ABS - A type of black plastic pipe commonly used for waste water lines.

Aggregate - Crushed rock used as a top layer in some flat-roof applications.
Crushed rock used as a top layer in some flat-roof applications.

Algae - Micro organisms that may grow to colonies in damp environments, including certain rooftops. Often described as fungus, algae can discolor shingles.  Micro organisms that may grow to colonies in damp environments, including certain rooftops. Often described as fungus, algae can discolor shingles. 

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. Best kept to a minimum number and used for items who's choice will not impact earlier stages of the construction. For example, selection of tile as flooring may require an alternative framing or underlayment material.

Amperage or AMPS - A unit of electrical current or volume- see voltage. Most homes have an electrical service 'entrance' package of 125 or 200 amps. Some older homes have 60 or 100 amp 'entrances'.

Anchor Bolts - 'L' shaped bolts which are set in the concrete foundation and used to attach the framing of the house to the foundation.

APA Plywood-  APA=American Plywood Association, number one rated exterior plywood, contains no voids between laminate layers.

Architect - One who has completed a course of study in building and design, served an internship and passed a test and is licensed by the state as an architect.

Asbestos - (1) A common form of magnesium silicate which was used in various construction products due to it's stability and resistance to fire. Asbestos exposure by inhaling loose asbestos fibers is associated with various forms of lung disease. (2) The name given to certain inorganic minerals when they occur in fibrous form. Though fire-resistant, its extremely fine fibers are easily inhaled, and exposure to them over a period of years has been linked to cancers of the lung or lung-cavity lining and to asbestosis, a severe lung impairment.

Asphalt- A bituminous material employed in roofing materials because of its waterproofing ability. A bituminous material employed in roofing materials because of its waterproofing ability.

Asphalt plastic cement - An asphalt-based cement used to bond roofing materials. Also known as flashing cement or mastic.

B

Ballcock - The mechanism that controls the flow of water into a gravity-operated toilet tank. The ballcock is controlled by the float mechanism floating in the water in the tank. When the toilet is flushed, the float drops and opens the ballcock, allowing water to enter the tank and/or bowl. The float rises as the water level in the tank is restored, and shuts off the ballcock when the tank is completely filled. Also referred to as a float valve.

Base sheet - Bottom layer of built-up roofing. Bottom layer of built-up roofing.

Beam - A horizontal framing member designed to carry a load from a set of joists or a roof and spanning an open space. Usually 6" x 6" or 4" x 10" or larger.

Bidet - A personal hygiene fixture with hot and cold water supply for genital and perineum cleanliness.

Bisque - Unglazed areas of vitreous china fixtures, such as inside the tank or on the bottom of the bowl foot, have a bisque finish.

Bitumen - Term commonly applied to various mixtures of naturally occurring solid or liquid hydrocarbons, excluding coal. These substances are described as bituminous. Asphalt is a bitumen. Term commonly applied to various mixtures of naturally occurring solid or liquid hydrocarbons, excluding coal. These substances are described as bituminous. Asphalt is a bitumen.

Blue Print(s) - A type of copying method often used for architectural drawings. Usually used to describe the drawing of a structure which is prepared by an architect or designer for the purpose of design and planning, estimating, securing permits and actual construction.

Bowl - Water-containing receptor that receives liquid and solid body waste; two general bowl classifications are round front and elongated.

Built-up roof -  A type of commercial, or "flat" roof finish, produced by applying alternate layers of roofing felt and hot asphalt or pitch. The top layer is given a hot flood coat of the bitumen; granules of rock, gravel, slag, or ceramic particles may be embedded while the flood coat is still hot. The roofing system may incorporate rigid insulation.

A type of commercial, or "flat" roof finish, produced by applying alternate layers of roofing felt and hot asphalt or pitch. The top layer is given a hot flood coat of the bitumen; granules of rock, gravel, slag, or ceramic particles may be embedded while the flood coat is still hot. The roofing system may incorporate rigid insulation.

Bundle -  A package of shingles. There are 3, 4 or 5 bundles per square.

A package of shingles. There are 3, 4 or 5 bundles per square.

Butt edge -  The lower edge of the shingle tabs. The lower edge of the shingle tabs.

C
 

The portion of the flashing attached to a vertical surface to prevent water from migrating behind the base flashing.

Cap sheet -  A top layer in built-up roofing.

Caulking - (1) A flexible material used to seal a gap between two surfaces e.g. between pieces of siding or the corners in tub walls. (2)  To fill a joint with mastic or asphalt plastic cement to prevent leaks.

Chalk line - A line made on the roof by snapping a taut string or cord dusted with chalk. Used for alignment purposes.

• '110' volt household circuits require a fuse or circuit breaker with a rating of 15 or a maximum of 20 amps. '220' volt circuits may be designed for higher amperage loads e.g. a hot water heater may be designed for a 30 amp load and would therefore need a 30 amp fuse or breaker. also see GFI

Class "A" fire resistance - The highest fire-resistance rating for roofing per ASTM E-108. Indicates that roofing is able to withstand severe exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

The highest fire-resistance rating for roofing per ASTM E-108. Indicates that roofing is able to withstand severe exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Class "B" fire resistance - Fire-resistance rating that indicates roofing material is able to withstand moderate exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Fire-resistance rating that indicates roofing material is able to withstand moderate exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Class "C" fire resistance -  Fire-resistance rating that indicates roofing material is able to withstand light exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Fire-resistance rating that indicates roofing material is able to withstand light exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Closed cut valley -  A method of valley treatment in which shingles from one side of the valley extend across the valley, while shingles from the other side are trimmed 2 inches from the valley centerline. The valley flashing is not exposed.

A method of valley treatment in which shingles from one side of the valley extend across the valley, while shingles from the other side are trimmed 2 inches from the valley centerline. The valley flashing is not exposed.

Coal tar - A viscous liquid mixture of hydrocarbon compounds, derived, along with coke, from the destructive distillation of coal.

A viscous liquid mixture of hydrocarbon compounds, derived, along with coke, from the destructive distillation of coal.

Coating - A layer of viscous asphalt applied to the base material into which granules or other surfacing is embedded.

A layer of viscous asphalt applied to the base material into which granules or other surfacing is embedded.

Cold Process Adhesive - Mastic prepared with SBS modifiers to adhere laps, flashings and joints of built-up or low-slope roofing without hot-mopping or torching equipment.

Mastic prepared with SBS modifiers to adhere laps, flashings and joints of built-up or low-slope roofing without hot-mopping or torching equipment.

Cold-Method and Lap Cement - Special multipurpose adhesive for low-sloped, cold-applied roof construction. Bonds 19" selvedge, mineral surface and cap sheets to the underlayment. Doubles as an adhesive on 2" selvedge lap of mineral-, granule- or smooth-surfaced roofing. Available in both summer and winter grades.

Special multipurpose adhesive for low-sloped, cold-applied roof construction. Bonds 19" selvedge, mineral surface and cap sheets to the underlayment. Doubles as an adhesive on 2" selvedge lap of mineral-, granule- or smooth-surfaced roofing. Available in both summer and winter grades.

Collar - Preformed flange placed over a vent pipe to seal the roofing above the vent pipe opening. Also called a vent sleeve.

Preformed flange placed over a vent pipe to seal the roofing above the vent pipe opening. Also called a vent sleeve.

Concealed nail method - Application of roll roofing in which all nails are driven into the underlying course of roofing and covered by a cemented, overlapping course. Nails are not exposed to the weather.

Condensation - The change of water from vapor to liquid when warm, moisture-laden air comes in contact with a cold surface.

Coping joint - The intersection of a roof slope and an exterior vertical wall.

The intersection of a roof slope and an exterior vertical wall.

Counter flashing - See cap flashing.

See cap flashing.

Course - A row of shingles or roll roofing running the length of the roof.

A row of shingles or roll roofing running the length of the roof.

Coverage -  Amount of weather protection provided by the roofing material. Depends on number of layers of material between the exposed surface of the roofing and the deck; i.e. single coverage, double coverage, etc.

Amount of weather protection provided by the roofing material. Depends on number of layers of material between the exposed surface of the roofing and the deck; i.e. single coverage, double coverage, etc.

Cricket -  A saddle-shaped, peaked construction connecting a sloping roof plane with a chimney. Designed to encourage water drainage away from the chimney joint.

A saddle-shaped, peaked construction connecting a sloping roof plane with a chimney. Designed to encourage water drainage away from the chimney joint.

Concrete - A common construction material often used for foundations, ground level floors, and sidewalks. Most concrete is made out of (1) Portland cement, (2) sand, and (3) gravel or aggregate. It is commonly reinforced with steel rods (rebar) or wire screening (mesh).

Concrete Block - A hollow concrete 'brick' often 8" x 8" x 16" in size. Often used in low rise commercial and some residential construction. The original design and use is attributed to the architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

Concrete Board or Wonderboard (tm) - A panel made out of concrete and fiberglass usually used as a tile backing material.

Contractor - A company licensed to perform certain types of construction activities. In most states, the generals contractor's license and some specialty contractor's licenses don't require of compliance with bonding, workmen's compensation and similar regulations. Some of the specialty contractor licenses involve extensive training, testing and/or insurance requirements. There are various types of contractors:

• General contractor - responsible for the execution, supervision and overall coordination of a project and may also perform some of the individual construction tasks. Most general contractors are not licensed to perform all specialty trades and must hire specialty contractors for such tasks, e.g. electrical, plumbing.
• Remodeling contractor - a general contractor who specializes in remodeling work.
• Specialty contractor - licensed to perform a specialty task e.g. electrical, side sewer, asbestos abatement.
• Sub contractor - a general or specialty contractor who works for another general contractor.

Construction Contract - A legal document which specifies the what-when-where-how-how much and by whom in a construction project. A good construction contract will include:

1. The contractors registration number.
2. A statement of work quality such as 'Standard Practices of the Trades' or 'according to Manufacturers Specifications'.
3. A set of Blue Prints or Plans
4. A set of Specifications
5. Any Allowances.
6. A construction timetable including starting and completion dates.
7. A Fixed Price for the work , or a Time and Materials formula.
8. A Payment Schedule.
9. A written Warrantee
10. .A clause which outlines how any disputes will be resolved.

Cost Plus Contract - Same as Time and Materials Contract

Curtain Drain - A ditch sometimes filled with gravel and a drain tile which diverts storm and drain water away from a structure.

Curb - The short elevation of an exterior wall above the deck of a commercial flat roof.

The short elevation of an exterior wall above the deck of a commercial flat roof.

The short elevation of an exterior wall above the deck of a commercial flat roof.

Curb roof -  A roof with an upper and lower set of rafters on each side, the under set being less inclined to the horizon than the upper; a mansard roof.

A roof with an upper and lower set of rafters on each side, the under set being less inclined to the horizon than the upper; a mansard roof.

A roof with an upper and lower set of rafters on each side, the under set being less inclined to the horizon than the upper; a mansard roof.

Cutout -  The open portions of a strip shingle between the tabs. The open portions of a strip shingle between the tabs.

Cycle time - The time beginning at the instant a toilet flush lever is actuated, until the instant the water supply shuts off, completing the flush cycle.

D

Deck -  The surface, installed over the supporting framing members, to which the roofing is applied.

De-humidistat - A control mechanism used to operate a mechanical ventilation system based upon the relative humidity in the home.

Designer - One who designs houses, interiors, landscaping or other objects. When used it the context of residential construction it usually suggests that a designer is not a licensed architect. Most jurisdictions don't require an architectural license for most single family construction.

Dormer -  A boxlike projection from the sloping plane of a roof that frames a window.

Double Hung Window - A window with two vertically sliding sashes. This is a very common older window design, was usually made out of wood and tends to require frequent repairs.

Drip edge - A noncorrosive, nonstaining material used along the eaves and rakes to allow water runoff to drip clear of underlying construction. A noncorrosive, nonstaining material used along the eaves and rakes to allow water runoff to drip clear of underlying construction.

Drywall or Gypsum Wallboard (GWB) or Sheet rock or Plasterboard - A wall finish consisting of a manufactured panel made out of gypsum plaster and encased in a thin cardboard. Usually 1/2" thick and 4' x 8' or 4' x 12' in size. The panels are nailed or screwed onto the framing and the joints are taped and covered with a 'joint compound'. 'Green board' type drywall has a greater resistance to moisture than regular (white) plasterboard.

E

Easement - A formal contract which allows a party to use another party's property for a specific purpose. e.g. A sewer easement might allow one party to run a sewer line through a neighbors property.

Eaves - The horizontal overhang of the nonsloping edge of a roof beyond a vertical wall.

Eaves flashing - Additional layer of roofing material applied at the eaves to help prevent damage from water backup.

Additional layer of roofing material applied at the eaves to help prevent damage from water backup.

Edging strips - Boards nailed along eaves and rakes to provide secure edges for reroofing with asphalt shingle after cutting back existing wood shingles. Boards nailed along eaves and rakes to provide secure edges for reroofing with asphalt shingle after cutting back existing wood shingles.

Electrical entrance package - The entry point of the electrical power including: (1) the 'strike' or location where the overhead electrical lines connect to the house, (2) The meter which measures how much power is used and (3) The 'panel', 'circuit breaker box 'or 'fuse box' where the power can be shut off and overload devices such a fuses or circuit breakers and located.

Elongated bowl - Toilet bowl having dimensions of 14" wide by 18 1/2" long (from center of seat hinge holes to front outside rim edge).

Estimating - The process of calculating the cost of a project. This can be a formal and exact process or a quick and imprecise process.

Expansion joint -  A joint that allows for expansion and contraction during temperature changes.

Exposed Aggregate - A method of finishing concrete which washes the cement/sand mixture of the top layer of the aggregate - usually gravel. Often used in driveways, patios and other exterior surfaces.

Exposed nail method -  Application of roll roofing in which all nails are driven into the cemented, overlapping course of roofing. Nails are exposed to the weather.

Application of roll roofing in which all nails are driven into the cemented, overlapping course of roofing. Nails are exposed to the weather.

Exposure - The portion of the roofing exposed to the weather after installation.

Exposure I grade plywood - Type of plywood approved by the American Plywood Association for exterior use.

F

Fascia - a vertical wood member, such as a cedar 1" x 6", which is nailed to the ends of the rafters and is often the backing of the gutter.

Feathering strips - Tapered wood filler strips placed along the butt edges of old wood shingles to create a level surface when reroofing over existing wood shingle roofs. Also called "horse feathers."

Tapered wood filler strips placed along the butt edges of old wood shingles to create a level surface when reroofing over existing wood shingle roofs. Also called "horse feathers."

Felt - Fibrous material saturated with asphalt and used as an underlayment or sheathing paper.

Fibrous material saturated with asphalt and used as an underlayment or sheathing paper.

Fibered Aluminum Roof Coating - High-performance metallic reflective barrier for prepared roofing, metal surfaces and exterior masonry. Reflects sun's harmful rays, reduces energy costs in summer and winter while prolonging surface life.

Fibered  Foundation Coating -  Combined application for this special medium-viscosity-grade fibered material. Use as a  foundation coating. High-performance metallic reflective barrier for prepared roofing, metal surfaces and exterior masonry. Reflects sun's harmful rays, reduces energy costs in summer and winter while prolonging surface life.

Fibered  Foundation Coating -  Combined application for this special medium-viscosity-grade fibered material. Use as a  foundation coating. *Also see Foundation Coating*

Fibered Roof Coating - Optimal protection for low-sloped roofs. This thick, high-quality coating seals fine cracks and openings. Renews and rejuvenates old composition roofing and prolongs roof life. Also performs well on metal or concrete surfaces.

Optimal protection for low-sloped roofs. This thick, high-quality coating seals fine cracks and openings. Renews and rejuvenates old composition roofing and prolongs roof life. Also performs well on metal or concrete surfaces.

Fiberglass mat - An asphalt roofing base material manufactured from glass fibers.

Fixed Price Contract - A contract with a set price for the work. See Time and Materials Contract.

Flapper - Also known as flush ball, the flapper is the moving part of the flush valve that seals the water into the tank or allows water to exit the tank for the flush cycle. This is the predominant replacement part used on conventional toilets.

Flashing - (1) Sheet metal or roll roofing pieces fitted to the joint of any roof intersection, penetration or projection (chimneys, copings, dormers, valleys, vent pipes, etc.) in order to prevent water leakage.           (2) The building component used to connect portions of a roof, deck, or siding material to another surface such as a chimney, wall, or vent pipe. Often made out of various metals, rubber or tar and is mostly intended to prevent water entry.

Flashing cement - See asphalt plastic cement.

Float ball - The floating ball connected to the Ballcock inside the tank, which rises or falls with changing water levels in the tank, and actuates or shuts off the Ballcock as needed.

Fixed Price Contract - A contract with a set price for the work. See Time and Materials Contract.

Foundation Coating -  High-quality below-grade moisture protection. Used for below-grade exterior concrete and masonry wall damp-proofing to seal out moisture and prevent corrosion.

See asphalt plastic cement.

Foundation Coating -  High-quality below-grade moisture protection. Used for below-grade exterior concrete and masonry wall damp-proofing to seal out moisture and prevent corrosion.

Free-tab shingles - Shingles that do not contain factory-applied strips or spots of self-sealing adhesive. See also self-sealing shingles. Shingles that do not contain factory-applied strips or spots of self-sealing adhesive. See also self-sealing shingles.

Forced Air Heating - A common form of heating with natural gas, propane, oil or electricity as a fuel. Air is heated in the furnace and distributed through a set of metal plastic ducts to various areas of the house.

Framing - The structural wood and/or metal elements of most homes. The floor and ceiling framing is called the joist work. Wall framing is usually made out of 2" x 4" or 2" x 6" studs. See - rafters, posts, and beams.

Fungal Wood Rot - A common wood destroying organism which develops when wood containing material is exposed to moisture and poor air circulation for a long (6 month +) period of time. Often and incorrectly referred to as dry rot.

Fuse - A device often found in older homes designed to prevent overloads in electrical lines - see 'circuit breakers'.

G

Glass-Base -  Roll roofing product built on a fiberglass base sheet constructed with a heavyweight TAMKO fiberglass mat, coated with weathering-grade asphalt. Used as a base sheet in select TAMKO modified asphalt and fiberglass roofing systems and as an alternate for TAMKO Type 43 Coated Base Sheet in any TAMKO specification. Hot-asphalt applied or mechanically fastened.

Roll roofing product built on a fiberglass base sheet constructed with a heavyweight TAMKO fiberglass mat, coated with weathering-grade asphalt. Used as a base sheet in select TAMKO modified asphalt and fiberglass roofing systems and as an alternate for TAMKO Type 43 Coated Base Sheet in any TAMKO specification. Hot-asphalt applied or mechanically fastened.

Glass-Seal - 3-tab self-sealing fiberglass shingles with a traditional square-tab design. A thick layer of weathering-grade asphalt gives them extra waterproofing protection. They are U.L. Class A fire rated and backed by a 20-year limited warranty. Algae-resistant granules optional.

3-tab self-sealing fiberglass shingles with a traditional square-tab design. A thick layer of weathering-grade asphalt gives them extra waterproofing protection. They are U.L. Class A fire rated and backed by a 20-year limited warranty. Algae-resistant granules optional.

GPF - Abbreviation for "gallons per flush", used in discussing water consumption for toilets.

Granules -  Crushed rock coated with ceramic material, applied to the exposed surface of asphalt roofing products to add color and reduce ultraviolet degradation. Copper compounds added to these help make them algae resistant.

Gravity operated toilet - A toilet which relies on the natural downward pressure (or "head") of water in a toilet tank to flush the toilet effectively.

Gutter -  The trough that channels water from the eaves to the downspouts.

H

A type of roof formed by sloping roof planes on all four sides, with no gables.

Hip shingles - Shingles used to cover the inclined external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. Shingles used to cover the inclined external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes.

Heat pump - A device which uses compression and decompression of gas to heat and/or cool a house.

I

Interlocking shingles - Individual shingles that mechanically fasten to each other to provide wind resistance.

J

Jet - An orifice or other feature of a toilet that is designed to direct water into the trap way quickly, to start the siphon action. 

Joists - A framing member, often a 2" x 10" piece of lumber, which is usually spaced every 16" to 24" and supports the sub-floor and flooring. The joist is usually 'sits' on a load barring wall or a Beam.

L

Low consumption toilet - A classification of toilet designed to flush using 1.6 or less gallons of water, as opposed to 3.5 gallon "Water-Saving" toilets, and other higher-consumption toilets. 

Low-slope application - Method of installing asphalt shingles on roof slopes between 2 and 4 inches per foot.

Load Bearing Wall - A wall which is supporting its own weight and some other structural elements of the house such as the joists.

M

Modified Bitumen roof - A roof covering that is typically composed of a factory-fabricated composite sheet consisting of a copolymer-modified bitumen, often reinforced with polyester and/or fiberglass, and installed in one or more plies. The membrane is commonly surfaced with field-applied coatings, factory-applied granules or metal foil. The roofing system may incorporate rigid insulation. Also see Torch Down Roof

N

Nesting - A method of reroofing with new asphalt shingles over old shingles in which the top edge of the new shingles is butted against the bottom edge of the existing shingle tab.

No-cutout shingles - Shingles consisting of a single, solid tab with no cutouts.

Non-fibered Aluminum Roof Coating - Thin but efficient reflective barrier to reflect sun's harmful rays and prolong surface life. Also works on metal surfaces.

Nonfibered Roof and Foundation Coating -  Dual purposed, this thin-viscosity material doubles as a nonfibered roof or foundation coating.

Nonfibered Roof Coating -  Easily applied, this thin coating will give low-sloped roofs, as well as metal and masonry surfaces, added protection. Steel or wooden fences and underground pipe may also be treated.

Nonveneer panel - Any wood-based panel that does not contain veneer and carries an APA span rating, such as wafer board or oriented strand board.

Normal slope application - Method of installing asphalt shingles on roof slopes between 4 inches and 21 inches per foot.

O

Open valley - Method of valley construction in which shingles on both sides of the valley are trimmed along a chalk line snapped on each side of the valley. Shingles do not extend across the valley. Valley flashing is exposed.

One piece toilet - A toilet in which the tank and bowl are manufactured as a single vitreous china fixture. Typically, one-piece toilets have a lower profile than two-piece toilets.

Overhang - The portion of the roof structure that extends beyond the exterior walls of a building.

Over flow tube - The vertical tube inside a toilet tank (usually part of the flush valve), which directs water into the bowl in case the Ballcock malfunctions. If the Ballcock does not shut off properly, water will drain through the overflow tube into the bowl, and flow harmlessly over the dam and out the drain. This prevents potential water damage caused by the tank overflowing, and indicates to the user that there is a problem by a "constant running" condition.

P

• Zoning\Use permit - authorization to use a property for a specific use e.g. a factory, a single family residence etc.
• Grading permit - authorization to change the contour of the land.
• Septic permit - a health dept. authorization to build or modify a septic system.
• Building permit - authorization to build or modify a structure.
• Electrical permit - a separate permit required for most electrical work.
• Plumbing permit - a separate permit required for new plumbing and larger modifications of existing plumbing systems.

Pitch - The degree of roof incline expressed as the ratio of the rise, in feet, to the span, in feet. See also slope. Also, a thick, oily substance commonly obtained from tar, used to seal out water at joints and seams. Pitch is produced from distilling coal tar, wood tar, or petroleum.

Plans - See Blue Prints

Plastic Roof Cement - Ultimate protection for those tough jobs is found in this specially formulated heavy-bodied material. Used as a waterproofing medium in new construction and as a general-purpose exterior repair and maintenance material. Stops roof and other leaks fast. Available in both summer and winter grades.

Ply - The number of layers of roofing; i.e. one-ply, two-ply.

Ply sheet - A layer in built-up roofing.

Post - A vertical framing member usually designed to carry a beam. Often a 4" x 4", a 6" x 6", or a metal pipe with a flat plate on top and bottom (see diagram).

Pressure Relief Valve - A device mounted on a hot water heater or boiler which is designed to release any high steam pressure in the tank and thus prevent tank explosions.

PVC or CPVC - A type of white plastic pipe sometimes used for water supply lines.

Q

Quick-setting cement -  An asphalt-based cement used to adhere tabs of strip shingles to the course below. Also used to adhere roll roofing laps applied by the concealed nail method.

R

Rebar - When concrete cracks it will separate or become uneven, rebar is a rod of steel placed into the concrete, usually in square feet one or two.

Refill tube - On most toilets, a refill tube directs water from the Ballcock into the overflow tube to refill the bowl after the siphon break.

Relative Humidity - The amount of moisture in a volume of air as a percentage of the maximum amount of moisture which can be held in that air at a certain temperature - cold air can't hold as much moisture as warmer air.

Ridge - The intersection of two roof planes, or the angle formed by them.

Ridge shingles - Shingles used to cover the horizontal external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes.

Rim holes - A series of small holes, in the underside of a toilet rim, around the circumference of the bowl. Incoming water flows down into the bowl through these holes, creating a rinse effect, or "rim wash" over the entire inner surface of the bowl.

Rise - The vertical distance from the eaves line to the ridge.

Roll roofing - Asphalt roofing products manufactured in roll form.

Round front bowl - Toilet bowl having dimensions of 14" wide by 16 1/2" long (from center of seat hinge holes to front outside rim edge).

Roof deck - See deck.

Roofing membrane - The layer or layers of waterproofing products that cover the roof deck.

Roofing tape - An asphalt-saturated tape used with asphalt cements for flashing and patching asphalt roofing.

Rough in opening - The distance from a finished wall or floor to the center of the waste or supply opening or mounting holes on a plumbing fixture.

Run - The horizontal distance from the eaves to a point directly under the ridge. One half the span.

R Value - A measure of insulation. For example, typical new home's walls are usually insulated with 6" of bat insulation with an R value of R-19, and a ceiling insulation of R-28.

S

Sash - The frame that holds the glass in a window, often the movable part of the window. see.. double hung windows, and casement windows.

Saturant - Asphalt used to impregnate a felt-base material.

Saturated Felt - An underlayment, or water-resistant layer, put down beneath shingles and made of felt impregnated with asphalt.

SBS-modified - Asphalt that has been combined with SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) polymers to increase its elasticity.

Scupper - (1)An opening for drainage in a wall, curb or parapet. (2)  The drain in a downspout or flat roof, usually connected to the downspout.

Self-sealing shingles - Shingles containing factory-applied strips or spots of self-sealing adhesive.

Setback Thermostat - A thermostat with a clock which can be programmed to various temperatures at different times of the day/week. Usually used as the heating or cooling system thermostat.

Shading - Slight differences in shingle color that may occur as a result of normal manufacturing operations.

Shake - A wood, usually cedar, roofing product which is produced by splitting a block of the wood along the grain line. Modern shakes are sometimes machine sawn on one side. See shingle.

Sheathing - Exterior-grade boards used as roof deck material.

Shed roof - A roof containing only one sloping plane. Has no hips, ridges, valleys or gables.

Shingle - A machine sawn wood, usually cedar, roofing and siding product. see shake.

Single ply Roof - see Torch Down Roof

Siphoning - The suction or pulling effect that takes place in the trapway of a toilet as it is filled with outgoing water and waste. An effective siphon is critical to an effective flush for any toilet. 

Siphon break - The point in a toilet flush when air is re-introduced into the trap way, "breaking" the siphoning action. The siphon break is usually heard as a deep gurgling at the conclusion of a flush.

Skip Sheathing - The normal base for shake, shingle and some tile roofs. 1" x 4" or similar sized boards are nailed at 90š to the rafters leaving a space of about 4" between each row and allowing for better ventilation.

Single coverage - Asphalt roofing that provides one layer of roofing material over the deck.

Slab on Grade - A type of foundation with a concrete floor which is placed directly on the soil. The edge of the slab is usually thicker and acts as the footing for the walls. Common in California and 1940s and 50s concrete block home (see diagram).

Slope - The incline angle of a roof surface, given as a ratio of the rise (in inches) to the run (in feet). See also pitch.

Smooth-surfaced roofing - Roll roofing that is covered with ground talc or mica instead of granules.

Specifications or Specs - A narrative list of materials, methods, model numbers, colors, allowances, and other details which supplement the information contained in the blue prints.

Splash Block - A pad which is placed under the lower end of a downspout and diverts the water from the downspout away from the house. Usually made out of concrete or fiberglass.

Specialty eaves flashing membrane - A self-adhering waterproofing shingle underlayment designed to protect against water infiltration due to ice damage or wind-driven rain.

Square - A unit of roof measure covering 100 square feet.

Square-tab shingles - Shingles on which tabs are all the same size and exposure.

Starter strip - Asphalt roofing applied at the eaves that provides protection by filling in the spaces under the cutouts and joints of the first course of shingles.

Steep-slope application - Method of installing asphalt shingles on roof slopes greater than 21 inches per foot.

Step flashing - Flashing application method used where a vertical surface meets a sloping roof plane.

Strip shingles - Asphalt shingles that are approximately three times as long as they are wide.

Supply stop - The valve providing on/off toilet water supply control.

T

Tab - The exposed portion of strip shingles defined by cutouts.

Tank - The fixture reservoir for flush water. On a conventional toilet, the ballcock, flush valve and trip lever are installed in the tank. A tank lid closes the top tank opening.

Three-dimensional shingles - See laminated shingles.

Time and Materials Contract - A construction contract which specifies a price for different elements of the work such as: cost per hour of labor, overhead, profit etc. Such a contract may not have a maximum price or may state a 'price not to exceed...'.

Torch Down Roof or Single Ply or Modified Bitumen - A newer roofing material mostly used on flat roofs. This material usually comes in rolls and is applied to the roof with an open flame or 'torch'. Truss - A manufactured wood member often in the form of a large triangle which is used to form the ceiling joists and rafters on the top floor of a home.

Trap Seal - The height of water in a toilet bowl "at rest, it provides a water seal which prevents sewer gases from entering the home. Trap seal is measured from the top of the dam, down to the inlet of the trapway. Also referred to as deep seal.

Treated Lumber - A wood product which has been impregnated with chemicals to reduce damage from wood rot or insects. Often used for the portions of a structure which is likely to be in ongoing contact with soil and water. Wood may also be treated with a fire retardant.

Trip lever - Handle which is rotated to initiate the toilet flush cycle. Kohler factory-installed trip levers have a polished chrome finish; optional trim kits offer trip levers in other finishes. Toilets equipped with Peacekeeper seat-actuated flush do not have a trip lever.

Tube and Knob Wiring - A common form of electrical wiring used before W.W.II. When in good condition it may still be functional for low amperage use such as smaller light fixture.

Two piece toilet - A toilet with a separate tank and bowl. Also referred to as close-coupled.

U

U.L. - Underwriters Laboratories, a private research firm located in the United States that attempts to classify and determine the safety of various materials and products.

Underlayment - A secondary roofing layer that is waterproof or water-resistant , installed on the roof deck and beneath shingles or other roof-finishing layer.

UV Rays - Ultraviolet rays from the sun.

V

Valley - The inward angle formed by two intersecting, sloping roof planes. Since it naturally becomes a water channel, additional attention to waterproofing it is desirable.

VALLEY SHIELDTM - A quality underlayment for added protection in the heavy water flow areas of your roof. This self adhering product has a waterproof asphalt coating which offers excellent elongation and recovery properties for accommodating roof expansion and contraction and structural movement.

Vent - Any outlet for air that protrudes through the roof deck, such as a pipe or stack. Any device installed on the roof, gable or soffit for the purpose of ventilating the underside of the roof deck.

Vent sleeve -  See Collar.

Voltage - A measure of electrical potential.

• Most homes are wired with '110' and '220' volt lines. The '110' volt power is used for lighting and most of the other circuits. The '220' volt power is usually used for the kitchen stove. water heater and dryer. (The terms '110' and '220' volts are a short hand, e.g. a '110' volt line is usually rated at 117 volts plus or minus 10%).

W

Wafer Board see Oriented Strand Board

Warranty

- In construction there are two general types of warranties. One is provided by the manufacturer of a product such as roofing material or an appliance. The second is a warranty for the labor. For example, a roofing contract may include a 30 year material warranty a and a 5 year labor warranty.

• Many (but not all ) new homes come with a one year warranty. Any major issues found during the first year should be communicated  to the builder at once. Small items can be saved up and presented to the builder in a letter on the eleventh month anniversary of the closing. This gives the builder one month to make the necessary corrections.

Water closet - A plumbing fixture having a water-containing receptor which receives liquid and solid body waste and, upon actuation (flushing), conveys the waste through a trap way into a gravity drainage system.

Water saving toilet - A classification of toilet that uses no more than 3.5 gallons and no less than 1.6 gallons per flush.

Watt - A measure of the electrical requirement of an appliance calculated by multiplying voltage x amperage. For example: a 1600 watt hair dryer which uses '110' volt power needs about 15 amps.

Wet- or Dry-Surface Plastic Roof Cement - Superior performance in cold and wet applications. Performs as a general-purpose exterior repair and maintenance material on damp or dry surfaces. Stops roof and other leaks fast.

Woven valley - Method of valley construction in which shingles from both sides of the valley extend across the valley and are woven together by overlapping alternate courses as they are applied. The valley flashing is not exposed.

Z

Zoning - A governmental process and specification which limits the use of a property e.g. single family use, high rise residential use etc.

Z-Ridge™ -A product designed to cover the ridge line of a roof, designed by Elk Roofing Products®. Gives the roof lines more character.