roof for prolonged periods due to poor drainage and/or deflection of the
deck. POP
OUT -
See stucco popout POP
RIVETS -
Fasteners used to join pieces of metal that are installed by either
compressed-air-assisted or hand-operated guns. Unique in that they are
installed from one side of the work. POROSITY - The density of
substance and its capacity to pass liquids. 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. POT
LIFE
The time interval following the addition of an accelerator before chemically
curing material will become too viscous to apply satisfactorily. See Shelf
Life. 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. PRECAST - Concrete building
components which are formed and cured at a factory and then transported to a
work site for erection. PRE-SHIMED
TAPE SEALANT
A sealant having a pre-formed shape containing solids or discrete particles
that limit its deformation under compression. PRESSURE
REDUCING VALVE
Valve installed in the water service line where it enters the building to
reduce the pressure of water in the line to an acceptable pressure used in
buildings (40-55 psi desired). PRESSURE
RELIEF VALVE
Valve to relieve excess pressure in water storage tanks. PRESSURE
TREATED LUMBER -
Lumber that is treated in such a way that the sealer is forced into the pores
of the wood. PRIMER - A material of
relatively thin consistency applied to a surface for the purpose of creating a more secure bonding
surface and to form a barrier to prevent migration of components. PRIMING Sealing of a
porous surface so that compounds will not stain, lose elasticity, shrink
excessively, etc. because of loss of oil or vehicle into the surround. PROJECTION In roofing, any object
or equipment which pierces the roof membrane. PROTECTION
BOARD
In roofing, heavy asphalt impregnated boards which are laid over bituminous
coatings to protect against mechanical injury. 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. PVDF Architectural
coating. See Kynar Coating. 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. RADIATION - Any heated
surface loses heat to cooler surrounding space or surfaces through radiation.
The earth receives its heat from the sun by radiation. The heat rays are
turned into heat as they strike an object which will absorb some or all of
the heat transmitted. RADIATOR - A heating unit
which is supplied heat through a hot water system. RAFTER A sloping roof
member that supports the roof covering which extends from the ridge or the
hip of the roof to the eaves. A common rafter is one which runs square with
the plate and extends to the ridge. A hip rafter extends from the outside
angle of the plate towards the apex of the roof. They are 2" deeper or
wider than common rafters. A valley rafter extends from an inside angle of
the plates toward the ridge of the house. 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). RAKE - The angle of
slope of a roof rafter, or the inclined portion of a cornice. RANKIN - Thermometer scale
on which unit of measurement equals the Fahrenheit degree. RE-BAR - Reinforcing bar
used to increase the tensile strength of concrete. REFLECTIVE
GLASS Glass
with a metallic coating to reduce solar heat gain. 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. REGLET - A horizontal slot, formed or cut in a parapet or other masonry wall,
into which the top edge of counter-flashing can be inserted and anchored. In
glazing, a reglet is typically a pocket or keyway
extruded into the framing for installing the glazing gaskets. 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. RELATIVE
HEAT GAIN
The amount of heat gain through a glass product taking into consideration the
effects of solar heat gain (shading coefficient) and conductive heat gain (U-value). RESISTANCE- The internal structure
of wires even in the best conductors opposes the flow of electric current and
converts some current into heat. This internal friction-like effect is called
resistance and is measured in ohms. Resistance equals Voltage divided by
Amperage. RETURN In heating and
cooling systems, a vent that returns cold air to be warmed. In a hot air
furnace system, it is located near an inside wall. RIGID
METAL CONDUIT -
This conduit resembles plumbing pipe, protecting wires from damage. ROMEX - A nonmetallic
sheathed cable consisting of two or more insulated conductors having an outer
sheath of moisture resistant, nonmetallic material. The conductor insulation
is rubber, neoprene, thermoplastic or a moisture resistant flame retardant
fibrous material. There are two types: NM and NMC - described earlier. ROOF
SYSTEM -
General term referring to the waterproof covering, roof insulation, vapor
barrier, if used and roof deck as an entity. ROUGH In hardware,
metal fastenings on cabinets which are usually concealed, like staples ROUGH
OPENING
The opening in a wall into which a door or window is to be 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. 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 span for a symmetrical gable roof. R-VALUE The thermal
resistance of a glazing system. The R-value is the reciprocal of the U-value.
The higher the R value, the less heat is transmitted throughout the glazing
material. SABER
SAW -
a saw that cuts on the upstroke, good side of wood faces down. 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. SASH The window frame,
including muntin bars if used, to receive the
glazing infill. 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. SCRATCH COAT - The first coat of
plaster derives its name from cross-raking which is performed on the wet
surface to improve bond with the following brown coat. It is considered a
base coat plaster. 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. SCRIM - A woven or mat-type
fabric that is used as a membrane sandwich between other material to provide reinforcement
and stretch resistance. SCUPPER - An outlet in the
wall of a building or a parapet wall for drainage of water from a flat roof. SCUTCH - A bricklayers
cutting tool used for dressing and trimming brick to a special shape. It
resembles a small pick SEALANT An elastomeric
material with adhesive qualities applied between components of a similar or
dissimilar nature to provide an effective barrier against the passage of the
elements. SELF-HEALING - A term used to
describe to a material which melts with the heat from the sun's rays, and
seals over cracks that were earlier formed from other causes. Some waterproof
membranes are self-healing. SELF-LEVELING - A term used to
describe a viscous material that is applied by pouring. In its uncured state,
it spreads out evenly. 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. SEPARATION In concrete
application, what happens to concrete when it is dropped directly with a flat
chute causing the concrete to separate, usually occurring at a 1:2 slope. SERVICE
CONDUCTOR
In electrical contracting, the supply conductors that extend from the street
main or from the transformer to the service equipment. SERVICE
DROP
In electrical contracting, the overhead service conductors from the last pole
or other aerial support to and including the splices, if any, connecting to
the service entrance conductors at the building. SETTING
BLOCKS
Generally rectangular cured extrusions of neoprene, EPDM, silicone, rubber or
other suitable material on which the glass product bottom edge is placed to
effectively support the weight of the glass. SFD
or Single Family Dwelling - A house built for the purpose of a single
family as opposed to multi families such as a duplex or apartment complex. SHADING
COEFFICIENT
The ratio of the solar heat gain through a specific glass product to the
solar heat gain through a lite of 1/8" (3mm) clear glass. Glass of
1/8" (3mm) thickness is given a value of 1.0, therefore the shading
coefficient of a glass product is calculated as follows: SOLAR
HEAT GAIN OF THE GLASS IN QUESTIONS S.C.
= Solar Heat Gain of 1/8" clear Glass 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. SHEATHING - Plywood, gypsum
or wood fiber encasing walls, ceilings, floors and roofs of framed buildings.
It is the first layer of outer wall covering nailed to the studs or rafters. SHEETROCK - Panels made
primarily from gypsum installed over the framing to form the interior walls
and ceilings. Sheetrock is often called gypsum board. SHELF
LIFE
Used in the glazing and sealant business to refer to the length of time a
product may be stored before beginning to lose its effectiveness.
Manufacturers usually state the shelf life and the necessary storage
conditions on the package. SHINGLES - Small units of
material which are laid in a series of overlapping rows as a roof covering on
pitched roofs. SHORING - A temporary support
erected in a trench or other excavation to support the walls from caving in. SHORE
"A" HARDNESS Measure of firmness of a compound by
means of a Durometer Hardness Gauge. (A hardness
range of 20-25 is about the firmness of an art gum eraser. A hardness of
about 90 is about the firmness of a rubber heel.) SIGHT
LINE
The line along the perimeter of glazing infills
corresponding to the top edge of stationary and removable stops. The line to
which sealants contacting the glazing infill are sometimes finished off. SILICONE
SEALANT
A sealant having as its chemical compound a backbone consisting of
alternating silicon-oxygen atoms. 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
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
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. 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 construction in which footings are needed but little or no
foundation wall is poured. SLAG - A by-product of
smelting ore such as iron, lead or copper. Also overburden/dropping from
welding which may burn, melt, or discolor adjacent surfaces. SLATE - A dark gray
stratified stone cut relatively thin and installed on pitched roofs in a shingle like fashion. SLOPE - Incline or pitch
of roof surface. SLUMPTEST- Measures the
consistency of a concrete mix or its stiffness. If the tests results are
high, one likely cause would be too much water. Low slump-not
enough water. The test is measured in inches. SLOPED
GLAZING
Any installation of glass that is at a slope of 15 degrees or more from
vertical. SOFFIT - The underside of
a part or member of a building extending out from the plane of the building
walls. SOFTENING
POINT -
The temperature at which a substance changes from a hard material to a softer
and more viscous material. SOLE
PLATE -
bottom horizontal member of a frame wall. SPACERS
(Shims)
Small blocks of neoprene, EPDM, silicone or other suitable material placed on
each side of the glass product to provide glass centering, maintain uniform
width of sealant bead and prevent excessive sealant distortion. SPALLING - The chipping or
flaking of concrete, bricks, or other masonry where improper drainage or
venting and freeze/thaw cycling exists. SPAN - The horizontal
distance between supporting structures such as beams, trusses or columns. SPANDREL The panels of a
wall located between vision areas of windows which conceal structural
columns, floors, and shear walls. SPECIFICATION - Detailed written
instructions which, when clear and concise, explain each phase of work to be
done. SPLITTING - The formation of
long cracks completely through a membrane. Splits are frequently associated
with lack of allowance for expansion stresses. They can also be a result of deck deflection or change in deck
direction. SPUD - The removal of
gravel or heavy accumulations of bitumen from roof membranes by means of
chipping or scraping. STACK - The vertical pipe
of a system of soil, waste or vent piping 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. STANDING
SEAM -
A type of joint often used on metal roofs. STATIC
LOAD -
The total amount of permanent non moving weight
that is applied to given surface areas. STEEL
TROWEL-
Tool used for non-porous smooth finishes of concrete. It is a flat steel tool
used to spread and smooth plaster, mortar or concrete. Pointing trowels are
small enough to be used in places where larger trowels will not fit. The
pointing trowel has a point. The common trowel has a rectangular blade
attached to a handle. For smooth finish, use trowel when concrete begins to
stiffen. STC
(Sound Transmission Class) A single number rating derived from individual
transmission losses at specified test frequencies. It is used for interior
walls, ceilings and floors. STL
(Sound Transmission Loss) The reduction of the amount of sound energy
passing through a wall, floor, roof, etc. It is related to the specific
frequency at which it is measured and it is expressed in decibels. Also
called "Transmission Loss." STILE - The side frame
members of a door or window (not the jamb). STORM
DOOR
A panel or sash door placed on the outside of an existing door to provide
additional protection from the elements. STORM
WINDOW
A glazed panel or sash placed on the inside or outside of an existing sash or
window as additional protection against the elements. STRAIN The percentage of
elongation or compression of a material or portion of a material caused by an
applied force. STRIKING
OFF
The operation of smoothing off excess compound or sealant at sight line when
applying same around lites or panels. 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. STRUCTURAL
SILICONE GLAZING
The use of a silicone sealant for the structural transfer of loads from the
glass to its perimeter support system and retention of the glass in the
opening. STUCCO - A type of
exterior finish. STUD - The evenly
spaced, vertical framing members of a wall. See also: Wood grades. SUB
CONTRACTOR -
A contractor who specializes in a particular trade such as waterproofing. SUB-FLOOR - Material (such as
particleboard) installed before finish flooring materials. SUB
ROUGH -
That part of a buildings plumbing system that is done before the cement is
poured. SUBSTRATE - A part or
substance which lies below and supports another. TAPING - Applying joint
tape over embedding compound in the process of joint treatment of drywall. TEAR
OFF
In roofing, a term used to describe the complete removal of the built up roof
membrane and insulation down to and exposing the roof deck. 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. THREE
PHASE
In electrical contracting, a wiring system consisting of 4 wires and used in
industrial and commercial applications. This system is suitable for
installations requiring large motors. It consists of three hot wires and one
ground wire. The voltage in each hot wire is out of phase with the others by
1/3 of a cycle, as if produced by 3 different generators. 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. TILT-UP
WALL -
Cast concrete units which are preformed which, when cured, are tilted to
their vertical position and secured by mechanical fasteners to prior erected structural steel. May be pre-cast. TINTED
GLASS
Glass with colorants added to the basic glass batch that
give the glass color as well as light and heat-reducing capabilities.
The color extends throughout the thickness of the glass. TITLE
24 -
A federal set of laws that mandates the construction
industry to conserve energy. TOE
BEAD
Sealant applied at the intersection of the outboard glazing stop and the
bottom of the glazing channel; must be sized to also provide a seal to the
edge of the glass. TONGUE
AND GROOVE -
A type of flooring where the tongue of one board is joined to the groove of
another board TOOLING The operation of
pressing in and striking a sealant in a joint to press the sealant against
the sides of a joint and secure good adhesion; the finishing off of the
surface of a sealant in a joint so that it is flush with the surface. TOP
MOPPING -
The finished mopping of hot bitumen on a built-up roof. 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. 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. TRUSS - A major
supporting structure usually made of timber. TUCK
POINTING -
The re-grouting of defective mortar joints in a masonry or brick wall. TW
Moisture-resistant thermoplastic conductor that can be used in dry or wet
locations and has no outer covering and is not heat-resistant. TWO-PART
SEALANT
A product composed of a base and curing agent or accelerator, necessarily
packages in two separate containers which are uniformly mixed just prior to
use. ULTRAVIOLET - The invisible
rays of the spectrum of light which are at its violet end. Sometimes
abbreviated U.V. UPRIGHTS - Vertical members
supporting the sides of a trench. U-VALUE A measure of
air-to-heat transmission (loss or gain) due to the thermal conductance and
the difference in indoor and outdoor temperatures. As the U-value decreases,
so does the amount of heat that is transferred through the glazing material.
The lower the U-value, the more restrictive the fenestration product is to
heat transfer. Reciprocal of R-value. 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
RETARDER (BARRIER) -
A membrane which is placed between the insulation and the roof deck to retard
water vapor in the building from entering the insulation and condensing into
liquid water. VEINING In roofing, the
characteristic lines or "stretch marks" which develop during the
aging process of soft bitumens. VENT
PIPE -
A vertical pipe of relatively small dimensions which protrudes through a roof
to provide for the ventilation of gasses. 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 Pressure;
the process of water in the insulation course of the roof assembly evaporating and exiting via the roof
vents. VENT STACK - A vertical vent
pipe installed for the purpose of providing circulation of air to and from
any part of a drainage system. VENT
SYSTEM
In plumbing, a system to provide a flow of air to or from a drainage system
or to provide circulation of air within such system to protect traps seals
from siphonage and back pressure. 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. VISCOSITY - The internal
frictional resistance offered by a fluid to change of shape or to the
relative motion or flow of its parts. VISIBLE
LIGHT TRANSMITTANCE
The percentage of visible light (390 to 770) nanometers) within the solar
spectrum that is transmitted through glass. VISUAL
MOCK UP
Small scale demonstration of a finished construction product. VOLTAGE - The driving force
behind the flow of electricity somewhat like pressure is in a water pipe. VOLTMETER - measures the
voltage flowing through a circuit. The circuit must be closed to allow the
voltage to flow. WALKWAYS - Designated areas
for foot traffic. WATER-CEMENT
RATIO -
The strength of a concrete mixture depends on the water cement ratio. The
water and cement form a paste. If the paste is made with more water, the
concrete becomes weaker. Traditionally, concrete mixes have been identified
in terms of the ratio of cement to fine aggregate to coarse aggregate. For
example, the ratio 1:2:4 refers to a mix which consists of 1 cu. ft. of
cement, 2 cu. ft. of sand and 4 cu. ft. of gravel. Cement and water are the
two chemically active elements in concrete and when combined, form a paste or
glue which coats and surrounds the particles of aggregate and upon hardening
binds the entire mass together. WATERPROOFING Type of work done
by PROOFROCK WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS; also the process where a building
component is made totally resistant to the passage of water and/or water
vapor. WATER
REPELLANT COATING
Transparent coating or sealer applied to the surface of concrete and masonry
surfaces to repel water. WATER
VAPOR -
Moisture existing as a gas in air. WATTAGE - The electrical
unit of power. KILOWATTS is 1000 watts and electric
customers are billed on how many kilowatts of power they have used. WEEP
HOLE -
A hole which allows for drainage of entrapped water from masonry or glazing
structures. WEEP SCREED Tool used to
drain moisture from concrete. WELD - The joining of
components together by fusing. In thermoplastics, refers to bonding together
of the membrane using heat or solvents. WET
SEAL
Application of an elastomeric sealant between the glass and sash to form a
weather tight seal. WIND
UPLIFT -
The upward force exerted by wind traveling across a roof. 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. WOOD
FIBER PLASTER -
Consists of calcified gypsum integrally mixed with selected coarse cellulose
fibers which provide bulk and greater coverage. It is formulated to produce
high-strength base coats for use in highly fire-resistant ceiling assemblies. WORK
LIFE
The time during which a curing sealant (usually two compounds) remains
suitable for use after being mixed with a catalyst. |