Building and Construction Terminology

Stroke & Arrow Glossary of Construction Terminology I

Gleaned from Various Web Site Page 1of 81

A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter A

Access cover: Plate that is hinged or can be removed to allow access to a pipe fitting, service duct or vessel. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Access to the work - The right of the contractor to ingress and egress, and to occupy the work site as required to reasonably perform the work described in the contract documents. [AACE] Accessibility: Ability of a space to be entered with ease. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Acre 43,560 square feet. Actual cost - The cost actually incurred by the Contractor in the performance of the Work. which includes labour, material, actual ownership cost of equipment or invoiced rental rates, and administrative overhead. [AASHTO] Actual size: Achieved size obtained by measurement. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Adaptability: Ability to be changed or modified to make suitable for a particular purpose. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Addendum - A document that amends the project manual during the bidding period prior to receipt of bids; to clarify, revise, add to, or delete from the previously issued Bid Documents or previously issued Addenda. An Addendum becomes part of the Contract Documents when the Contract is executed. (Plural: ADDENDA) [CSC MOP Addenda/Bid Revision] Admixture: Material added in small quantities during a mixing process to modify the properties of a mixture. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] ADR - A method of settling a dispute without going to court or arbitration. [Means] Advertisement - A public announcement, inviting bids for work to be performed or materials to be furnished. [AASHTO] Aeration: Introduction of air or oxygen. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Aerobic action: Biological process in the presence of oxygen. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Affidavit - A written or printed declaration or statement of facts, made voluntarily, and confirmed by the oath or affirmation of the party making it, taken before a person having authority to administer such oath or affirmation. [Black's] Aggregate Crushed stone, slag or water-worn gravel that comes in a wide range of sizes that is used to surface built-up roofs. Aggregate: Inert granular material. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Aggregation - The grouping of items into construction. [IAI] Agreement - The legal instrument that binds the parties to achieve completion of the project. The Agreement defines primary relationships and obligations between the owner and contractor. By reference it incorporates the General Conditions of the Contract, Supplementary Conditions, Division 1 - General Requirements, specifications, drawings, Addenda, Bid Revisions and modifications subsequent to execution of the contract; in other words, the balance of the Project Manual contents. [adapted from CSC HSC Level 1 Part 2] Air conditioning: Treatment f the air that allows the temperature, humidity, purity and distribution within an enclosed space to be adjusted mechanically. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Air Duct Ducts, usually made of sheet metal, that carry cooled air to all rooms. Air Filters Adhesive filters made of metal or various fibers that are coated with adhesive liquid to which the particles of lint and dust adhere. These filters will remove as much as 90% of the dirt if they do not become clogged. The more common filters are of the throwaway or disposable type. Air Infiltration The amount of air leaking in and out of a building through cracks in walls, windows and doors. Airway A space between roof insulation and roof boards for movement of air. Alligatoring A condition of paint or aged asphalt brought about by the loss of volatile oils and the oxidation caused by solar radiation. Coarse checking pattern characterized by a slipping of the new paint coating over the old coating to the extent that the old coating can be seen through the fissures."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. All-in Labour rate - A compounded rate that includes payments to workers and the costs which arise directly from the employment of labour including all labour loadings. Variable costs, such as



travelling time, special fares or abnormal overtime, are normally excluded. [adapted from AIB] All-in Material rate - A material or component rate that includes the cost of material delivered to site, unloading, handling, storage, preparing for use and waste. [AIB] All-in Mechanical Plant Rate - A compounded rate which includes the costs originating from the ownership or hire of plant together with operating costs. [AIB] Allotment: A parcel of land or space described in a land title. [NDADP] Allowances - Allowances shall cover the cost to the Contractor of materials and equipment delivered to the site and all required taxes, less applicable trade discounts. Contractors cost for unloading and handling at the site, labour, installation costs, overhead, profit and other expenses contemplated for stated allowance amounts shall be included in the Contract Sum and not in the allowances. [AIA] Alteration: Changing or modifying the character or condition of a building, plant or civil engineering works. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Alternate - A specified item of construction that is set apart by a separate sum. An alternate may or may not be incorporated into the contract sum at the discretion and approval of the owner at the time of contract award. [Means] Alternate - Done or changed by turns, coming each after one of the other kind ... said of a series or whole made up of such alternate members. [Oxford Short] Alternative - A material, service, or item of equipment identified, priced, and recorded in a bid, which differs from a similar functioning item specified in the bid documents. Alternatives may be solicited or may be unsolicited. [CSC/W2] Refer also to SUBSTITUTIONS which differ from ALTERNATIVES. Alternative price - Price for substitution that is an addition or deduction to the Base Bid Price. It may be required by an Owner or offered by a Bidder for selection at the discretion of the Owner. [adapted from CCDC Bulletin #9] 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. Analysis: An investigation of a domain that results in models describing its static and dynamic characteristics. It emphasis questions of "what", rather than "how". [AUP] Anchor Bolts In residential construction, Bolts to secure a wooden sill plate to concrete, or masonry floor or wall. In commercial construction, Bolts which fasten columns, girders or other members to concrete or masonry such as bolts used to anchor sills to masonry foundation. Ancillary areas: Total areas= of all enclosed spaces for lavatories, cloakrooms, kitchens, cleaner's rooms, lift, plant and tank rooms and the like, supplementary to the main function of the building. [BCIS Jul 1971] Ancillary Space: Enclosed Space for lavatories, cloakrooms, kitchens, cleaners rooms, lifts, plant, tank rooms and the like, supplementary to the main function of a building. (RICS) 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. Angle: Rolled steel section with a cross-section resembling the letter L, whose legs may be equal or unequal in width. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] 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. Approved contractor - A Contractor who has demonstrated that they have the expertise, resources, ability and desire to tender for a proposed project. Selection of such contractors in normally a by preselection procedures. [adapted from AIB]



Approved substitution - refers to manufacturers, materials, products, systems, or equipment approved by the A/E for use in place of those specified. [CSI FF/150SB] Aqueduct: Conduit for conveying water over long distances, and including the supporting structure. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Arbitration - is dispute resolution arising from an agreement or contract between parties. The parties choose one or more impartial persons to conduct a hearing at which both parties have an opportunity to present evidence and be heard. The parties may or may not agree in advance to abide by the arbitrator's decision. To be bound to rules of provincial arbitration usually means the parties will be bound by an arbitrator's decision. [W2] Arcade: Covered and sometimes arched passage, usually with shops on one or both sides. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Arch bridge: Bridge that has one or more arches as its main structure. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Arch: Curved structural member designed to carry loads between points of support. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Architect - A design professional responsible for developing the aesthetic, functional, performance and overall form of a construction work to meet owner or client requirements by preparing detail drawings, specifications and schedules and ensuring actual construction conforms with those aspects of design. [adapted from Syam] Architect of record - An architect (as prime consultant) for a specific project, in good standing with licensing requirements, at the time of the project. [W2] Architectural drawing - Drawing which shows the appearance of general arrangements, assemblies, component ranges and details of a construction project. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Architecture (software): A description of the organization and structure of a system. Many different levels of architectures are involved in developing software systems, from physical hardware architecture to the logical architecture of an application framework. [AUP] Area Efficiency: A measure of design efficiency, computed by dividing the Usable Floor Area by the Gross Floor Area and expressing the result as a percentage. (NPWC) Area Percentage: The percentage that the Fully Enclosed Covered Area and the Unenclosed Covered Area each bear to the Gross Floor Area. (NPWC) As-built drawing: Drawing used to record the details of a construction following its completion. (Synonym to record drawing) [ISO 10209-1/4] Asphalt: Dense mixture of mineral aggregate and bituminous binder. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Assembly drawing: Drawing representing the relative position and/or shape of a high-level group of assembled parts. [ISO 10209-1/4] Assembly plan: Drawing that shows how and in which order parts or building components shall be assembled. [adapted from ISO CD 10209-3] Assembly: An aggregate of components used together. [ISO 6240] Assembly: Set of components used together. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Assembly: The association between a part and the whole, such that the part has a particular role within the whole. [ISO WD 10303] Asset - An item worthy of identification as a discreet entry (eg. on a register of physical assets). [NCRB] Associate architect - An Architect who has an arrangement with another Architect to collaborate in the performance of services for a project or series of projects. [BSW] Association: Structural relationship between objects of different types. UML BJR97] Attic: Room mainly contained within a pitched roof. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Attorney-in-fact - A private attorney authorized by another to act in his place and stead, either for some particular purpose, as to do a particular act, or for the transaction of business in general not of a legal character. [Black's] Auger boring: Technique of forming a hole in the ground, usually for installing a pipe, by rotary drilling action during which the spoil is removed. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Authority having jurisdiction - A public authority that has legal jurisdiction to enforce enacted codes or regulations over portions or all of a project. [W2] Sometimes referred to as 'public



authority'. Availability - Ability of an item to be obtained or used when needed. [BS 6100] Note: In some contexts, assembly is also used to mean the whole, where the association with the parts is an assembly. See also Collection and Composition. [ISO WD 10303]



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter B Backer RodIn 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, i.e., The replacement of excavated earth into a trench around and against a basement foundation. (2) in carpentry, the process of fastening together two pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in the interior angle. Backflow Preventer A device or means to prevent backflow into the potable water supply. 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. Backhand A simple molding sometimes used around the outer edge of plain rectangular casing as a decorative feature. 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. Bag: Collection of entities in which duplication is allowed and in which order is not significant. Balcony: Accessible platform projecting or recessed from the external face of a building. [BS6100] 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 to which all floor joists are fastened. Balusters Usually small vertical members in a railing used between a top rail and the stair treads or a bottom rail. Balustrade A railing made up of balusters, top rail, and sometimes bottom rail, used on the edge of stairs, teal conies, and porches. Bank rate: Means the discount rate of interest set by the Bank of Canada in effect at the opening of business on the date of payment. [DCC and Government of Canada] Bar schedule: Component range drawing in which the lengths, sizes, bending dimensions and identification of reinforcing bars are given. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Barge Board A decorative board covering the projecting rafter (fly rafter) of the gable end. At the cornice, this member is a fascia board. Barrel Roof A roof design, which in cross section is arched. Base (or Baseboard) A board placed against the wall around a room next to the floor to finish properly between floor and plaster. Base bid price: Amount of money stated in the Bid as the price for which the Bidder offers to perform the Work called for in the Base Bid Documents, prior to any price adjustments. [CCDC Bulletin #9] Base bid with alternatives or substitutions: - Are proprietary specifications that are prepared the same as the BASE BID WITH REQUESTED ALTERNATIVES. The bid is prepared on the specified materials, but the bidder is permitted to submit requests for substitutions with the bid, provided the difference in cost that would result if the substitutions are/were accepted is indicated. [CSC HSC Level 1 Part 5] Base bid with requested alternatives: - A type of proprietary specification defining the material in the same way as the BASE BID specification. Only one brand is named for each material or item of equipment specified. [CSC HSC Level 1 Part 5] Base bid: is the sum stated in the Bid for which the Bidder offers to perform the Work described in the Bidding Documents as the base, to which work may be added or from which work may be deleted for sums stated in Alternate Bids. [AIA] Base bid: Specifications that establish quality, function, and performance of each material or item of equipment. This type of proprietary specification provides rigid control over the quality of products. [CSC HSC Level 1 Part 5] Base bid: The amount of money stated in the bid as the sum for which the bidder offers to perform the work described in the bidding documents, prior to the adjustments for alternate bids that have been submitted. [Means]



Base drawing: Drawing which shows a certain stage of design, and which is used as basic information for further design among the designers on a project. [ISO CD 10209-4] Base drawing: Drawing which shows a certain stage of design, which is used by various designers as basic information for further design. [ISO CD 10209-3] Base Flashing 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. Base Molding Molding used to trim the upper edge of interior baseboard. 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. Basement Floor: See Basement Storey. [BS6100] Basement Storey: Storey below the Ground Floor. [BS6100] Basement: A storey either below ground level, or that projects no more than 1.2 metres above finished ground level. [NDADP] Basement: Usable part of a Building that is situated partly or entirely below ground level. [BS6100] Batt Insulation Strips of insulation, usually fiberglass that fit between studs or other framing. Batten Narrow strips of wood used to cover joints or as decorative vertical members over plywood or wide boards. Batten Plate A formed piece of metal designed to cover the joint between two lengths of metal edge. Batter Board One of a pair of horizontal boards nailed to posts set at the corners of an excavation, used to indicate the desired level, also as a fastening for stretched strings to indicate outlines of foundation walls. Bay Window Any window space projecting outward from the walls of a building, either square or polygonal in plan. 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 A steel beam with a cross section resembling the letter I. It is used for long spans as basement beams or over wide wall openings, such as a double garage door, when wall and roof loads are imposed on the opening. Bearing Partition A partition that supports any vertical load in addition to its own weight. Bearing Wall A wall that supports any vertical load in addition to its own weight. Bed Molding A molding in an angle, as between the over hanging cornice, or eaves, of a building and the side walls. Bed or Bedding In glazing, the bead compound or sealant applied between a light 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. Bench mark: - A marked reference point on a permanent object, such as a metal disk set in concrete, whose elevation is referenced to a datum is known. (2) A mark made by a surveyor or general contractor to be used as a reference point when measuring the elevation or location of other points. [Means] Bench mark: - A surveyor's mark, cut in rock, or other durable material, to indicate the starting or other point in a line of levels for the determination of altitudes over the face of a country. [Shorter Oxford] [NAWIC is similar] Benchmark workmanship: - This is a newer term that can be associated with determining and measuring WORKMANSHIP. When used in a specification, the BENCHMARK should be a measurable value upon which to compare the work in progress or the completed work. In similar words a representation for establishing a basis for quality, perhaps on a measurable basis. A site-constructed mock-up can be a benchmark for quality. [W2] Beneficial occupancy: - The use of the constructed facility by the Owner for its intended



purpose prior to final completion. [CMAA] Beneficial occupancy: - Use of a building, structure, or facility by the owner for its intended purpose (functionally complete), although other contract work, non-essential to the function of the occupied section, remains to be completed. [AACE] Beneficial occupancy: - Use of a project or a portion thereof for the purpose intended. [AIA] Bent Glass Flat glass that has been shaped while hot into curved shapes. Bevel Siding (or Lap Siding) Wedge-shaped boards used as horizontal siding in a lapped pattern. This siding varies in butt thickness from ‡ to æ inch and in widths up to 12 inches. Normally used over some type of sheathing. Bevel 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. Bid bond: - A form of security executed by the bidder or principle in conjunction with a surety to guarantee that the bidder will enter into a contract within a specified period of time and will furnish the required bonds for performance and labour and materials payment. [Means] Bid bond: - To protect the owner from losing the benefit of an accepted bid. More fully expressed; if the owner accepts a bid within the time allowed, but the bidder refuses to enter into a contract (and be in breach of contract) on the basis of their bid, then the bidder is in default of this new contract and the owner may call upon the surety for the bid bond for financial satisfaction. The bid bond generally provides for a penal amount expressed as a stipulated sum or a percentage of the total amount of the bid. [W2] Bid documentation: - All writings, working papers, computer print-outs, charts, and all other data compilation that contain or reflect information, data, or calculations used by the Bidder to determine the bid Proposal submitted, including but not limited to material relating to the determination and application of equipment rates, overhead rates and related time schedules, labour rates, efficiency or productivity factors, arithmetic extensions, and Subcontractor and material supplier quotations. [AASHTO] Bid Documents Drawings, details, and specifications for a particular project. Bid documents: - A set of documents that include the Contract Documents (as defined below) plus any advertisement, special invitation to bid, the Instructions To Bidders, the Bid Form, any supplements (appendices) to the Bid Form, any supplementary bid information documents, and any issued addenda (does not include Bid Revisions). [CSC] Bid form: - A form furnished to the bidder, on which to submit his bid. [Means] [CCDC 10 - Stipulated Price Bid - 1994 is an example bid form] Bid opening: - The physical opening and tabulation of sealed bids following the time specified in the bidding requirements. This term is preferable to bid letting. [AIA] Bid peddling: - The reverse of BID SHOPPING ... is when subcontractors try to get a better price out of a prime contractor. [AACE] Bid price: - Amount submitted in the Bid. [CCDC Bulletin #9] Bid revision: - A document that amends the project manual after the receipt of bids but prior to award of contract; to clarify, revise, add to, or delete from the previously issued Bid Documents or previously issued addenda or Bid Revisions. A Bid Revision becomes part of the Contract Documents when the Contract is executed. [CSC MOP Addenda/Bid Revision] Bid security: - A bid bond or deposit submitted with a bid to guarantee to the owner that the bidder, if awarded the contract, will execute the contract within a specified period of time and will furnish any bonds or other requirements of the bid documents. [Means] Bid security: - Security is provided in connection with the submittal of a bid to guarantee that the bidder, if awarded or offered the contract, will execute the contract and perform the work. [AACE] Note: It is not First Pro Policy to practice Bid shopping Bid shopping: - A slang term which refers to a contractors' or subcontractors' propensity to obtain the least price from competing manufactured products and third party suppliers. This process is usually performed during the bidding phase, sometimes after bids are received, and occasionally during the construction phases. Bid shopping is a manifestation of our free-market system and our freedom to operate an enterprise. [CSC CTR HSC Level 2 Part 3] Bid shopping: - An effort by a prime contractor to reduce the prices quoted by subcontractors and/or suppliers, by providing the bid price to other subcontractors or suppliers in an attempt to



get the other subcontractors or suppliers to underbid the original price quoted. [AACE] Bidder: - An entity or person who submits a bid. This refers to one who submits a bid for a prime contract to an owner. A bidder is not a contractor on a specific project until a contract is signed between the bidder and the owner. [Means] Bidder: - One who submits a Bid directly to Owner as distinct from a sub-bidder, who submits a bid to the Bidder. [EJCDC - Guide] Bidding documents: - Collectively, the bidding requirements and the proposed contract documents, including any addenda issued prior to receipt of bids. [AIA] Bidding documents: - The advertisement or invitation to Bid, instructions to bidders, the Bid Form, and the proposed Contract Documents (including all Addenda issued prior to receipt of Bids). [EJCDC 1910-8] Bidding Getting prices from various contractors and/or subcontractors. Bill of quantities: - Document for tendering, usually prepared in a standard form, comprising both a descriptive list of quantities of works and a description of the materials, workmanship and other matters required for construction works. [ISO 6707-2, BS 1192, ISO DIS 10209-4] 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. Blind Nailing Nailing in such a way that the nail heads are not visible on the face of the work‹usually at the tongue of matched boards. Blind Stop A rectangular molding, usually æ by 1-3/8 inches or more in width, used in the assembly of a window frame. Serves as a stop for storm and screen or combination windows and to resist air infiltration. Blister An enclosed raised spot evident on the surface of a building. They are mainly caused by the expansion of trapped air, water vapor, moisture or other gases. Block diagram: - Overview diagram using block symbols predominantly. [ISO DIS 10209-4] NOTE: Block symbols indicate the name or function of an item. Block plan: - Drawing which identifies a site and locates the outlines of construction works in relation to a town plan or similar context. [ISO 10209-1] Block plan: - Location drawing which identifies a site and locates the outlines of construction works in relation to a town plan or similar document. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Blocking In carpentry, the process of fastening together two pieces of board by gluing blocks of wood in the interior angle. Board Foot In carpentry, the equivalent of a board 1 foot square and 1 inch thick. Boards Yard lumber less than 2 inches thick and 2 or more inches wide. Bodied Linseed Oil Linseed oil that has been thickened in viscosity by suitable processing with heat or chemicals. Bodied oils are obtainable in a great range in viscosity from a little greater than that of raw oil to just short of a jellied condition. Boiled Linseed Oil Linseed oil in which enough lead, manganese or cobalt salts have been incorporated to make the oil harden more rapidly when spread in thin coatings. Boilerplate: - Language which is used commonly in documents having a definite meaning in the same context without variation; used to describe standard language in a legal document that is identical in {legal} instruments of a like nature. [Black's] Refer also to FRONT END DOCUMENTS. Bolster A short horizontal timber or steel beam on top of a column to support and decrease the span of beams or girders. 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. Bonds: - A surety bond is the written instrument or document given by the surety and principal to the obligee to guarantee a specific and defined obligation. [W2] Bonus clause: - A provision in the Construction Contract for additional payment to the Contractor



as a reward for completing the work prior to a stipulated date. [AIA Glossary] Bonus: - A consideration or premium paid in addition to what is strictly due. A gratuity to which the recipient has no right to make a demand. [Black's] Boston Ridge A method of applying asphalt or wood shingles at the ridge or at the hips of a roof as a finish. Bow A curve, bend, warping or other deviation from flatness in glass or wood. Brace An inclined piece of framing lumber applied to wall or floor to stifled the structure. Often used on walls as temporary bracing until framing has been completed. 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. Breach of contract: - Failure, by either the owner or the contractor, without legal excuse, to perform any work or duty owed to the other person. [AACE] Breach of contract: - The failure, without, legal justification, to fulfill obligations that are the whole or part of an agreement, written or oral. The breach of contract can be intentional, inadvertent, or caused by the negligence of the party breaching the contract. [AIA] Breach of duty: - A failure to perform an obligation created by law or by contract. [AIA] Brick for building purposes not especially treated for texture or color, formerly called "common brick." It is stronger than face brick. Brick Veneer A facing of brick laid against and fastened to sheathing of a frame wall or tile wall construction. Bridging Small wood or metal members that are inserted in a diagonal position between the floor joists at midspan to act both as tension and compression members for the purpose of bracing the joists a spreading the action of loads. Brief: - Working document which specifies at any point in time the relevant needs and aims, resources of the client and user, the context of the project and any appropriate design requirements within which all subsequent briefing (when needed) and designing can take place. [ISO 9699] 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. BTU/HR BTU/HR = building volume x air changes x BTU/cu.ft/hr x TD (TD is temperature difference) Bubbling In glazing, open or closed pockets in a sealant caused by release, production or expansion of gasses. Buck Often used in reference to rough frame opening members. Door bucks used in reference to metal door frame. Buildability: - The extent to which the design of a building facilitates ease of construction subject to the overall requirements for the completed building.(constructability) [AIB] Building Area: The total enclosed and unenclosed area of a Building at all Storeys measured between the normal outside face of enclosing walls, balustrades and supports. [NPWC adapted) Building Brick Building cost: - The total cost of all Building Elements for a particular Building. [January] Building element (Ifc): - The Building Element comprises all elements that are primarily part of the construction of a building, ie. it's structural and space separating system. Examples of Building Elements are walls, beams and doors. They are all physically existent and tangible things. They are separated from other elements, since they are dealt with in separate AEC processes. [IAI] Building element: - An Element that relates to a Building only. [January] Building facility: - A Facility where the main purpose is achieved by a Building or Buildings. [January] Building floor area: The total floor area of the building measured from the outside of the external walls or the centre of a common wall. [NDADP] Building height: - The vertical distance between the main Ground Floor level and the upper limit



of the Building structure, including parapet walls but excluding guard rails and the like. [Adapted from NPWC] Building height: The distance from finished ground level to the highest point of the roof or parapet. [NDADP] Building line (setback): The minimum distance from any boundary to which a structure may be built. [NDADP] Building Paper A general term for papers, felts, and similar sheet materials used in buildings without reference to their properties or uses. Building permit document: - Document which forms the basis for the decision on a building permit. [ISO DIS 10209-4] 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. Building price index: - A numerical index relative to a base of 100 that reflects fluctuations in building costs and market conditions from the base date. [adapted from NPWC] Building rate: - The rate obtained by dividing the Building Cost by the Gross Floor Area. [Adapted from NPWC] Building sub-system: - Part of a building fulfilling one or several of the functions needed to meet the user requirements. [ISO 6241] Building team: A group of people responsible for development of a design for a facility from its concept stage to completion and perhaps occupancy. Building(Ifc): - Building represents a structure that provides shelter for its occupants or contents and stands in one place. The Building is also used to provide a basic structuring hierarchy for the components of a building construction project (together with site, storey and space). [IAI] Building: - Construction works that has the provision of shelter for its occupants or contents as one of its main purposes and is usually enclosed and designed to stand permanently in one place. [ISO 6707-1] Building: A fixed structure wholly or partly enclosed by walls and which has a roof. [NDADP] Built Environment: Any man made structure or construction which is fixed, including mechanical services which go with the same, and includes environmental health and safety aspects and heat/energy efficiency factors. [ACBDP 1] Built-Up Roof A roofing composed of three to five layers of asphalt felt laminated with coal tar, pitch, or asphalt. The top is finished with crushed slag or gravel. Generally used on flat or low-pitched roofs. Bulk excavation plan: - Excavation plan that specifies information for the performance of overall excavation works. [ISO CD 10209-4] Bulletin: A delineation and/or narrative issues by the construction manager that describes a proposed change to the contract documents. A bulletin is to be issues for consideration as an approved change. [CMAA] 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. Butt Glazing The installation of glass products where the vertical glass edges are without structural supporting mullions. Butt Joint The junction where the ends of two timbers or other members meet in a square-cut joint. 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. Butyl Type of non-curing and non-skinning sealant made from butylene. Usually used for internal applications. BX-Cabling 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.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter C

Cable: Assembly of wires, usually parallel, of considerable length, formed into a compact circular section. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] CAD drawing: The presentation of selected parts of a CAD model as projected on a drawing sheet. Visibility on the drawing can be controlled by viewpoints and layers. The drawing sheet can also contain additional graphics, such as borderlines, title-blocks and legends. CAD drawings can also be produced independently without an underlying CAD model (a drawing-oriented approach as opposed to the model-oriented approach). [ISO CD 13567-1] Caisson: Hollow structure with substantial impervious walls that comprises one or more cells and is sunk through the ground or water to form the permanent shell of a deep foundation. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Calcium Chloride A chemical used to speed up curing of concrete during damp conditions. Canal: Channel constructed to carry water, usually for navigation, water power or irrigation. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Canalized river: River in which the water level has been changed to form a canal, with the use of locks placed at intervals along its course, to render it navigable. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Canopy An overhanging roof. Canopy: Roof-like covering usually projecting over and outward from an entrance or window or along the side of a wall. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Cant Strip A beveled support used at the junction of a flat surface and a vertical surface to prevent bends and/or cracking of the roofing membrane at the intersection of the roof deck and wall. Used with a base flashing to minimize breaking of the roofing felts. Cantilever A projecting beam or other structure supported only at one end. Cantilever: Beam or structural slab that projects beyond its support. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] 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. Cap The upper member of a column, pilaster, door cornice, molding, and the like. Cape Chisel Tool used to clean out mortar joints on brick. Capping: Use of a clean material as a cover for contaminated material. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Carbide Bit Tool used to drill holes in brick or block. Carpentry: Structural woodwork. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Casement Frames and Sash Frames of wood or metal enclosing part or all of the sash, which may be opened by means of hinges affixed to the vertical edges. Cash allowance: A specific sum or sums of money included in the contract price for certain expenditures. They cover "... the net cost to the contractor of services, products, construction machinery and equipment, freight, unloading, handling, storage, installation, and other authorized expenses incurred in performing the work stipulated under the cash allowances but do not include any value added taxes payable by the owner to the contractor ...". Overhead and profit are included in the contract price, not in the cash allowance. A cash allowance may, if specifically stated, include only products or only materials. Cash allowances should be used solely to cover costs of defined work. Cash allowances cover any work that is a known requirement but due to various reasons cannot be finalized, prior to a bid call. Cash allowances are expended and adjusted by change order to provide for any difference between the actual cost and the cash allowance. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 3] Cash allowance: The Contract Price includes cash allowances stated in the Contract Documents, which allowances shall be expended as the Owner directs through the Consultant. [CCDC 2 1994 - GC 4.1.1] Also [CCDC 2 1994 - GC 4.1.3] explains:.... The Contract Price, and not the cash allowances, includes the Contractor's overhead and profit in connection with such cash allowances. [CCDC] Casing Molding of various widths and thicknesses used to trim door and window openings at the jambs.



Casing: Material or component used to cover and protect a structural member or part of an installation. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] 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. Cavity wall: Wall of two parallel parts effectively tied together and with a gap between them. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Ceiling drawing: Drawing which specifies the scope and workmanship of the ceilings of a storey of a building and which is normally in mirrored projection. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Ceiling: Construction covering the underside of a floor or roof to provide the overhead surface of an enclosed space. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Cellar: Basement used for storage, heating plant and for purposes other than habitation. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] 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 a 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 groundwater's 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 a 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. Centering: Temporary support on which an arch is formed. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Central reserve: [US: median] Area that separates the carriageways of a dual carriageway road. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Certificate of Occupancy A document stating that a building is approved for occupancy. The building authority issues the Certificate of Occupancy. Certificate: A written assurance, or official representation, that some act has or has not been done, or some event occurred, or some legal formality has been complied with. [Black's] Certification: A process of verifying that a payment on the contract price is in order and is authorized for release. [W2] Certification: The formal assertion in writing of some fact. The act of certifying or state of being certified. [Black's] 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. Chain link fence: Mesh fence in which the wires are interwoven. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] 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. Chamfer: Rounded or bevelled arris. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Change directive: A Change Directive is a written instruction prepared by the Consultant and signed by the Owner directing a change in the Work within the general scope of the Contract



Documents. [CCDC 2 1994] Change order: A Change Order is a written amendment to the Contract prepared by the Consultant and signed by the Owner and the Contractor stating their agreement upon:a change in the Work; the method of adjustment or the amount of the adjustment in the Contract Price, if any; and the extent of the adjustment in the Contract Time, if any. [CCDC 2 1994] Change order: A document recommended by Engineer, which is signed by Contractor and Owner and authorizes an addition, deletion or revision in the Work, or an adjustment in the Contract Price or the Contract Times, issued on or after the Effective Date of the Agreement. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.9] Change order: A written instrument prepared by the Architect and signed by the Owner, Contractor and Architect, stating their agreement upon all of the following: .1 a change in the work; .2 the amount of the adjustment in the Contract Sum, if any; and .3 the extent of the adjustment in the Contract Time, if any. [AIA A201 - GC 7.2.1] [Also in the Article 7 text ... A Change Order shall be based upon agreement among the Owner, Contractor and Architect; a Construction Change Directive requires agreement by the Owner and Architect and may or may not be agreed to by the Contractor; an order for a minor change in the Work may be issued by the Architect alone. [AIA A201 - GC 7.1.2] Change order: A written order to the Contractor for extra work, increases or decreases Contract quantities, and additions or alterations to the plans or specifications, within the scope of the Contract. [AASHTO] Change request: The request for change notice is prepared with a clear definition of the scope of work so the designer or contractor can prepare a price proposal, or proceed as directed on force account basis (time and material). Second step in the contract change process. [anon] Change: Any action or proposal that does not comply with what has previously been agreed upon or approved. [FIDIC – 9001] Changes in the work - significant: When the character of the work, as altered, (1) differs materially in kind or nature from that involved or included in the original proposed construction, or (2) when a major item of work as defined elsewhere in the Contract is increased in excess of 125 percent or decreased below 75 percent of the original Contract quantity. [AASHTO] Changes to the work: Additions, deletions, or revisions to the work within the general scope of the contract. [W2] 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. 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. Channel section: Rolled steel section with a cross-section resembling the letter U. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Characteristic: Information that may be associated with an object in order to specify or describe it. [ISO WD 10303] Characteristic: Mental representation of a property of an object serving to form and delimit its concept. [ISO 1087] Characteristic: Property that distinguishes the totality of items under consideration. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Charge-out Rate: A labour rate that includes the all-in labour rate plus supervision, overheads, small tools and profit. [AIB] Chart (graph): Graphical presentation, usually within a coordinate system, expressing the relationship between two or more variable quantities. [ISO 10209-1/4] Chase: Recess cut into an existing construction to accommodate services. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Check throat: Groove to prevent water from being drawn by capillary action into the narrow space or joint between two adjacent members. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Checking Fissures that appear with age in many exterior paint coatings, at first superficial, but which in time may penetrate entirely through the coating. It produces 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. Checking Fissures that appear with age in many exterior paint coatings, at first superficial, but which in time may penetrate entirely through the coating. It produces 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. Checklist: A term used to describe a simple tabular listing of material, component, and system types intended for use on a project. The checklist usually precedes the development of either a PRELIMINARY PROJECT DESCRIPTION or an OUTLINE SPECIFICATION. [W2] Checkrails Meeting rails sufficiently thicker than a window to fill the opening between the top and bottom sash made by the parting stop in the frame of double-hung windows. They are usually beveled. Checkrails Meeting rails sufficiently thicker than a window to fill the opening between the top and bottom sash made by the parting stop in the frame of double-hung windows. They are usually beveled. 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. Chimney breast: Projection from the face of a wall that contains a fireplace or flue. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Chimney shaft: Chimney that is of substantial height and usually contains a flue of large cross-section. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Chimney stack: Part of a chimney that projects above a roof. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Chimney: Construction enclosing one or more flues. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] 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. Circuit diagram: Diagram that specifies the electrical circuit routing composition of an electrical installation. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Circulation area: Total area of all enclosed spaces forming entrance halls, corridors, staircases, lift wells, connecting links and the like. [BCIS Jul 1971] Circulation space: Space for the movement of people, goods or vehicles. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Circulation: Space linking together individual rooms or spaces within a single Functional Area. It includes the area occupied by internal walls and columns. [NPWC adapted] Civil Engineering Work: Work of constructing civil engineering works. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Civil Engineering Works: Construction works that comprises a structure, such as a dam, bridge, road, railway, runway or sewerage system; or the results of operations such as dredging, earthwork, geotechnical processes, but excluding a building and its associated site works. [ISO 6707-1, BS6100] Cladding: [US: siding] External, vertical or near-vertical non-loadbearing covering to a structure. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Claim: A Claim is a demand or assertion by one of the parties seeking, as a matter of right, adjustment or interpretation of Contract terms, payment of money, extension of time or other relief with respect to the terms of the Contract. The term Claim also includes other disputes and matters in question between the Owner and Contractor arising out of or relating to the Contract. Claims must be made by written notice. The responsibility to substantiate Claims shall rest with the party making the Claim. [AIA A201 - GC 4.3.1] Clawback: Refer to HOLDBACK. Cleaning: Reducing contamination to an acceptable degree. [NCRB] Note: Not maintenance unless performed in conjunction with Corrective or Preventive Maintenance Activities. Clear span: [US: free span] Distance between opposite faces of supports. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Clerestorey window: Window in the upper part of a wall above an adjoining roof. [ISO/DIS 6707- Clerk of the works: An older term meant to refer to an owner's representative or inspector, on the project site, acting on behalf of an owner. [W2]



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. Client: Person or organization that requires a construction to be provided, altered or extended, and is responsible for initiating and approving the brief. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Closing pressure: Pressure at which the valve closes after having reached the rating pressure. [ISO/DIS 6707-1] Coal Tar Pitch A bituminous material, which is a by-product 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. 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 Beam In carpentry, a tie that keeps the roof from spreading. They serve to stiffen the roof structure. Connects similar rafters on opposite sides of roof. 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. Column In architecture: A perpendicular supporting member, circular or rectangular in section, usually consisting of a base, shaft, and capital. In engineering: A vertical structural compression member which supports loads acting in the direction of its longitudinal axis. Combination Doors or Windows Combination doors or windows used over regular openings. They provide winter insulation and summer protection and often have self storing or removable glass and screen inserts. This eliminates the need for handling a different unit each season. 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. Concrete Plain Concrete either without reinforcement, or reinforced only for shrinkage or temperature changes. 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. In a building: Beads or drops of water (and frequently frost in extremely cold weather) that accumulate on the inside of the exterior covering of a building when warm, moisture-laden air from the interior reaches a point where the temperature no longer permits the air to sustain the moisture it holds. Use of louvers or attic ventilators will reduce moisture condensation in attics. A vapor barrier under the gypsum lath or dry wall on exposed walls will reduce condensation in them. 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. Conductor (1) In roofing, a pipe for conveying rainwater 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. Conduit A pipe, usually metal, for protecting and routing electrical wiring. Construction Loan A loan provided by a lending institution specifically to construct or renovate a building.



Construction, frame A type of construction in which the structural parts are wood or depend upon a wood frame for support. In codes, if masonry veneer is applied to the exterior walls, the classification of this type of construction is usually unchanged. 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. 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. Type M has a thin wall and many codes permit its use in general water piping installation. It has a red stripe. Corbel Out To build out one or more courses of brick or stone from the face of a wall, to form a support for timbers. Core A small section cut from any material to show internal composition. Corner Bead A strip of formed sheet metal, sometimes combined with a strip of metal lath, placed on corners before plastering to reinforce them. Also, a strip of wood finish three-quarters-round or angular placed over a plastered corner for protection. Corner Boards Used as trim for the external corners of a house or other frame structure against which the ends of the siding are finished. Corner Braces Diagonal braces at the corners of frame structure to stiffen and strengthen the wall. Cornerite Metal-mesh lath cut into strips and bent to a right angle. Used in interior corners of walls and ceilings on lath to prevent cracks in plastering. Cornice A horizontal projecting course on the exterior of a building, usually at the base of the parapet. In residential construction, the 0verhang of a pitched roof at the cave line, usually consisting of a facie board, a soffit for a closed cornice, and appropriate moldings. Cornice Return That portion of the cornice that returns on the gable end of a house. 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. Counter Flashing 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. This type of flashing is usually used in residential construction on chimneys at the roofline to cover shingle flashing and to prevent moisture entry. 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. Cove Molding A molding with a concave face used as trim or to finish interior corners. Covenants Rules usually developed by a builder or developer regarding the physical appearance of buildings in a particular geographic area. Typical covenants address building height, appropriate fencing and landscaping, and the type of exterior material (stucco, brick, stone, siding, etc) that may be used. Crawl SpaceA shallow open area between the floor of a building and the ground, normally enclosed by the foundation wall. 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)



Cricket A small drainage-diverting roof structure of single or double slope placed at the junction of larger surfaces that meet at an angle, such as above a chimney. Cross-Bridging Diagonal bracing between adjacent floor joists, placed near the center of the joist span to prevent joists from twisting. Crown Molding A molding used on cornice or wherever an interior angle is to be covered. 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 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. 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. 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. Cut Off A piece of roofing membrane consisting of one or more narrow plies of felt usually moped in hot to seal the edge of insulation at the end of a day's work. Cutback In roofing, basic asphalt or tar which has been "cut back" with solvents and oils so that the material becomes fluid. Cut-in Brace Nominal 2-inch-thick members, usually 2 by 4¹s, cut in between each stud diagonally.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter D

D/C Circuit A circuit where electricity flows in one direction only, at a constant rate. Dado A rectangular groove across the width of a board or plank. In interior decoration, a special type of wall treatment. 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.) "Dampproofing" generally applies to surfaces above grade; "waterproofing" generally applies to surfaces below grade. Darby A flat tool used to smooth concrete flatwork immediately after screeding. See Bullfloating Data carrier: Medium on which data can be stored. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N7] Date of payment: means the date of the negotiable instrument of an amount due and payable by the Receiver General for Canada and given for payment. [DCC and Government of Canada] Day: The term "day" as used in the Contract Documents shall mean calendar day unless otherwise specifically defined. [AIA A201 - GC 8.1.4] Dead Load The constant, design-weight (of the roof) and any permanent fixtures attached above or below. Decay Disintegration of wood or other substance through the action of fungi, Deck An elevated platform. "Deck" is also commonly used to refer to the above-ground floors in multi-level parking garage. Deck Paint An enamel with a high degree of resistance to mechanical wear, designed for use on such surfaces as porch floors. Decomposition Type: A break down of a single Entity into several entities that can be seen as compositional parts of the Entity. [Woestenenk] Decomposition: The breaking down of a whole into parts. [IAI] Default: By its derivation, a failure. An omission of that which ought to be done. Specifically the omission or failure to perform a legal or contractual duty. [Black's] Defective: An adjective which when modifying the word work refers to Work that is unsatisfactory, faulty or deficient, in that it does not conform to the Contract Documents, or does not meet the requirements of any inspection, reference standard, test or approval referred to in the Contract Documents, or has been damaged prior to Engineer's recommendation of final payment (unless responsibility for the protection thereof has been assumed by Owner at Substantial Completion in a accordance with paragraph 14.8 04 14.10). [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.14] Defective: Defective, faulty, or non-conforming work or work that has been damaged after installation but before final payment. [EJCDC Commentary on Agreements] Defects and deficiencies: Refer to SITE SERVICES. Deferred Maintenance: Maintenance which is known to be required but which has been deferred deliberately to a later date; eg. because of a shortage of funds or unavailability of parts. [NCRB] Definition: Statement that describes a concept and permits its differentiation from other concepts within a system of concepts. [ISO 1087] Definition: Statement that describes a concept and permits its differentiation from other concepts within a system of concepts. [ISO 1087] Definitions: Definitions identify and define the meaning of specific terms used throughout the Project Manual and the drawings. [CSC HSC Level 1 Part 2] Definitions: Identify and define the meaning of specific terms used throughout the bid and contract documents and drawings. Contractually defined terms have the first character of each



word, capitalized. [W2] Deflect To bend or deform under weight. Deflection The amount of bending movement of any part of a structural member perpendicular to the axis of the member under an applied load. Delay: Any event, action, force, or factor that causes the established contract time to be exceeded for performance of the Contract

o Compensatable Delay: An excusable delay for which the Contractor may be entitled to additional monetary compensation.

o Excusable Delay: A delay to the Contract or milestone completion date that was beyond the Contractor's control and not caused by the Contractor's fault or negligence and for which a Contract or milestone extension may be granted.

o Non-compensatable Delay: Excusable delay for which the Contractor may be entitled to an extension of time bit no additional monetary compensation.

o Non-excusable Delay: A delay to the Contract or milestone completion date that was reasonably foreseeable and within the control of the Contractor for which no monetary compensation or time extension will be granted. [AASHTO]

Delegation: The notion that an object can issue a message to another object in response to a message. The first object therefore delegates the responsibility to the second object. [AUP] Delivery plan: Document that specifies dates for delivery of material and execution of work. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Demolition drawing: General arrangement drawing which specifies the scope and performance of demolition of a building, and which may also specify parts which shall be dismantled for re-use, and in accordance with rules, eg principles of ISO 7518:1983. [ISO 7518, ISO DIS 10209-4] Demolition Process: The Activities of planned physical destruction of a Facility. [Adapted from ISO TR 14177] Demolition: Process entailed by the planned physical destruction of the construction works. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N75] Density The mass of substance in a unit volume. When expressed in the metric system, it is numerically equal to the specific gravity of the same substance. Deprecated term: Term rejected by an authoritative body. [ISO 1087] Derivation: The process of defining a new class by reference to an existing class and then adding attributes and methods. The existing class is the superclass; the new class is referred to as the subclass or derived class. [AUP] Descriptive specification: Provides detailed written description of required information on properties of a product, material, or system, and the requirements to fabricate, erect, and install. [CSC Semester Level 1 Session 11] [CSC HSC Level 1 Chapter 5] Design meeting minutes: Document that records the design progress in relation to specified requirements and decisions of essential importance. [ISO CD 10209-3] Design meeting minutes: Document which records decisions of essential importance made during the design process. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Design Pressure Specified pressure a product is designed to withstand. Design Process: The Activities entailed by the further conceptual elaboration of the desired Facility (brief), prior to the Production Process. [ISO TR 14177]. See also Creation Process and Design. Design Specification: Specifications for the evaluation of engineering or architectural design. [USNBS] Design: A process that uses the products of analysis to produce a specification for implementing a system. A logical description of how a system will work. [AUP] Design: Conceptual elaboration and presentation in the form of drawings and specifications of a desired construction works. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N75] See also Design Process. Designation: Any representation of a concept. [ISO 1087] Designed element: Element for which the work results have been defined. [ISO/DIS 12006-2] Detail drawing: Drawing showing parts of a construction or a component, generally enlarged, and including any specific information about the form and construction or about the assembly and joints. [ISO 10209-1/4]



Detailed development plan: Development plan that covers a limited area (of eg a municipality) and which controls both development and use of land and water areas, etc. and which is normally prepared by a planning authority. [ISO CD 10209-3] Detailed excavation plan: Excavation plan that specifies detailed information for excavation works. [ISO CD 10209-4] Deterioration: Terms used to describe the condition of an existing element or surface associated with restoration and repair of existing work. [W2] development and use of land and water areas, etc. and which is normally prepared by a planning authority. [ISO CD 10209-4] Development plan: Document which covers an extensive area, and which controls both Development plan: Plan which covers an extensive area, and which controls both development and use of land and water areas, etc. and which is normally prepared by a planning authority. [ISO CD 10209-3] Dew Point Temperature at which vapor condenses from the atmosphere and forms water. Diagram: Drawing in which graphical symbols are used to indicate the function of the components of a system and their relationships. [ISO 10209-1/4] Dictionary: Structured collection of lexical units with linguistic information about each of them. [ISO 1087] Dimension Lumber Yard lumber from 2 inches to, but not including, 5 inches thick and 2 or more inches wide. Includes joists, rafters, studs, plank, and small timbers. Dimensional drawing: Drawing which specifies dimensions necessary for construction or production. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Direct Nailing To nail perpendicular to the initial surface or to the junction of the pieces joined. Also termed face nailing. Disclaimer: Refer to HOLD HARMLESS. [W2] Discrete Element (Ifc): Elements in a building services system that do not participate as either equipment or distribution elements, such as insulation or attaching elements. [IAI] Distortion Alteration of viewed images caused by variations in glass flatness or inhomogeneous portions within the glass. An inherent characteristic of heat-treated glass. Distribution Element (Ifc): Elements in a building services system that facilitate the distribution of matter, such as air or water. [IAI] Division 1 - General requirements: The specification sections that describe administrative requirements, procedural requirements, and temporary facilities; is the foremost division of the MasterFormat system. [W2] Division 1 - General requirements: The specification sections that specify administrative requirements, procedural requirements, and temporary facilities. [CSI FF/100GR] Division: The basic framework of MasterFormat indicating the location of the subordinate parts of this organizational system. [W2] Refer also to CLASSIFICATION. Document: A set of information selected and arranged to meet a specific need and stored on a data carrier. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N78] Document: Recorded information that can be treated as a unit in a documentation process. [ISO 5127-1, ISO DIS 10209-4] Documentation: Collection of various information concerning one or more specific aspects. [ISO/TC10/SG-D/N8] Documentation: Continuous and systematic collection and processing of recorded information for the purposes of its storage, retrieval, utilization or transmission. [ISO 5127-1, ISO DIS 10209-4] Documentation: Set of documents collected for a specific purpose. [ISO 5127-1, ISO DIS 10209-4] Dolly Varden Siding Beveled wood siding which is rabbeted on the bottom edge. Domain: A formal boundary that defines a particular subject or area of interest. [AUP] Door schedule: Component range drawing of doors and their hardware, and which may contain information in the form of a table. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Doorjamb (interior) The surrounding case into which and out of which a door closes and opens. It consists of two upright pieces, called side jambs, and a horizontal head jamb.



Dormer An opening in a sloping roof, the framing of which projects out to form a vertical wall suitable for windows or other openings. Double Plate Two layers of 2 x 4's placed on top of studs during the framing of 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. Double-Glazing In general, any use of two lights 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. Down Time: The period of time that plant is not operating. This may be as a result of breakdown, servicing time or inability to operate due to external factors. [AIB] Downspout The metal pipe used to drain water from a roof. Draft drawing: Drawing serving as a basis for the choice of a final solution and/or discussion between involved parties (synonym = preliminary drawing). [ISO 10209-1/4] Draftsperson: A person that prepares drawings under the supervision of an architect or engineer. [January] Drainage drawing: Drawing that/which shows the scope and workmanship of drainage works. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Drawing Detail A top view drawing of a building or roof showing the roof perimeter and indicating the projections and roof mounted equipment, drawn to scale. Drawing Outline A top view drawing of a building or roof showing only the perimeter drawn to scale. Drawing: Technical information given on an information carrier, graphically represented in accordance with agreed rules and usually to scale. [ISO 10209-1/4] Drawings: Graphic representations showing the geometry and dimensions of the elements of a project in sufficient detail to execute the work. [CMAA] Drawings: The drawings are a graphic representation of the work. They indicate the relationships between components and materials and should show the following: location of each material, assembly, component, and accessory, identification of all materials, components, and pieces of equipment; dimensions of the construction and sizes of field-assembled components; and details and diagrams of connections. [CSI FF/090DS] Drawings: The drawings which show the scope, extent and character of the Work to be furnished and performed by Contractor and which have been prepared or approved by Engineer and are referred to in the Contract Documents. Shop drawings are not Drawings as so defined. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.15] Drawings: The graphic and pictorial description of project requirements identifying the form, shape, dimension, and location of materials, products, or systems required for a facility; usually includes floor or area plans, a site plan, vertical elevations and image planes, construction component sections and details, schematic diagrams; may also include schedules. [W2] [The) Drawings: are the graphic and pictorial portions of the Contract Documents, wherever located and whenever issued, showing the design, location and dimensions of the Work, generally includes plans, elevations, sections, details, schedules and diagrams. [AIA A201] Dressed and Matched (Tongued & Grooved) Boards or planks machined in such a matter that there is a groove on one edge and a corresponding tongue on the other. Dressed Size Lumber The dimension of lumber after shrinking from green dimension and after machining to size or pattern. Drier Paint Usually oil-soluble soaps of such metals as lead manganese, or cobalt, which, in small proportions, hasten the oxidation and hardening (drying) of the drying oils in paints. Drip (a) A member of a cornice or other horizontal exterior finish course that has a projection beyond the other parts for throwing off water. (b) A groove in the under. side of a sill or drip cap to cause water to drop off on the outer edge instead of drawing back and running down the face of the building. Drip Cap A molding placed on the exterior top side of a door or window frame to cause water to drip beyond the outside of the frame.



Drip Edge A device designed to prevent water from running back or under an overhang. Drippage Bitumen material that drips through roof deck joints, or over the edge of a roof deck. Drop Siding Usually æ inch thick and 6 and 8 inches wide with tongued-and-grooved or shiplap edges. Often used as siding without sheathing in secondary buildings. 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 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. Dry-In To make a building waterproof. Drywall Construction A type of construction in which the interior wall finish is applied in a dry condition, generally in the form of sheet materials or wood paneling as contrasted to plaster. 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. Drywall Sheetrock (gypsum board) that covers the framing and taping, coating, and finishing to make the interior walls and ceilings of a building. Drywall is also used as a verb to refer to installation process. Duct A cylindrical or rectangular "tube" used to move air either from exhaust or intake, and for distributing warm air from the heating plant to rooms, or air from a conditioning device or as cold air returns. 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. Dwelling: A building or part of a building used as a self contained residence. [NDADP]



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter E

Earthwork drawing: Drawing for the work of excavating or raising the ground. [ISO CD 10209-4] 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 Grain (vertical) Edge-grain lumber has been sawed parallel to the pith of the log and approximately at right angles to the growth rings; i.e., the rings form an angle of 45° or more with the surface of the piece. 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 and 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. Electrical construction drawing: Drawing which comprises installations for power supply, lighting, electric heating, motor operation, telecommunication, voltage adjustment, etc. [Adapted from ISO CD 10209-4] Electrical layout plan: Drawing which in a comprehensive way shows wires and cables, exterior light fittings and other external electrical installations for an installation or site. [ISO CD 10209-4] Electrician: Person who installs and repairs electrical circuits, appliances and equipment used in construction work. [CCS] Electrolytic Coupling A fitting required to join copper to galvanized pipe and gasketed to prevent galvanic action. Connecting pipes of different materials may result in electrolysis. Electronic commerce: The process of conducting all forms of business communications using electronic means. [Electronic Commerce Australia] Element (Ifc): Generalization of all components that make up an AEC product. Those elements can be located logically by an element container in a structuring hierarchy (here: building), described by calculated quantities and assigned with one or many performed functions. The latter copes with multifunctional elements. See also Discrete Element and Distribution Element. [IAI] Element Group: (CRB) See Element. Element Ratio: The net area of an Element divided by the Gross Floor Area and expressed as a percentage. [Adapted from RICS] Element Solution: See Designed Element. (Building) Element: Major functional part of a building. Note: Examples are foundation, floor, and roof, and wall, services. [ISO 6707-1] Element: (CRB) See Subelement. Element: Construction entity part which, in itself or in combination with other such parts, fulfils a predominating function of the construction entity. [ISO/DIS 12006-2] Elemental Cost Analysis: Analysis of the tender cost of a Project using a detailed Elemental cost breakdown as in the Cost Plan. [NPWC] Elemental Cost Target: A sum of money allocated to an individual Element in a Cost Plan. [NPWC] Elemental Solution: (SBC) See Designed Element. Elemental Unit Rate: The rate obtained by dividing the quantity of an Element into the total cost of the Element. [NPWC] Elevation A side of a building. Elevation drawing: Drawing which shows a view on a vertical plane. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Elevation: View on a vertical plane. [ISO 10209-1] Emissivity the measure of a surface¹s 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. Encapsulation: A mechanism used to hide the data, internal structure, and implementation details of an object. All interaction with an object is through a public interface of operations. [AUP] Enclosed space: Spaces that has a floor and ceiling and enclosing walls on all sides for the full or partial height. [Adapted from BCIS July 1971] End Dams Internal flashing (dam) that prevents water from moving laterally within a curtain wall or window wall system. End LapThe amount or location of overlap at the end of a roll of roofing felts in the application. Engineer of record: An engineer for a specific project, in good standing with licensing requirements, at the time of the project. [W2] Engineer: A design professional responsible for developing the structural or engineering components or systems of a construction work by preparing detail drawings, specifications and schedules and ensuring actual construction conforms with those aspects of design. [January] Entity: A physical object that can be defined by a set of Attributes. [Woestenenk] Entity: A real being; existence. An organization or being that possesses separate existence for tax purposes. [Black's] Refer also to PARTY. Entity: A unit or 'thing' of interest. [IAI] Environmental Performance: The ability of the whole or parts of a Facility to meet the communal or individual needs of the occupants and conversely, of their impact on them. [Adapted from NCRB] 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. Equipment (Ifc): An apparatus used to perform work, energy conversion or heat transfer. [IAI] Equipment: All machinery, tools, apparatus, and supplies necessary for the upkeep, maintenance, construction, and completion of the Contract. [AASHTO] Errors and omissions insurance:: Insurance that indemnifies the insured for any loss sustained because of an error or oversight on his part. [Black's] Estimate: The anticipated sum for which some future builder – usually unknown – will agree to execute at some future date – often indeterminate – certain works which are frequently only partially defined at the time the estimate is made. [H. Wexler – The Building Economist - Feb 1969] Estimating: A technical function with the aim of predicting the cost of construction. [AIB] Estimator: A person carrying out the estimating function in a building or building related organisation. Such a person may be a specialist or may carry out the estimating function in conjunction with other functions, such as quantity surveying, general management, etc. [AIB] Evacuation drawing: Drawing which shows ways of evacuation and how the fire brigade and other emergency services are called and gain access. [ISO 10209-4] Evaluation: An iterative process that brings together the object to be assessed and a value framework, such that its performance within that framework can be determined. [Rescher 1969] Event: A noteworthy occurrence. [AUP] Excavate Dig the basement and or all areas that will need footings/foundations below ground. Exculpatory clause: Such clause in favour of a trustee in will implies that trustee has power which he purports to execute, and it exculpates him where this power is exercised in good faith. [Black's] 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. In residential construction, a bituminous fiber strip used to separate blocks or units of concrete to prevent cracking due to expansion as a result of temperature changes. Also used on concrete slabs. Experienced: Used to describe the 'installer', 'fabricator', 'manufacturer', or similar terms; a person, firm, or corporation skilled through observation or of participation in the particular



activities required to complete the work or a portion of the work to the degree of the quality specified [synonym = qualified]. Expert witness: A witness who, by virtue of experience, training, skill, or knowledge of a particular field or subject, is recognized as qualified to render an informed opinion on matters relating to that field or subject. [AIA] Express warranty: A warranty made by a manufacturer who offers materials, products, or equipment [goods); the express warranty is created by:any affirmation of fact or promise made by the seller to the buyer that relates to the goods and becomes a part of the basis of the bargain, creates an express warranty that the goods shall conform to the affirmation or promise, any description of the goods that is made a part of the basis of the sale creates an express warranty that the goods shall conform to the description, any sample or model that is made a part of the basis of the sale creates an express warranty that the whole of the goods shall conform to the sample or model. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] Express warranty: Express warranties made by the seller are created as follows:Any affirmation of fact or promise made by the seller to the buyer that relates to the goods and becomes part of the basis of the bargain creates an express warranty that the goods shall conform to the affirmation or promise. Any description of the goods which is made a part of the basis of the bargain creates an express warranty that the goods shall conform to the description Any sample or model which is made a part of the basis of the bargain creates an express warranty that the whole of the goods shall conform to the sample or model. [CSI FF/160WA] Extended Project Description: An expansion of the Integrated Project Description to include the substantive and prescriptive views. [NCRB] Extension: The set of objects to which a concept applies. The objects in the extension are the examples or instances of the concept. [AUP] Extensional definition: Definition based on the exhaustive enumeration of the objects referred to by the concept or the specific concepts at the next level of abstraction. [ISO 1087] Exterior Glazed Glazing infills set from the exterior of the building. Exterior Stop The molding or bead that holds the light or panel in place when it is on the exterior side of the lite or panel. External Wall area: The wall area of all the enclosed spaces fulfilling the functional area requirements of the building measured on the outer of external walls and overall windows and doors, etc.. [BCIS Jul 1971] External Work: Construction Work excluding the main Construction Types. [Suggested improvement] External Works: Construction Works or landscape work on land associated with and adjacent to civil engineering works or buildings. [BS6100] 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.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter F

Fabricator: A person, firm, or corporation who shapes, assembles, or finishes product. [W2] Facade drawing: An elevation drawing. [ISO CD 10209-3] Facade drawing: Elevation drawing which shows the external view of a building. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Façade The front of a building. Frequently, in architectural terms an artificial or decorative effort. Face Brick Brick made especially for exterior use with special consideration of color, texture and size, and used as a facing on a building. Face 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. Facility: A logical view of a material. [ISO WD 10303] Note: For example, a pump facility is identified by a ‘tag’ which remains unchanged when one pump material is removed for maintenance and replaced by another. Facility: A physical structure or installation, including related External Works, serving one or more main purpose. [Adapted from ISO TR 14177]. See also Construction complex. Factory Mutual (FM) Insurance agency that has established stringent guidelines for maximum construction integrity as it relates to fire and environmental hazards. Their specifications have become industry standards. Fascia In residential construction, a flat board, band, or face, used sometimes by itself but usually in combination with moldings, often located at the outer face of the cornice. 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. Fast track: A process in which certain portions of the architect's design services overlap with construction activities in order to expedite the owner's early occupancy of all or a portion of the project. [AIA] Fast track: A process to separate and overlap the bid and contract award of a series of contracts with the construction activities of a project. [W2] Fast track: The process of dividing the design of a project into phases in such a manner as to permit construction to start before design is complete. The overlapping of the construction phase with the design phase. [CMAA] 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. Field order: A written order issued by Engineer which orders minor changes in the Work in accordance with paragraph 9.5 but which does not involve a change in the Contract Price or the Contract Times. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.19] Field services: A consultant's responsibilities to the owner or client for reviewing the progress of the work, assessing the quality of the installed work, and resolving disparities in the contract documents. These duties and responsibilities are defined in an owner/consultant agreement and committed by the owner to the contractor in the construction contract. Sometimes referred to as 'contract administration'. [W2] File drawing: As-built drawing which complies with certain demands for archive durability. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Fillet Bead Caulking or sealant placed in such a manner that it forms an angle between the materials being caulked. Filling up drawing Drawing which specifies the scope and workmanship of filling work. [ISO CD 10209-3] Final certificate: Document that authorizes final payment. [ISO 6707-2, BS 1192, ISO DIS 10209-4]



Final payment: A concluding disbursement of funds on account of the contract price. [W2] Finding of fact: The initiating document providing the justification for issuing a change notice. First step in the contract change process.[anon] 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. Finish In hardware, metal fastenings on cabinets which are usually exposed such as hinges and locks. Finished ground level: The finished level of a site. [NDADP] Fire cell drawing: Drawing which shows the division of a building into fire-cells. [ISO CD 10209-4] Fire RatedDescriptive of materials that has been tested for use in fire walls. Fire Resistive - In the absence of a specific ruling by the authority having jurisdiction, applies to materials for construction not combustible in the temperatures of ordinary fires and that will withstand such fires without serious impairment of their usefulness for at least 1 hour. Fire Retardant Chemical A chemical or preparation of chemicals used to reduce flammability or to retard spread of flame. Fire Stop A solid, tight closure of a concealed space, placed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through such a space. In a frame wall, this will usually consist of 2 by 4 cross blocking between studs. 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. Fire-alarm drawing: Drawing which shows the location of fire-alarm equipment and cable network which is part of a fire-alarm installation, and which specifies the detectors, cables and central unit. [ISO CD 10209-4] Fish Tape (Fish Wire) Material used to advance wire through a conduit. Fishplate A wood or plywood piece used to fasten the ends of two members together at a butt joint with nails or bolts. Sometimes used at the junction of opposite rafters near the ridge line. Fixed price arrangement: means that part of the contract that prescribes a lump sum as payment for performance of the work to which it relates. [DCC and Government of Canada] Fixture (Ifc): Permanently attached appendage, appliance, or device that is connected to a building system (eg plumbing and electrical fixtures). [IAI] Flagstone (Flagging or Flags) Flat stones, from 1 to 4 inches thick, used for rustic walks, steps, floors, and the like. Flake A scale-like particle. To lose bond from a surface in small thin pieces. Sometimes a paint film "flakes". Flash Point The critical temperature at which a material will ignite. Flashing Weatherproof material installed between roof sheathing (or wall sheathing) and the finish materials to help keep moisture away from the sheathing. Typically, sheet metal or a similar material is used in roof and wall construction to protect a building from water seepage. Flat Glass A general term that describes float glass, sheet, glass, plate glass, and rolled glass. Flat Grain Flat-grain lumber has been sawed parallel to the pith of the log and approximately tangent to the growth rings, i.e., the rings form an angle of less than 45° with the surface of the piece. Flat Paint An interior paint that contains a high proportion of pigment and dries to a flat or lusterless finish. Flat Seam A seam at the junction of sheet metal roof components that has been bent at the plane of the roof.



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 area (of a building): The total floor area of the building measured from te outside of the external walls or the centre of a common wall. [NDADP] Floor PlanThe basic layout of building or addition, which includes placement of walls, windows and doors as well as dimensions. Floor Plate See Floor Plan. Flow diagram: Diagram which shows the flow and the order of connection between components being parts of a system with one or more media, and which is either a water-, sewage-, heating-, air-conditioning or refrigeration system. [ISO CD 10209-4] Flue Lining Fire clay or terra-cotta pipe, round or square, usually made in all ordinary flue sizes and in 2-foot lengths, used for the inner lining of chimneys with the brick or masonry work around the outside. Flue lining in chimneys runs from about a foot below the flue connection to the top of the chimney. Flue The space or passage in a chimney through which smoke, gas, or fumes ascend. Each passage is called a flue, which together with any others and the surrounding masonry make up the chimney. Flush Glazing (Pocket Glazing) The setting of a light 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. Fly Rafters End rafters of the gable overhang supported by roof sheathing and lookouts. Folded Seam In sheet metal work, a joint between sheets of metal wherein the edges of the sheets are crimped together and folded flat. Foot Print Area of a building at ground level not including floor area below or above grade. See Floor Plan. Footing beam: A beam spanning between piles, pile caps, pads or other beams and acting a s a footing. [CCS] 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. For construction drawing: Drawing issued for actual construction use as opposed to one issued for approval, guidance, coordination, costing or for information only. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Force account: A basis of payment for the directed performance of highway construction work with payment based on the actual cost of labour, equipment, and materials furnished and consideration for overhead and profit. [AASHTO] Force account: Work accomplished outside of the contract arrangement and reimbursed on a basis of cost of labour, materials and equipment plus an agreed percentage for overhead and profit. [CMAA] Form of Construction: The method of carrying out a Production Activity using identified products. [January] Formwork drawing: Drawing which specifies in detail the execution of moulds. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Foundation The supporting portion of a structure below the first floor construction, or below grade, including the footings. Framework: A set of collaborating abstract and concrete classes that may be used as a template to solve a related family of problems. It is usually extended via subclassing for application-specific behaviour. [AUP] Frieze In house construction a horizontal member connecting the top of the siding with the soffit of the cornice. Front end documents: An industry slang term sometimes used to identify those documents and specification sections that comprise the bidding documents, the legal documents, and the



specification sections of Division 1. Refer also to BOILERPLATE. [W2] Frontage: A boundary of a lot which abuts a road. [NDADP] Frostline The depth of frost penetration in soil. This depth varies in different parts of the country. Footings should be placed below this depth to prevent movement. Full warranty: is full performance generally covering both labour and materials. Under a full warranty, the warrantor must remedy the product within a reasonable time and without charge after notice of a defect or malfunction. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] The words 'after notice of a defect or malfunction' are key words as they do not define a time for 'when' the notice may be served - forever - or when the statute of limitations applies? 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. Functional Cost Analysis: The allocation of individual Element costs to each Functional Area within a Building. [NPWC] Functional decomposition: The process of refining a problem solution by repeatedly decomposing a problem into smaller and smaller functional steps. [AUP] Functional Performance: The ability of the whole, or any parts of a Facility, to meet the needs of the organization(s) being accommodated, and of the impact of the organizations activities on the accommodation. Issues range from corporate image of the overall Facility to the impact that the size and relationships of the activity areas have on the efficiency of its operations. [NCRB adapted) Functional Unit Cost: The cost per Functional Unit normally obtained by dividing the number of such units into the Building Cost or the Net Project Cost. [NPWC] Functional unit: The functional unit shall be expressed as net usable floor area (offices, factories, public houses, etc.) or as a number units of accommodation (seats in churches, school places, persons per dwelling, etc.). [BCIS Jul 1971] Functional Unit: The unit of performance or occupancy for which a Building or section of a Building is functionally designed. [NPWC] Fungi (wood) Microscopic plants that live in damp wood and cause mold, stain, and decay. Fungicide A chemical that is poisonous to fungi. 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. Furnish: A verb sometimes used to mean 'supply'; a term that should be discouraged from use as its root word has other implied meanings (food or provisions, furniture); the root word for the title of Division 12. [W2] Furnish: To supply and deliver to project site, ready for installation. [CSI FF/170SL] Same as SUPPLY. Furnishing plan: Drawing which specifies the scope and location of furniture and equipment. [ISO CD 10209-4] Furniture (Ifc): A piece of equipment for occupants use, not usually fixed to the building. [IAI] Furring Strips of wood or metal applied to a wall or other surface to even it and normally to serve as a fastening base for finish material.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter G

Gable End An end wall having a gable. 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. In house construction, the portion of the roof above the eave line of a double-sloped roof. Galvanize To coat a metal with zinc by dipping it in molten zinc after cleaning. Gambrel Roof A type of roof which has its slope broken by an obtuse angle, so that the lower slope is steeper than the upper slope. A double sloped roof having two pitches. Gang Cost: A grouping of labour cost to include principal and supporting labour associated with a particular trade. [AIB] 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 Board (Spot Board) Board used to carry grout needed to patch small jobs. Gauge The thickness of sheet metal and wire, etc. General arrangement drawing: Assembly drawing showing the layout of construction works, including location, references and sizes. [ISO 10209-1/4] General assembly drawing: Assembly drawing showing all groups and parts of a complete product. [ISO 10209-1/4] General conditions: (of the Contract for Construction) That part of the Contract Documents which sets forth many of the rights, responsibilities and relationships of the parties, particularly those provisions which are common to many construction projects. [AIA Glossary] General conditions: A document that contains the articles of a contractual relationship that exists between the general contractor and the building owner, setting out their rights, responsibilities, and contractual relationships. [W2] General conditions: are standardized contractual provisions describing the rights, responsibilities, and relationships of the Owner and Contractor under the construction Contract which, in turn, interrelate with the rights and responsibilities of the Consultant. [CCDC 20 - 1994] General conditions: Defines the relationships, rights and responsibilities of the parties signing the Agreement and establish how the project is to be administered. General Conditions are usually a standard pre-printed published document prepared by the Canadian Construction Documents Committee [CCDC]. - However, many large corporations and government agencies insist that consultants incorporate the corporation's or agency’s own General Conditions for the basis of contract. [CSC HSC Level 1 Part 2] General Contractor (or Prime Contractor) A contractor responsible for all facets of construction of a building or renovation. General notes: Information placed on a drawing which relates to general material specification for grades, sizes, inspection, testing, etc. This information may be placed on one drawing and is common to all drawings within the project for that discipline. [Syan] General requirements: Sections of Division 1 of the specifications. [EJCDC 1910-8] General specification: Document that provides a general description of materials to be provided and works to be performed. [ISO DIS 10209-4] General specification: Document that reports materials and works of a project in a general way. [ISO CD 10209-3, BS 1192] Generic Concept: Superordinate concept in a generic relation. [ISO 1087] Generic Relation: Hierarchical relation that is based on the partial identity of the intensions of generic, specific and coordinate concepts. [ISO 1087] 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 used to support concentrated loads at isolated points along its length, 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. Gloss (paint or enamel) A paint or enamel that contains a relatively low proportion of pigment and dries to a sheen or luster. Gloss Enamel A finishing material made of varnish and sufficient pigments to provide opacity and color, but little or no pigment of low opacity. Such an enamel forms a hard coating with maximum smoothness of surface and a high degree of gloss Goods: (used in procurement specifications) designate the materials or equipment to be procured. This term is also used in the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) which governs most procurement contracts, so terminology is consistent between the specifications and applicable law. [CSI SP/080PR] 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. Grain The direction, size, arrangement, appearance, or quality of the fibers in wood. Granules The mineral particles of a graded size which are embedded in the asphalt coating of shingles and roofing. Graph: Drawing which expresses the relationship between two or more variable quantities, and which is usually arranged within a coordinate system (synonym = chart). [ISO 10209-1] Gravel Loose fragments of rock used for surfacing built-up roofs, in sizes varying from 1/8" to 1 3/4". Gross Floor Area (GFA): The sum of all covered accessible floor levels whether fully enclosed or partly enclosed, both above and below ground (except unexcavated portions), including floored roof spaces, circulation space, equipment rooms, lift shafts, vertical ducts, staircases and other useable areas. GFA is measured from the normal inside face of the enclosing or limiting structure, ignoring projections such as plinths, columns and piers. It excludes open (unroofed) courts and light wells and net open areas of upper portions of rooms, atriums, lobbies, halls and interstitial spaces, etc. which extend through the storey being measured. GFA = FECA + UCA. [Adapted from NPWC] Gross Floor Area: Total of all enclosed spaces fulfilling the functional requirements of the building measured to the internal structural face of the enclosing walls. Includes areas occupied by partitions, columns, chimney breasts, internal structural or party walls, stairwells, lift wells, and the like. Includes lift, plant, tank rooms and the like above the main roof slab. Sloping surfaces such as staircases, galleries, tiered terraces and the like should be measured flat on plan. Excludes any spaces fulfilling the functional requirements of the building which are not enclosed spaces (eg open ground floors, open covered ways and the like). Excludes private balconies and private verandahs. [BCIS Jul 1971] Gross Project Cost: The Project Cost plus loose furniture, loose equipment and all costs in connection with design, documentation and supervision. [NPWC] Ground floor: The floor which is nearest the level of the outside ground. [BCIS July 1971} Ground level (finished): The finished level of a site. [NDADP] Ground level (natural): The natural level of a site. [NDADP]



Ground planning drawing: Earthwork drawing that specifies scope and performance of top layer and covering on footpaths, roadways, planting areas, etc. [ISO CD 10209-4] 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. Grounds Guides used around openings and at the floorline to strike off plaster. They can consist of narrow strips of wood or of wide sub-jambs at interior doorways. They provide a level plaster line for installation of casing and other trim. Group Element: (UniFormat) - See Element. Grout or Grouting A cement mortar mixture made of such consistency (by adding water) that it will just flow into joints and cavities of masonry work to fill them solid. Guarantee: One to whom a guaranty is made. This word is also used as a noun to denote the contract of guaranty or the obligation of a guarantor; as a verb it denotes the action of assuming the responsibilities of a guarantor. [W2] Guarantee: One to whom a guaranty is made; (a person or party). This word is also used as a noun to denote the contract of guaranty or the obligation of a guarantor; as a verb it denotes the action of assuming the responsibilities of a guarantor. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] Guaranteed maximum price: A contractual form of the construction management system that establishes a maximum price for the cost of the work with the construction management assuming all obligations and contracts for performing the work. [CMAA] Guarantor: The person who makes a guaranty. One who becomes secondarily liable for another's debt or performance in contrast to a strict surety who is primarily liable with the principal debtor. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] Guaranty and warranty: .. are derived from the same root and are in fact etymologically the same word; the "g" of Norman French being interchangeable with the English "w." [Black's] Guaranty: To undertake collaterally to answer for the payment of another's debt or the performance of another's duty, liability, or obligation; to assume the responsibility of a guarantor; to warrant. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] Guaranty: To undertake collaterally to answer for the payment of another's debt or the performance of another's duty, liability, or obligation; to assume the responsibility of a guarantor; to warrant. [W2] 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. Gusset A flat wood, plywood, or similar type member used to provide a connection at intersection of wood members. Most commonly used at joints of wood trusses. They are fastened by nails, screws, bolts, or adhesives. Gutter Metal or wood 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 Board 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. Gypsum Plaster Gypsum formulated to be used with the addition of sand and water for base-coat plaster.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter H

Habitable room: Any room used for normal domestic activities other than a bathroom, toilet, pantry, walk-in wardrobe, corridor, lobby, photographic dark room, clothes drying room, and other spaces of a specialised nature occupied neither frequently not for extended periods. [NDADP] 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. Hazardous substances: Any product or substance that is toxic or hazardous to human health or the environment. [W2] Hazardous waste: Waste with high levels of contamination that needs treatment to render it safe before disposal. Hazardous waste includes:waste classified as dangerous goods (explosives, gases, flammable solids, substances liable to spontaneous combustion, substances that in contact with water emit flammable gases, oxidising agents and organic peroxides, poisonous (toxic) substances, and corrosive substances) poisons Special clinical waste (infectious waste, bulk blood, cytotoxic waste, laboratory chemicals, recognisable body parts and sharps) Scheduled radioactive substances Declared chemical waste Quarantine waste Head Office Overheads: The cost of administering a company and providing off-site services. [AIB] Header Framing members over windows, doors, or other openings. (a) A beam placed perpendicular to joists and to which joists are nailed in framing for chimney, stairway, or other opening. (b) A wood lintel. Hearth The inner or outer floor of a fireplace, usually made of brick, tile, or stone. Heartwood The wood extending from the pith to the sapwood, the cells of which no longer participate in the life processes of the tree. 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. Heating, ventilation and airconditioning (HVAC) drawing: Drawing which shows systems of cooling and heating pump, heating, air conditioning, etc. and which are normally drawn by a designer of such installations. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Heel Bead Sealant applied at the base of a channel, after setting the light 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. Hierarchical Relation: Relation between concepts that is established by division of a superordinate concept into subordinate concepts forming one or more levels, or by the reverse process. [based on ISO 1087] High Early Cement A portland cement sold as Type III sets up to its full strength faster than other types. Hip Rafter A rafter that forms the intersection of an external roof angle. Hip Roof A roof that rises by inclined planes from all four sides of a building. Hip The external angle formed by the meeting of two sloping sides of a roof. Hoist way A shaftway for the travel of one or more elevators. Hold harmless: A clause of indemnification by which an insurance carrier agrees to assume his client's contractual obligation and to assume responsibility in certain situations which otherwise might be the obligation of the other party to the contract. [Means] Hold harmless: A contractual agreement whereby one party assumes the liability inherent in a



situation, thereby relieving the other party of responsibility. (Usually used in bid or performance bond or insurance contract wording.) [Black's] Holdback: (for contract purposes) The retention of a sum of contract monies as made obligatory (by an owner) in a contract to fulfill a contractual obligation or to complete a deficiency. [W2] Sometimes referred to as 'retainage' or 'clawback'. Holdback: (for lien purposes) The retention of certain contract monies for lien statute purposes; the formula for the holdback amount varies from province to province. [W2] Hole: A void formed by cutting through work already constructed. [CBI] 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. Hours of work: The working hours of persons employed in the execution of the contract shall not exceed 8 hours per day or 48 hours in a week except where longer daily or weekly hours are authorized by the Minister in cases of exceptional circumstances. [DCC and Government of Canada] 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. Human Agent: A person, group of people or organization assuming a particular role in a Process. [ISO TR 14177] Human Effort: The application of appropriate skills and techniques by Human Agents. [ISO TR Humidifier A device designed to increase the humidity within a room or a house by means of the discharge of water vapor. They may consist of individual room size units or larger units attached to the heating plant to condition the entire house. 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.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter I

IIC A new system utilized in the Federal Housing Administration recommended criteria for impact sound insulation. Implied warranty: a promise arising by operation of the law, that something which is sold shall be merchantable and fit for the purpose for which the seller has reason to know that it is required. [CSI FF/160WA] Implied warranty: is a promise arising by operation of the law, that something which is sold shall be merchantable and fit for the purpose for which the seller has reason to know that it is required. An IMPLIED WARRANTY is supported in Canadian law by 'The Sale of Goods Act', a federal statute that governs conduct in trade and commerce during and after the sale. Some provinces also have a complementary 'sale of goods act' or statute. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] Incentive/disincentive provisions: An adjustment to the Contract price of a predetermined amount for each day the work is completed ahead of or behind the specified milestone, phase or Contract completion dates. [AASHTO] Inception Process: The Activities entailed by the translation of user requirements into a brief detailing a desired Facility. [ISO TR 14177] 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. Indemnification: A contractual obligation by which one person or entity agrees to reimburse others for loss or damage arising from specified liabilities. [AIA] Indemnify: To restore in whole or in part the victim of a loss by payment, repair, or replacement. [CSI SP/030CI] Indemnify: To restore the victim of a loss, in whole or in part, by payment, repair, or replacement. [Black's] Indemnity agreement: This is the agreement between the principal (contractor) and the surety. The principal guarantees the surety that the surety itself will incur no loss by reason of providing the bond. [W2] Individual Element (UniFormat): See Subelement. Industrial waste: Waste that may contain four times the level of contaminants found in solid waste and that needs to be managed with more stringent environmental controls than solid waste. Industrial waste includes stabilized asbestos, asbestos fibre and dust waste, general clinical waste, mildly radioactive waste (more than 100 becquerels per gram but not enough to be 'scheduled'). Industry standards: An agreement within a specific private sector industry on material or product usage, details as to use, recommendations as to application. [W2] Inert waste: Waste unlikely to undergo significant transformations and, therefore, should not release significant quantities of greenhouse gases or leachates contaminated with nutrients and/or chemicals. 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: Information: Facts that are communicated. [ISO 5127/1] Information: Knowledge recorded by and/or communicated between Human Agents. [Adapted from ISO TR 14177] Information: Message used to represent a factor or a concept within a communication process in order to increase knowledge. [ISO 5127/1] Inheritance: A feature of object-oriented programming languages by which classes may be specialized from more general superclasses. Attributes and method definitions from superclasses are automatically acquired by the subclass. [AUP] INR (Impact Noise Rating). A single figure rating which provides an estimate of the impact sound insulating performance of a floor-ceiling assembly. 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.



Inspect: To examine carefully and critically. [W2] Inspect: To look carefully into or to view closely and critically ... - [Oxford Short] Inspector: The Engineer's authorized representative assigned to make inspections of Contract performance. [AASHTO] Install: means to remove from site storage, move to intended location, install in position, connect to utilities, repair site caused damage or replace, and make ready for use. [W2] Installation diagram: Diagram showing the location of components of an electrical installation and the connections between them. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Installation drawing: Drawing showing the general configuration of an item and gives the necessary information to install the item relative to it's mating structures and associated items. [ISO 10209-1] Installer: A person, firm, or corporation who unloads, unpacks, assembles, erects, applies, places, finishes, cures, protects, adjusts, and cleans products. [W2] Instance method: A method whose scope is an instance. Invoked by sending a message to an instance. [AUP] Instance variable: As used in Java or Smalltalk, an attribute of an instance. [AUP] Instance: An individual member of a type or class. [AUP] Instance: An occurrence of a class (see also 'object'). [IAI] Instantiation: The creation of an instance of a type or class. [AUP] Instructions to bidders: Instructions contained in the Bid Documents to convey to bidders, the owner's expectations and criteria associated with submitting a bid. [W2] Insulating Glass Unit Two or more lights of glass spaced apart and hermetically sealed to form a single-glazed unit with an air space between each light. (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 Board A rigid structural building board made of coarse wood or cane fiber in ‡- and 25/32-inch thickness It can be obtained in various size sheets, in various densities, and with several treatments. Insulation Fasteners Any of several specialized mechanical fasteners designed to hold insulation down to a steel or a nailable deck. Insurance types: Insurance types common to construction are:

o All-Risks insurance (a relatively all-inclusive type of policy - not identifying specific perils], o Comprehensive General Liability insurance, o Deductible - All-Risks Course of Construction insurance, o Deductible Comprehensive General Liability insurance, o Automobile Liability Insurance, o Aircraft and Watercraft Liability Insurance, o Boiler and Machinery Insurance, o Contractor's Equipment Insurance. [W2]

Insurance: A contract whereby, for a stipulated consideration, one party undertakes to compensate the other for loss on a specified subject of specified perils. [Black's] Integer: A value which has a whole number component only eg 1,2 22, 6348 etc. [IAI] Integrated Project Description: A simple, computer based data structure that describes the Project (architectural, engineering, cost ....) over its entire life cycle. [NCRB] Integrated Project Description: A single description of a Project running through all Phases from Inception to Demolition with the capacity for each decision-maker to draw from and contribute to over the life of the Project. Comprising a Substantive Project Description and a Perceived Project Description. [Adapted from NCRB] Intension: Set of characteristics that constitutes a concept. [ISO 1087] Intension: The definition of a concept. [AUP] Intentional Definition: Definition based on the intension of a concept. [ISO 1087] Interconnection diagram: Diagram showing the electrical or communications connections



among different constructional elements. [ISO CD 10209-4] Interface drawing: Drawing giving information for the assembly and matching of two parts, concerning, for example, their dimensions, configuration limitations, performance or test requirements. [ISO 10209-1] Interface: A method of obtaining access to a class or an object functions. [IAI] Interface: A set of signatures of public operations. [AUP] Interim certificate: Document that authorises payment to be made for work carried out or materials supplied, up to a given date. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Interior decoration drawing: Drawing which shows furnishing plans, assembly, component range and details for loose and fixed fittings and which is normally drawn by an interior designer. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Interior Finish Material used to cover the interior framed areas, or materials of walls and ceilings Interior Glazed Glazing infills set from the interior of the building. Interlayer In glazing, any material used to bond two lights of glass and/or plastic together to form a laminate. Internal Cube: The Gross Internal Floor Area including all Enclosed Spaces fulfilling the requirements of the Building of each floor multiplied by its Storey Height. [adapted from RICS] Internal divisions area: The area occupied by partitions, columns, chimney breasts, internal structural or party walls. [BCIS Jul 1971] Interply Between two layers of roofing felts that have been laminated together. Invitation to bid: A special document intended to solicit bidders' interest. [W2] Invitation to tender: Invitation to selected firms to submit tenders, or announcement that tenderers are invited to carry out certain work. [BS 1192, ISO DIS 10209-4] 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. Item list: Drawing which completely list the items constituting and assembly (or a sub-assembly), or of detailed parts, according to agreed rules, eg requirements of ISO 7573-1983. [ISO 7573] Itemized price: Price included in the Base Bid Price for information (accounting) purposes. [CCDC Bulletin #9]



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter L

Labour and materials payment bond: Constitutes a guarantee to the owner that subcontractors, material suppliers, and others providing labour, material goods, and services to the project will be paid. This promise is beneficial to the owner because it is much less likely that an unpaid party on a project will file a lien against the property if the bond remedy is available. It is important to note that a payment bond either:provides for payment only to parties employed by or in direct contractual relationship with the contractor, or may generally provide for payment to all parties in the employ of the contractor, subcontractors, suppliers, manufacturers, and their employees. [W2] Labour Only Subcontractors: Subcontractors whose services are limited to the provision of labour. [AIB] Labour: See Human Effort. Labour: The workers directly employed by the builder. [AIB] Ladder, Fixed A ladder which is permanently attached to a building. Laminated Glass Two or more lights of glass permanently bonded together with one or more inter-layers. Laminated glass: Two or more layers of glass separated by a thin layer of flexible clear plastic which holds the glass in place when it breaks, reducing the risk of injury from flying glass. Laminated annealed glass does not have the impact resistance of tempered glass, so will crack under impact. However it is possible to laminate tempered glass offering the benefits of both types of glass. Laminated safety glass: Two or more layers of tempered glass separated by a thin layer of flexible clear plastic which holds the glass in place when it breaks, reducing the risk of injury from flying glass. Landing A platform between flights of stairs or at the termination of a flight of stairs. Landscape drawing: Drawing which shows the composition and processing of the ground for roads, planted areas, external installations, etc. [ISO 11091, ISO DIS 10209-4] Lap To extend one material partially over another; the distance so extended. Latent conditions: Latent conditions are:physical conditions on the Site or its surroundings, including artificial things but excluding weather conditions at the Site, which differ substantially from those which should have been anticipated at the time of tender if a reasonably competent Contractor had:

o examined all information made available in writing by the Principal to the Contractor for the purpose of tendering; and

o examined all information relevant to the risks, contingencies, and other circumstances having an effect on the tender and obtainable by the making of reasonable enquiries; and

o inspected the Site and its surroundings; and o any conditions which the Contract specifies to be Latent Conditions. [Guidelines for the

Provision of Geotechnical Information in Construction Contracts - The Institution of Engineers, Australia 1987]

Lath A building material of wood, metal, gypsum, or insulating board that is fastened to the frame of a building to act as a plaster base. Lattice A framework of crossed wood or metal strips. Layer: An organisational attribute of entities in a CAD data file used to separate data in order to manage and communicate that data and to control visibility on the computer screen and on plotted drawings. [ISO CD 13567-1] Layout drawing: Drawing showing the location of sites, structure, buildings, spaces, elements, assemblies or components (synonym = location drawing). [ISO 10209-1] Layout plan: Plan that shows the use of a site plan or area. [ISO CD 10209-3] Lead A malleable metal once extensively used for flashings.



Leader See Downspout. 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. Ledger Strip A strip of lumber nailed along the bottom of the side of a girder on which joists rest. Let-in Brace Nominal 1 inch-thick boards applied into notched studs diagonally. 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. Levelling drawing: Drawing which records the level of points that have been levelled. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Library: A collection of objects which is created to assist in the selection of a product, erudition, regulation, etc., applicable for a purpose. [ISO 10303-221] Lien: A charge or security or encumbrance upon property. [Black's] Lien: The legal right of a party, such as a subcontractor or a worker or a supplier, to place an encumbrance on the title of a property; that encumbrance will prevent sale or transfer of title without court approval. This obstacle to free title can be used by a court to control the property title or threaten to have it sold for payment of a valid lien claim. [W2] Life cycle cost: include all costs incident to the planning, design, construction, operation, maintenance and demolition of a facility, all in terms of present value. [CMAA] Life Cycle Cost: The total cost of an item throughout its life from Inception to Demolition. [Adapted from NCRB] Life Cycle Costing: Each project must be treated on it's merits. The architect is clearly more aware of the wide range of client's requirements than the quantity surveyor. He is more conscious of the functioning of the building throughout its life, while the quantity surveyor has traditionally confined his interest to problems connected with the contract sum. The architect is conscious of the fact that, but perhaps not of the details of how, design decisions affect the running, operating and maintenance costs of building.For example, in considering a heating system, the capital cost of a simply installed electrical system may be very much lower than the provision of gas equipment, or an elaborate oil or solid fuel burning system, but its running costs may be so great that the initial economy achieved by reduced capital expenditure is eaten up in as few as five years or so, and the running costs thereafter could be crippling. On the other hand, the flexibility of use, obtained by local control of a gas appliance, may swing the balance in favour of gas against the cheaper general running costs of the other fuels and justify its selection on an overall assessment. Again, clients may take the view that running costs are free of tax whereas capital costs are not.This kind of consideration may be very similar to that involved in allocating the costs and deciding on the materials and equipment used in a building. By insulating the whole fabric of the building to a high standard of thermal efficiency, at a higher cost, money can be saved on the heating installation. Again, a high thermal improvement, at a low cost, to individual parts of a building, such as the roof or wall fabric, may produce the same or a better result.The first essential is to define closely the client's problem and then, and only then , attempt to provide the answers. In this way there can clearly be no preconceived ideas of the solution either technically or in terms of architectural style.Thus whilst the co-ordination of all these economic, technical and often conflicting requirements will not produce of themselves good architecture, it is hoped that the point is proved that this will never result from the purely "intuitive" meanderings of a skilful pencil.Since the former activity requires the active participation of the client, quantity surveyor and maybe other members of the building team, the time spent examining this part of the problem will have been justified. [R. Baden Hellard, ARIBA c.1960] Light Space in a window sash for a single pane of glass. Also, a pane of glass. Lighting drawing: Drawing which specifies the type and location of lighting, lighting equipment and lighting system circuitry. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Limited warranty: is a written warranty that fails to meet one or more of the minimum standards for a 'full' warranty. It is a warranty limited to labour or to materials or both for a specified time. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] Limits of construction: An area with established boundaries, identified within the highway right-of-way or construction easements, where the construction is permitted. ... may also be referred to



as the 'roadway'. [AASHTO] Lintel A horizontal structural member that supports the load over an opening such as a door or window. Liquated 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. 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 sum established in a Construction Contract, usually as a fixed sum per day, as the predetermined measure of damages to be paid to the Owner due to the Contractor's failure to complete the Work within a stipulated time; not enforceable as a penalty. Compare (AIA) BONUS CLAUSE; (AIA) PENALTY CLAUSE. [AIA Glossary] Liquidated damages: is the sum which a party to contract agrees to pay if he breaks some promise and, which having been arrived at by good faith effort to estimate actual damage that will probably ensue from breach, is recoverable as agreed damages if breach occurs. Damages for breach by either party may be liquidated in the agreement but only at an amount which is reasonable in the light of the anticipated or actual harm caused by the breach, the difficulties of proof of loss, and the inconvenience of non-feasibility of otherwise obtaining an adequate remedy. A term fixing unreasonably large liquidated damages is void as a penalty. [Black's] Liquidated damages: the parties to a contract are entitled to provide for a pre-estimate of the damages which are likely to arise in certain circumstances, and to agree on the payment of liquidated damages in such an eventuality. A liquidated damages clause, in order to be sustainable, must provide for payments which bear some relation to reality and are a genuine attempt to make a pre-estimate of the damages which are likely to occur. [Goldsmith] List of defects: A defect: a shortcoming, a fault, a flaw, an imperfection. [Oxford Short] List of defects: A listing of those portions of the work that were not constructed correctly or are defective. [W2] List of deficiencies: A deficiency: the quality or state of being deficient, failure, lack, insufficiency. [Oxford Short] List of deficiencies: A listing of those portions of the work that were contracted for, but are missing. [W2] List: A collection of entities in which no duplication is allowed and in which order is significant. [IAI] Lite Another term for a pane of glass. Also spelled "light" in industry literature. 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. Locality Index: A measure of the variation in cost from any index base for transporting and obtaining labour, material and equipment outside the location of the base. It excludes all design changes and site and climatic factors. [NPWC] Location drawing: Drawing showing the location of sites, structures, buildings, spaces, elements, assemblies or components, eg for prefabricated structures (ref ISO 4172-1991). (Synonym = layout drawing). [ISO 10209-1/4] Longitudinal section: Section in which the cutting plane is situated in the longitudinal direction of the object. [ISO CD 10209-3] Lookout A short wood bracket or cantilever to support an overhang portion of a roof or the like, usually concealed from view Loose Laid In roofing, a membrane "laid loosely", i.e., not adhered, over a roof deck or Burm. Lot A parcel of ground with boundaries determined by the county. Lot: See Allotment. Louver An opening with a series of horizontal slats so an ranged as to permit ventilation but to exclude rain, sun. light, or vision. See also Attic ventilators. Lumber The product of the sawmill and planing mill not further manufactured other than by sawing, resawing, and passing lengthwise through a standard planing machine, crosscutting to length, and matching.



Lump Sum Contract: A contract where the contractor has undertaken to be responsible for executing the whole of the contract work for a stated total sum which may be fixed or subject to rise and fall. [AIB]



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter M

Macroelement (CRB): See Shell Elements. Mains chart: Drawing which shows the main pipes in a pipe system for water, sewage and heating. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Maintainability: A characteristic of design and installation, expressed as the probability that an item will be retained in or restored to a specified condition within a given period of time, provided that the maintenance is performed in accordance with prescribed procedures and Resources. [NCRB] Maintenance manual: Document that contains advice on care and servicing requirements of a construction works. [ISO 6707-2, BS 1192, ISO DIS 10209-4] Maintenance plan: Plan which specifies the times for maintenance measures for a building, an installation or a plant. [ISO CD 10209-3] Maintenance Process: The Activities undertaken to keep a Facility in the same condition as at the end of the Creation Process. [Adapted from ISO TR 14177] See also Corrective Maintenance, Deferred Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Programmed Maintenance and Statutory Maintenance. Maintenance: Process undertaken to keep the construction works in the same condition as at the end of the Creation Process or to restore it to that condition. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N75] See also Maintenance Process. Major and minor contract items: Any item having an original value in excess of .... percent (10 suggested) of the original Contract amount shall be considered as a major item or items. All other original Contract items are considered as minor. [AASHTO] Major Element Group: (UniFormat) See Element Group. Make good: To restore new or existing work after being damaged; by cutting, patching, or repairing with materials identical to the original materials; with visible surfaces matching the appearance of the original surfaces in all its detail; with no apparent junctions between new and original materials. [Chris Johnson] Management process: Construction process with the purpose of planning, administrating or assessing. [ISO/DIS 12006-2] Manpower: See Human Effort. Mansard Roof A roof which rises by inclined planes from all four sides of a building. The sloping roofs on all four sides have two pitches, the lower pitch usually very steep and the upper pitch less steep. Mantel The shelf above a fireplace. Also used in referring to the decorative trim around a fireplace opening. Manufacturer: A person, firm, or corporation who produces products off-site. [W2] Manufacturer's certification: An affidavit from a manufacturer purporting that a product is of a certain quality. [W2] Manufacturer's warranty: A warranty for a stated time period, offered by a manufacturer as applicable to that manufacturer's product and its performance or durability. [W2] Many of these warranties are actually little more than disclaimers of responsibility. [CSC Semester Level 3 Session 4] Manufacturing drawing: Drawing which provides all necessary information for production. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Mark Up: The sum added to an estimate or a rate in respect of head office overheads and profit. [AIB] Masonry drawing: Drawing which shows a view, cut or section through a construction of bricks, stones, or blocks. [ISO CD 10209-4] Masonry Stone, brick, concrete, hollow-tile, concrete block, gypsum block, or other similar building units or materials or a combination of the same, bonded together with mortar to form a wall, pier, buttress, or similar mass Mason's Hammer (or Bricklayer's Hammer) Tool shaped like a chisel to trim brick or stone. Massing: The exterior shape of a building. A volumetric view of the building. [Ifc ver. 2.0] Master guide specification: are manuscripts which are prepared for editing and incorporation



into the contract documents of a specific construction project ... [CSI SP/040GS] A term adopted by the CSI Manual of Practice which includes the many differing forms of guide, model, or master specifications used to create a project specification. Master schedule: An executive summary-level schedule highlighting the major components of a project. The schedule can be in the form of a network or milestone chart. [CMAA] Master specifications: Documents used as guides for preparing project specifications. [CSI SP/040GS] Master specifications: Model or form documents used exclusively within a specifier's working environment, to prepare project specifications; sentence text contains options and variables that require selection. [W2] Mastic Heavy-consistency compound that may remain adhesive and pliable with age. Is typically a waterproof compound applied to exterior walls and roof surfaces. Match existing: Provide new materials to match the existing in place material in all aspects as closely as possible. Existing materials are those which are visible in whole or in part in the facility. [Haney] Match original: Provide new materials to match the original material in all aspects as closely as possible. Original materials are those which were originally installed in the facility at the time of its completion, prior to previous alterations, and which may predate existing materials. [Haney] Matched Lumber Lumber that is dressed and shaped on one edge in a grooved pattern and on the other in a tongued pattern. Material: A physical object. [ISO WD 10303] Note 1: A material may be installed to act as a facility. Note 2: Within a process plant, a pump material is installed to act as a pump facility. Material: A primary substance or by-product (eg. sand or slag) used to create a larger entity. Materials are often referred to in specifications as products; refer also to PRODUCT and CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT. [W2] Material: includes all commodities, articles, and things required to be furnished by or for the Contractor under the contract for incorporation into the work. [DCC and Government of Canada] Material: Substance that can be used to form Products. [Adapted from BS6100] Materials: Any substances specified for incorporation in the completed project. [AASHTO] 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. Measuring-in drawing: Drawing which specifies positions of identified points in plan and level. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Mediation: A method of trying to resolve a dispute by the use of an impartial intermediary to suggest ways to settle the dispute, rather than imposing a decision upon the parties. [Means] Mediation: A process in which a neutral third person assists the parties involved in a dispute to negotiate their own settlement. [W2] Medium: Material on which information is recorded, eg paper, microfilm, magnetic or optical disc. [ISO DIS 10209/4] 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 angle: Metal sections shaped like the letter L made up with legs of equal or unequal length. Structural angles are used in arch bars and built-up work. [CCS] Metal Edge Brake metal or metal extrusions which are secured at the perimeter of the roof to form a weather-tight seal. Metal Lath Sheets of metal that are slit and drawn out to form openings. Used as a plaster base for walls and ceilings and as reinforcing over other forms of plaster base. Method Description: Description of how an Activity is to be executed in order to achieve a certain type result with chosen construction or facilities management, operation and maintenance method. [SBC] Method of Construction Statement: A statement of the construction methods and resources to be employed in executing construction work. This statement is normally closely linked to the tender construction programme. [AIB]



Method of Construction: Way of carrying out a Production Activity according to a Method Description with consumption of resources according to a Method Recipe with the purpose to achieve a Production Result. [SBC] Method: In the UML the specific implementation or algorithm of an operation for a class. Informally, the software procedure that can be executed in response to a message . [AUP] 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). Milestone schedule: A schedule representing important events along the path to project completion. All milestones may not be equally significant. The most significant are termed 'major milestones' and usually represent the completion of a group of activities. [CMAA] Millwork Generally all building materials made of finished wood and manufactured in millwork plants and planing mills are included under the term "millwork." It includes such items as inside and outside doors, window and doorframes, blinds, porchwork, mantels, panelwork, stairways, moldings, and interior trim. It normally does not include flooring, ceiling, or siding. Mineral Spirits A by-product of petroleum, clear in color, a solvent for asphalt coatings. Minister: means the Canada Minister of Labour. [DCC and Government of Canada] Minor deterioration: Deterioration of the whole or part of an element to the point where it feels soft but is not punctured under light pressure from a screwdriver, and voids do not exist. [Haney] Miter Joint The joint of two pieces at an angle that bisects the joining angle. For example, the miter joint at the side and head casing at a door opening is made at a 45° angle. Mobilization: To establish and commence work activity at the project site. [W2] Mock-Up Testing Controlled air, water and structural performance testing of existing or new glazing systems. Model: A description of static and/or dynamic characteristics of a subject area, portrayed through a number of views (usually diagrammatic or textual). [AUP] Model: A formal statement of classes, properties and behaviours which can be used to inform software implementation and set out requirements for structuring of information exchange and sharing. [IAI] Moderate deterioration: Deterioration of the whole or part of an element to include voids and where the element is punctured under moderate pressure from a screwdriver, but where the structural integrity of the element or the assembly in which the element is located is not jeopardized. [Haney] Modification Process: The Activities undertaken to make fundamental changes to a Facility. EXAMPLES: structural alteration, extension, partial demolition. [ISO TR 14427] Modification: A written amendment to the Contract, signed by both parties, and issued by the Architect. [AIA A201] In summary, they comprise Change Orders, Construction Change Directive, or a written order for minor changes in the Work. Modification: Process undertaken to make fundamental changes to the construction works. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N75] Modified base bid: Are proprietary specifications that establish several acceptable products (preferably a minimum of three) from which prime bidders may make a selection. No substitutions are entertained with the bid. Bids are based on one of the specified products. [CSC HSC Level 1 Part 5] Modulus Stress at a given strain. Also tensile strength at a given elongation. Moisture Content of Wood Weight of the water contained in the wood, usually expressed as a percentage of the weight of the oven dry wood. Molding A wood strip having a coned or projecting surface used for decorative purposes, e.g., door and window trim. 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. Mortise A slot cut into a board, plank, or timber, usually edgewise, to receive tenon of another board, plank, or timber to form a joint. Mud Cracks Cracks developing from the normal shrinkage of an emulsion coating when applied too heavily. Mullion A vertical bar or divider in the frame between windows, doors, or other openings that supports and holds such items as panels, glass, sash, or sections of a curtain wall.. Multiple prime contracts: Refers to separate contractors contracting directly with the Owner for specific and designated elements of the work. [CMAA] Multiplicity: The number of objects permitted to participate in an association. [AUP] Municipal authority: means any authority that would have jurisdiction respecting permission to perform the work if the owner were not Her Majesty. [DCC and Government of Canada] Muntins Horizontal or vertical bars that divide the sash frame into smaller lights of glass. Muntins are smaller in dimensions and weight than mullions.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter N

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. Name: Designation of an object by a linguistic expression. [ISO 1087] Natural Finish A transparent finish which does not seriously alter the original color or grain of the natural wood. Natural finishes are usually provided by sealers, oils, varnishes, water-repellent preservatives, and other similar materials. Natural ground level: The natural level of a site. [NDADP] Neat Plaster A base coat plaster which does not contain aggregates and is used where the addition of aggregates on the job is desired. Negotiation plan: Prepared upon receipt of a designer's or contractor's quote and the detailed estimate. A comparison is made between labour, materials and equipment in the estimate to those in the proposal. A strategy to reconcile the differences is proposed for negotiation. Fourth step in the contract change process. [anon] 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. Net floor area: Area measured within the structural face of the enclosing walls defined as "Usable", "Circulation" and "Ancillary". Areas occupied by partitions, columns, chimney breasts, internal structural or party walls are excluded from these groups, and are shown separately under "Internal Divisions". [BCIS Jul 1971] Net habitable floor area: (residential buildings only) Total area of all enclosed spaces forming the dwelling measured within the structural internal face of the enclosing walls. Includes areas occupied by partitions, columns, chimney breasts and the like. Excludes balconies, public access spaces, communal laundries, drying rooms, lift, plant and tank rooms and the like. [BCIS Jul 1971] Network diagram: Overview diagram that shows the connections between different kinds of installations, telecommunications, power lines, equipment, etc. [ISO CD 10209-4] Newel A post to which the end of a stair railing or balustrade is fastened. Also, any post to which a railing or balustrade is fastened. NM A type of Romex cable (nonmetallic sheathed cable that contains several conductors). The cable, which is flame-retardant, is limited to use in dry locations only and can not be exposed to excessive moisture. 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. Nomenclature: System of terms which is elaborated according to pre-established naming rules. [ISO 1087] Nominated Subcontractor/Supplier: A subcontractor/supplier who is selected by the architect or a consultant and not by the contractor. [AIB] Nonbearing Wall A wall supporting no load other than its own weight. Non-Building Works: See Civil Engineering Works. Non-conformance: An error or an omission, which, if it is not corrected, will lead to a decision taken on a wrong basis by the client or will lead to a situation where the physical object resulting from the engineering services will not fulfill the expected (by the client and/or the consultant) needs. [FIDIC – 9001] 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 A sealant that does not set up or cure. See Butyl. Non-fixed work: Work provided by a contractor but which is not physically fixed to the constructed work. It includes: programming; shop drawings; component drawings; documentation for contractor designed work; samples, with or without supporting documentation; as-built drawings; testing; commissioning; approvals; manuals; training of building owners nominees; spares; guarantees and warranties. [Adapted from CBI] Non-restrictive specifications: Are a combination of the performance and prescription category



to satisfy the open requirements of a government agency and other projects controlled by public authorities. [CSC Semester Level 1 Session 11] 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. Non-structural frame supplement drawing: Drawing that/which specifies non-structural frame supplement parts. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Nosing The projecting edge of a molding or drip. Usually applied to the projecting molding on the edge of a stair tread. Notch A crosswise rabbet at the end of a board. Notice of award: The written notice by owner to the apparent successful bidder stating that upon compliance by the apparent successful bidder with the conditions precedent enumerated therein, within the time specified, Owner will sign and deliver the Agreement. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.25] Notice to proceed: A written notice given by Owner to Contractor (with a copy to Engineer) fixing the date on which the Contract Times will commence to run and on which Contractor shall start to perform Contractor's obligations under the Contract Documents. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.26] Notice to proceed: Written notice to the Contractor to begin the Contract work; when applicable, the notice will include the starting date of Contract time. [AASHTO] 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.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter O

O. G. (or ogee) A molding with a profile in the form of a letter S; having the outline of a reversed curve. - A molding with a profile in the form of a letter S; having the outline of a reversed curve. O.C. "On Center". A measurement term meaning a certain distance between like materials. Studs rafters, joists, and the like in a building placed at 16 inches O.C. will be laid out so that there is 16 inches from the center of one stud to the center of the next. Object (Ifc): The generalization of any semantically treated things and processes within IFC. Examples for IfcObject include physically tangible items, such as wall, beam or covering, physically existent items, such as spaces, or conceptually items, such as grids or virtual boundaries. It also stands for processes, such as work tasks, controls, documents, etc. [IAI] Object model: A representation of information and behaviour in the real world to some acceptable level of detail. [IAI] Object: Any part of the perceivable or conceivable world. [ISO 1087] [ISO/DIS 12006-2] Note: Objects may be material (eg engine) or immaterial (eg magnetism). Object-oriented analysis: The investigation of a problem domain or system in terms of domain concepts, such as object types, associations and state changes. [AUP] Object-oriented design: The specification of a logical software solution in terms of software objects, such as their classes, attributes, methods and collaborations. [AUP] Object-oriented programming language: A programming language that supports the concepts of encapsulation, inheritance and polymorphism. [AUP] Obligee: Is the person for whose benefit the bond is written (usually the owner). Some performance bonds are written in favour of more than one obligee. A subcontractor's performance bond may be written for the benefit of both the owner and general contractor. [W2] Obsolete term: Term, which is no longer in use. [ISO 1087] 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. Open space (private): An open area of land or building attached to a dwelling intended for the exclusive use of the occupants. [NDADP] Opening: A void formed or constructed during the work. [CBI] See also Hole. Operating and maintenance data: Detailed information and records of individual products or systems used in the project. The data is provided by the contractor, supplier, or manufacturer as part of the requirements of the project manual. The data is organized, indexed, and incorporated into the Operations and Maintenance Manual. [CSC RSW HSC Part 7] Operating Costs: Costs associated with the Operation Process. [January] Operation manual: Document that contains advice on the use of equipment. [ISO 6707-2, BS 1192, ISO DIS 10209-4] Operation Process: The Activities associated with the day-to-day operation of a Facility or part thereof, such as the use of energy and other utilities, cleaning, security, and management. (Maintenance and Rehabilitation are not included). [Adapted from NCRB] Operational Bill: A Bill of Quantities in which the 'items' are differentiated according to site operations - work done by a single person, or by a work gang - with or without the assistance of plant and without interruption by the work of other persons or gangs. [January] Operations and maintenance manual: An organized compilation of project technical documents, manufacturer's data, and project site records provided to the owner at the conclusion of the construction project, to assist the owner to properly operate and maintain the constructed facility. [CSC RSW HSC Part 7] Organic A term designating any chemical compound which contains carbon and hydrogen.



Original drawing: Drawing giving the currently approved information or data and on which the latest revisions has been recorded. [ISO 10209-1/4] Other contractor: means a person, firm or corporation employed by or having a separate contract directly or indirectly with the Owner for work other than that required by the Contract Documents. [CCDC 3 1986 and CCDC 4 1982] Outline drawing: Drawing giving the outside peripheral envelope, overall dimensions and mass of an object, used in the determination of packaging, transportation and installation requirements. [ISO 10209-1] Outline specification: A term used to depict a written document expanding the project PRELIMINARY PROJECT DESCRIPTION or similar document, identified during the early to mid-stages of design but prior to the full specification sections being developed. The outline specification often follows the development of the PRELIMINARY PROJECT DESCRIPTION or CHECKLIST. [W2] Outrigger An extension of a rafter beyond the wall line. Usually a smaller member nailed to a larger rafter to form a cornice or roof overhang. Overhang That part of the roof structure which extends horizontally beyond the vertical plane of the exterior walls of a building. Overhead expense: An expense indirectly incurred and not directly related to a specific project (synonym = Indirect Expense. [AIA] Overlay drawing: Drawing which is produced on a transparent medium and thus can be copied together with other drawings related to the same subject and at the same scale. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Overview diagram: Diagram that shows the most important relations and connections between the parts of an electrical system. [ISO CD 10209-3] Overview diagram: Relatively simple diagram, often using single-line representation, showing the main interrelations or connections among the items within a system, sub-system, installation, part, equipment, software etc. [ISO CD 10209-4] Owner: A term used to identify the building owner; a person, firm, or corporation who commissioned the prime consultant and who contracted with the general contractor to construct a facility. [W2] Owner: means the Owner or the Owner's authorized representative. [AIA A201 GC 2.1.1] Owner: The Owner is the person or entity identified as such in the Agreement. The term Owner means the Owner or the Owner's authorized agent or representative as designated to the Contractor in writing, but does not include the Consultant. [CCDC 2 1994] Oxidize To combine with oxygen in the air.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter P

P.O.P. Ratio (Perimeter on Plan): A measure of plan compactness, computed by relating the perimeter of a building at typical floor level to that of a circle enclosing the same area and expressing the result as a percentage. [200 x (the square root of pi x FECA) divided by the perimeter] OR = perimeter of a building divided into the perimeter of a circle of the same area and multiplied by 100. [NPWC] Paint A combination of pigments with suitable thinners or oils to provide decorative and protective coatings. Panel In house construction, a thin flat piece of wood, ply. wood, or similar material, framed by stiles and rails as in a door or fitted into grooves of thicker material with molded edges for decorative wall treatment. 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. Part drawing: Drawing depicting a single part (which cannot be further disassembled) and which includes all necessary information required for the definition of that part. [ISO 10209-1] Part: Similar to MATERIAL for classification purposes. [W2] Partial arrangement drawing: Drawing showing a delimited part of a general arrangement drawing, usually to a larger scale and giving supplementary information. [ISO 10209-1] Partial arrangement drawing: Drawing showing a delimited part of a general arrangement drawing, usually to a larger scale and giving supplementary information. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Partial utilization: Use by Owner of a substantially completed part of the Work for the purpose for which it is intended (or a related purpose) prior to Substantial Completion of all of the Work. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.28] Parting Stop or Strip A small wood piece used in the side and head jambs of double-hung windows to separate upper and lower sash. Partition A wall that subdivides spaces within any story of a building. Partnering: A notion of having the parties to a construction contract openly communicating with each other for mutual benefit. [W2] Party: A person concerned or having or taking part in any affair, matter, transaction, or proceeding, considered individually. [Black's] PARTY is a technical word having a precise meaning in legal parlance. Refer also to ENTITY. Pattern drawing: Drawing depicting pattern made of wood, metal or other material, around which moulding material is placed to make a mould for castings. [ISO 10209-1/4] Pattern: A pattern is a named description of a problem, solution, when to apply the solution and how to apply the solution in new contexts. [AUP] 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. Penal amount: Most bonds are written in such a way as to limit the amount of the guarantee. This limiting amount, either 50 or 100 per cent of the contract price is called the penal amount of the bond. [W2] Penalty clause: A provision in a Contract for a charge against the Contractor for failure to complete the Work by a stipulated date or to fulfill some other condition. If the penalty is excessive it may be unenforceable. Compare LIQUIDATED DAMAGES. [AIA Glossary] Penalty clause: to the extent that they really provide for the payment of a penalty, they are void and unenforceable, because a person cannot legally provide in a contract for the payment of a penalty. ... the courts will not enforce a provision which is in fact a penalty. [Goldsmith] Penalty: An elastic term with many different shades of meaning; it involves idea of punishment,



corporeal or pecuniary, civil or criminal, although its meaning is generally confined to pecuniary punishment. [Black's] Penny As applied to nails, it originally indicated the price per hundred. The term now series as a measure of nail length and is abbreviated by the letter d. Penthouse A relatively small structure built above the plane of the roof. Perceived Project Description: An aggregation of the performance expectations of the proposed Project. [NCRB] 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. Performance bond: (1) A guarantee that a contractor will perform a job according to the terms of the contract, or the bond will be forfeited. (2) A bond procured by the contractor that shows that a surety guarantees (to the owner) that the work will be performed in accordance with the contract documents. Unless prohibited by statute, the performance bond can be combined with the labour and materials payment bond. [Means] Performance bond: Provides a guarantee that if the contractor defaults or fails to perform, the surety will either complete the contract on behalf of the contractor in accordance with its terms or provide sufficient funds to the owner to do so up to the principle amount of the bond for such completion. [W2] Performance Requirement: User requirement expressed in terms of the performance of a product. [ISO 6241] Performance specification: Document which specifies functional requirements of a construction, and which is normally separate for construction and installation works. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Performance specification: States the results which are to be achieved, giving the contractor total freedom in the choice of materials and methods. [CSC Semester Level 1 Session 11] [CSC HSC Level 1 Chapter 5] Performance: (The) behaviour (of a product) related to use. [ISO 6240] Performance: The way in which something reacts under certain conditions or fulfils the purpose for which it was intended. [Macquarie Dictionary 1985] Period of delay: means the number of days commencing on the day fixed by the Articles of Agreement for completion of the work and ending on the day immediately preceding the day on which the work is completed but does not include any day within a period of extension granted pursuant to GC36.1, and any other day on which, in the opinion of the Engineer, completion of the work was delayed for reasons beyond control of the Contractor. [DCC and Government of Canada] Perlite An aggregate formed by heating and expanding siliceous volcanic glass. Perm A measure of water vapor movement through a material (grains per square foot per hour per inch of mercury difference in vapor pressure). Permanent Set The amount by which a material fails to return to its original dimensions after being deformed by an applied force or load. Permanent Set Persistence: The enduring storage of the state of an object. [AUP] Persistent object: An object that can survive the process or thread that created it. A persistent object exists until it is explicitly deleted. [AUP] Person: includes, unless the context otherwise requires, a partnership, proprietorship, firm, joint venture, consortium or a corporation. [DCC and Government of Canada] Persons: means those workers employed by the contractor, subcontractor, or any other person doing or contracting to do the whole or any part of the work contemplated by the contract. [DCC and Government of Canada] Perspective drawing: Drawing which shows a three-dimensional view of a project in which one or more groups of projectors converge on their respective vanishing points. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Phase (1): The period of time during which a Process takes place. [ISO TR 14177] Phase (2): A subdivision of a project in time, eg Phase, Contract, (Design, Construction). [ISO CD 10357-1] Phased construction: a unit approach to construction or design and construction. Each phase or element has a defined work scope and can be considered a separate project with design and



construction phases overlapping. [CMAA] Refer also to MANAGED CONSTRUCTION. Photo-Oxidation Oxidation caused by rays of the sun. Physical Resources: Construction Products, Construction Aids and Human Effort. [ISO TR 14177] Pier A column of masonry, usually rectangular in horizontal cross section, used to support other structural members. Pigment A powdered solid in suitable degree of subdivision for use in paint or enamel. Piling drawing: Drawing which shows the scope and workmanship of piling work. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Pitch (a) The incline slope of a roof or the ratio of the total rise to the total width of a house, i.e., an 8-foot rise and 24-foot width is a one-third pitch roof. Roof slope is expressed in the inches of rise per foot of run. (b) A term frequently used to designate coal tar pitch. Pitch Pocket An opening extending parallel to the annual rings of growth, that usually contains, or has contained, either solid or liquid pitch Pith The small, soft core at the original center of a tree around which wood formation takes place. Place of the work: Designates the site or location of a project of which the Work may be the whole or a part. [W2] Place of the work: is the designated site or location of the Work identified in Article A-1 of the Agreement - THE WORK. [CCDC 2 1994] Plan detail: Drawing which to a large scale shows a part of a plan. [ISO CD 10209-3] Plan Submittal Submission of construction plans to the city or county in order to obtain a Building Permit. Plan: View, section or cut, in a horizontal plane, seen from above. [ISO 10209-1] Plans: Approved Contract drawings showing the location, type, dimensions, and details of Contract work to be performed. [AASHTO] Plant: (1) Machinery and heavy equipment installed for the operation of a service, eg. heating and ventilating service. [BS6100] Plant: (2) Implements, machines and other items employed in construction work. [BS6100] Plant: includes all animals, tools, implements, machinery, vehicles, buildings, structures, equipment and commodities, articles and things other than material, that are necessary for the due performance of the contract. (Also in GC46 of the General Conditions, the definition continues:) ... does not include tools customarily provided by a tradesman in practising his trade. [DCC and Government of Canada] Planting and equipment drawing: Drawing which specifies scope and workmanship of planting and loose and fixed equipment. [ISO CD 10209-3] Planting and fittings drawing: Drawing which specifies scope and workmanship of plant and loose and fixed equipment. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Plaster Grounds Strips of wood used as guides or strike off edges around window and door openings and at base of walls. 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. Plate Sill plate: a horizontal member anchored to a masonry wall. Sole plate: bottom horizontal member of a frame wall. Top plate: top horizontal member of a frame wall supporting ceiling joists, rafters, or other members. Platform Framing ( or Platform Construction) A system of framing a building in which floor joists of each story rest on the top plates of the story below or on the foundation sill for the first story, and the bearing walls and partitions rest on the subfloor of each story. (Usually one story constitutes a platform.) Plenum (or Plenum Chamber) Chamber or container for moving air under a slight positive pressure to which one or more ducts are connected. Plot Plan A bird¹s 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. Plot ratio: The total floor area of all buildings on a site divided by the area of the site. [NDADP] Plotting: Output of a CAD drawing to paper or film using a plotter. [ISO CD 13567-1] Plough To cut a lengthwise groove in a board or plank.



Plumb Exactly perpendicular; vertical. Ply A term to denote the number of thicknesses or layers of roofing felt, veneer in plywood, or layers in built-up materials, in any finished piece of such material. Plywood A piece of wood made of three or more layers of veneer joined with glue, and usually laid with the grain of adjoining plies at right angles. Almost always an odd number of plies are used to provide balanced construction. 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. Polymorphic operation: The same operation implemented differently by two or more types. [AUP] Polymorphism: The concept that two or more types of objects can respond to the same message in different ways using polymorphic operations. Also, the ability to define polymorphic operations. [AUP] 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 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. Pores Wood cells of comparatively large diameter that have open ends and are set one above the other to form continuous tubes. The openings of the vessels on the surface of a piece of wood are referred to as pores. Porosity The density of substance and its capacity to pass liquids. Port: A logical interface, at which interactions between objects are aggregated. [ISO WD 10303] Note: Being a port is a role played by a material within an assembly. A port material gives access between the assembly of which it is part and other material. [ISO WD 10303] 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 & 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. 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-condition: A constraint that must hold true after the completion of an operation. [AUP] 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. Pragmatic Relation: Relation between concepts that can be established on the basis of thematic connections. [ISO 1087] Precast Concrete building components which are formed and cured at a factory and then transported to a work site for erection. Pre-condition: A constraint that must hold true before an operation is requested. [AUP] Preferred term: Term recommended by an authoritative body. [ISO 1087] Preliminaries: The costs of complying with preliminary and contract clauses in the tender documents and the costs of providing site supervision, site administration, temporary facilities and



plant. Note: This excludes head office overheads. [AIB] Preliminary drawing: Drawing of a designer's concept of a project and which is expected to be modified. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Preliminary project description: A term used to depict a written document describing, in summary form, the systems intended to be used for the project which are identified during the initial stage of design. The PRELIMINARY PROJECT DESCRIPTION often follows the development of the CHECKLIST. [W2] Premises: Space or property made available to the contractor for constructing the work. [W2] Prescription specification: describes the means and methods for achieving the desired result, but with unstated result. [CSC Semester Level 1 Session 11] [CSC HSC Level 1 Chapter 5] Prescription specification: Refer to SPECIFYING METHODS. Preselection: The establishment of a list of contractors with suitable experience, resources, ability and desire to execute a project, bearing in mind the character, size, location and timing of the project. [AIB] Preservation: The process of applying measures to sustain the existing form, integrity, and material of a building or structure and the existing form and vegetative cover of a site. [Haney] Preservative Any substance that, for a reasonable length of time, will prevent the action of wood-destroying fungi, borers of various kinds, and similar destructive agents when the wood has been properly coated or impregnated with it. 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. Preventive Maintenance: The Activities performed to retain an item in a specified condition by providing systematic inspection, detection and prevention of incipient failure. Preventive Maintenance is normally programmed. [NCRB] Priced bill of quantities: Bill of quantities that contains the contractor’s rates extended and totalled to give tender sum. [ISO 6707-2, BS 1192, ISO DIS 10209-4] Prime consultant: A design professional commissioned by a building owner (Refer also to architect or engineer above) to plan, design, and prepare detail drawings and specifications for bidding, awarding, and site reviewing a construction contract for a new or renovated facility. The prime consultant is usually responsible for engaging subconsultants and coordinating their work. [W2] Prime contract: A direct contract with an Owner. It can be a single contract or several contracts depending upon division of work. [CMAA] Prime cost sum: A slang term from one area of Canada to mean a Cash Allowance - refer to ALLOWANCES. [W2] Primer (a) 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, (b) The first coat of paint in a paint job that consists of two or more coats, (c) the paint used for such a first coat. 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. Principal consultant: A design consultant responsible for overall planning, design and coordination of the documentation of a construction work. Usually the architect on a building project but an engineer on others. [January] Principal: The party who has the primary obligation to perform the undertaking that is being bonded; the contractor on a bonded construction project is usually the principal. [W2] Private: A scoping mechanism used to restrict access to class members so that other objects cannot see them. Normally applies to all attributes and some methods. [AUP] Process (Ifc): An action taking place in building construction with the intent of acquiring or



conducting products. Processes are placed in sequence (including overlapping for parallel tasks) in time. [IAI] Process model: A representation of processes which occur in the real world to some acceptable level of detail. [IAI Release 2.0] Process: A set of connected Activities. [ISO TR 14177] See also Phase and Construction Process. Process: Set of inter-related resources and activities which transform inputs into outputs. [ISO 8402, ISO 10006] Note 1: Resources may include management, services, personnel, finance, facilities, equipment, techniques and methods. Note 2: Project processes include project management processes. Procurement Process: The Activities of bringing a Facility or part thereof into being, including the Design, Tendering and Production Processes together with financing. [Adapted from NCRB] Procurement specifications: The basis for purchasing materials, products, or goods; site installation is usually not included. [W2] Refer also to GOODS. Product (Ifc): Any object, manufactured, supplied or created for incorporation into an AEC/FM project. This also includes objects that are created indirectly by other products, as spaces are defined by bounding elements. Products can be designated for, permanent use or temporary use; an example for the latter is formwork. [IAI] Product data: are illustrations, standard schedules, performance charts, instructions, brochures, diagrams and other information furnished by the Contractor to illustrate materials or equipment for some portion of the Work. [AIA A201 - GC 3.12.2] Product Model: The way engineering information is held to facilitate the unambiguous transfer of such information between computer systems and how it can be coherently represented to facilitate information sharing. [CIPM/LU/TP/8] Product or products: a generic term which specifically includes raw materials, processed materials, components, parts, subassemblies, systems, and subsystems. [W2] Product Performance: A sum of Technical Performance, Functional Performance and Environmental Performance. [NCRB] Product Specification: Specification for the properties or manufacture of a particular Product. [USNBS] Product: An entity, physical or non-physical, permanent or temporary, purchased in relation to the design, construction, maintenance, operation, refurbishment or demolition of the built environment. [January] Product: Item acquired from a manufacturer or supplier for incorporation into the building construction. [BS 6100] Product: Item manufactured or processed for incorporation in construction works. [ISO 6707-1] Product: Product or Products means material, machinery, equipment, and fixtures forming the Work, but does not include machinery and equipment used to prepare, fabricate, convey, or erect the Work, which are referred to as construction machinery and equipment. [CCDC 2 1994] Product: The result of the engineering consultancy service; typically this will include, but not be limited to, drawings, specifications, reports, manuals, presentations, verbal service and recommendations, training materials and training given. [FIDIC – 9001] Production Activity: An Activity carried out in the Production Process. [January] Production Activity: Type Activity in the Production Phase. [SBC] Production drawing: Drawing, generally established on the basis of the design data, giving all the information required for the production. [ISO 10209-1/4] Production process: The Activities entailed by the physical realization of the design Facility. [ISO TR 14177] Production Result (SBC): See Work Section. Production Stage: Group of Production Results intended to be handled as a unit in connection with Production. [SBC] Production Structure: The way an Element is composed of Work Sections. [Tiula] Professional liability insurance: Insurance that covers suits against the insured for such damages as injury or death to others, property damage, and the like ... [Black's] (usually applies



to the design professional] Program: A sequence of executable instructions to a computer. [IAI Release 2.0] Programme: A schedule of actions. [IAI Release 2.0] Programmed Maintenance: Maintenance assigned to be carried out within a specific period, eg. a budgeting period. [NCRB] Progress evaluation: Assessment of outputs of project activities, carried out at appropriate points in the project life cycle across project processes, based on defined criteria for project processes and product. [ISO 10006] Note: Revision of the project plan may be required as a result of project evaluation. Progress payment: An advancement of funds on account of the contract price. [W2] Project (Ifc): The undertaking of some engineering activities leading towards a product. It acts as the top container for all objects defining a project. The Project also holds the units used for certain measures throughout the project, and the central registry, currently for only team members and applications. The IfcProject establishes the World Coordinate System, WCS. [IAI] Project (The): The Project is the total construction of which the Work performed under the Contract Documents may be the whole or a part and which may include construction by the Owner or by separate contractors. [AIA A201] Project administration: Refer to CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION. [W2] Project assessor: Refer to SITE REVIEWER. Project Decision Makers: Those involved in a decision, or informed of the result, comprising the Project Stakeholders and the Project Team. [NCRB] Project Description: See Integrated Project Description. Project document: Document specifically prepared for a particular project, document or part of document referred to as applying to a particular project, and intended as a basis for tendering, contracting and construction. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N78] Project documentation: Documentation applying to a particular project. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N78] Project management: A process to administrate and manage an entire project on behalf of an owner; sometimes begins defining project requirements, property appraisal and acquisition, total budget planning, project planning and design, establishing a QA and QC program, exercise manpower, resource, and expenditure efficiencies, operational procedures, securing bids, to bestow or recommend contract award, coordinate construction contracts, oversee cost control, monitor scheduling, inaugurate the commissioning process, and perhaps initiate rental occupancy. The project management activity may involve the services of a construction manager to administer and coordinate the actual construction activity. [W2] Project management is akin to the ancient 'master builder' concept. Project management: consists of the comprehensive management for a Client of all aspects of projects from conception to completion of construction and commissioning. [CCA] Project management: The use of integrated systems and procedures by a team of professionals during project design and construction. Can be used synonymously with Construction Management. [CMAA] Project management: the utilization of skills and knowledge in coordinating the organizing, planning, scheduling, directing, controlling, monitoring and evaluating of prescribed activities to ensure that the stated objectives of a project, manufactured product, or service, are achieved. [AACE] Project manager: A party having a contract to perform project management services; usually involves the management of the entire project team; may also engage the services of design consultants. [W2] Project manager: shall have definite authority to enter into contracts and make commitments on behalf of the Client, and have responsibility for all day-to-day decisions. The extent of this authority and responsibility shall be within limits prescribed in his contractual agreement with the Client. He shall act as the agent as thus defined. [CCA] Project manual (The): is the volume usually assembled for the Work which may include the bidding requirements, sample forms, Conditions of the Contract and Specifications. [AIA A201] Project manual: The title of the bound documentary information prepared for bidding or negotiating and completing a construction project. A project manual is a collection of written



documents that accompany the drawings; the combination of which provide all details required to complete the construction of a project. [W2] Project manual: The written construction documents prepared for bidding or negotiating and constructing a project. The project manual typically contains bidding requirements, contract forms, conditions of the contract, and specifications. [W2] Project Performance: A sum of Product Performance and Process Performance. [NCRB] Project plan: Document setting out what is required to meet the objectives(s) of the project. [ISO 10006] Note 1: A project plan should refer to the project’s quality plan. Note 2: The project plan also includes such other plans as organizational structures, resources, schedules and budget. Project product: That which is defined in the project product scope and delivered to the customer. [ISO 10006] Note: the project scope may be updated as the project proceeds. Project Rate: The rate obtained by dividing the Project Cost by the Gross Floor Area. [NPWC] Project Reference Data: The source of Project Information comprising personal knowledge, experience of decision makers, formal reference sources and the Substantive Project Description at that point. [NCRB] Project Specific Information: Information significant only within the context of a particular construction project. Project specific information may selectively incorporate reference information, either directly or by reference. [ISO TR 14177] See also Construction project (specific) information. Project Specifics: Items of a variable nature specifically costed for individual projects over and above the cost derived from pricing Functional Areas (including Travel/Engineering Areas). Items that of necessity must vary from project to project are wholly covered as Project Specifics, i.e.. they are excluded totally from Functional Area rates. Features which vary the cost due to site or climatic conditions, locality, multistorey, size of project, contract procedure and time are covered by way of extra (or less) cost. [NPWC] Project stage: Period of time in the duration of a construction project identified by the overall character of the construction processes which occur within it. [ISO/CD 12006-2] Project Stakeholders: Anyone with a demonstrated interest in a proposed Facility. [NCRB] Project surveillance: Refer to SITE REVIEWER. Project team: Initially consists of the Owner, Design Professional, and Construction Manager. Thereafter, as prime construction contractors are engaged they are added to the team. [CMAA] Project Team: The individuals and organizations who, through their decisions, are accountable for the quality and value of the resulting Facility and/or its components. [Adapted from NCRB] Project team: The individuals and organizations who, through their decisions, are accountable for the configuration, quality, and value of the resulting facility and its component parts. [W2] Project: A specific section of the highway or property on which construction is to be performed as described in the Contract. [AASHTO] Project: The Project means the total construction contemplated of which the Work may be the whole or a part. [CCDC 2 1994] Project: The Results of a Production Process or the processes in achieving it. [January] Project: The total construction of which the Work to be provided under the Contract Documents may be the whole, or a part as indicated elsewhere in the Contract Documents. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.31] Project: Unique process, consisting of a set of coordinated and controlled activities with start and finish dates, undertaken to achieve an objective conforming to specific requirements, including the constraints of time, cost and resources. [ISO 10006] Note 1: An individual project may form part of a larger project structure. Note 2: In some projects the objective(s) is (are) refined and the product characteristics defined progressively as the project proceeds. Note 3: The outcome of a project may be one or several units of a project. Note 4: The organization is temporary and established for the lifetime of the project. Note 5: The interactions among project activities may be complex.



Projection In roofing, any object or equipment which pierces the roof membrane. Projection: Additional or alternative data that is used to produce different projections from the same CAD model. [ISO CD 13567-1] Proposal form: The prescribed form on which the bidder's offer is submitted. [AASHTO] Proposal guaranty: The surety furnished with a bid to assure that the bidder enters into the Contract if the Proposal is accepted. [AASHTO] Proposal: A bidder's written offer on Department furnished forms to perform stated work at the quoted prices. [AASHTO] Proposed change: (Refer to CCDC 24 1982 - this term describes the beginning of a process - parties appears free to name this document as they see fit - this term does not appear in the 1994 edition of CCDC 2) with the exception of describing a process preceding a Change Order. [W2] Proposed change: is a document circulated to the contractor, usually by the consultant, to solicit a quotation from the contractor for a proposed change in the work. .... is a method to add to, delete from, or amend the contract documents. It is usually issued by the consultant (or the owner) to identify to the contractor that changes to the work are being considered. The PROPOSED CHANGE calls attention to certain amendments being considered by the consultant or the owner to the contract documents. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 - Part 14] Proprietary specification: Identifies products by their trade name and may also include important characteristics. [CSC HSC Level 1 Chapter 5] Protection Board In roofing, heavy asphalt impregnated boards which are laid over bituminous coatings to protect against mechanical injury. Provide: Provide means to supply and install. [CCDC 2 1994] Provide: When used in the project manual, provide means to acquire or purchase, ship to the site, unload and store, install in position, connect to utilities, and make ready for use. [W2] Provisional Quantity: A quantified item in the tender documents, for inclusion in the tender, which is unable to be measured accurately at tender time but for which a rate is required and will be used to adjust the contract sum when the actual quantity becomes known. [AIB] Provisional Sum: A sum nominated in the tender documents for work anticipated but insufficiently designed or detailed at the time of tendering. [AIB] Public: A scoping mechanism used to make members accessible to other objects. Normally applied to some methods, but not to attributes, since public attributes violate encapsulation. [AUP] Purchase requisition: The defined analytical record of parts or items required, submitted by a purchaser or buyer to a bidder or seller, as the basis of negotiating and transacting bids and contracts. [CSI 1947] Purchaser: The client of the engineering company. [FIDIC 9001] Pure data values: Data types for which unique instance identity is not meaningful, such as numbers, booleans and strings. In UML also known as DataTypes. [AUP] 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 StickIn hardware, a tool used when cutting a short board on a table saw. Putty A type of cement usually made of whiting and boiled linseed oil, beaten or kneaded to the consistency of dough, and used in sealing glass in sash, filling small holes and crevices in wood, and for similar purposes. PVDF Architectural coating. See Kynar Coating.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter Q

Qualified: Refer to EXPERIENCED. Quality: The totality of the Attributes of a Building which enable it to satisfy needs, including the way in which individual attributes are related, balanced and integrated in the whole Facility. [Adapted from Burt 1978] Quality: The totality of the attributes applied to a facility which enable it to satisfy needs, including the way in which individual attributes are related, balanced, and integrated into the entire facility. [W2] Quality: the conformance to predetermined requirements. ... meeting the requirements ... the totality of features, attributes, and characteristics of a facility, product, process, component, service, or workmanship that bear on its ability to satisfy a given need: fitness for purpose. ... quality in the constructed project is obtained by conscientious application of a thoroughly planned quality-assurance program implemented through a quality-control procedure. [ASCE] Quality assurance: Procedures for guarding against defects and deficiencies before and during the execution of the work. [CSI/CCA MOP Chapter 8] Quality assurance: all those planned or systematic actions necessary to provide adequate confidence that a product, process, or service will conform to establish requirements. [AACE] Quality assurance: the program established by the Design Professional and Construction Manager to develop the quality levels designated for the project by the Owner. QA includes quality engineering and quality control as part of the program. [CMAA] Quality control: Procedures for evaluating completed activities and elements of the work for conformance with contract requirements. [CSI/CCA MOP Chapter 8] Quality control: inspection, test, evaluation or other necessary action to verify that a product, process, or service conforms to established requirements and specifications. [AACE] Quality control: the program that assures that the desired level is being reached in the quality control program. QC includes inspection and testing as part of its activities. [CMAA] Quarry (Zoning): Land not subject to the constraints imposed on land zoned rural, and land used for quarry or extractive industry purposes.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter R

R-Value The measure of a material's ability to resist heat flow (commonly applied to building insulation). The higher the R value, the less heat is transmitted throughout the material. The R-value is the reciprocal of the U-value. Rabbet A rectangular longitudinal groove cut in the corner edge of a board or plank. Radial Saw A circular saw which hangs from a horizontal arm or beam and slides back and forth. The arm pivots from side to side to allow for angle cuts and bevels. When sawing finish plywood, the good side should face up as the saw cuts on the down stroke. Radiant Heating A method of heating, usually consisting of a forced hot water system with pipes placed in the floor, wall, or ceiling; or with electrically heated panels. 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 Cross members of panel doors or of a sash. Also the upper and lower members of a balustrade or staircase extending from one vertical support, such as a post, to another. Rake (a) Trim members that run parallel to the roof slope and form the finish between the wall and a gable roof extension. (b) 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. Raw Linseed Oil The crude product processed from flaxseed and usually without much subsequent treatment. Rebar Reinforcing bar used to increase the tensile strength of concrete. Reflective Glass Glass with a metallic coating to reduce solar heat gain. Reflective Insulation Sheet material with one or both sun faces of comparatively low heat emissivity, such as aluminum foil. When used in building construction the surfaces face air spaces, reducing the radiation across the air space. 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. Reinforcing Steel rods or metal fabric placed in concrete slabs, beams, or columns to increase their strength. 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). Relative Humidity The amount of water vapor in the atmosphere, expressed as a percentage of the maximum quantity that could be present at a given temperature. (The actual amount of water vapor that can be held in space increases with the temperature.)



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. Resorcinol Glue A glue that is high in both wet and dry strength and resistant to high temperatures. It is used for gluing lumber or assembly joints that must withstand severe service conditions. 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. Ribbon (or Girt) Normally a 1- by 4-inch board let into the studs horizontally to support ceiling or second-floor joists. Ridge The horizontal line at the junction of the top edges of two sloping roof surfaces. Ridge Board The board placed on edge at the ridge of the roof into which the upper ends of the rafters are fastened. Rigid Metal Conduit This conduit resembles plumbing pipe, protecting wires from damage. Rise n stairs, the vertical height of a step or flight of stairs. Riser ach of the vertical boards closing the spaces between the treads of stairways. Roll Roofing oofing material, composed of fiber and satin rated with asphalt, that is supplied in 36-inch wide rolls with 108 square feet of material. Weights are generally 45 to 90 pounds per roll. 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 Sheathing he boards or sheet material fastened to the roof rafters on which the shingle or other roof covering is laid. Roof System General term referring to the waterproof covering, roof insulation, vapor barrier, if used and roof deck as an entity. 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. Rough-In In hardware, metal fastenings on cabinets which are usually concealed, like staples RPM Revolutions per Minute. Rubber Emulsion Paint Paint, the vehicle of which consists of rubber or synthetic rubber dispersed in fine droplets in water. Rubber-Tired Roller A roller with rubber tires commonly used for compacting trimmed subgrade or aggregate base or clay type soils. Run In roofing, the horizontal distance between the eaves and the ridge of the roof, being half the span for a symmetrical gable roof. (stairs) The net width of a step or the horizontal distance covered by a flight of stairs. Real: A value that has a whole number component and a decimal component. [IAI Release 2.0] Rebuilding drawing: General arrangement drawing which specifies the scope and workmanship of rebuilding and shows existing and new parts, and which may also show parts that are to be demolished, and in accordance with rules eg. principles set down in ISO 7518-1983. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Recipe (SBC): See Method Recipe. Reconstruction: The act of reproducing by new construction, the exact form and detail of a vanished building, structure, or object, or a part thereof, as it appeared at a specific period of time. [Haney] Record documents: (Project Record Documents): Documents prepared and maintained during the construction process showing changes relating to actual project construction; including but are not limited to:marked-up copies of design/construction specifications and drawings illustrating changes required by field conditions or imposed by approved changes to the work,copies of reviewed shop drawings, product data sheets and samples, field test reports, and written instructions or reports by consultants and inspecting agencies. Depending on the owners



requirements, all or portions of the Project Record Documents may be incorporated into the Operations and Maintenance Manual. [CSC RSW HSC Part 7] Record drawing: Drawing which records the details of a construction following its completion. (Synonym = as-built drawing). [ISO 10209-1] Record drawings: Contract drawings revised to record changes made during the construction process, usually based on marked-up prints (sometimes referred to as as-built), drawings, and other data furnished by the contractor to the consultant. [W2] Record of negotiation: Follows the negotiation plan and covers the topics of scope, labour, material and equipment reconciliation between the designer/contractors' proposal and the engineer's estimate. [anon] Recursive association: An association where the source and the destination are the same object type. [AUP] (CAD) Reference file: A data file that is displayed and printed together with information from another file which can be stored and updated independently of the first file. A typical use is a CAD drawing consisting of a file for the sheet and using the CAD model as a (CAD) reference file, thus automatically updating the view of the model in each drawing where it is referenced. [ISO CD 13567-1] Reference Information: Information serving the purposes of the construction industry that exists independently of particular projects. [ISO TR 14177] Reference Information: Information serving the purposes of the construction industry that is independent of specific projects. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N75] Reference specification: A specification that uses reference standards as its sole method of specifying products, processes, or testing. [W2] Refer also to CSC HSC Level 1 Chapter 5. Reference standards: Includes both consensus standards and industry standards. [W2] Regulation installation drawing: Drawing which specifies the setting values of installation. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Rehabilitation: Extensive work intended to bring a Facility up to a new standard or to alter it for a new use. Rehabilitation involves Maintenance and improvements. [adapted from NCRB] Rehabilitation: Refer to REPAIR WORK. Rehabilitation: The process of returning a building or structure to a useful state through repairs or alterations which make possible an efficient contemporary use while preserving those portions and features which are significant to its historic, architectural, and cultural values. [Haney] Rehabilitation: Extensive work intended to bring a facility up to a new standard or to alter it for a new use. Rehabilitation involves maintenance and improvements. [January] Reinforcement drawing: Drawing which shows the position and designation of rods, bars, wires and cables embedded in a reinforced concrete structure. [ISO CD 10209-4] Relation: A fact that exists between classes. [IAI Release 2.0] Replacement: The complete removal of an item and the use of another item in its place. [NCRB] Repudiation: To put away, reject, disclaim, or renounce a right, duty, obligation, or privilege. [Black's] Residential (Zoning): Land not subject to the constraints imposed on land zoned rural, land not used nor vacant land able to be used for commercial purposes, land that includes premises used totally for residential purposes with no part being rented at any time during the year, and land not used for farming, quarry or extractive industry purposes. Resource: Useable stock or supply of capital, materials, machines, work force, energy, knowledge, land and time. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N75] Resource(Ifc): The IfcResource is and item provided to aid in the process of building construction. A Resource may be considered to be anything which assists in the process of building construction but which is not embodied in the final product. That is, its use is temporary. The use of a construction aid may be limited to one process or the processes relating to one product or they may encompass many processes undertaken on many products. [IAI] Resources: Physical Resources and Information. [ISO TR 14177] Responsibility: A service or group of services provided by a type; a responsibility embodies one or more of the purposes or obligations of a type. [AUP] Responsive bid: A bid that meets all requirements of the invitation for bids. [AASHTO]



Restoration: The process of accurately recovering the form and details of a property as it appeared originally or at a time of historic significance. [Haney] Restoration: Comprehensive maintenance activities intended to bring an item back to its original appearance or state. Restoration is not solely for functional or operational reasons, but may also be required for historical restoration. [January] Restoration: Comprehensive Maintenance Activities intended to bring an item back to its original appearance or state. Restoration is not solely for functional or operational reasons, but may also be required for historical preservation. [adapted from NCRB] Result: The achievement or achievements of an Activity or Process. [ISO TR 14177] Retainage: See HOLDBACK. Reuse dismantling drawing: Drawing which shows how a building shall be dismantled for reuse. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Review: the act of looking over something, again or to look back upon ... [Oxford Short] Review: To look over or study. [W2] Refer also to REVIEWER. Reviewer: Individual representing the consultant on the project site, to review the work. [W2] Right-of-way: A general term denoting land, property, or interest acquired for transportation purposes. [AASHTO] Rise and Fall: The increase or decrease in cost of labour, plant or materials that may occur during a contract. [AIB] Roof area: Plan area measured across the eaves overhang or to the inner face of parapet walls. Includes areas covered by rooflights. [BCIS Jul 1971] Roof plan elevation: Drawing which specifies in detail the roof seen from above. [ISO CD 10209-3] Roof plan: Drawing which specifies in detail the roof seen from above. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Room: An identifiable physical space bounded actually or theoretically. It may not be completely enclosed by walls, ceiling and floor but it should have some of these physical limitations. [January] - based on ISO CD 4157-2 Room relation drawing: Drawing which shows the disposition of rooms in accordance with the brief as regards the relative position of rooms and their relations to others. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Rural commercial (Zoning): Land subject to the constraints imposed on land zoned rural, land used or vacant land able to be used for commercial purposes, land that includes premises not used totally for residential purposes, and land not used for farming, quarry or extractive industry purposes. Rural farming (Zoning): Land subject to the constraints imposed on land zoned rural, and used for farming purposes. Rural quarry (Zoning): Land subject to the constraints imposed on land zoned rural, and land used for quarry or extractive industry purposes. Rural residential (Zoning): Land subject to the constraints imposed on land zoned rural, land not used nor vacant land able to be used for commercial purposes, land that includes premises used totally for residential purposes with no part being rented at any time during the year, and land not used for farming, quarry or extractive industry purposes



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter S Saber Saw a saw that cuts on the upstroke, good side of wood faces down. Saddle Two sloping surfaces meeting in a horizontal ridge, used between the back side of a chimney, or other vertical surface, and a sloping roof. Sale of goods act: Federal and provincial legislation that governs the transfer of title and the obligation of manufacturers as to quality, durability, and warranty of manufactured goods. [W2] Samples: are physical examples that illustrate materials, equipment or workmanship and establish standards by which the Work will be judged. [AIA A201 - GC 3.12.3] Samples: Physical examples of materials, equipment, and workmanship used to establish standards by which the work will be judged. [W2] Samples: Physical examples of materials, equipment, or workmanship that are representative of some portion of the Work and which establish the standards by which such portion of the Work will be judged. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.34] AIA Note: ... Shop drawings, Product Data, and Samples and similar submittals are not Contract Documents. [AIA A201 - GC 3.12.4] Sand Float Finish Lime mixed with sand, resulting in a textured finish. Sapwood The outer zone of wood, next to the bark. In the living tree it contains some living cells (the heartwood contains none), as well as dead and dying cells. In most species, it is lighter colored than the heartwood. In all species, it is lacking in decay resistance. Sash A single light frame containing one or more lights of glass. Sash Balance A device, usually operated by a spring or tensioned weatherstripping designed to counterbalance double-hung window sash. Saturated Felt A felt which is impregnated with tar or asphalt. Scaffolding: Temporary structure providing access for operatives to construction works and support for materials and equipment. [BS6100] Schedule of values: A list prepared by the Contractor stating contract basic segments in both labour and material where each line item consists of a description of a portion of work and a related cost and the sum of the lines of the contract. Generally used to determine progress payments to Contractor(s). [CMAA] Schedule of values: A listing of individual component costs that comprise the complete Contract Price; this listing will be the basis for progress payments. [W2] Schedule: A graphic or tabular presentation of information that supplements the specification and the drawings. A schedule may be located on the drawings or may be presented in the project manual. [W2] Schedule: A graphic or tabular representation of activity and time information representing parts or all of the work of a contract. [W2] Schedule: the plan for completion of a project based on a logical arrangement of activities, resources available, imposed dates or funding budgets. [AACE] Scheduling: the assignment of desired start and finish times to each activity in the project within the overall time cycle required for completion according to plan. [AACE] Scope: defines the work to be accomplished in a contract, documented by a contract's parameters. [W2] Scratch Coat The first coat of plaster, which is scratched to form a bond for the second coat. Screed or Screeding The wood or metal straightedge used to strike off or level newly placed concrete when doing cement work. Screeds can be the leveling device used or the form work used to level or establish the level of the concrete. Screeds can be hand used or mechanical. Scribing Fitting woodwork to an irregular surface. In moldings, cutting the end of one piece to fit the molded face of the other at an interior angle to replace a miter joint. Scupper An outlet in the wall of a building or a parapet wall for drainage of water from a flat roof. Scutch A bricklayer¹s cutting tool used for dressing and trimming brick to a special shape. It resembles a small pick Seal: affix a seal to attest the execution of the instrument. [Black's] Seal: in certain circumstances and under special written parameters, a seal can be exchanged for consideration (something of value); a seal can be the constituent ingredient that makes a bid



irrevocable (in lieu of consideration). [W2] Seal: the only circumstance where a seal is required, apart from statutory provisions to the contrary, is where there is no consideration. [Goldsmith] 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. Sealer A finishing material, either clear or pigmented, that is usually applied directly over uncoated wood for the purpose of sealing the surface. Seasoning Removing moisture from green wood in order to improve its serviceability. Section: One or several physical parts of a facility, viewed as the result of particular skills and techniques applied to particular construction products and/or elements during the production phase. [ISO TR 14177] Refer also to CLASSIFICATION. Section: sometimes referred to as specification section, work section, or technical section. To extend this definition and employ it, a section when used in context with MasterFormat is a portion of a project specification covering one or more segments of the total work or requirements. Sections are included in a project manual as required to meet project requirements. [W2] Refer also to CLASSIFICATION. Section: View of the features of an object lying on a plane passing through it, not showing features in front of behind the plane. [BS 1192] Sector: A subdivision of a project into physical locations, eg level, block, zone. [ISO CD 10357-1] Select: A means of navigating an object model by choosing a class from an available range. [IAI Release 2.0] Selective Tendering: The calling of tenders from a short list of contractors selected from those previously preselected. [AIB] 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-Levelling 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. Semigloss (paint or enamel) A paint or enamel made with a slight insufficiency of nonvolatile vehicle so that its coating, when dry, has some luster but is not very glossy. Separate price: A price or cost pertaining to a material, service, or item of equipment NOT specified which will differ from a similar functioning item that is specified; the price for which is recorded in a Bid Form Supplement for owner consideration. The Instructions to Bidders usually identify whether SEPARATE PRICES may be solicited or may be unsolicited. SEPARATE PRICES are NOT part of the bid price. [W2] Separate price: Price for work to be added to the Base Bid Price if selected by the Owner. [CCDC Bulletin #9] Separate price: Prices offered by bidders for consideration by an owner; prices are NOT part of the bid price. 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. Sequential Relation: Relation of dependencies between concepts referring to objects that have a spatial or temporal contiguity. [ISO 1087] 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. Service Elements: Space linking Elements. [Tiula] Set: A collection of entities in which no duplication is allowed but in which order is not significant. [IAI Release 2.0] 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. Setting-out drawing: Drawing used to establish marks and lines to define position and level of elements for construction work so that work can proceed with reference to them. [ISO CD 10209-4] Severe deterioration: Deterioration of the whole or part of an element to include voids and where the structural integrity of the element or the assembly in which the element is located is jeopardized. [Haney] 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: Shake A thick handsplit shingle, resawed to form two shakes; usually edge-grained. Sheathing Paper A building material, generally paper or felt, used in wall and roof construction as a protection against the passage of air and sometimes moisture. Sheathing The structural covering, usually wood boards, plywood, gypsum or wood fiber, used over studs or rafters of framed buildings as the first layer of outer wall covering nailed to the studs or rafters. 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. 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. Shell Elements: Element Group that defines the extent of Spaces for which geometrical quantities can be ascertained from initial design sketches. [January] Shell: The exterior wall of a building. Other terms used include facade, elevation and building envelope. [Ifc rel 2.0] Shellac A transparent coating made by dissolving lac, a resinous secretion of the lac bug (a scale insect that thrives in tropical countries, especially India), in alcohol. Shellac: A coating made by dissolving purified lac (resinous secretions of the laccifer lacca insect) in alcohol. Used in the manufacture of varnishes, polishes, etc. Also called Shallac varnish. [SAA HB50] Shingles Roof covering of asphalt, wood, tile, slate, or other material cut to stock lengths, widths, and thicknesses, which are laid in a series of overlapping rows as a roof covering on pitched roofs. Shiplap Lumber Lumber that is edge-dressed to make a close rabbeted or lapped joint. Shop drawings: Drawings prepared for a fabricator to use in a workshop. Based on Working Drawings, but with full dimensions, and extended to show each piece of work individually. [Syan] 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.) Shoring A temporary support erected in a trench or other excavation to support the walls from caving in. Shutter Usually lightweight louvered or flush wood or nonwood frames in the form of doors located at each side of a window. Some are made to close over the window for protection; others are fastened to the wall as a decorative device. Siding The finish covering of the outside wall of a frame building, whether made of horizontal weatherboards, vertical boards with battens, shingles, or other material. 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. Sill The lowest member of the frame of a structure, resting on the foundation and supporting the floor joists or the uprights of the wall. The member forming the lower side of an opening, as a door sill. window sill. etc. Single Family Dwelling (SFD) A house built for the purpose of a single family as opposed to multi families such as a duplex or apartment complex. 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. Single-line chart: Diagram which shows with single lines only, in a simplified way, the composition of an electrical installation. [ISO CD 10209-3] Single-line diagram: Diagram which shows with single lines only, in a simplified way, the composition of a service installation. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Site (Ifc): A defined area of land, possibly covered with water, on which the project construction is to be completed. A site may be used to erect building(s) or other AEC products. [IAI] Site assembly: Putting together Components on Site. [BS6100] Site coverage: The proportion of a site covered by buildings. [NDADP] Site layout plan: Drawing which specifies the scope and disposition of site land, site limits, buildings, roads, type of coverings of ground, vegetation, levels, etc. [ISO CD 10209-3] Site measurement drawing: Drawing which specifies site limits and the position of existing and planned buildings. [ISO CD 10209-3] Site plan: Location drawing giving the position of construction works in relation to the setting out points, the means of access and the general layout of a site. It may also contain information on service networks, road work and the landscape. [ISO 10209-1/4] Site reviewer: is a person who verifies by comparing the design and the accompanying specifications with the object being built. [CSC HSC Level 1 Chapter 11] Site services: In their agreement with an owner, the consultant often provides site services; consultants do NOT inspect the work; they review it. Review is much less formal or demanding than inspect. Authorities having jurisdiction inspect the work; consultants review the work. [W2] Site: Area occupied by a Facility. [Suggested alternative] Site: Area of land or water where Construction Work or other development is undertaken. [ISO 6717-1 and BS6100] Sketch: Drawing commonly prepared freehand and not necessarily to scale. [ISO 10209-1/4] Space: Three dimensional, material construction result contained within, or otherwise associated with, a building or other construction entity. A space may be bounded physically or notionally. . [ISO/DIS 12006-2] Sky Dome A type of skylight 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.(US). Concrete slab placed on compacted granular fill (CAN). 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. Sleeper Usually, a wood member embedded in concrete, as in a floor, that serves to support and to fasten subfloor or flooring. Slope Incline or pitch of roof surface. Sloped Glazing Any installation of glass that is at a slope of 15 degrees or more from vertical. Slump Test 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.



Soffit The underside of a overhanging cornice of a building extending out from the plane of the building walls. Softening Point Soil Cover (or Ground Cover) A light covering of plastic film, roll roofing, or similar material used over the soil in crawl spaces of buildings to minimize moisture permeation of the area. Soil Stack A general term for the vertical main of a system of soil, waste, or vent piping. Sole Plate bottom horizontal member of a frame wall. Solid Bridging A solid member placed between adjacent floor joists near the center of the span to prevent joists from twisting. Space (Ifc): A Space represents an area or volume bounded actually or theoretically. Spaces are areas or volumes that provide for certain functions within a building. [IAI] 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 structural supports such as walls, columns, piers, beams, girders, and trusses. Spandrel The panels of a wall located between vision areas of windows, which conceal structural columns, floors, and shear walls. Special construction drawing: Drawing which comprises installations of acoustics, geotechnique, lifts, cooling, kitchen, transport and security or similar, and which are normally drawn by a constructional engineer. [ISO CD 10209-3] Special provisions: Revisions to the Standard and Supplemental Specifications applicable to an individual project. [AASHTO] Specific Concept: Subordinate concept in a generic relation. [ISO 1087] Specific: A specific object is an instance of an object that can play a particular role. It is a generic or reference object used in the definition of other objects. [ISO WD 10303] Specification Detailed written instructions which, when clear and concise, explain each phase of work to be done. Specification: A description, for contract purposes, of the materials and workmanship required in a structure, as also shown by the related working drawings. The written material containing the standard provisions and special provisions, as may be necessary, pertaining to the quantities and qualities of materials to be furnished under the contract. [NAWIC] Specification: A detailed and exact statement of particulars, especially a statement prescribing materials, dimensions, and workmanship for something to be built or installed. [Means] Specification: A detailed description of the particulars of some projected work in building, engineering, or the like, giving the dimensions, materials, quantities, etc., of the work, together with directions to be followed by the builder or constructor; the document containing this ... [The Shorter Oxford] Specification: A document containing a formal, explicit, precisely detailed, definitive statement of particulars forming the benchmark for a detailed description of requirements. [W2] Specification: A document that defines the qualitative requirements for systems, products, materials, and workmanship upon which a construction contract is based. Specifications are part of the project manual. Specifications also describe administrative procedures that relate to both drawings and specifications. [W2] Specification: A precise, exact statement of facts by which one describes, to the minutest degree, the characteristics or peculiarities of a particular item or requirement. [W2] Specification: A written contractual description of project requirements identifying the materials, products, or systems required for a facility, their quality, workmanship, and their installation criteria; may also include schedules. [W2] Specification: A written document with technical directions and conditions describing the quality of materials and standard of workmanship of the project or parts of a project. It deals with items that cannot be shown on drawings or in the schedules and is normally presented in a sequence of Trades. The Specification forms part of the Tender Documents and, with agreed modifications (if



any), of the Contract Documents. [GBT] Specification: Domain information for incorporation into a model. [IAI Release 2.0] Specifications (The): are that portion of the Contract Documents consisting of the written requirements for materials, equipment, construction systems, standards and workmanship for the Work, and performance of related services. [AIA A201] Specifications: Documents that define the qualitative requirements for products, materials, and workmanship upon which the contract for construction is based. [Means] Specifications: Those portions of the Contract Documents consisting of written technical descriptions of materials, equipment, construction systems, standards and workmanship as applied to the Work and certain administrative details applicable thereto. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.36] Specified product: specified products listed as 'no substitution' in various sections are to be supplied as specified. [PWGSC NMS 01005] Specifier: A consultant, architect, engineer, interior designer, landscape consultant, specification consultant, or some other specialist consultant; each of whom draft or create a specification of requirements. [W2] Specifier: A contemporary term for a specification writer. Specifier: An individual (employee) within a design firm OR a specialist third party consultant whose primary function is to prepare specifications and other constituent parts of the project manual. [W2] Specifier: One who writes or prepares specifications. [Means] Specify: 1) To speak or make relation of some matter fully or in detail...2) To mention, speak of, or name (something) definitely or explicitly...3) To set down or state categorically or particularly... 3) to relate in detail...4) To invest with a specific character. [Oxford] Specify: To detail explicitly in such a way as to distinguish or stipulate; applicable to expressing requirements in a specification. [W2] Specify: To state specifically or unambiguously. [American Heritage Electronic Dictionary] Specs: Contraction of specifications. [Means] Splash Block A small masonry block laid with the top close to the ground surface to receive roof drainage from downspouts and to carry it away from the building. Splitting The formation of long cracks completely through a membrane. Splits are frequently associated with lack of allowance for expansion stresses. They can also Spud The removal of gravel or heavy accumulations of bitumen from roof membranes by means of chipping or scraping. Square A unit of measure, e.g., 100 square feet, usually applied to roofing material. Sidewall coverings are sometimes packed to cover 100 square feet and are sold on that basis. 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. Stain A form of oil paint, very thin in consistency, intended for coloring wood with rough surfaces, such as shingles, without forming a coating of significant thickness or gloss. Stair Carriage Supporting member for stair treads. Usually a 2-inch plank notched to receive the treads; sometimes called a "rough horse." Stakeholder: An individual or group of individuals with a common interest in the performance of the supplier organization and the environment in which it operates. [ISO 10006] Standard Plans: Detailed drawings approved for repetitive use. [AASHTO] Standard specification: A book of specifications approved for general application and repetitive use. [AASHTO] Standard specification: A book of specifications that are standardized such that editing for project requirements is not required. [W2] Standard: That which establishes by authority, custom, or general consent as a model or example. [Webster’s Dictionary 2nd Edit] Standards: means a grade or level of quality ... also means having wide acceptance or recognition. A standard is really a specification prepared by some third party organization. [CSC CSH]



Standing Seam A type of joint often used on metal roofs. State diagram: A form of finite state machine used to describe the dynamic behaviour of a type. [AUP] State transition: A change of state of an object; something that can be signalled by an event. [AUP] State: The condition of an object between events. [AUP] Static Load The total amount of permanent non moving weight that is applied to given surface areas. Status: An attribute for identifying in which stage of life a physical part currently is. [January - based on ISO CD 13567-1] Statutory Maintenance: Maintenance that must be carried out to meet statutory requirements. [NCRB] 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. 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. Step Flashing 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. STEP: Standard for the exchange of Product model data. [CIPM/LU/TP/8] Stile a) An upright framing member in a panel door. b)The side frame members of a door or window (not the jamb). Stipulated price: Amount set forth in a Stipulated Price Contract as the total payment for the performance of the Work. [CCDC Bulletin #9] 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." Stool A flat molding fitted over the window sill between jambs and contacting the bottom rail of the lower sash. Storey height: Height measured from floor finish to floor finish. For single-storey buildings and the top floor of multi-storey buildings, the height shall be measured from floor finish to notional floor finish (level at which the next floor would be likely if there was one). Storey height: Height measured from floor finish to floor finish. For single-storey buildings and top floor of multi-storied buildings, the height shall be measured from floor finish to underside of ceiling finish. [BCIS Jul 1971] 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. Story That part of a building between any floor and the floor or roof next above. 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 (or Stringer) A timber or other support for cross members in floors or ceilings. In stairs, the support on which the stair treads rest; also stringboard. String Line A nylon line usually strung tightly between supports to indicate both direction and elevation, used in checking grades or deviations in slopes or rises. Used in landscaping to level the ground. String: A value that is alphanumeric eg ABC, abc, abc123, etc. [IAI Release 2.0] Strip Flooring Wood flooring consisting of narrow, matched strips.



Structural engineering drawing: Drawing which comprises structural frames, non-structural frames and reinforcements with their dimensions. [Adapted from ISO CD 10209-3/4] Structural frame drawing: Drawing of a structure that relies wholly or mainly on a frame for strength and stability. [ISO CD 10209-4] 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. Structure: Organised combination of connected parts designed to provide some measure of rigidity, or a Construction Works having such an arrangement. [BS6100] Structures: Bridges, culverts, catch basins, drop inlets, retaining walls, cribbing, manholes, end walls, buildings, sewers, service pipes, underdrains, foundation drains, and similar features that may be encountered in the work. [AASHTO] Stucco A type of exterior finish. Most commonly refers to an outside plaster made with Portland cement as its base. Stud One of a series of wood or metal vertical structural members placed as supporting elements in walls and partitions. Sub Types: Entities that inherit the Attributes of their supertype entity but with additional attributes to distinguish them from the supertype. [Woestenenk] Sub-assembly drawing: Assembly drawing on a lower structural level showing only a limited number of groups or parts. [ISO 10209-1/4] Subassembly: A portion or subclass of an ASSEMBLY. [W2] Subclass: A class that inherits property and behaviours from a parent or higher level class (superclass). [IAI Release 2.0] Subclass: A specialization of another class (the superclass). A subclass inherits the attributes and methods of the superclass. [AUP] Subconsultant: A professional consultant commissioned by a Prime Consultant to assist in the planning, design, and preparation of detail drawings and specifications for a portion of the work for bidding, awarding, and site reviewing a construction contract for a new or renovated facility. [W2] Subcontract: An agreement between two parties involved in a construction contract where neither party is the owner. [W2] Sub-contract: Contract to carry out part of a larger contract. [BS 1192, ISO DIS 10209-4] Subcontractor A contractor who specializes in a particular trade such as waterproofing. Subcontractor: A company or single person providing consultancy services to the engineering consultancy company. [FIDIC – 9001] Subcontractor: A person or entity having a direct contract with the Contractor to perform a part or parts of the Work, or to supply Products worked to a special design for the Work. [Adapted from CCDC 2 1994] Subcontractor: A person, firm, or corporation contracting directly with the general contractor to assist with constructing portions of the facility. [W2] Subelement: A subclass of Element. [January] Subelemental Cost Analysis: Analysis of the tender cost of a Project using a detailed Subelemental cost breakdown as in the Cost Plan. [NPWC] Subfloor Boards or plywood laid on joists over which a finish floor is to be laid. Subordinate Concept: Concept in a hierarchical system, which can be grouped together with at least one more concepts of the same level to form a higher, ranking concept. [ISO 1087] Subrogation: The substitution of one person in the place of another with reference to lawful claim, demand or right, so that he who is substituted succeeds to the rights of the other in relation to the debt or claim, and its rights, remedies, or securities. [Black's] Sub-Rough That part of a building¹s plumbing system that is done before the cement is poured. Substantial completion: is the stage in the process of the Work when the Work or designated portion thereof is sufficiently complete in accordance with the Contract Documents so the Owner can occupy or utilize the Work for its intended use. [AIA A201 - GC 9.8.1] Substantial completion: The Work (or a specified part thereof) has progressed to the point where, in the opinion of Engineer as evidenced by Engineer's definitive certificate of Substantial Completion, it is sufficiently complete, in accordance with the Contract Documents, so that the



Work (or specified part) can be utilized for the purposes for which it is intended; or if no such certificate is issued, when the Work is complete and ready for final payment as evidenced by Engineer's written recommendation of final payment in accordance with paragraph 14.13. The term "substantially complete" and "substantially completed" as applied to all or part of the Work refer to Substantially Completion thereof. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.38] Substantial performance of the work: Substantial Performance of the Work is as defined in the lien legislation applicable to the Place of the Work. If such legislation is not in force or does not contain such definition, Substantial Performance of the Work shall have been reached when the Work is ready for use or is being used for the purpose intended and is so certified by the Consultant. [CCDC 2] Substantive Project Description: Description of the Project in its current state. The actual or achieved description of the Facility. [NCRB] Substitution: A material, product, or item of equipment in place of that specified. [AIA] Substitution: A Product that is exchanged for another of the same function. [W2] Substitution: A proposal by bidders to provide products, materials, and equipment not originally specified; for consideration by the owner after contract award. [W2] Substitution: A proposal from a contractor to provide a product, material, or item of equipment not specified in the contract documents but functionally equivalent and readily exchangeable to a specified item; for consideration by the consultant and owner after contract award. Substitutions usually do not affect the bid price nor will they affect contract time. Refer also to ALTERNATIVES that differ from SUBSTITUTIONS. [W2] Substrate A part or substance which lies below and supports another. Substructure - bridge: All of the structure below the bearings of simple and continuous spans, skewbacks of arches and tops of footings of rigid frames, including back walls, wing walls, and wing protection railings. [AASHTO] Subsystem: A physical subclass of a SYSTEM. [W2] Subtype: A specialization of another type (the supertype) that conforms to the intension and extension of the supertype [AUP] Successful bidder: the lowest, responsible and responsive Bidder to whom Owner (on the basis of Owner's evaluation as hereinafter provided) makes an award. [EJCDC - Guide] Superclass: A class from which another class inherits attributes and methods. [AUP] Superclass: A higher level or parent class having one or more subclasses. [IAI Release 2.0] Superintendent: means the employee of the Contractor who is designated by the Contractor to act pursuant to GC19. [DCC and Government of Canada] Superordinate Concept: Concept in a hierarchical system, which can be subdivided into a number of lower ranking concepts. [ISO 1087] Superstructure - bridge: The entire structure except the SUBSTRUCTURE. [AASHTO] Supertype: An a generalization-specialization relation, the more general type; an object that has subtypes. [AUP] Supervise: To carefully and closely monitor the work. [W2] Supervise: to oversee, have the oversight of, superintend the execution or performance of a thing ... [Oxford Short] Supplemental agreement: A written agreement signed by the Department and the Contractor for the performance of work beyond the scope of the original Contract that the Department elects to perform in conjunction with the existing Contract. [AASHTO] Supplemental instruction: An instruction, not involving adjustment in the Contract Price or Contract Time, in the form of specifications, drawings, schedules, samples, models or written instructions, consistent with the intent of the Contract Documents. It is to be issued by the Consultant to supplement the Contract Documents as required for the performance of the Work. [CCDC 2 1994] Supplemental specifications: Approved additions and revisions to the Standard Specifications. [AASHTO] Supplementary conditions: A part of the Contract Documents which supplements and may also modify, change, add to or delete from provisions of the General Conditions. [AIA Glossary] Supplementary conditions: A special supplementary document used to amend or add



conditions to a preprinted General Conditions document. [W2] Supplementary conditions: Prepared to revise or add to the standard pre-printed General Conditions and to address specific requirements of the project. [CSC HSC Level 1 Part 2] Supplementary conditions: The part of the Contract Documents that amends or supplements the General Conditions. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.39] Supplementary general conditions: An antiquated term abandoned in favour of Supplementary Conditions; refer to GENERAL CONDITIONS. [W2] Supplier: A manufacturer, fabricator, supplier, distributor, material-man or vendor having a direct contract with Contractor or with any Subcontractor to furnish materials or equipment to be incorporated in the Work by Contractor or any Subcontractor. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.40] Supplier: A person or entity who supplies materials or equipment for the work, including that fabricated to a special design, but who does not perform labour at the site. [AIA] Supplier: A person, firm, or corporation that supplies materials or equipment to be included in the work, but does not perform labour at the place of the work. [W2] Supplier: A Supplier is a person or entity having a direct contract with the Contractor to supply Products not worked to a special design for the Work. [CCDC 2 1994] Supplier: The engineering consultancy company. [FIDIC 9001] Supply bond: A bond by which a surety guarantees that goods or materials will be furnished by a supplier. [AIA] Supply: means to acquire or purchase, ship or transport to the site, unload, remove packaging to permit inspection for damage, re-package, replace damaged items, and store on-site. [W2] Supply: To supply and deliver to project site, ready for installation. [CSI FF/170SL] Support Process: The Activities involved in functionally supporting a Facility or part thereof during its life following the Procurement Process, such as those arising from Operation, Maintenance and Rehabilitation. [Adapted from NCRB] Surety: The surety (the bonding company) is the party who guarantees the performance of the principal (contractor). In essence, the surety agrees to be bound to the obligations of the principal (the construction contract) should the principal fail to perform the requirements of the contract. [W2] Survey drawing: Drawing that records measurements of an existing drawing. [ISO CD 10209-3] Suspended Ceiling A ceiling system supported by hanging it from the overhead structural framing. System of Concepts: Structured set of concepts established according to the relations between them, each concept being determined by its position in this set. [ISO 1087] System: A physical part of a facility with a characteristic function for which the technical solution and form of construction have been determined. [W2] The temperature at which a substance changes from a hard material to a softer and more viscous material.



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter T

Tabular drawing: Drawing, in the form of a table, listing items with similar form but different features. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Technical drawing: Technical information, given on an information carrier, graphically presented in accordance with agreed rules and usually to scale. (synonym = drawing). [ISO 10209-1] Technical Performance: The susceptibility (behaviour, durability or serviceability) of the physical components of a Facility and its Elements and materials to the environment. And, conversely, the susceptibility of the environment to them. [Adapted from NCRB] Technical specification: A term sometimes used to identify the specification sections within Divisions 2 to 16 inclusive. Tempered glass: Annealed glass that has been cut to size, heated up to 620o C then cooled quickly with jets of cold air. The outer layer contracts and solidifies before the inner core, and when the inside eventually cools and shrinks, it pulls on the outer layer resulting in a very stable and strong piece of glass up to 5 times stronger than annealed glass. However there is a lot of energy stored in the glass, contained by the outer layer, such then if and when the outer layer does fail there is a spectacular explosion or shattering of the glass. Tender: Written offer to execute at a stated price or rate an order for the supply of goods or services or the execution of works in given conditions. [ISO 6707-2, BS 1192, ISO DIS 10209-4] Tender: A term that was formally abandoned by CCDC (and the industry) in the early 1980's in favour of the preferred term BID. Tender is a term still used by many government and public agencies. [W2] Tender Construction Program: The initial version of the master construction program prepared during the tender period to enable the main contractor to appreciate the important time and resource considerations of the project in terms suitable to the preparation and submission of his tender. [AIB] Tender Documents: Documents submitted for the compiling of tenders such as Bills of Quantities, Drawings, Specifications and Contract Conditions. [AIB] Tender Finalisation: The action taken by management to convert an estimate into a tender. [AIB] Tender Sum: The total sum of money forming part of the tender. [AIB] Tender Timetable: The timetable for the preparation of the estimate, all necessary supporting actions and for the subsequent conversion of the estimate into a tender and submission by the date stipulated in the tender documents. [AIB] Tendering Process: The Activities involved in the selection and appointment of a contractor. [January] Term: Designation of a defined concept in a special language by a linguistic expression. [ISO 1087] Termination: End in time or existence, close, cessation, conclusion. [Black's] Termination for cause: Where one party concludes a contract because the other party has caused significant disruption or delay to the progress of the contract. [W2] Termination for convenience: Where one party concludes a contract because some other third party has caused a situation or prompted conditions that require termination of the contract. [W2] Terminological dictionary: Dictionary containing the terminological data from one or more specific subject fields. [ISO 1087] Terminology: Set of terms representing the system of concepts of a particular subject field. [ISO 1087] Terminology science: The scientific study of the concepts and terms found in special languages. [ISO 1087] Third party: One not a party to an agreement or to a transaction but who may have rights therein. [Black's] Third party: Someone other than the original parties involved in a contract, claim, or legal action. [AIA]



Total Paid Rate: The award rate paid to workers and normal fairs. [AIB] Total quality management: the consistent integrated orchestration of the total complex of an organization's work processes and activities to achieve continuous improvement in the organization's processes and products. [AACE] Traffic and parking plan: Plan that shows traffic movement routes and areas for parking. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Travelled way: The portion of the right-of-way designated for the movement of vehicles, exclusive of shoulders and auxiliary lanes. [AASHTO] Type: A set of like objects with attributes and operations but may not include any methods. [UML BJR97] Type Activity: Activity that yields a certain result. [SBC] Type of Characteristic: Any category of characteristics used as a criterion for the establishment of a generic system of concepts. [ISO 1087] Type Result: Certain result of an Activity. [SBC] Typical: A generic or reference instance of the object. A specific object may be defined by reference to a typical object. [ISO WD 10303]



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter U

Unacceptable workmanship: Determined not satisfactory by the reviewing authority associated with the contract. [W2] Unbalanced bid, materially: A bid that generates a reasonable doubt that award to the bidder submitting a mathematically unbalanced bid will result in the lowest ultimate cost to the department. [AASHTO] Unbalanced bid, mathematically: A bid containing lump sum or unit bid items that do not reflect reasonably actual costs plus a reasonable proportionate share of the bidder's anticipated profit, overhead costs, and other indirect costs. [AASHTO] Unit of Measurement: The basis for uniformly quantifying units of material, work and effort either separately or in combination. [NPWC] Unit price: Individual prices for units of work; may be the basis for unit prices as they apply to extra work authorized by a consultant in a stipulated price contract OR may be the basis for a Unit Price Contract which comprises the sum of all individual unit prices. Refer also to UNIT PRICE CONTRACT. Unit price: Price that may be used to adjust the Contract Price for an addition or deletion to the Work. [CCDC Bulletin #9] Unit price arrangement: means that part of the contract that prescribes the product of a price multiplied by a number of units of measurement of a class as payment for performance of the work to which it relates. [DCC and Government of Canada] Unit price contract: A contract type under which payment is made on the basis of performing work to unit prices established for quantities of Work actually executed. Refer also to PRICES. [W2] Unit price work: Work to be paid for on the basis of unit prices. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.42] Unit Rate: Cost divided by the quantity of the appropriate Unit of Measurement. [NPWC] Upper floors: All floors above the Ground floor. Usable Floor Area: The sum of the floor areas of a facility measured at floor level from the general inside face of external walls of all interior or covered spaces related to the primary function of the building. Note: This will normally be computed by calculating the "Gross Floor Area" (GFA) and deducting all of the following areas supplementary to the primary function of the facility: (a) Common Use Areas All floored areas for circulation and standard facilities provided for the common use of all occupiers, tenants and/or the public such as lobbies and foyers to entrances; stairways, lifts, landings and fire escapes; corridors and passages; toilets and common amenities; cleaner's rooms, stores and cupboards. (b) Service Areas All areas set aside for plant supplying services and facilities for the use of occupants, tenants and/or the public, such as mechanical plant rooms; electrical equipment and switch rooms; refuse collection areas; loading bays; car parks and access thereto. (c) Non-habitable Areas All non-habitable areas such as those occupied by internal columns and other structural supports, internal walls and permanent partitions, lift shafts, service ducts and the like. [adapted from NPWC] Usable floor area: Total area of all enclosed spaces fulfilling the main functional requirements of the building (eg office space, shop space, public house drinking area, etc.) [BCIS Jul 1971] Use: The way or ways in which the realised Facility is operated and utilised. [ISO TR 14177] Use case: A narrative, textual description of the sequence of events and actions that occur when a user participates in a dialog with a system during a meaningful process. [AUP] User: Person, animal or object that a building is designed to accommodate. [ISO 6241] User Requirement: Statement of need to be fulfilled (by a building). [ISO 6241]



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter H

Validation [ISO 8402] Value: The property of a thing because of which it is esteemed, desirable, or useful, or the degree of this property possessed; worth, merit, or importance; ... estimated worth or equivalent return. [Macquarie Dictionary 1985] Valuation: Estimated asset value that depends on the purpose for which it is required. For example, it may be Asset Replacement Value for determining maintenance levels or Market Value for Life Cycle Costing. [NCRB Glossary] Value added taxes: Value Added Taxes means such sum as shall be levied upon the Contract Price by the Federal or any Provincial Government and is computed as a percentage of the Contract Price and includes the Goods and Services Tax, the Quebec Sales Tax and any similar tax, the payment or collection of which is by the legislation imposing such tax an obligation of the Contractor. [CCDC 2 1994] Value analysis: The process of evaluating products or systems for initial cost, long term costs, replacement costs, and expected longevity of service; for the purpose of identifying best value for dollars spent. [W2] Value analysis: A systematic effort, or engineering study, to analyse and evaluate the value of certain systems and components to achieve the basic function at the lowest cost consistent with the project requirements. [CMAA] Value engineering: A practice function targeted at the design itself, which has as its objective the development of design of a facility or item that will yield least life-cycle costs or provide greatest value while satisfying all performance and other criteria established for it. [AACE] See also VALUE ANALYSIS. Valuing: See Evaluation. Vendor: A person who transfers a property by sale, particularly real estate; "seller" being more commonly used for one who sells personally. ... a merchant, a retail dealer, a supplier, one who buys to sell. [Black's] Ventilation, sanitation and heating drawing: Drawing which comprises systems of water, sewage, sprinkler, gas- and compressed air, cooling and heating pump, heating and air conditioning, and which is normally drawn by a designer of such installations. [ISO CD 10209-3] Verification [ISO 8402] View: Orthogonal projection showing the visible part of an object and also, if necessary, its hidden outlines. [ISO 10209-1] Visibility: The ability to see or have reference to an object. [AUP] Vocabulary: Terminological dictionary containing the terminology of a specific subject field or of related subject fields and based on terminology work. [ISO 1087] (Admitted term: glossary]



A glossary of building and construction terminology beginning with the letter W

Wall to Floor Ratio: A measure of plan efficiency computed by dividing the face area of the external surfaces of a Building (excluding gable walls, parapet walls and walls below lowest floor finished level) by the Fully Enclosed Covered Area and expressing the result as a ratio to 1. [NPWC] Wall to floor ratio: Calculated by dividing the external wall area by the gross floor area to three decimal places. [BCIS Jul 1971] Warrantee: A person to whom a warranty is made. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] Warrantor: One who makes a warranty. Any supplier or other person who gives or offers to give a written warranty or who is or may be obligated under an implied warranty. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6] Warranty: A promise made by a seller or contractor responsible for work performed under a contract that the work performed is fit for the purpose intended and is free from structural, electrical, mechanical, and other defects. [Means] Warranty: An undertaking, express or implied, given by one of the parties to a contract to the other, that they will be answerable for the truth of some statement incidental to the contract. Warranty of title: is an implied promise that the seller owns the item offered for sale:

the title conveyed shall be good, its transfer rightful, the goods are expected to be delivered free from any security interest or other lien or

encumbrance for which the buyer at the time of contracting has no knowledge. [CSC RSW HSC Level 3 Part 6]

Water supply and sewerage drawing: Drawing which comprises external water and sewerage installations and in certain cases also installations in houses. [ISO CD 10209-3/4] Weasel clause: A very imprecise phrase that contains usually unenforceable (hold harmless or exculpatory) statements intended to require the contractor to perform work not envisioned or specifically identified when the specifications or drawings were prepared. When used in specifications, it usually means the specification author was not sure of what to specify or how to specify it. [W2] Wild-carding: A technique used to search for character strings by using reserved characters meaning "any character" or "any combination of characters" as part of the search string. [ISO CD 13567-1] Window schedule: Component range drawing of windows and window doors including their hardware, and which may contain information in the form of a table. [ISO DIS 10209-4] Work: A CCDC definition of the total construction and related services required by the Contract Documents. The 'W' is capitalized when the word 'Work' is used in the project manual to refer to the whole project; it is not capitalized when using the word as a verb or to mean only a smaller portion of the whole project. [W2] Work: The Work means the total construction and related services required by the Contract Documents. [CCDC 2 1994] (The) Work: means the construction and services required by the Contract Documents, whether completed or partially completed, and includes all other labour, materials, equipment and services provided or to be provided by the Contractor to fulfill the Contractor's obligations. [AIA A201] Work: The entire completed construction or the various separately identifiable parts thereof required to be furnished under the Contract Documents. Work includes and is the result of performing or furnishing labour and furnishing and incorporating materials and equipment into the construction, and performing or furnishing services and furnishing documents, all as required by the Contract Documents. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.43] Work: it applies to the completed construction and is the result of performing services, furnishing labour and furnishing and incorporating materials and equipment into the construction. This definition differs somewhat from that contained in the widely used AIA General Conditions, N0.



A201, but the emphasis of both is that the work is a result of a particular contractor's services and labour and the application of materials and equipment, whereas the term 'Project' encompasses the total construction of which the particular Contractor's work may only be a part. In the Contract Documents, the term 'Work' is used with an initial capital and refers to what the Contractor is to provide. When the term is used without an initial capital the use is not in the defined sense; rather reference is made to services, labour, materials and equipment to be provided by persons other than the Contractor. [EJCDC Commentary on Agreements] Work: In contract documents, the completed construction required by the contract, including all labour, materials, and equipment. [Means] Work: (1) All labour and materials required to complete a project in accordance with the contract documents. (2) The product of a force times the distance travelled. [Means] Work: includes, subject only to any express stipulation in the contract to the contrary, everything that is necessary to be done, furnished or delivered by the Contractor to perform the contract. [DCC and Government of Canada] Work: The furnishing of all labour, materials, and other incidentals necessary to complete the work under the Contract. [AASHTO] Work Activity: The summation of all Work Items associated with the one Core Object (qv) or similar core objects that belong to the same Work Group. [January] Work change directive: A written directive to Contractor, issued on or after the Effective Date of the Agreement and signed by Owner and recommended by Engineer, ordering an addition, deletion or revision in the Work, or responding to differing or unforeseen physical conditions under which the Work is to be performed as provided in paragraph 4.2 or 4.3 or to emergencies under paragraph 6.23. A Work Change Directive will not change the Contract Price or Contract Time, but is evidence that the parties expect that the change directed or documented by a Work Change Directive will be incorporated in a subsequently issued Change Order following negotiations by the parties as to its effect, if any, on the Contract Price or Contract Times as provided in paragraph 10.2. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.44] Work Group: Work packages collectively requiring similar trade skills, expertise or appropriate licence, eg plumbing. [January] Work group (Ifc): A grouping of work tasks into a designated group. [IAI] Work item: A single item of construction (maintenance, operation, demolition) activity usually in combination with products, or materials, and construction aids undertaken by one person or a team, eg pouring concrete slab. [January] Work order: A written directive to the Contractor, signed by the Engineer, to perform changed work, extra work, or any other additional work within the scope of the original contract. Any adjustments to compensation or time because of a work order will be established by a change order. [AASHTO] Work Package: The summation of Work Items, Work Activities and Work Sections into packages appropriate to subcontracting. [January] Work process: Predominant construction process which results in a work result. [ISO/DIS 12006-2] Work result: Construction result achieved in the production stage or by subsequent alteration, maintenance, or demolition processes and identified by one or more of the following:

the particular skill or trade involved; the construction resources used; the part of the construction entity which results; the temporary work or other preparatory or completion work which results.

[ISO/DIS 12006-2]

Work Section: The summation of similar Work Items across all Core Objects. [January] Work Section: One or several physical parts of a Facility viewed as the result of particular skills and techniques applied to particular Construction Products and/or Designed Elements during the Production Process. [Adapted from ISO TR 14177]



Work Section: One or several physical parts of a construction works, viewed as the result of particular skills and techniques applied to particular construction products and/or elements during the production process. [ISO/TC59/SC13/N75] Work task (Ifc): An identifiable unit of work to be carried out independently of any other units of work. [IAI] Working day: Working Day means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday that is observed by the construction industry in the area of the Place of the Work. [CCDC 2 1994] Working Drawings: A set of drawings issued for construction, showing the detailed architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, landscaping or other design solutions and details for a project. [GBT] Workmanship: the performance or execution of work or a work; ... that which is wrought or made by a workman or craftsman; ... something produced; ... skill or cunning as a workman; ... craftsmanship as exhibited in a piece of work'. [Shorter Oxford] Workmanship: The quality of work performed. [Means] Written amendment: A written amendment of the Contract Documents, signed by Owner and Contractor on or after the Effective Date of the Agreement and normally dealing with the non-engineering and non-technical rather than strictly construction-related aspects of the Contract Documents. [EJCDC 1910-8 Article 1.45]