Remodeling Terms: A Glossary of Useful Terminology

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If you about to undertake a home remodel but struggle with some of the unfamiliar terminology, this dictionary of terms is for you. Here is a comprehensive guide to all the many words and terms used in the remodeling, architecture, interior design, and construction industries. Remodelers and designers speak their own language, and it's important to understand it when you are making a major investment in your home.

A

Abbreviation for air conditioner or alternating current (which is the standard current in homes).

AC Condenser

The air conditioning unit that sits outside your home. It has a fan that removes heat from the freon gas in the condenser, turning it back into a liquid that can be pumped to the indoor unit.

Anchor Bolts

These heavy galvanized bolts attach the wooden sill plate to the concrete foundation.

ADA

Americans with Disabilities Act. Lays out certain accessibility guidelines for building design.

Addition

New rooms or square footage that is added to a home.

ADU

Accessory dwelling unit. Any additional legal residence that is incorporated into a single-family home. Also called a mother-in-law apartment. In most municipalities, an ADU must have its own entrance, its own electrical service, and egress.

Air Gap

This plumbing technique prevents backflow through a pipe by allowing air to enter to break a siphon.

Aggregate

Sand, gravel, or crushed rock. Mixed into concrete and are an important element of creating a strong foundation.

Allowances

A portion of the construction budget that is set aside for certain items that have not yet been selected. For instance, a building contract might have an allowance for tile if the homeowner hasn't selected a particular tile yet. Making all of your design choices before construction begins helps a remodel or construction project go faster.

Appliance Garage

A kitchen cabinet, usually at counter level, that is dedicated to the storage of small appliances, like the toaster, stand mixer, microwave, and coffee maker.

Apprentice

A plumber, electrician, or other building-professional-in-training who is working under the supervision of a licensed individual.

Apron

The vertical trim board under a window.

Architect

A licensed designer of buildings. Architects design some homes and remodel projects, but the bulk of this work is done by interior designers.

Area Wells

The metal or concrete that holds back the earth to make a space for basement windows.

Asbestos

A naturally occurring mineral material that was used extensively for fireproofing and other home and industrial applications. Later, it was found to be a deadly carcinogen. When remodeling an older home, precautions must be taken not to disturb asbestos-containing materials. If this is not possible, they must be abated.

Attic Access

An opening that is placed in the ceiling of a home to allow passage to the attic. Fold-down wooden stairs or a ladder are commonly used for access.

Attic Ventilator

An exterior exhaust fan and vent system that allows fresh outside air to pass through the attic, keeping the home cooler in summer.

Awning Window

A window that hinges at the top. Often, it operates with a crank.

B

Backfilling

When holes are dug during construction, either to lay a foundation or run underground pipes, the builder will backfill the exposed areas with dirt.

Backing

Framing lumber that is installed between the studs and behind the drywall to support towel holders, cabinets, railings, etc.

Backsplash

A waterproof surface (commonly tile) that is installed behind a kitchen countertop. It is easily wiped down if food or liquids splatter on it.

Balloon Framing

When the wall studs run the entire height of the building, from the sill plates at the bottom to the roof plates at the top. The joists of the second floor sit on a ledger (a band of wood nailed horizontally into the studs).

Balusters

The vertical slats or spindles that go between the railing and the stair treads.

Balustrade

The entire assembly of railing, balusters, and posts that edge a stairway or walkway.

C

Cabinet Refacing

The process of repainting or applying a veneer to existing cabinets. Sometimes new cabinet doors are added. Door hardware is often replaced at the same time. Can be an economical alternative to replacing cabinets.

CAD

Computer aided design. This refers to using software (rather than paper) to design a project. The benefits are speed, accuracy, and the ability to design in three dimensions rather than two.

Cantilever

A section of the house that overhangs the foundation.

Carpeting

A floor covering made of thick woven fabric with a stiff backing. Typically, carpeting extends wall-to-wall. Carpet can be made from many different materials, including nylon, olefin, polyester, and natural wool. Carpeting is rated by its density, stain resistance, and wear resistance. It is usually underlaid with a foam carpet pad to make it more comfortable and make it wear longer.

Case Goods

Non-upholstered furniture, like desks, tables, chairs, storage chests, etc.

Casement Window

A window that hinges on the side and opens like a door.

Cathedral Ceiling

A slanted ceiling that rises through more than one floor.

Caulk

A flexible material used to fill gaps. Some caulk dries hard, but most is designed to stretch. Some caulk can be painted, and other types are formulated to be waterproof and resist mold in damp environments.

Carpenter

A person who works with or repairs wood in homes.

Cedar Shakes

A shake is split from a log, sometimes by hand, into a wedge shape. It can be used for roofing, or, more commonly, for siding. It is different than a wood shingle, which is milled from a solid block of wood.

Ceiling Joist

Parallel framing members that span ceiling sections to support ceiling loads. These usually rest on load-bearing walls.

Cement

The adhesive element in concrete. Usually Portland cement, which comes in a white powder form.

Ceramic Tile

A clay tile, usually fired and glazed, that is used for flooring, shower enclosures, and walls.

D

DADU

Detached accessory dwelling unit. A small home built on the lot of a single-family home. Sometimes built atop or combined with a garage. Also called a backyard cottage, a carriage house, or a backyard studio.

Daylight Basement

A basement that has windows and a door on one end. Can be built on a lot with a slope. Also called a walk-out basement.

Dead Light

The section of a window unit that does not open.

Demo

Demolition. The removal of existing fixtures, walls, and other structures and materials to make a space ready for renovation.

Design Build

An approach to remodeling in which design and construction functions are all under one roof. The benefits of the design-build approach are that accurate running estimates of construction costs can be made throughout the design phase and that all responsibility for the success of the project falls on one company, instead of on two companies, neither of which will want to take the blame if something goes wrong.

Design Center

A builder or remodeler's showroom where product samples are displayed.

Design Review

The process by which local authorities check building plans to make sure they comply with building codes. If the design review is approved, a building permit will be issued.

Dimension

The distance between points.

Disconnect

A large switch that disconnects an electrical circuit. Commonly, a disconnect is placed next to air conditioner units.

Doorjamb

The wooden frame that is installed into a wall and into which the door is placed. Door stops are attached the the side and top doorjambs to keep the door from swinging the wrong way and to aid in air sealing. Often, doors come prepackaged with their jambs.

Dormer

An opening in a sloping roof, out of which a small roof section protrudes. The dormer has a vertical wall that can house a window or windows. Dormers can help create more living space in a room with sloped walls. When renovating an attic space, dormers can be added to create a functional room.

Double-Hung Window

Windows in which both the upper and lower sections of glass can be slid up and down.

Double Vanity

A vanity in a bathroom with two sinks.

Dovetail Joint

A type of flaring mortise-and-tenon joint which creates a sturdy right-angle connection between two pieces of wood. Dovetails are the quality standard for drawers.

Downspout

A metal pipe that carries rainwater down from the roof gutters to ground level.

Draw

Progress billings for projects being built under a fixed-price contract. A contractor will make regular draws from the construction budget as each stage of a project is completed. Only completed work is paid for.

Drip Cap

A piece of exterior metal flashing or other molding placed above a door or window that keeps rainwater from dripping down over it.

Dry In

When the tar paper or roofing felt is installed on a roof, a home is considered dried in, since it relatively impervious to rainwater at that stage.

Drywall

A gypsum plaster panel wrapped in heavy paper. Drywall panels are used almost exclusively in homes now, having replaced lathe-and-plaster walls.

Ducting

Light metal tubes that carry conditioned air and return unconditioned air through a house. An integral part of the HVAC system.

Dust Control

A system put in place by a remodeler to keep dust from accumulating or getting into the air. It may mean dust collection at the source, such as a vacuum attached to a saw, or it may mean active filtration of the air. Some systems use portable plastic barriers to separate the area under construction from the rest of the home. Systems may include negative pressure, so that dust that is created doesn't drift into other rooms.

E

Earthquake Strap

Metal strap that attaches a water heater or other fixed appliance to the wall so that it doesn't tip in case of an earthquake.

Eased Edges

A corner profile for countertops. Eased-edge countertops are slightly rounded on the top-front edge to prevent chipping and make them safer and more comfortable to use.

Easement

A legal contract that allows someone to use a portion of another's property, usually for a specific use, like to run a sewer line or a driveway. When purchasing a property, it is part of your due diligence to check for any easements.

Eaves

The overhang of the roof past the vertical walls.

Egress Window

A large window that can also be used to exit a home in case of emergency. Building codes have specific requirements for egress from every part of the home.

Electric Resistance Heater

Baseboard or cove heater that produces heat by passing electric current through metal wires. Not as efficient as a heat pump, for instance.

Electrical Rough

A phase of work performed by the electrician. Wires are run and electrical boxes are installed, but the finish plates are not. Electrical rough typically occurs after the plumbing rough.

Electrical Service

A term used to describe the connection from the main electrical utility to the first point of contact in a home, usually the main breaker box.

Electrical Trim

The final steps the electrician makes to get a home ready for electrical inspection. Switches, plugs, covers, bath fans, and other items are installed.

Electrician

A person who installs and fixes electrical equipment. In most places, a licensed electrician must go through an apprenticeship program.

Enamel Paint

This term usually applies to solvent-based paints that air dry to a hard, glossy surface. There are, however, numerous "latex enamel" paints that are actually water-based but have certain additives to mimic the properties of traditional enamels. Solvent-based paints are rarely used in home remodeling and construction projects now because other safer products have been developed.

See also: A Primer on Paint

Energy Code

A subset of building codes that refer specifically to insulation, windows, doors, lighting, and HVAC equipment efficiency requirements. The goal of energy codes is to build buildings that have lower energy requirements.

Estimate

The costs of labor and building materials that a contractor speculates a project will require. In many cases, a written estimate does not necessarily determine the final cost. A fixed-price contract, on the other hand, sets the estimated cost as the actual price the homeowner pays for the decided-upon work.

Existing Conditions

On remodeling building plans, the original layout of the home is labeled "existing conditions" to distinguish it from the proposed renovations.

Expansion Joint

A piece of fibrous material that is placed in gaps in and around concrete slab sections and the foundation to allow it to expand and contract with the seasons and not crack.

F

Face-Frame Cabinets

A style of cabinetry. If you picture cabinets as a series of wooden boxes, all grouped together. Looking at them head on, each box has four sides. Following the practices of traditional joinery, cabinetmakers attached a narrow frame of wood to the front of those four edges of the box. This creates a stronger cabinet, hides the edge of the cabinet box, and provides a place for the door hinges to attach to. In contrast to Euro-style cabinets, which don't have the front frame.

See also: A Primer on Paint

Flatwork

A name for horizontal poured concrete surfaces, like driveways, sidewalks, floors, etc.

Float Finish

A float is a tool used to make poured concrete smooth and flat. It is used after the surface has already been made level using a screed (long wooden plank drawn over the surface). Concrete that has been floated will be smoother and more compact and will have had most surface imperfections removed.

Floating Floor

A type of floor where the material is not nailed or glued down. Often, laminate click-together floors are designed to float in place.

Floating Wall

A special wall built on a concrete floor that has two bottom plates that can move independently of each other. The "float" space between the two bottom plates allows the wall to stay true even as the concrete floor beneath moves up or down. Usually found in basements and garages.

Floor Drain

A drain built into the floor designed to remove any standing water.

Floor Plan

The basic layout of a building, as drawn on the horizontal plane. In contrast to an elevation, which shows the structure on the vertical plane.

Footing

Or footer. A thick concrete pad that supports the foundation wall.

Forced-Air Heating

A form of central heating in which a furnace heats air, which is distributed to every room via ducts. Can be powered by natural gas, propane, electricity, or a heat exchanger connected to a heat pump.

Form

A temporary structure into which concrete is poured. After it hardens, the forms are removed.

Foundation

The concrete structure below the first floor of a home, including the concrete footings.

G

Gable

The triangular-shaped part of a wall that encloses the end of a pitched roof.

General Contractor

An individual or a company that supervises construction. The role is generally that of project manager. In some cases, the GC will also have a hands-on role in construction, but in many cases, the GC will hire subcontractors and tradespeople (like plumbers and electricians) to do most of the physical work.

GFI

Ground fault interrupt. A type of outlet that instantly cuts power if it detect a short. These are required in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and other potentially wet environments.

Glazing

Installing glass. This term may also refer to the windows in a finished home or a design.

Gloss Paint

Paint that has a high sheen. Not commonly used on walls in homes but is more likely found on furniture or other high-touch surfaces.

See also: A Primer on Paint

Glulam

Glued laminate beam. These structural beams are made of thinner pieces of wood glued together under pressure. Stronger than a solid wood beam.

Grade

The process of leveling dirt. Can also mean the level of the ground at a certain point. For instance, most of a basement is "below grade."

Granite

A type of igneous rock. Commonly used as a countertop material in homes.

Greywater

Waste water from sinks, tubs, and washing machine. It is sometimes recycled to use for irrigation.

Green Building

A building that is designed to reduce harmful impacts on the environment through its design, materials, and reduced ongoing energy needs.

Greenboard

A type of drywall that has some water-resistant properties and is commonly used for walls in damp areas. It is no longer used as a direct backer for tile in shower surrounds because it was found not to be water resistant enough.

Grout

A special type of decorative mortar that fills the space between tile.

Gutter

A metal or vinyl conduit that carries rainwater from the roof to downspouts. Typically attached to the fascia board.

H

Handyman

Someone who specializes in small home repairs and improvements. Usually a sole proprietor. A handyman may or may not be a licensed general contractor.

Hardscaping

In landscaping, elements that are made of stone, concrete, tile, or brick. Paths, walkways, driveways, etc. As opposed to plantings.

Hardwood

Wood from broad-leafed trees, such as oak, ash, maple, etc. As opposed to softwood, which comes from coniferous trees.

Header

A beam that spans the opening for a window, door, or stairway.

Heat Pump

A device that transfers heat from the outdoors into your home. Think of it as an air conditioner working in reverse. Some heat pumps can cool the indoor air as well as heat it. Heat pumps are much more efficient than standard resistance-electric heat.

Heating Load

The amount of heat energy that needs to be added to a space to maintain the temperature. Used in caculating the size of furnace needed to heat a home.

Hip Roof

A roof with four inclined size instead of just two on a gabled roof.

Hose Bib

A plumbing fitting that a hose can be attached to. Usually has a valve. Commonly placed around the outside perimeter of a home so that irrigation hoses can be connected.

House Lifting

The process of jacking up a house to rebuild the foundation or add extra space below.

HVAC

Abbreviation for heat, ventilation, and air conditioning.

I

I-Beam

A strong steel beam that looks like an "I" on its cross section. These typically are used to carry the weight of the roof and upper floors across long spans, such as in a basement or a large, open room.

Infiltration

Air that slips into and out of a home through cracks and crevices, causing drafts and wasting energy. A main goal of a home energy retrofit is usually to reduce infiltration.

Induction Stove

A type of electric stove that uses magnetic fields to heat the pan itself, rather than the stove top. It is an efficient way to cook, and home chefs like it because it mimics the quick heating and cool-down of a gas stove, without the harmful fumes. Induction stoves have a flat glass surface and are usually easier to clean.

Inspections

Building inspectors are employed by the local government to come out to jobsites to ensure the building is being built to code. Specialty inspectors, such as electrical and plumbing inspectors, may also be involved in the inspection process. Typically, inspections occur before an area of the building is closed in and hidden from view. Inspectors will check the forms of the footers and foundation before concrete is poured, and they will check the construction methods, plumbing, and electrical before the walls are "closed in" or covered over in drywall. Usually, the price you pay for building permits includes the necessary inspections.

Insulation

Material that resists heat transmission that is placed in the walls, the attic, the ceiling, beneath the slab, around the foundation, or anywhere else in a home. Common insulation materials include fiberglass, mineral wool, cellulose, rigid foam panels, and spray-on foam.

Interior Decorator

A person whose job it is to choose furnishings, finishes, and other elements that lend an interior of a home or other building a certain look.

Interior Designer

Interior designers are professionals who specialize in the art and science of planning spaces (both inside and out) that address the safety and well-being of occupants. Designers identify, research, plan, and implement creative solutions that make spaces function and look better.

Irrigation System

A system that delivers water for plants, such as a sprinkler system for your lawn. Can be set up to operate automatically.

J

Jack Post

A metal replacement for an old supporting post. Most have pins to make their height adjustable. Typically used in basements to prop up sagging first floors.

Jack-and-Jill Bathroom

A bathroom that has entrance doors on each end from two different rooms. Commonly used between kids' bedrooms.

Jamb

The wood pieces that surround a door or window, including studs and trim pieces.

Jib Door

A door that is designed to blend into the wall or wainscoting. It creates a hidden-room effect.

Jobsite

An area of work in a construction project.

Joist

Parallel planks of lumber that support a floor or ceiling. These usually rest on bearing walls, girders, or other larger beams.

Joist Hanger

A U-shaped piece of metal that is nailed into a beam. The ends of floor joists are supported by it.

K

Kilowatt Hour

The most common volumetric unit of measurement for electricity. Equivalent to 1,000 watts of electricity used for an hour. This is what household electrical meters count.

Knob-and-Tube Wiring

An outdated way to wire a house that uses uninsulated wire supported by knobs and enclosed in tubes where it passes through beams or walls. Popular in the United States from about 1880 to 1940.

L

Laminate Flooring

An engineered flooring product consisting of multiple layers of synthetic materials fused together. It is often made to look like hardwood flooring with a photographic layer applied to the top. Usually installed as a floating floor. Can be durable but is usually susceptible to water damage.

Landing

A small platform between flights of stairs. Usually where stairs change direction.

Landscaping

The process of beautifying a yard with plantings, ornamental features, and regrading.

Laundry Room

A room that houses a washing machine, dryer, and folding area.

Lead paint

A now-outlawed formulation of paint that contained the toxic heavy metal lead. When remodeling a home, remodelers must test for lead paint and carefully contain it or remove it.

Leech Field

Part of a septic system. Used in rural areas where a connection to a city sewer system is not feasible. A leech field is a large area of land into which filtered sewage is discharged gradually so that it can leech into the soil.

Lineal Foot

A way to measure lumber. Each lineal foot is equal to 1" thick by 12" wide and 12" long. So a 2" x 12" x 16' board would be 32 lineal feet.

Load-Bearing Wall

Exterior walls and some interior walls that are engineered to support the weight of the roof and floors above. Usually identified by a double top plate.

LOI

Letter of intent. In design and construction, it is a document that states the intent of two parties (the builder/designer and the homeowner) to work together. Later in the process, it is replaced by a more formal contract laying out the specific price or other terms.

Lot

A plot of land on which a home is situated.

Louver

A cover for an exterior vent in a home that has diagonal slats that keep out water while allowing air to flow.

Lumens

A unit of measurement for light output. For instance, a 100-watt incandescent light bulb produces about 1,600 lumens. An LED bulb can produce the same number of lumens but use only about 15 watts of electricity.

LVT

Luxury vinyl tile. A flooring material that comes in tiles that can be glued down or floated. Surfaces are usually printed to look like wood or stone with a photo-realistic, textured image. LVT is considered to be very durable and is resistant to moisture and temperature changes.

M

Main Water Shutoff

A valve that turns off the main water supply to the house so plumbing work can be done. Most commonly found in basements, on the exterior of the house, or underground for city access.

Mansard Roof

A four sided roof in which the bottom half has a steeper slope than the top half. Popularized by french architects during the Baroque period.

Mantel

The shelf above a fireplace. Usually decorative in its design.

Marble

A natural stone with a porous surface, commonly used for countertops and tile.

Marmoleum

Forbo-Nairn's brand named linoleum flooring. Marmoleum is LEED certified because it is hypoallergenic and made with all-natural products.

Masonry

Brick, stone, and other building materials that are bonded together with mortar to form a wall.

Master Suite

To be considered a master suite, the room must have enough space for a sitting area or an in-room office and an en-suite bathroom. The term is commonly used to refer to a master bedroom with private bath attached.

MDF

Medium-density fiberboard is a wood material comprised of hard and softwood residuals that can more dense than plywood but not as strong. It is commonly used for baseboard and other interior trim.

Membrane

A layer of material that is impermeable to water. Typically used on flat roofs. Can be made of synthetic rubber or PVC.

Mid-century Modern

A design that was popularized between 1930 and 1960 involving sleek lines and a futuristic yet organic style.

Millwork

Any wood product that was produced in a mill. For example, molding, doors, and trim.

Mini Split

An energy-efficient heating and cooling system that is has two components: an indoor fan coil and an outdoor compressor.

Miter Joint

When two pieces of material are cut and joined at a 45-degree angle to form a 90-degree corner, it is a miter joint.

Molding

Decorative trim that is used to frame or shape something.

Mortar

A stone binding paste commonly used to join brick, concrete blocks, and decorative stones.

Mother-in-Law Apartment

An Accessory dwelling unit that is either separate from the main living quarter or attached.

Mud Room

An entryway found at the front or back door, often with a coat closet and easy-to-clean flooring, like linoleum.

Mudding

The process of applying drywall compound (mud) to cover and smooth out joints and screw indentations in drywall.

Mullion

A vertical piece of framing found on glass windows to offer support for the glazing of the window.

N

Natural Gas

A gas mixture containing mostly methane. Used to heat some homes and provides flame to gas-powered ovens and stove tops.

Net-Zero-Energy

Homes that produce as much renewable energy as they use over the course of a year. Energy comes from solar panels, and the home's energy needs are reduced with super-insulated walls and windows.

NKBA

National Kitchen and Bath Association. A nonprofit trade association representing the kitchen and bath industry with a large membership base.

Nonbearing Wall

A wall that does not offer any structural support to the building.

O

On-Demand Hot Water Heater

An energy efficient tank-less water heater.

OSB

Oriented strand board is a wood product engineered by compressing wood strands and adhesive.

P

P-Trap

A water seal made by the curved portion of a drain pipe to block sewage gasses from entering the home.

Paint

A permanent decorative liquid wall coating. Can be oil or latex based.

See also: A Primer on Paint

Painter

A person hired to apply paint to the exterior or interior of a building.

Particle Board

A more affordable substitute for plywood. Engineered from sawdust and resin.

Partition

A wall that divides a room into multiple parts.

Paver

Pieces of masonry laid flat to make a pathway.

Pedestal Sink

A sink basin supported by a column.

Percolation Test

A test performed by a soil engineer to determine if the ground is capable of absorbing liquid from a septic system.

Perimeter Drain

The drainage system that is installed in the ground surrounding the foundation of your home. The perimeter drain is usually connected to a sump pump that pumps out excess water.

Permeable Pavement

Paving material that allows storm water to pass through. Often done with porous concrete or separated paving stone.

Q

Quartz

A natural mineral made of silicon and oxygen. In interior design and construction, it usually refers to an engineered countertop surface made of crushed quartz and a small amount of resin that is hard-wearing and very resistant to staining.

Quartzite

A very hard natural metamorphic rock that contains quartz. It can be mined and milled into stone slabs for countertops.

R

R-Value

A measurement of how well a wall, layer of insulation , or other surface can resist a conductive flow of heat. Often, the R-value of an entire wall assembly can be calculated.

Radiant Heating

Heat that is transmitted by electromagnetic waves rather than conduction or convection. It is a very gentle, even form of heat that most people find very comfortable. Radiant heat systems are commonly installed underneath flooring, either with an electric mat or hot-water tubing. Radiant heat panels can also be installed on a ceiling for an instant feeling of warmth. Radiant heat can save energy because it doesn't require the air in a room to be as warm for an occupant to feel warm.

Radon

A dense radioactive gas that naturally occurs in many parts of the world. A common source of lung cancer. Homes in radon-prone areas need to be tested for radon, and steps must be made to ventilate the radon out of the home.

Rafter

2x10 or 2x12 studs installed horizontally to support the roof load.

Rebar

Textured steel bars set in concrete to offer support to concrete structures like foundation, footers, and walls.

Reclaimed Materials

Materials from a previous building that are reused for a new project.

Recycled Materials

Materials from products that have reached the end of their useful life and have been reprocessed to make a newer product.

Reinforced Concrete

Concrete that has beet set with steel mesh or rebar to enforce strength.

Remediation

The act of stopping or reversing environmental damage.

Retaining Wall

A structure built to retain soil. Commonly installed on properties that are on a slope.

Rim Joist

In relation to the framing system of a deck or flooring, a Rim Joist is Installed perpendicular to the joist and offers lateral support.

Risers

The vertical boards set in place to fill the space between stair treads.

Romex

A cable that is made of two or more wires encased in a rubber tubing.

Rough Carpentry

Base work done for a building like framing. As opposed to finish carpentry, which is the installation of trim and other items once the main structural work is done.

Rough-In

Plumbing, duct or electrical work set in place but not yet installed.

Rough Opening

The opening made for a doorway or window before shims, drywall, trim, or siding is installed.

S

Sanitary Sewer

A sewer system that collects sewage from the interior pipes. Not meant to hold storm drainage.

Schedule

A blueprint key with information on doorway, window and mirror sizing.

Schematic Estimate

The total estimated cost for a project before the construction adjustments have been made.

Schluter

A name brand of tile edge protector with a symmetrically rounded corner profile.

Scribing

The act of fitting and cutting wood work to go on an irregular surface.

Second-Story Addition

Removing the roof and adding another level to a single story home.

Section drawings

When looking at building plans, a section drawing is one that shows a vertical slice of the home. Section drawings show ceiling heights.

Semigloss Paint

Paint that when dry has a moderate amount of shine. Semigloss paint is often applied to bathrooms and kitchens because it is easy to wipe down.

Septic System

An underground waste water treatment tank. Built on site and sized depending on the number of bedrooms in the home. The septic system promotes the organic breakdown of solid waste through an anaerobic process.

Setbacks

The minimum distance a building is to be placed from a street, alleyway, or sidewalk. This is partially a safety measure to protect the building.

Sewer Stub

The connecting point between your home's sewer line and the city's main sewer line.

Shake

A wooden shingle crated by splitting wood at the grain line. Most commonly made with cedar or redwood.

Shaker Style

A traditional furniture style, with tapered legs and clean lines. Although it is a traditional style, it has also enjoyed contemporary popularity. Shaker-style kitchen cabinet doors and drawer faces, featuring a flat center panel and square edges, have become very popular.

Sheathing

The installation of wood paneling on the exterior of the building's framing structure. This is usually done with plywood or OSB.

Sheen

A level of gloss or luster a surface has after the paint has dried.

Sheet Metal Duct Work

Metal ducts, round or square, that push hot or cold air from the furnace through the rest of the house.

Sheet Rock

A brand name of drywall paneling that encases the interior of the building. Drywall is made of calcium sulfate dihydrate and is layered front and back with thick sheets of paper.

Shim

A piece of scrap wood or metal that is wedged into a tight spot, pushing a beam or frame into place.

Shingles

Roof coverings made of asphalt, wood, slate, or tile cut to size and layered in a way that protects the roof from natural elements.

Shower Pan

A waterproof barrier that is installed under the shower basin to prevent leakage.

Side Sewer

The portion of the sanitary sewer line that runs from the house to the public sewer line. The line is buried several feet under ground and is maintained by the home owner.

Siding

Protective material installed on the exterior of the house. Also known as wall cladding.

Sill

The wood plate framing that lays flat against the foundation wall, installed with anchor bolts. This is usually done with treated lumber.

Single-Hung Window

A window with one opening pane or vent.

Skirting

Installing a wooden board along the base of an interior wall.

Skylight

A lighting and sometimes ventilation structure installed in the roof. Occasionally referred to as a ceiling window, skylights come in many shapes and sizes for all types of roof shapes.

Slab

Another term for a paved concrete surface. For example a driveway, garage floor, or a basement floor.

Smart Home

A home that has a built in automation system that controls the lighting, temperature, electronics, appliances and security systems.

Soaking Tub

A soaking tub is a freestanding tub that is deep enough for you to be completely submerged. This is preferable to bathing in a standard tub where, your shoulders and knees are exposed.

Soffit

The underside of the roof that extends past the exterior wall.

Soft Goods

Textiles with a soft texture, like carpet, linens, or curtains.

Softwood

Wood that is sourced from gymnosperm trees, such as conifers.

Soil Stack

The vertical plumbing that carries sewage away from toilets and down to the drain. It is normally also extended up to the roof to vent.

Solid-Surface Countertops

A counter top made of marble dust and plastic resin. This creates a pore-less surface.

Sound Attenuation

The act of soundproofing a wall or floor with insulation and other products.

Space Planning

A part of the design process that determines where furniture and appliances should be placed to work effectively with each other.

Specs

Specific information about your project, including signed agreements, design drafts, lists of subcontractors, and other details that are needed to carry out the remodel project.

Spray Foam Insulation

A chemical foam that can be sprayed directing onto the framing of a home. Spray foam is made of isocyanate and polyol resin, two chemicals that when added together they expand and solidify 30 to 60 times the volume of the original liquid.

Square Footage

The area within the original floorplan, calculated by multiplying the width in feet by the length in feet.

Standing-Seam Metal Roof

Roofing in the form of large metal sheets with raised vertical ribs that are set about one foot apart from each other. An extremely durable roofing material.

STFI

Standard fire and allied perils insurance. This type of home insurance covers fires, lightning, aircraft damage, explosion, sprinkler leakage, and many other adverse events.

Storm Window

A temporary or permanent second window layer that is installed on the exterior of the original window to offer protection from the elements.

Strike

The metal plate into which the bolt of a door's latch is slid. The strike is mounted on the door frame.

Structural Engineer

Engineers who are trained and licensed to design the framing and support of a building. If a home requires major structural modifications, a structural engineer is usually enlisted.

Stucco

A plaster coating used on the exterior of buildings.

Stud

A 2x4 or 2x6 that is installed vertically on the framing system. Also known as a wall stud. The stud is attached to both the top and bottom horizontal support plates.

Sump Pump

A pump that is used to remove water that has accumulated in a sump, or shallow depression. Sump pumps are common in basements that are prone to water intrusion.

Superintendent

The person leading a remodel or building project who works on site.

Supply Lines

The part of the piping or electrical system that runs from the city supply to your home.

Switch Plate

The plastic (or metal) plate that covers interior wiring but allows the toggle of a switch to protrude.

T

Take-Off

The process of looking at a set of building plans and making a list of all the items needed to complete its construction. It is commonly used for estimating and ordering purposes.

Taping

The act of sealing the cracks between drywall sheets. This is done with paper tape and joint compound.

Teardown

The act of demolishing a home and clearing the lot to start new. A teardown is sometimes necessary when there is extensive damage or rot, or if the value of the lot is far greater than the home that currently sits upon it. In real estate, a teardown can also refer to a home in bad shape that will most likely be demolished by a new owner.

Tempered Glass

Strengthened glass that has undergone intense heating followed by a rapid cool down which forces the glass into compression. Tempered glass is about four times stronger than standard glass and "pelletizes" rather than shatters.

Termites

A colony of ant-like bugs that tunnel through wood. Termite infestations can quickly cause serious structural damage to a home.

Terrazo

A flooring mixture of quartz, marble, granite, or glass chips that is bound with resin and then polished to a smooth surface. Terrazo is either poured in place or precast to fit a specific spot.

Thermostat

A device that detects and controls the temperature of an area. A thermostat can be manually or automatically adjusted.

Time-and-Materials Contract

A type of construction contract that does not have a fixed price for the job. The final price will be calculated (usually at each billing cycle) based on the number of hours the contractor put in, the cost of materials, and the cost of subcontractors. The risk for cost-overruns is placed on the homeowner.

Toe Nailing

Driving a nail in at an angle to hold floor joists to the plate.

Top Plate

A horizontal piece of the frame wall located at the top of the wall. The top plate is responsible for supporting rafters, ceiling joists, or other members of the frame.

Townhouse

A multi-level home on a small footprint that adjoins the adjacent home or homes.

Trade Only

Also "to the trade." Refers to dealers that sell furniture, fabrics, and other furnishings to designers only. Items are typically sold at a discount, and the designer marks them up. In contrast with retail stores.

U

U-Value

The measurement of the amount of heat lost, usually through a window. The lower the U-value, the more energy-efficient the window.

Underlayment

A material placed under flooring and roofing that protects the sub-layer from water damage and provide a smooth even surface.

Universal Design

A design that makes the property and building accessible to all. Including the elderly, children and the disabled.

Urethane Paint

A paint coating whose properties are more elastic than that of a polyurethane which has a harder structure. The elastic properties of urethane paint help provide a glossy finish.

V

Vanity

Bathroom cabinetry that holds the sink and fixture while providing excess storage space.

Veneer

A very thin sheet of wood. Veneer is used in woodworking to make doors, flooring and other finishes.

Vinyl Windows

Windows made of PVC material. Originating in the 1970's, vinyl windows are more affordable and need less maintenance than wood windows.

A virtual reality hologram used to portray remodel designs.

W

Walk-In Closet

A closet extending farther than that of a standard closet, allowing a person to enter. Walk-in closets are usually large enough for two people to share.

Walk-In Shower

A shower that does not have an attached bathing tub. You can walk directly into it because it is level with the floor.

Walk-Through

The final inspection to check for design or construction errors that may need fixing before the project is deemed to be complete.

Wall-Hung Toilet

A toilet installed with the tank hidden behind the interior wall. Wall hung toilets are considered a modern and minimalist design.

Wallpaper

A decorative sheet of paper that is applied to an interior wall in many different ways. Some wallpapers have adhesive backing, while others require glue.

Warranty

A contract that covers an appliance or labor done to a home that offers protection from an assembly flaw. Most warranties offer free replacement and labor within a specified time frame.

Waste Pipe

The pipe that carries waste from the home to the city's sewage system.

Water-Based Paint

Pigment and binder dissolved in water to be applied to interior walls.

Water Closet

A small room that has only a toilet. Water closets are often attached to master baths.

Water Main

The pipe that delivers water from the city supply pipe to the home.

Waterproofing

Adding barrier material or sealant that protects the exterior of your foundation from water damage that is caused by direct contact with soil. This involves excavating around the foundation all the way down to the bottom and applying a sealant and then routing the excess water through a drainage system.

An abbreviation for water closet. (See water closet.)

Weatherization

The act of improving the exterior of your home to offer better insulation to keep energy consumption low. This involves caulking, adding new insulation, adding storm windows, storm doors, and adding weather stripping.

Weatherstrip

The thin plates of metal or other material around doors and windows to keep excess air from flowing in and out of the home.

Weep Holes

Small holes that allow moisture to escape.

Wet Bathroom

A bathroom that has a shower without water barrier walls or floor lips. The walls and floor of a wet bath are usually tiled.

Z

Zone

Some HVAC systems have zones, which are areas of the home that are independently temperature controlled.

Zoning

A government issued property label that limits the use of said property. Examples include single-family use, residential, high-rise, etc.

Article Categories: Remodeling

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Remodeling Terms: A Glossary of Useful Terminology

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Guide to Hiring a Remodeler

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