Glossary
Abatement Reducing the degree or intensity of or eliminating pollution.
Absorption The process by which incident light energy is converted to another form of energy, usually heat.
Absorption Rate The rate at which rentable space is filled. Absorption is equal to the amount occupied at the end of a period minus the amount occupied at the beginning of a period.
Access Aisle An accessible pedestrian space between elements, such as parking spaces, seating, and desks, which provides clearances appropriate for use of the elements.
Accessible Describes a site, building, facility, or portion thereof that complies with these guidelines.
Accessible Route A continuous unobstructed path connecting all accessible elements and spaces of a building or facility. Interior accessible routes may include corridors, floors, ramps, elevators, lifts, and clear floor space at fixtures. Exterior accessible routes may include parking access aisles, curb ramps, crosswalks at vehicular ways, walks, ramps, and lifts.
Acid Rain The precipitation of dilute solutions of strong mineral acids, formed of various industrial pollutants that mix in the earth’s atmosphere. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides mix with naturally occurring oxygen and water vapor.
Acrylics A family of plastics used for fibers, rigid sheets, and paints.
Adaptability A design strategy that takes into account potentially different future functions in a space as need evolve and change. Adaptable design should be considered a sustainable/green building strategy because it minimizes the need to resort to major renovations or demolition of a structure to meet future needs.
Adapted Plants Plants that reliably grow well in a given habitat with minimal attention from humans in the form of winter protection, pest protection, water irrigation, or fertilization once root systems are established in the soil. Adapted plants are considered to be low maintenance but not invasive.
Addendum A written or graphic instruction issued by the architect prior to the execution of the contract which modifies or interprets the bidding documents by additions, deletions, clarifications, or corrections. An addendum becomes part of the contract documents when the contract is executed.
Adhesive Any substance that is used to bond one surface to another surface by attachment. Adhesives include adhesive bonding primers, adhesive primers, and any other primer.
Adobe A heavy clay soil used in many southwestern states to make sun-dried bricks.
Advances Payments made by the “special” servicer when the borrower fails to make a payment.
Advisor A person or organization who, pursuant to a contractual agreement, provides analysis of proposed investments, servicing of the real estate portfolio, and other advisory services.
Agency (1) Relationship between agent and principal. (2) Organization acting as agent. (3) Administrative subdivision of an organization, particular in government.
Agent One authorized by another to act in the other stead or behalf.
Agreement (1) A meeting of minds. (2) A legally enforceable promise or promises between two or among several persons. (3) On a construction project, the document stating the essential terms of the Contract between Owner and Contractor which incorporates by reference the other Contract Documents. (4) The document setting forth the terms of the Contract between the Architect and Owner or between the Architect and a consultant. Agreement and Contract are often used interchangeably without any intended change in meaning.
Aggregate Fine, lightweight, coarse, or heavyweight grades of sand, vermiculite, perlite, or gravel added to cement for concrete or plaster.
Air conditioning A process that simultaneously controls the temperature, moisture content, distribution, and quality of air.
Air filter A device designed to remove contaminants and pollutants from air passing through the device.
Air Handling Unit A mechanical unit used for air conditioning or movement of air as in direct supply or exhaust of air within a structure.
Air Pollution The presence of contaminants or pollutant substances in the air that may be hazardous to human health or welfare or produce other harmful environmental effects.
Aligned Section A section view in which some internal features are revolved into or out of the plane of the view.
Allergen A substance capable of causing an allergic reaction because of an individual’s sensitivity to that substance.
Alternating Current (AC) Electrical current that continually reverses direction of flow. The frequency at which it reverses is measured in cycles-per-second, or Hertz (Hz). The magnitude of the current itself is measured in amps (A).
Alternative Energy Environmentally sound energy that is not extensively used in the United States, such as solar or wind energy (as opposed to fossil fuels).
Alternative Fuels Transportation fuels other than gasoline or diesel, including natural gas, methanol, and electricity.
Alternator A device for producing Alternating Current (“AC”) electricity. Usually driven by a motor but can also be driven by other means, including water and wind power.
Ambient Lighting Lighting in an area from any source that produces general illumination, as opposed to task lighting.
Ambient Temperature The temperature of the surroundings.
American Bond Brickwork pattern consisting of five courses of stretchers followed by one bonding course of headers.
Ammeter A device used for measuring current flow at any point in an electrical circuit.
Amortizatio The liquidation of a financial debt through regular periodic installment payments; for tax purposes, the periodic deduction of capitalized expenses such as organization costs.
Ampere (A) or Amp The unit for the electric current; the flow of electrons. One amp is 1 C passing in 1 s. One amp is produced by an electric force of 1 V acting across a resistance of 1 ohm.
Analog The processing of data by continuously variable values.
Anchor The tenant that serves as the dominant draw to a commercial property. The largest tenant in a shopping center or mall.
Anemometer A device used to measure wind speed.
Angle of Incidence Angle between the normal to a surface and the direction of incident radiation; applies to the aperture plane of a solar panel. Only minor reductions in power output within plus/minus 15 degrees.
Animal Dander Tiny scales of animal skin.
ANSI The American National Standards Institute. ANSI is an umbrella organization that administers and coordinates the national voluntary consensus standards system. http://www.ansi.org/.
Appeal A formal written request to review the content of an exam question for accuracy, validity, or errors in content and grammar. Appeals must be specific to an exam question and must be submitted by the candidate to GBCI’s Accreditation Department within 10 days of the exam appointment. The appeal must describe the content of the exam question and, if possible, the nature of error. Exam scores are not modified under any conditions.
Appraisal An estimate of a property’s value (i.e., what the property would sell for if it was sold by a willing seller to a willing and fully informed buyer). This value is known in the industry the property’s “fair market value.”
Appreciation An increase in value or price of an asset.
Approval Written or imprinted acknowledgment that materials, equipment, or methods of construction are acceptable for use in the Work, or accepting a Contractor’s or Owner’s request or claim as valid.
Approved Equal Material, equipment, or method approved by the Architect for use in the work as being acceptable as an equivalent in essential attributes to the material, equipment, or method specified in the contract Documents.
Arc A portion of the circumference of a circle.
Architect’s Scale The scale used when dimensions or measurements are to be expressed in feet and inches.
Array A number of solar modules connected together in a single structure.
As-Built Drawings Record drawings completed by the contractor and turned over to the owner at the completion of a project, identifying any change or adjustments made to the conditions and dimensions of the work relative to the original plans and specifications.
Asphalt Shingles They are shingles made of asphalt or tar-impregnated paper with a mineral material embedded; very fire resistant.
Assumed Liability It is a liability which arises from an agreement between people, as opposed to liability which arises from common or statutory law. See also Contractual Liability.
ASTM International Formerly the American Society for Testing Materials. They develop and publish testing standards for materials and specifications used by industry. http://www.astm.org/.
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) The governmental body responsible for the enforcement of any part of the Standard codes or the official or agency designated to exercise such a function and/or the Architect.
Axial Load A weight that is distributed symmetrically to a supporting member, such as a column.
Axonometric Projection A set of three or more views in which the object appears to be rotated at an angle, so that more than one side is seen.
Backfill Any deleterious material (sand, gravel, etc.) used to fill an excavation.
Baffle A single opaque or translucent element used to diffuse or shield a surface from direct or unwanted light.
Ballasts Electrical “starters” required by certain lamp types, especially fluorescents.
Balloon Framing A system in wood framing in which the studs are continuous without an intermediate plate for the support of second-floor joists.
Balloon Loan A loan with a maturity that is shorter than their He amortization period.
Balloon Risk The risk that a borrower will not be able i.e., make a balloon (lump sum) payment at maturity due to a lack of funding.
Baluster A vertical member that supports handrails or guardrails.
Balustrades A horizontal rail held up by a series of balusters.
Banister That part of the staircase which fits on top of the balusters.
Bar Chart A calendar that graphically illustrates a projected time allotment to achieve a specific function.
Base A trim or molding piece found at the interior intersection of the floor and the wall.
Beam A weight-supporting horizontal member.
Base Building The core (common areas) and shell of the building and its systems that typically are not subject to improvements to suit tenant requirements.
Base Flashing Consists of flashing that covers the edges of a membrane.
Batten A narrow strip of wood used to cover a joint.
Batt Insulation An insulating material formed into sheets or rolls with a foil or paper backing to be installed between framing members.
Bearing Wall A wall which supports any vertical loads in addition to its own weight.
Benchmark A point of known elevation from which the surveyors can establish all their grades.
Bill Of Material A list of standard parts or raw materials needed to fabricate an item.
Bio-Based Materials derived from natural renewable resources such as corn, rice, or beets.
Biodegradable Waste material composed primarily of naturally occurring elements that are able to be broken down and absorbed naturally into the ecosystem.
Biodiversity The tendency in ecosystems, when undisturbed to have a great variety of species forming a complex web of interactions. Human population pressure and resource consumption tend to reduce biodiversity dangerously; diverse communities are less subject to catastrophic disruption.
Blackwater Wastewater generated from toilet flushing. Blackwater has a higher nitrogen and fecal coliform level than gray water. Some jurisdictions include water from kitchen sinks or laundry facilities in the definition of blackwater.
Blistering The condition that paint presents when air or moisture is trapped underneath and makes bubbles that break into flaky particles and ragged edges.
Blocking The use of internal members to provide rigidity in floor and wall systems. Also used for fire draft stops.
Blueprints Documents containing all the instructions necessary to manufacture a part. The key sections of a blueprint are the drawing, dimensions, and notes. Although blueprints used to be blue, modem reproduction techniques now permit printing of black-on-white as well as colors.
Board Foot A unit of lumber of measure equaling 144 cubic inches; the base unit (B.F.) is 1 inch thick and 12 inches square or 1 × 12 × 12 = 144 cubic inches.
Boiler Equipment designed to heat water or generate steam.
Bond In masonry, the interlocking system of brick or block to be installed.
Boundary Survey A mathematically closed diagram of the complete peripheral boundary of a site, reflecting dimensions, compass bearings, and angles. It should bear a licensed land surveyor’s signed certification and may include metes and bounds or other written description.
Breezeway A covered walkway with open sides between two different parts of a structure.
Brick Pavers A term used to describe special brick to be used on the floor surface.
British Thermal Unit (BTU) The amount of heat energy required to raise one pound of water from a temperature of 60°F to 61°F at 1 atm pressure. One watt hour equals 3413 BTU.
Building Codes Prevailing regulations, ordinances, or statutory requirements set forth by governmental agencies associated with building construction practices and owner occupancy, adopted and administered for the protection of public health, life safety, and welfare. Building codes are interpreted to include structural, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, life safety, and vertical transportation codes.
Building Density The total floor area of a building divided by the total area of the site (square feet per acre).
Building Envelope The enclosure of the building that protects the building’s interior from outside elements, namely the exterior walls, roof, and soffit areas.
Building Inspector A representative of a governmental authority employed to inspect construction for compliance codes, regulations, and ordinances.
Building Line An imaginary line determined by zoning departments to specify on which area of a lot a structure may be built (also known as a setback).
Building Permit A permit issued by appropriate governmental authority allowing construction of a project in accordance with approved Drawing and Specifications.
Building-Related Illness A diagnosable disease or illness that can be traced to a specific pollutant or source within a building (contrast with “Sick building syndrome”).
Building Systems Interacting or independent components or assemblies, which form single integrated units, that comprise a building and its site work, such as, pavement and flatwork, structural frame, roofing, exterior walls, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, etc.
Build-Out The interior construction and customization of a space (including services, space, and stuff) to meet the tenant’s requirements; either new construction or renovation (also referred to as fit-out or fit-up).
Build to Suit A property built to a tenant’s specifications.
By-Product Materials other than the intended product, generated as a result of an industrial process.
Caisson A below-grade concrete column for the support of beams or columns.
Callback A request by a project owner to the contractor to return to the job site to correct or redo some item of work.
Candela A common unit of light output from a source.
Cantilever A horizontal structural condition where a member extends beyond a support, such as a roof overhang.
Capillary The action by which the surface of a liquid, where it is in contact with a solid, is elevated or depressed.
Capital Gain The amount by which the net proceeds from resale of a capital item exceed the book value of the asset.
Capital Markets Public and/or private markets where businesses or individuals can raise or borrow capital.
Capitalization Rate The rate at which net operating income is discounted at to determine the value of a property. It is one method that is utilized to estimate property value. When two of three values are known (annual net operating income, cap rate, property value estimate) the calculations are as follows: Value = NOI/Cap Rate; NOI = Value × Cap Rate; Cap Rate = NOI/Value.
Carbon Footprint A measure of an individual’s, family’s, community’s, company’s, industry’s, product’s, or service’s overall contribution of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. It takes into account energy use, transportation methods, and other means of emitting carbon. A number of carbon calculators have been created to estimate carbon footprints, including one from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Carbon Sinks Carbon reservoirs and conditions that take in and store more carbon (carbon sequestration) than they release. Carbon sinks can serve to partially offset greenhouse gas emissions. Forests and oceans are common carbon sinks.
Carcinogens Substances that cause cancer in humans.
Casement A type of window hinged to swing outward.
Cash Flow The revenue remaining after all cash expenses are paid; non cash charges such as depreciation are not included in the calculation. See Net Cash Flow.
Catch Basin A complete drain box made in various depths and sizes; water drains into a pit, then from it through a pipe connected to the box.
Caulk Any type of material used to seal walls, windows, and doors to keep out the weather.
Cavity Wall A masonry wall formed with an air space between each exterior face.
Cement Plaster A plaster that is comprised of cement rather than gypsum.
Central HVAC System A system that produces a heating or cooling effect in a central location for subsequent distribution to satellite spaces that require conditioning; see also All-Air, All-Water, and Air–Water HVAC Systems.
Centrifugal A particular type of fluid-moving device that imparts energy to the fluid by high-velocity rotary motion through a channel; fluids enter the device along one axis and exit along another axis.
Certificate for Payment A statement from the Architect to the Owner confirming the amount of money due the contractor for Work accomplished or materials and equipment suitably stored, or both.
Certificate of Insurance A document issued by an authorized representative of an insurance company stating the types, amounts, and effective dates of insurance in force for a designated insured.
Certificate of Occupancy Document issued by governmental authority certifying that all or a designated portion of a building complies with the provisions of applicable statutes and regulations and permitting occupancy for its designated use.
Certificate of Substantial Completion A certificate prepared by the Architect on the basis of an inspection stating that the Work or a designated portion thereof is substantially complete, which established the Date of Substantial Completion; states the responsibilities of the Owner and the Contractor for security, maintenance, heat, utilities, damage to the Work, and insurance; and taxes the time within which the Contractor shall complete the items listed therein.
Certified Wood Wood-based materials used in building construction that are supplied from sources that comply with sustainable forestry practices, protecting trees, wildlife habitat, streams, and soil as determined by the Forest Stewardship Council or other recognized certifiable organizations.
Cesspool An underground catch basin for the collection and dispersal of sewage.
Chain of Custody A document that tracks the movement of a product from the point of harvest or extraction to the end user.
Change Order A written and signed document between the owner and the contractor authorizing a change in the work to be executed or an adjustment in the contract sum or time. The contract sum and time may be modified only by change order. A change order may be in the form of additional compensation or time; or less compensation or time known as a “Deduction.”
Checklist List of items used to check drawings.
Chiller Equipment designed to produce chilled water; see also Vapor Compression Chiller (Centrifugal, Reciprocating) and Absorption Chiller.
Circuit A continuous system of conductors providing a path for electricity.
Circuit breaker A circuit breaker acts like an automatic switch that can shut the power off when it senses too much current.
Circumference The length of a line that forms a circle.
Class A A real estate rating which generally is assigned to those properties in a market that will generate the highest rents per square foot due to their high quality and/or superior location.
Class B Good assets that most tenants would find desirable, but buildings lack attributes that would permit owners to charge top dollar.
Class C Buildings that offer few amenities but are otherwise in physically acceptable condition and provide cost-effective space to tenants who are not particularly image conscious.
Clear Floor Space The minimum unobstructed floor or ground space required to accommodate a single, stationary wheelchair and occupant.
Clerestory A window or group of windows that are placed above the normal window height, often between two roof levels.
Coefficient of Utilization (CU) The ratio of light energy (lumens) from a source, calculated as received on the workplane, to the light energy emitted by the source alone.
Collateral Asset(s) pledged to the lender to secure repayment of the loan in case of default.
Column A vertical weight-supporting member.
Combustion An oxidation process that releases heat; on-site combustion is a common heat source for buildings.
Commissioning (Cx) A systematic process to verify that building components and systems function as intended and required; systems may need to be recommissioned at intervals during a building’s life cycle.
Common Use Refers to those interior and exterior rooms, spaces, or elements that are made available for the use of a restricted group of people (for example, occupants of a homeless shelter, the occupants of an office building, or the guests of such occupants).
Component A fully functional portion of a building system, piece of equipment, or building element.
Composite Wood A product consisting of wood or plant particles or fibers bonded together by a synthetic resin or binder. Examples include plywood, particle-board, OSB, MDF, composite door cores.
Composting Toilet A dry plumbing fixture that contains and treats human waste via a microbiological process.
Compressor A device designed to compress (increase the density) of a compressible fluid; a component used to compress refrigerant; a component used to compress air.
Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) A method by which engineering drawings may be developed on a computer.
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) A method by which a computer uses a design to guide a machine that produces parts.
Concrete Block A rectangular concrete form with cells in them.
Condensation The process by which moisture in the air becomes water or ice on a surface (such as a window) whose temperature is colder than the air’s temperature.
Condenser A device designed to condense a refrigerant; an air-to-refrigerant or water-to-refrigerant heat exchanger; part of a vapor compression or absorption refrigeration cycle.
Conductor A material used to transfer, or conduct, electricity, often in the form of wires.
Conduit (1) A pipe or elongated box used to house and protect electrical cables; (2) an alliance between mortgage originators and an unaffiliated organization that agrees, in advance, to act as a funding source by regularly purchasing the loans, normally with a view toward pooling and securitizing them.
Conservation Act of preserving and renewing when possible, human and natural resources and the use, protection, and improvement of natural resources according to recognized principles that ensure their highest economic or social benefits.
Construction Documents A term used to represent all drawings, specifications, addenda, and other pertinent construction information associated with the construction of a specific project.
Construction Loan Interim financing during the developmental phase of a property.
Contamination Intrusion of undesirable elements. The addition of foreign matter to a substance that reduces the value of the substance or interferes with its intended use.
Contingency Allowance A sum included in the Project budget designated to cover unpredictable or unforeseen items of Work, or changes in the Work subsequently required by the Owner. See Budget, Project.
Contour Line A line that represents the change in level from a given datum point.
Contract A legally enforceable promise or agreement between two or among several persons. See also Agreement.
Convection Transfer of heat through the movement of a liquid or gas.
Cooling tower Equipment designed to reject heat from a refrigeration cycle to the outside environment through an open cycle evaporative process; an exterior heat rejection unit in a water-cooled refrigeration system.
Core Properties The major property types, specifically office, retail, industrial, and multifamily.
Cornice The projecting or overhanging structural section of a roof.
Corrosion Dissolution and wearing away of metal caused by a chemical reaction such as between water and the pipes or chemicals touching a metal surface.
Cost Appraisal Evaluation or estimate (preferably by a qualified professional appraiser) of the market or other value, cost, utility, or other attribute of land or other facility.
Cost Estimate A preliminary statement of approximate cost, determined by one of the following methods. (1) Area and volume method; cost per square foot or cubic foot of the building. (2) Unit cost method; cost of one unit multiplied by the number of units in the project; for example, in a hospital, the cost of one patient unit multiplied by the number of patient units in the project. (3) In-place unit method; cost in-place of a unit, such as doors, cubic yards of concrete, and squares of roofing.
Coving The curving of the floor material against the wall to eliminate the open seam between floor and wall.
Cradle-To-Grave Analysis Analysis of the impact of a product from the beginning of its source gathering processes, through the end of its useful life, to disposal of all waste products. Cradle-to-cradle is a related term signifying the recycling or reuse of materials at the end of their first useful life.
Crawl Space The area under a floor that is not fully excavated; only excavated sufficiently to allow one to crawl under it to get at the electrical or plumbing devices.
Critical Path A schedule of tasks or sequences developed by the contractor after carefully considering dependencies between construction tasks to ensure there are no delays on “critical” elements that would delay subsequent tasks and thereby delay completion of the project. The sequence of tasks, which have no tolerance for delay, constitutes the critical path.
Cross collateralization A grouping of mortgages or properties that serves to jointly secure one debt obligation. Any deficiency in income or loss on the sale of one property can be made up by the income or sale of another property.
Cross defaulting This feature allows the trustee to call all loans in a group into default when any single loan is in default.
Cross section A slice through a portion of a building or member that depicts the various internal conditions of that area.
CSI Construction Specifications Institute. Membership organization of design professionals, construction professionals, product manufacturers, and building owners. Develops and promotes industry communication standards and certification programs. http://www.csinet.org/.
Current It is the flow of electric charge in a conductor between two points having a difference in electrical potential (voltage) and is measured in amps.
Curtain Wall An exterior wall that provides no structural support.
Cutoff Voltage The voltage levels at which the charge controller (regulator) disconnects the PV array from the battery or the load from the battery.
Damper A device designed to regulate the flow of air in a distribution system.
Dangerous or Adverse Conditions These are essentially conditions which may pose a threat or possible injury to the field observer, and which may require the use of special protective clothing, safety equipment, access equipment, or any other precautionary measures.
Date of Agreement The date stated in the Agreement. If no date is stated, it could be the date on which the Agreement is actually signed, if this is recorded, or it may be the date established by the award.
Date of Commencement of the Work The date established in a notice to the Contractor to proceed or, in the absence of such notice, the date of the Owner contractor Agreement or such other date and may be established therein.
Date of Substantial Completion The Date certified by the Architect when the Work or a designated portion thereof is sufficiently complete, in accordance with the Contract Documents, so the Owner can occupy the Work or designated portion thereof for use for which it is intended.
Datum Point Reference point.
Daylight Factor (DF) The ratio of daylight illumination at a given point on a given plane, from an obstructed sky of assumed or known illuminance distribution, to the light received on a horizontal plane from an unobstructed hemisphere of this sky, expressed as a percentage. Direct sunlight is excluded for both values of illumination. The daylight factor is the sum of the sky component, the external reflected component, and the internal reflected component. The interior plane is usually a horizontal workplane. If the sky condition is the CIE standard overcast condition, then the DF will remain constant regardless of absolute exterior illuminance.
Daylighting The controlled admission of natural light into a space through glazing with the intent of reducing or eliminating electric lighting. By utilizing solar light, daylighting creates a stimulating and productive environment for building occupants.
Dead Load The weight of a structure and all its fixed components.
Deal Structure With regard to the financing of an acquisition, deals can be unleveraged, leveraged, traditional debt, participating debt, participating/convertible debt, or joint ventures.
Decibel (dB) Unit of sound level or sound-pressure level. It is 10 times the logarithm of the square of the sound pressure divided by the square of reference pressure, 20 μPa.
Deconstruction The process of taking apart a structure with the primary goal of preserving the value of all useful building materials, so that they may be reused or recycled.
Defective Work The work not conforming with the contract requirements.
Deferred Maintenance Physical deficiencies that cannot be remedied with routine maintenance, normal operating maintenance, etc., excluding de minimis conditions that generally do not present a material physical deficiency to the subject property.
Depreciation A decrease or loss in property value due to wear, age, or other cause. In accounting, depreciation is a periodic allowance made for this real or implied loss.
Design-Build Construction When an owner contracts with a prime or main contractor to provide both design and construction services for the entire construction project. Use of the design-build project delivery system has grown from 5% of US construction in 1985–33% in 1999 and is projected to surpass low-bid construction in 2005. If a design-build contract is extended further to include the selection, procurement, and installation of all furnishings, furniture, and equipment, it is called a “turnkey” contract.
Details An enlarged drawing to show a structural aspect, an aesthetic consideration, a solution to an environmental condition or to express the relationship among materials or building components.
Debt-to-Capital Ratio A measurement of a company’s financial leverage, calculated as long-term debt divided by long-term capital. Total debt includes all short-term and long-term obligations. Total capital includes all common stock, preferred stock, and long-term debt. This capital structure ratio can provide a more accurate view of a company’s long-term leverage and risk, since it considers long-term debt and capital only. By excluding short-term financing in its calculation, the ratio provides an investor with a more accurate look into the capital structure a company will have if they were to own the stock over a long period of time.
Diffuser A device designed to supply air to a space while providing good mixing of supply and room air and avoiding drafts; normally ceiling installed.
Digital The processing of data by numerical or discrete units.
Dimension Line A thin unbroken line (except in the case of structural drafting) with each end terminating with an arrowhead; used to define the dimensions of an object. Dimensions are placed above the line, except in structural drawing where the line is broken and the dimension placed in the break.
Direct Costs (Hard Costs) The aggregate costs of all labor, materials, equipment, and fixtures necessary for the completion of construction of the Improvements.
Direct Costs Loan; Indirect Costs Loan The portion of the Loan amount applicable and equal to the sum of the Loan Budget Amounts for Direct Costs and Indirect Costs, respectively, shown on the Borrower’s Project Cost Statement.
Direct Current (DC) Electrical current that flows only in one direction, although it may vary in magnitude. Contrasts with alternating current.
Discount Factor The factor that translates expected benefits or costs in any given future year into present value terms. The discount factor is equal to 1/(1 + i)t where i is the interest rate and t is the number of years from the date of initiation for the program or policy until the given future year.
Discount Rate The interest rate used in calculating the present value of expected yearly benefits and costs.
Discretionary Funds A fully discretionary account typically is defined as one in which the advisor or manager has a client’s consent and approval to invest and manage the client’s capital as deemed appropriate and prudent by the advisor.
Disinfectant A chemical or physical process that kills pathogenic organisms in water, air, or on surfaces. Chlorine is often used to disinfect sewage treatment, water supplies, wells, and swimming pools.
Diversification In a real estate portfolio, the inclusion of divergent property types and property geographic locations so as to minimize the impact on performance of fluctuations in a single market.
Dormer A structure that projects from a sloping roof to form another roofed area. This new area is typically used to provide a surface to install a window.
Downcycling Recycling a material in a manner that much of its inherent value is lost.
Downspouts Pipes connected to the gutter to conduct rainwater to the ground or sewer.
Drip Irrigation System An irrigation system that slowly applies water to the root system of plants to maximize transpiration while minimizing wasted water and topsoil runoff. Drip irrigation usually involves a network of pipes and valves that rest on the soil or underground at the root zone.
Drywall An interior wall covering installed in large sheets made from gypsum board.
Duct Usually sheet metal forms used for the distribution of cool or warm air throughout a structure.
Due Diligence The process of conducting a walk through survey and appropriate inquiries into the physical condition of a commercial real estate’s improvements, usually in connection with a commercial real estate transaction. The degree and type of such survey or other inquiry may vary for different properties and different purposes.
Dwelling Unit A single unit which provides a kitchen or food preparation area, in addition to rooms and spaces for living, bathing, sleeping, and the like. Dwelling units include a single family home or a townhouse used as a transient group home; an apartment building used as a shelter; guestrooms in a hotel that provide sleeping accommodations and food preparation areas; and other similar facilities used on a transient basis. For purposes of these guidelines, use of the term “Dwelling Unit” does not imply the unit is used as a residence.
Easement The right or privilege to have access to or through another piece of property such as a utility easement.
Eave The portion of the roof that extends beyond the outside wall.
Ecological/Environmental Sustainability Maintenance of ecosystem components and functions for future generations.
Ecological Impact The impact that a human-caused or natural activity has on living organisms and their nonliving environment.
Ecosystem The interacting system of a biological community and its nonliving environmental surroundings. An ecological community together with its environment, functioning as a unit.
Egress A continuous and unobstructed way of exit travel from any point in a building or facility to a public way. A means of egress comprises vertical and horizontal travel and may include intervening room spaces, doorways, hallways, corridors, passageways, balconies, ramps, stairs, enclosures, lobbies, horizontal exits, courts, and yards. An accessible means of egress is one that complies with these guidelines and does not include stairs, steps, or escalators. Areas of rescue assistance or evacuation elevators may be included as part of accessible means of egress.
Electric Current The flow of electrons measured in amps.
Electrical Grid A network for electricity distribution across a large area.
Electricity The movement of electrons (a subatomic particle), produced by a voltage, through a conductor.
Electrode An electrically conductive material, forming part of an electrical device, often used to lead current into or out of a liquid or gas. In a battery, the electrodes are also known as plates.
Element An architectural or mechanical component of a building, facility, space, or site, e.g., telephone, curb ramp, door, drinking fountain, seating, or water closet.
Embodied Energy The total energy that a product may be said to “contain,” including all energy used in growing, extracting, and manufacturing it and the energy used to transport it to the point of use. The embodied energy of a structure or system includes the embodied energy of its components plus the energy used in construction.
Emission The release or discharge of a substance into the environment. Generally refers to the release of gases or particulates into the air.
Energy Power consumed multiplied by the duration of use. For example, 1000 W used for 4 h is 4000 Wh.
Energy Conservation Thoughtful and frugal management of energy. The result of such deliberate and planned conservation results in saving energy for future use.
Energy Efficiency Reducing the amount of electricity and/or fuel to do the same work, typically without changing the quality of the services provided. Efficiency can be accomplished by utilizing high-efficiency appliances, better insulation, better building design, and mechanical improvements.
Energy Star Rating A designation given by the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to appliances and products that exceed federal energy efficiency standards. The label helps consumers identify products that are energy efficient and will save money.
Engineer’s Scale The scale used whenever dimensions are in feet and decimal parts of a foot, or when the scale ratio is a multiple of 10.
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Mixture of smoke from the burning end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar and smoke exhaled by the smoker (also secondhand smoke or passive smoking). See Smoke-Free Homes Program at www.epa.gov/smokefree.
Environmentally Friendly A term often used to refer to the degree to which a product may harm the environment including the biosphere, soil, water, and air.
Epicenter The point of the earth’s surface directly above the focus or hypocenter of an earthquake.
Equity The residual value of a property beyond mortgage or liability. A 100% equity acquisition is an all cash deal.
Exit Strategy Strategy available to investors when they desire to liquidate all or part of their investment.
Expansion Joint A joint often installed in concrete construction to reduce cracking and to provide workable areas.
Expected Useful Life (EUL) The average amount of time in years that an item, component, or system is estimated to function when installed new and assuming routine maintenance is practiced.
Exploded View A pictorial view of a device in a state of disassembly, showing the appearance and interrelationship of parts.
Extension Line A line used to visually connect the ends of a dimension line to the relevant feature on the part. Extension lines are solid and are drawn perpendicular to the dimension line.
Facade The exterior covering of a structure.
Face of Stud (F.O.S.) Outside surface of the stud. Term used most often in dimensioning or as a point of reference.
Fascia A horizontal member located at the edge of a roof overhang.
Facility All or any portion of buildings, structures, site improvements, complexes, equipment, roads, walks, passageways, parking lots, or other real or personal property located on a site.
Felt A tar-impregnated paper used for water protection under roofing and siding materials; sometimes used under concrete slabs for moisture resistance.
Fiber Optics Optical, clear strands that transmit light without electrical current; sometimes used for outdoor lighting.
Fiduciary A person or firm that holds something in trust for another. ERISA defines a fiduciary as any person who: (1) exercises any discretionary authority or control over a plan’s management or disposition of its assets; (2) renders investment advice for a fee or other compensation with respect to plan assets; (3) has any discretionary authority or responsibility in a plan’s administration.
Fillet A concave internal corner in a metal component, usually a casting.
Filter A device designed to remove impurities from a fluid passing through the device; see also Air Filter.
Final Completion Term denoting that the work has been completed in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract documents.
Final Inspection Final review of the project by the architect to determine final completion, prior to issuance of the final certificate for payment.
Final Payment The payment made by the owner to the contractor upon issuance by the architect of the final certificate for payment of the entire unpaid balance of the contract sum as adjusted by change orders.
Finish Grade The soil elevation in its final state upon completion of construction.
Fire Barrier A continuous membrane such as a wall, ceiling, or floor assembly that is designed and constructed to a specified fire-resistant rating to hinder the spread of fire and smoke. This resistant rating is based on a time factor. Only fire-rated doors may be used in these barriers.
Fire Compartment of Fire Zone An enclosed space in a building that is separated from all other parts of the building by the construction of fire separations having fire resistance ratings.
Fire Door A door used between different types of construction that has been rated as being able to withstand fire for a certain amount of time.
Fire Resistance Rating Sometimes called fire rating, fire resistance classification, or hourly rating. A term defined in building codes, usually based on fire endurance required. Fire resistance ratings are assigned by building codes for various types of construction and occupancies and are usually given in half hour increments.
Fire-Stop Blocking placed between studs or other structural members to resist the spread of fire.
Firewall A type of fire separation of noncombustible construction which subdivides a building or separates adjoining buildings to resist the spread of fire and which has a fire-resistance rating as prescribed in the NBC and has structural ability to remain intact under fire conditions for the required fire-rated time.
Fixed Rate A loan interest rate (coupon) that remains constant over the term of the loan.
Flashing A thin, impervious sheet of material placed in construction to prevent water penetration or to direct the flow of water. Flashing is used especially at roof hips and valleys, roof penetrations, joints between a roof and a vertical wall, and in masonry walls to direct the flow of water and moisture.
Floodplain Mostly level land along rivers and streams that may be submerged by floodwater. A 100-year floodplain is an area that can be flooded once in every 100 years.
Floor Joist Structural member for the support of floor loads.
Floor Plan A horizontal section taken at approximately eye level.
Flush Even, level, or aligned.
Flush-Out The operation of mechanical systems for a minimum of 2 weeks using 100% outside air upon completion of construction and prior to building occupancy to ensure safe indoor air quality.
Fly Ash The fine ash waste collected from the flue gases of coal combustion, smelting, or waste incineration.
Footcandle A common unit of illuminance used in the United States The metric unit is the lux.
Footings Weight-bearing concrete construction elements poured in place in the earth to support a structure.
Footlambert The US unit for luminance. The metric unit is the nit.
Foreclosure A legal proceeding by which a mortgage lender may claim title to a mortgaged property if a borrower fails to repay the loan.
Formaldehyde A colorless, pungent, and irritating gas mainly used as a disinfectant and preservative and in synthesizing other compounds such as resins.
Fossil Fuels Fuel derived from ancient organic remains such as peat, coal, crude oil, and natural gas.
Foundation Plan A drawing that graphically illustrates the location of various foundation members and conditions that are required for the support of a specific structure.
Frieze A decoration or ornament shaped to form a band around a structure.
Frost Line The depth at which frost penetrates the soil.
Fungi Any of a group of parasitic lower plants that lack chlorophyll, including molds and mildews.
Fuse A fuse is a device used to protect electrical equipment from short circuits. Fuses are made with metals that are designed to melt, when the current passing through them is high enough. When the fuse melts, the electrical connection is broken, interrupting power to the circuit or device.
Galvanized Steel products that have had zinc applied to the exterior surface to provide protection from rusting.
Gauge The thickness of metal or glass sheet material.
General Conditions (When used by contractors) Construction project activities and their associated costs that are not usually assignable to a specific material installation or subcontract, e.g., temporary electrical power. (When used by everyone else) The contract document (often a standard form) that spells out the relationships between the parties to the contract, e.g., the AIA Document A201.
General Contract Any contract (together with all riders, addenda, and other instruments referred to therein as “contractor or any other person, which requires the General Contractor or such other person to provide, or supervise or manage the procurement of, substantially all labor and material needed for completion of the Improvements.
Generator A mechanical device used to produce DC electricity. Power is produced by coils of wire passing through magnetic fields inside the generator. Most alternating current generating sets are also referred to as generators.
Geothermal Literally, heat from the earth; energy obtained from the hot areas under the surface of the earth. Examples are geysers, molten rocks, and steam spouts.
Gigawatt (GW) A measurement of power equal to a 1000 million watts.
Gigawatt-Hour (GWh) A measurement of energy. One gigawatt-hour is equal to 1 GW being used for a period of 1 h, or 1 MW being used for 1000 h.
Girder A horizontal structural beam for the support of secondary members such as floor joists.
Glare The effect produced by luminance within one’s field of vision that is sufficiently greater than the luminance to which one’s eyes are adapted; it can cause annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual performance and visibility.
Global Warming An increase in the average temperature of the earth’s surface. This increase in temperature usually precedes an increase in greenhouse gases, sometimes called the greenhouse effect. These gases are released from burning gas, oil, coal, and wood.
Grading The moving of soil to effect the elevation of land at a construction site.
Gray water Wastewater that does not contain toilet wastes and can be reused for irrigation after simple filtration. Wastewater from kitchen sinks and dishwashers may not be considered gray water in all cases.
Green Building A building using energy, water, materials, and land in a much more efficient manner than are buildings which are built to code. Such environments are healthier for the people living and working in them. Such sustainable buildings are cost effective and actually require fewer dollars for operation and maintenance.
Green Design A design, usually architectural, conforming to environmentally sound principles of building, material, and energy use. A green building, for example, might make use of solar panels, skylights, and recycled building materials.
Green Energy A popular term for energy produced from renewable energy resources or, sometimes, from clean (low-emitting) energy sources.
Greenfields Land not previously developed beyond agriculture or forestry use.
Greenhouse Gas A gas in the atmosphere that traps some of the sun’s heat and preventing it from escaping into space. Greenhouse gases are vital for making the Earth habitable, but increasing greenhouse gases contribute to climate change. Greenhouse gases include water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone.
Greenhouse Effect The process that raises the temperature of air in the lower atmosphere due to heat trapped by greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, chlorofluorocarbons, and ozone.
Green Power Electricity generated from renewable energy sources.
Greenwash Disinformation disseminated by an organization so as to present an environmentally responsible public image.
Grid An electrical utility distribution network.
Grid-Connected An energy producing system connected to the utility transmission grid; also called Grid tied.
Ground Water Fresh water found beneath the Earth’s surface, usually in aquifers, which supplies wells and springs. Ground water is a major source of drinking water.
Grout A mixture of cement, sand, and water used to fill joints in masonry and tile construction.
Guardrail A horizontal protective railing used around stairwells, balconies, and changes of floor elevation greater than 30 in.
Halogen Lamp A special type of incandescent globe made of quartz glass and a tungsten filament, enabling it to run at a much higher temperature than a conventional incandescent globe. Efficiency is better than a normal incandescent but not as good as a fluorescent light.
Harmonic Content Frequencies in the output waveform in addition to the primary frequency (usually 50 or 60 Hz). Energy in these harmonics is lost and can cause undue heating of the load.
Harvested Rainwater Captured rainwater used for indoor needs, irrigation, or both.
Hazardous Waste By-products of society that can pose a substantial or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly managed. Possesses at least one of four characteristics—ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic, or appears on special EPA lists.
Head The top of a window or door frame.
Header A horizontal structural member spinning over openings, such a doors and windows, for the support of weight above the openings.
Header Course In masonry, a horizontal masonry course of brick laid perpendicular to the wall face; used to tie a double wythe brick wall together.
Heat Exchanger A device designed to efficiently transfer heat from one medium to another (for example, water-to-air, refrigerant-to-air, refrigerant-to-water, steam-to-water).
Heat Island Effect The incidence of higher air and surface temperatures caused by solar absorption and reemission from roads, buildings, and other structures.
Heat Pump A device that uses a reversible cycle vapor compression refrigeration circuit to provide cooling and heating from the same unit (at different times).
Heat Recovery A process whereby heat is extracted from exhaust air before the air is dumped to the outside environment, and the recovered heat is normally used to preheat incoming outside air; may be accomplished by heat recovery wheels or heat exchanger loops.
Hertz (Hz) Unit of measurement for frequency. Home mains power is normally 50 Hz in Europe and 60 Hz in the United States. The magnitude of the current is measured in amps.
High-Performance Green Building Buildings that create healthy indoor environments and include design features that conserve water and energy; efficient use of space, materials, and resources; and minimize construction waste.
Hydronic System A heating or cooling system that relies on the circulation of water as the heat-transfer medium. A typical example is a boiler with hot water circulated through radiators.
Illuminance The density of the luminous flux incident on a surface, expressed in footcandles or lux. This term should not be confused with illumination (i.e., the act of illuminating or state of being illuminated).
Impervious Surfaces Surfaces that promote runoff of precipitation volumes instead of infiltration into the subsurface.
Incandescent Light An electric lamp which is evacuated or filled with an inert gas and contains a filament (commonly tungsten). The filament emits visible light when heated to extreme temperatures by passage of electric current through it.
Incident Light Light that shines on to the surface of a PV cell or module.
Income Property Real estate owned or operated to produce revenue.
Indemnification A contractual obligation by which one person or entity agrees to secure another against loss or damage from specified liabilities. See also Contractual Liability.
Indirect Cost Statement A statement by the Borrower in a form approved by the Lender of Indirect Costs incurred and to be incurred.
Indoor Air Pollution Chemical, physical, or biological contaminants contained in indoor air.
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, the definition of good IAQ includes: (1) introduction and distribution of adequate ventilation air; (2) control of airborne contaminants; and (3) maintenance of acceptable temperature and relative humidity. According to ASHRAE Standard 62 1989, IAQ is defined as “air in which there are no known contaminants at harmful concentrations as determined by cognizant authorities and with which a substantial majority (80% or more) of the people exposed do not express dissatisfaction.”
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) The evaluation of five primary elements—lighting, sound, thermal conditions, air pollutants, and surface pollutants, to provide an environment that is physically and psychologically healthy for its occupants.
Industrial Waste Unwanted materials produced in or eliminated from an industrial operation and categorized under a variety of headings, such as liquid wastes, sludge, solid wastes, and hazardous wastes.
Infill Site A site that is largely located within an existing community. For the purposes of LEED for Homes credits, an infill site is defined as having at least 75% of its perimeter bordering land that has been previously developed.
Inscribed Figure A figure that is completely enclosed by another figure.
Insolation The amount of sunlight reaching an area, usually expressed in watt hours per square meter per day.
Inspection Examination of Work completed or in progress to determine its conformance with the requirements of the Contract Documents. The Architect ordinarily makes only two inspections of Work, one to determine Substantial Completion and the other to determine final completion. These inspections should be distinguished from the more general observations made by the Architect on visits to the site during the progress of the Work. The term is also used to mean examination of the Work by a public official, Owner’s representative, or others.
Insulation Any material capable of resisting thermal, sound, or electrical transmission.
Integrated Design Team The team of all individuals involved in a project from very early in the design process, including the design professionals, the owner’s representatives, and the general contractor and subcontractors.
Internal Rate of Return The discount rate that sets the net present value of the stream of net benefits equal to zero. The internal rate of return may have multiple values when the stream of net benefits alternates from negative to positive more than once.
Inverter An inverter converts DC power from the PV array/battery to AC power. Used either for stand-alone systems or grid-connected systems.
Irradiance The solar power incident on a surface, usually expressed in kilowatts per square meter. Irradiance multiplied by time gives insolation.
Isometric Drawing A form of a pictorial drawing in which the main lines are equal in dimension; normally drawn using 30- and 90-degree angle.
Jamb The side portion of a door, window, or any opening.
Joint Venture An investment structure where two or more persons or corporate entities contract together to carry out a specific business transaction.
Joist A horizontal beam used to support a ceiling.
Joule (J) The energy conveyed by 1 W of power for 1 s, unit of energy equal to 1/3600 kWh.
Junction box A PV junction box is a protective enclosure on a PV module where PV strings are electrically connected and where electrical protection devices such as diodes can be fitted.
Key Plan A plan, reduced in scale, used for orientation purposes.
Kilowatt (kW) A unit of electrical power, 1000 W.
Kilowatt-hour (kWh) The amount of energy that derives from a power of 1000 W acting over a period of 1 h. The kWh is a unit of energy. 1 kWh = 3600 kJ.
Landfill A cavity in the ground where nonhazardous waste is piled up and eventually covered with dirt and topsoil. Today’s landfills are deemed sanitary and require special technology to eliminate methane gas.
Lattice A grille made by crisscrossing strips of material.
Ledger Structural framing member used to support ceiling and roof joists at the perimeter walls.
LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. A sustainable design building certification system promulgated by the United States Green Building Council; also an accrediting program for professionals (LEED APs) who have mastered the certification system. http://www.usgbc.org/.
LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) The credential earned by candidates who passed the exam between 2001 and June 2009.
Legend A description of any special or unusual marks, symbols, or line connections used in the drawing.
Leverage The use of credit to finance a portion of the costs of purchasing or developing a real estate investment. Positive leverage occurs when the loan constant (interest rate) is lower than the capitalization rate (or lower than the projected IRR).
Liability Insurance Insurance which protects the insured against liability on account of injury to the person or property or another. (1) Completed Operations Insurance; (2) Comprehensive General Liability Insurance; (3) Contractor’s Liability Insurance; (4) Employer’s Liability Insurance; (5) Owner’s Liability Insurance; (6) Professional Liability Insurance; (7) Property Damage Insurance; (8) Public Liability Insurance; (9) Special Hazards Insurance.
Lien A monetary claim on a property.
Life cycle The various developmental stages of a property: predevelopment, development, leasing, operating, and redevelopment (or rehab).
Life Cycle Cost A sum of all costs of creation and operation of a facility over a period of time.
Life Cycle Cost Analysis A technique used to evaluate the economic consequences over a period of time of mutually exclusive project alternatives.
Light Pollution Waste light from building sites that produces glare is directed upward to the sky or is directed off the site.
Light Shelf A horizontal element positioned above eye level to reflect daylight onto the ceiling.
Limit of Liability The maximum amount which an insurance company agrees to pay in case of loss.
Lintel A load-bearing structural member supported at its ends. Usually located over a door or window.
Liquidity The ease to which assets can be converted to cash without loss in value.
Live Load A temporary and changing load superimposed on structural components by the use and occupancy of the building, not including the wind load, earthquake load, or dead load.
Load The electrical power being consumed at any given moment or averaged over a specified period. The load that an electric generating system supplies varies greatly with time of day and to some extent with seasons of year. Also, in an electrical circuit, the load is any device or appliance that is using power.
Load-Bearing Wall A support wall that holds floor or roof loads in addition to its own weight.
Loan to Value Ratio The ratio of the whole loan principal dollar amount divided by the property’s appraised value amount.
Lumen (lm) The luminous flux emitted by a point source having a uniform luminous intensity of 1 cd.
Luminaire A complete electric lighting unit, including housing, lamp, and focusing and/or diffusing elements; informally referred to as fixture.
Lux The International System (SI) unit of illumination. It is the illumination on a surface of one square meter in area on which there is a uniformly distributed flux of 1 lm.
Manifold A fitting that has several inlets or outlets to carry liquids or gases.
Masonry Opening The actual distance between masonry units where an opening occurs. It does not include the wood or steel framing around the opening.
Master Specification A resource specification section containing options for selection, usually created by a design professional firm, which once edited for a specific project becomes a contract specification.
Master Format Industry standard for organizing specifications and other construction information, published by CSI and Construction Specifications Canada. Formerly a 5-digit number system with 16 divisions. Now a 6- or 8-digit numbering system with 49 divisions.
Master Servicer The institution that acts on behalf of the trustee for the benefit of security holders in collecting funds from the borrower, advancing funds in the event of delinquencies, and, in the event of default, taking the property through the foreclosure process.
Masterspec Subscription master guide specification library published by ARCOM and owned by the American Institute of Architects. http://www.specguy.com/www.masterspec.com.
Mastic An adhesive used to hold tiles in place; also refers to adhesives used to glue many types of materials in the building process.
Mechanical Drawing Applies to scale drawings of mechanical objects.
Mechanics’ Lien A lien on real property created by statute in all states in favor of person supplying labor or materials for a building or structure for the value of labor or materials supplied by them. In some jurisdictions a mechanic’s lien also exists for the value of professional services. Clear title to the property cannot be obtained until the claim for the labor, materials, or professional services is settled.
Megawatt (MW) A measurement of power equal to one million watts.
Megawatt-Hour (MWh) A measurement of power with respect to time (i.e., energy). One megawatt-hour is equal to 1 MW being used for a period of 1 h or 1 kW being used for 1000 h.
Mesh A metal reinforcing material placed in concrete slabs and masonry walls to help resist cracking.
Mezzanine or Mezzanine Floor The portion of a story which is an intermediate floor level placed within the story and having occupiable space above and below its floor.
Modules A system based on a single unit of measure.
Modulus of Elasticity (E) The degree of stiffness of a beam.
Moisture Barrier Typically a plastic material used to restrict moisture vapor from penetrating into a structure.
Mortar The mixture of cement, sand, lime, and water that provides a bond for the joining of masonry units.
Mortgage The mortgage (s) to be made to the Lender to secure the Note and any sums in addition to the Loan Amount advanced by the Lender for completion of the Improvements.
Multizone HVAC System A central air-all HVAC system that utilizes an individual supply air stream for each zone; warm and cool air are mixed at the air handling unit to provide supply air appropriate to the needs of each zone; a multizone system requires the use of several separate supply air ducts.
NAREIT National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts National organization that represents the REIT industry.
Native Vegetation A plant whose presence and survival in a specific region is not due to human intervention. Certain experts argue that plants imported to a region by prehistoric peoples should be considered native. The term for plants that are imported and then adapt to survive without human cultivation is naturalized.
Natural Ventilation Natural exchange of air or movement of air through a building by thermal, wind, or diffusion effects through doors, windows, or other intentional openings in buildings.
NEC U.S. National Electrical Code which contains guidelines for all types of electrical installations which should be followed when installing a PV system.
Negative Leverage Negative leverage occurs when the current return on equity is diminished by the employment of debt.
Negligence Failure to exercise due care under normal circumstances. Legal liability for the consequences of an act or omission frequently depends upon whether or not there has been negligence.
Net Cash Flow Generally determined by net income plus depreciation-less principal payments on long-term mortgages.
Net metering The practice of exporting surplus solar power during the day (to actual power needs) to the electricity grid, which either causes the home owner electric meter to (physically) go backwards and/or simply creates a financial credit on the home owner’s electricity bill. (At night, the homeowner draws from the electricity grid in the normal way.)
Net Size The actual size of an object.
Net Operating Income (NOI) It is a before tax computation gross revenue less operating expenses, maintenance reserves and an allowance for anticipated vacancy. It is a key indicator of financial strength, measuring a building’s ability to generate cash flow.
Noise Pollution Environmental pollution made up of harmful or annoying noise. The degree of pollution is usually measured as level of intensity, duration, and frequency. Examples include cars, airplanes, construction equipment, and traffic noise.
Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) Average of the sound absorption coefficient of the four octave bands 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz rounded to the nearest 0.05.
Nominal Discount Rate A discount rate that includes the rate of inflation.
Nominal Size The call-out-size. May not be the actual size of the item.
Nominal Yield The yield to investors without reduction for inflation.
Nonbearing Wall A wall that supports no loads other than its own weight. Some building codes consider walls that support only ceiling loads as nonbearing.
Nonconforming Work Implemented work that does not fulfill the requirements of the Contract Documents.
Nonferrous Metal They are metals such as copper or brass that contain no iron.
Nuclear Energy Energy or power produced by nuclear reactions (fusion or fission).
Oblique Drawing A type of pictorial drawing in which one view is an orthographic projection, and the views of the sides have receding lines at an angle.
Occupiable A room or enclosed space designed for human occupancy in which individuals congregate for amusement, educational, or similar purposes, or in which occupants are engaged at labor and which is equipped with means of egress, light, and ventilation.
Off-Gassing A process of evaporation or chemical decomposition by which vapors are released from materials.
Ohm The resistance between two points of a conductor when a constant potential difference of 1 V applied between these points produces in the conductor a current of 1 amp.
Ohm’s Law A simple mathematical formula that allows either voltage, current, or resistance to be calculated when the other two values are known. The formula is: V = I × R, where V is the voltage, I is the current, and R is the resistance.
Opinions of Probable Costs Determination of probable costs, a preliminary budget, for a suggested remedy.
Operating Cost Any cost of the daily function of a facility.
Organic Compounds Chemicals that contain carbon. Volatile organic compounds vaporize at room temperature and pressure. They are found in many indoor sources, including many common household products and building materials.
Orientation Position with respect to the cardinal directions, N, S, E, and W.
Originator Company that sources and underwrites commercial and/or multifamily mortgage loans.
Orthographic Projection A view produced when projectors are perpendicular to the plane of the object. It gives the effect of looking straight at one side.
Outlet An electrical receptacle that allows for current to be drawn from the system.
Ozone A naturally occurring, highly reactive gas containing triatomic oxygen formed by combination with oxygen in the presence of ultraviolet radiation. This naturally occurring gas builds up in the lower atmosphere as smog pollution, while in the upper atmosphere it forms a protective layer that shields the earth from excessive exposure to damaging ultraviolet radiation.
Packaged Air-Conditioner A self-contained unit designed to provide control of air temperature, humidity, distribution, and quality. See also Unitary Air-Conditioner.
Parapet A portion of wall extending above the roof level.
Partial Occupancy The occupancy by the Owner of a portion of a Projection prior to final completion.
Particulate Small pieces of an airborne material. Dusts, fumes, smokes, mists, and fogs are examples. Generally defined as anything that is not a fiber and has an aspect ratio of 3:1.
Partition An interior wall.
Party Wall A wall dividing two adjoining spaces such as apartments or offices.
Passive Solar Home A house that utilizes part of the building as a solar collector, as opposed to active solar, such as PV.
Patent Defect A defect in materials, equipment of completed work which reasonably careful observation could have discovered; distinguished from a latent defect, which could not be discovered by reasonable observation.
Pathogen Microorganisms typically found in the intestinal tracts of mammals that can cause disease in other organisms or in humans, animals, and plants. They may be bacteria, viruses, or parasites and are found in sewage, in runoff from animal farms or rural areas, and in water used for swimming. Fish and shellfish contaminated by pathogens, or the contaminated water itself, can cause serious illnesses.
Performance Bond A bond of the Contractor in which a surety guarantees to the Owner that the Work will be performed in accordance with the contract Documents. Except where prohibited by statute, the Performance Bond is frequently combined with the Labor and Material Payment Bond.
Performance Specifications The written material containing the minimum acceptable standards and actions, as may be necessary to complete a project.
Phase An impulse of alternating current. The number of phases depends on the generator windings. Most large generators produce a three-phase current that must be carried on at least three wires.
Photometer An instrument for measuring light.
Photovoltaic (PV) Refers to any device which produces free electrons when exposed to light.
Photovoltaic (PV) Panel A term often used interchangeably with PV module (especially in single module systems).
Photovoltaic system All the parts connected together that are required to produce solar electricity.
Pile A steel or wooden pole driven into the ground sufficiently to support the weight of a wall and building.
Pillar A pole or reinforced wall section used to support the floor and consequently the building.
Planking A term for wood members having a minimum rectangular section of 1½ in. to 3½ in. in thickness. Used for floor and roof systems.
Plans All final drawings, plans, and specifications prepared by the Borrower, Borrower’s architects, the General Contractor or Major Subcontractors, and approved by Lender and the Construction Consultant, which describe and show the labor, materials, equipment, fixtures, and furnishings necessary for the construction of the Improvements, including all amendments and modifications thereof made by approved Change Orders (and also showing minimum grade of finishes and furnishings for all areas of the Improvements to be leased or sold in ready-for-occupancy conditions).
Plat A map or plan view of a lot showing principal features, boundaries, and location of structures.
Plenum An air space (above the ceiling) for transporting air from the HVAC system.
Plug Load Refers to all equipment that is plugged into the electrical system, such as task lights, computers, printers, and electrical appliances.
Polarity The direction of magnetism or direction of flow of current.
Pollutant Generally, any substance introduced into the environment that adversely affects the usefulness of a resource or the health of humans, animals, or ecosystems.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) A plastic material commonly used for pipe and plumbing fixtures and as an insulator on electrical cables. A toxic material, which is being replaced with alternatives made from more benign chemicals.
Positive Leverage A situation that exists when the simple return on a real estate investment is higher with the use of debt financing than it would be on a free and clear basis. This occurs when the loan constant is lower than the capitalization rate (or lower than the project’s estimated IRR).
Post A vertical wood structural member generally 4 × 4 (100 mm) or larger.
Post-and-Beam Construction A type of wood frame construction using timber for the structural support.
Postconsumer Materials/Waste Recovered materials that are diverted from municipal solid waste for the purposes of collection, recycling, and disposition.
Postconsumer Recycling Use of materials generated from resident or consumer waste for new or similar purposes such as converting wastepaper from offices into corrugated boxes or newsprint.
Potable Water This is water that is suitable for drinking, generally supplied by the municipal water systems.
Power Basic unit of electricity equal to the product of current and voltage (in DC circuits). The rate of doing work. Expressed as watts (W). For example, a generator rated at 800 W can provide that amount of power continuously. 1 W = 1 J/s.
Precast A concrete component which has been cast in a location other than the one in which it will be used.
Preconsumer Materials/Waste Materials generated in manufacturing and converting processes such as manufacturing scraps and trimmings and cuttings. Includes print overruns, over issue publications, and obsolete inventories. Sometimes referred to as “postindustrial.”
Present Value The current value of a past or future sum of money as a function of an investor’s time value of money.
Pressed Wood Products A group of materials used in building and furniture construction that are made from wood veneers, particles, or fibers bonded together with an adhesive under heat and pressure.
Primer The first coat of paint or glue when more than one coat will be applied.
Progress Payment Partial payment made during progress of the Work on account of Work completed and or materials suitably stored.
Progress Schedule A diagram, graph, or other pictorial or written schedule showing proposed and actual of starting and completion of the various elements of the Work.
Project Cost Total cost of the Project including Construction Cost, professional compensation, land costs, furnishings and equipment, financing, and other charges.
Projection A technique for showing one or more sides of an object to give the impression of a drawing of a solid object.
Project Manual The volume(s) prepared by the Architect for a Project which may include the bidding requirements, sample forms, and Conditions of the Contract and the Specifications.
Purlin A horizontal roof member that is laid perpendicular to rafters to help limit deflections.
Quarry Tile An unglazed, machine made tile.
Quick Set A fast-curing cement plaster.
Rafter A sloping or horizontal beam used to support a roof.
Radioactivity The spontaneous emission of matter or energy from the nucleus of an unstable atom (the emitted matter or energy is usually in the form of alpha or beta particles, gamma rays, or neutrons).
Radius A straight line from the center of a circle or sphere to its circumference or surface.
Radon (Rn) and Radon Decay Products Radon is a radioactive gas formed in the decay of uranium. The radon decay products (also called radon daughters or progeny) can be breathed into the lung where they continue to release radiation as they further decay.
Rainscreen A method of constructing walls in which the cladding is separated from a membrane by an airspace that allows pressure equalization to prevent rain from being forced in. Often used for high-rise buildings or for buildings in windy locations.
Rainwater Harvesting The practice of collecting, storing, and using precipitation from a catchment area such as a roof.
Rapidly Renewable Materials that are not depleted when used. These materials are typically harvested from fast-growing sources and do not require unnecessary chemical support. Examples include bamboo, flax, wheat, wool, and certain types of wood.
Remote Area Power Supply (RAPS) A power generation system used to provide electricity to remote and rural homes, usually incorporating power generated from renewable sources such as solar panels and wind generators, as well as nonrenewable sources such as petrol-powered generators.
Readily Accessible Describes areas of the subject property that are promptly made available for observation by the field observer at the time of the walk-through survey and do not require the removal of materials or personal property, such as furniture, and that are safely accessible in the opinion of the field observer.
Record Drawings Construction drawing revised to show significant changes made during the construction process, usually based on marked-up prints, drawing, and other data furnished by the Contracts to the Architect. Preferable to As Built Drawings.
Rectifier A device that converts AC to DC, as in a battery charger or converter.
Recycled Content The amount of pre- and postconsumer recovered material; usually expressed as a percentage.
Recycled Material Material that would otherwise be destined for disposal but is diverted or separated from the waste stream, reintroduced as material feedstock, and processed into marketed end-products.
Reference Numbers They consist of numbers used on a drawing to refer the reader to another drawing for more detail or other information.
Reflectance The ratio of energy (light) bouncing away from a surface to the amount striking it, expressed as a percentage.
Refrigerant A heat transfer fluid employed by a refrigerating process, selected for its beneficial properties (stability, low viscosity, high thermal capacity, appropriate state change points).
Regionally Manufactured Materials For purposes of this document, material that must be assembled as a finished product within a 500-mile radius of the project site. Assembly, as used for this definition, does not include on-site assembly, erection, or installation of finished components, as in structural steel, miscellaneous iron, or systems furniture.
Register An opening in a duct for the supply of heated or cooled air.
Regulator A device used to limit the current and voltage in a circuit, normally to allow the correct charging of batteries from power sources such as solar panels and wind generators.
Relative Humidity The amount of water vapor in the atmosphere compared to the maximum possible amount at the same temperature.
Release of Lien Instrument executed by a person or entity supplying labor, materials, or professional services on a Project which releases that person’s or entity’s mechanic’s lien against the Project property.
Remaining Useful Life (RUL) A subjective estimate based upon observations, or average estimates of similar items, components, or systems, or a combination thereof, of the number of remaining years that an item, component, or system is estimated to be able to function in accordance with its intended purpose before warranting replacement. Such period of time is affected by the initial quality of an item, component, or system, the quality of the initial installation, the quality and amount of preventive maintenance exercised, climatic conditions, extent of use, etc.
Renewable Energy Alternative energy that is produced from a renewable source.
Renewable Resource A resource that is capable of being restored or replenished (i.e., trees).
Requisition A statement prepared by the Borrower in a form approved by the Lender setting forth the amount of the Loan advance requested in each instance and including, if requested by the Lender:
Resistance (R) The property of a material which resists the flow of electric current when a potential difference is applied across it, measured in Ohms.
Resistor An electronic component used to restrict the flow of current in a circuit. Sometimes used specifically to produce heat, such as in a water heater element.
Retainage A sum withheld from progress payments to the contractor in accordance with the terms of the Owner–Contractor Agreement.
Retaining Wall A masonry wall supported at the top and bottom designed to resist soil loads.
R-Factor A unit of thermal resistance applied to the insulating value of a specific building material.
Return Air The air that has circulated through a building as supply air and has been returned to the HVAC system for additional conditioning or release from the building.
Residual Value The value of a building or building system at the end of the study period.
Reuse A strategy to return materials to active use in the same or a related capacity.
Roof Drain A receptacle for removal of roof water.
Roof Pitch The ratio of total span to total rise expressed as a fraction.
Rotation A view in which the object is apparently rotated or turned to reveal a different plane or aspect, all shown within the view.
Rough In To prepare a room for plumbing or electrical additions by running wires or piping for a future fixture.
Rough Opening A large opening made in a wall frame or roof frame to allow the insertion of a door or window.
R-Value The unit that measures thermal resistance (the effectiveness of insulation); the higher the number, the better the insulation qualities.
Salvaged Materials Construction materials recovered from existing buildings or construction sites and reused in other buildings. Common salvaged materials include structural beams and posts, flooring, doors, cabinetry, brick, and decorative items.
Sanitary Sewer A conduit or pipe carrying sanitary sewage.
Scale The relation between the measurement used on a drawing and the measurement of the object it represents. A measuring device, such as a ruler, having special graduations.
Schedule of Values A statement furnished by the Contractor to the Architect reflecting the portions of the Contract sum allocated to the Work and used as the basis for reviewing the Contractor’s Applications for Payment.
Schematic Diagram A diagram using graphic symbols to show how a circuit functions electrically.
Scratch Coat The first coat of stucco, which is scratched to provide a good bond surface for the second coat.
Sealant Any material with adhesive properties that is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between two surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks.
Section A view showing internal features as if the viewed object has been cut or sectioned.
Seismicity The worldwide or local distribution of earthquakes in space and time; a general term for the number of earthquakes in a unit of time, or for relative earthquake activity.
Septic Tank A tank in which sewage is decomposed by bacteria and dispersed by drain tiles.
Sheet Steel Flat steel weighing less than 5 pounds per square foot.
Shear Distribution The distribution of lateral forces along the height or width of a building.
Shear Wall A wall construction designed to withstand shear pressure caused by wind or earthquake.
Shoring Temporary support made of metal or wood used to support other components.
Short-Term Costs Opinions of probable costs to remedy physical deficiencies, such as deferred maintenance, which may not warrant immediate attention but require repairs or replacements that should be undertaken on a priority basis in addition to routine preventive maintenance. Such opinions of probable costs may include costs for testing, exploratory probing, and further analysis should this be deemed warranted by the consultant. The performance of such additional services are beyond this guide. Generally, the time frame for such repairs is within 1 to 2 years.
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) Term that refers to a set of symptoms that affect building occupants during the time they spend within the building and diminish or go away during periods when they exit the building. Symptoms cannot be traced to specific pollutants or sources within the building and which may be localized within a specific room or zone (contrast with “Building related illness”).
Sill A horizontal structural member supported by its ends.
Single-Line Diagram A diagram using single lines and graphic symbols to simplify a complex circuit or system.
Single Prime Contract This is the most common form of construction contracting. In this process, the bidding documents are prepared by the architect/engineer for the owner and made available to a number of qualified bidders. The winning contractor then enters into a series of subcontract agreements to complete the work. Increasingly, owners are opting for a “design-build contract” under which a single entity provides design and construction services.
Site A parcel of land bounded by a property line or a designated portion of a public right-of-way.
Site Improvement Landscaping, paving for pedestrian and vehicular ways, outdoor lighting, recreational facilities, and the like, added to a site.
Skylight A relatively horizontal, glazed roof aperture for the admission of daylight.
Slab-on-Grade The foundation construction for a structure with no basement or crawl space.
Smart Growth Managing the growth of a community in such a way that land is developed according to ecological tenets that call for minimizing dependence on auto transportation, reducing air pollution, and increasing infrastructure investment efficiency.
Solar Energy Energy from the sun.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient Solar heat gain through the total window system relative to the incident solar radiation.
Solar Module A device used to convert light from the sun directly into DC electricity by using the photovoltaic effect. Usually consists of multiple solar cells bonded between glass and a backing material. A typical Solar Module would be 100 W of power output (but module powers can range from 1 W to 300 W) and have dimensions of 2 ft. by 4 ft.
Solar Panel A device that collects energy from the sun and converts it into electricity or heat.
Solar Power Electricity generated by conversion of sunlight, either directly through the use of photovoltaic panels or indirectly through solar-thermal processes.
Solar Reflectance (Albedo) The ratio of the reflected solar energy to the incoming solar energy over wavelengths of approximately 0.3–2.5 μm. A reflectance of 100% means that all of the energy striking a reflecting surface is reflected back into the atmosphere and none of the energy is absorbed by the surface.
Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) A measure of a material’s ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. It is defined so that a standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0, and a standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100.
Special Conditions A section of the Conditions of the Contract, other than General Conditions and Supplementary Conditions, which may be prepared to describe conditions unique to a particular Project.
Specifications A detailed, exact statement of particulars—especially statements prescribing materials and methods—and quality of work for a specific project. A part of the Contract Documents contained in the Project Manual consisting of written requirements for material, equipment, construction systems, standards, and workmanship.
Specific gravity The ratio of the weight of a solution to the weight of an equal volume of water at a specified temperature; used with reference to the sulfuric acid electrolyte solution in a lead acid battery as an indicator of battery state of charge. More recently called relative density.
Stack Effect Warm air rising, creating a positive pressure area at the top of a building and negative pressure area at the bottom. This effect can overpower the mechanical system and disrupt building ventilation and air circulation.
Stakeholders All parties that might be affected by a company’s policies and operations, including shareholders, customers, employees, suppliers, business partners, and surrounding communities.
Statute of Limitations A stature specifying the period of time with which legal action must be brought for alleged damage or injury, or other legal relief. The lengths of the periods vary from state to state and depend upon the types of legal action. Ordinarily, the period commences with the occurrence of the damage or injury, or discovery of the act resulting in the alleged damage or injury. In construction industry cases, many jurisdictions define the period as commencing with completion of Work or services performed in connection therewith.
Storm Sewer A sewer used for conveying rain water, surface water condensate, cooling water, or similar liquid wastes exclusive of sewage.
Stormwater Runoff Water volumes that are created during precipitation events and flow over surfaces into sewer systems or receiving waters.
Stucco A type of plaster made from Portland cement, sand, water, and a coloring agent that is applied to exterior walls.
Structural Frame The components or building system that supports the building’s nonvariable forces or weights (dead loads) and variable forces or weights (live loads).
Stud A light vertical structure member, usually of wood or light structural steel, used as part of a wall and for supporting moderate loads.
Subcontract Agreement between a prime Contractor and a Subcontractor for a portion of the Work at the site.
Subcontractor A person or entity who has a direct or indirect Contract with a Subcontractor to perform any of the Work at the site.
Subordination A lien or call on funds that is junior in the position of one or more other classes.
Substitution A material, product, or item of equipment offered in lieu of that specified.
Superintendent Contractor’s representative at the site who is responsible for continuous field supervision, coordination, completion of the Work and, unless another person is designated in writing by the contractor to the Owner and the Architect, for the prevention of accidents.
Supervision Direction of the Work by Contractor’s personnel. Supervision is neither a duty nor a responsibility of the Architect as part of professional services.
Surety Bond A legal instrument under which one party agrees to answer to another party for the debt, default or failure to perform of a third party.
Surge An excessive amount of power drawn by an appliance when it is first switched on. An unexpected flow of excessive current, usually caused by excessive voltage, which can damage appliances and other electrical equipment.
Survey Observations made by the field observer during a walk-through survey to obtain information concerning the subject property’s readily accessible and easily visible components or systems.
Sustainable The condition that meets the needs of present generations without compromising the needs of future generations. Achieving a balance among extraction and renewal and environmental inputs and outputs, as to cause no overall net environmental burden or deficit.
Sustainable Communities Communities capable of maintaining their present levels of growth without damaging effects.
Symbol Stylized graphical representation of commonly used component parts shown in a drawing.
Synergy Action of two or more substances to achieve an effect of which, each is individually incapable. As applied to toxicology, two exposures together (for example, asbestos and smoking) are far more risky than the combined individual risks.
System (a process) A combination of interacting or interdependent components assembled to carry out one or more functions.
Task Lighting Light provided for a specific task, versus general or ambient lighting.
Tee A fitting, either cast or wrought, that has one side outlet at right angles to the run.
Temper To harden steel by heating and sudden cooling by immersion in oil, water, or other coolant.
Template A piece of thin material used as a true-scale guide or as a model for reproducing various shapes.
Tensile Strength The maximum stretching of a piece of metal (rebar, etc.) before breaking; calculated in kps.
Termite Shield Sheet metal placed in or on a foundation wall to prevent intrusion.
Terrazzo A mixture of concrete, crushed stone, calcium shells, and/or glass, polished to a tilelike finish.
Thermal Comfort The appropriate combination of temperature combined with airflow and humidity that allows one to be comfortable within the confines of a building. Individually, an expression of satisfaction with the thermal environment; statistically, such expression of satisfaction from at least 80% of the occupants within a space.
Thermal Resistance (R) A unit used to measure a material’s resistance to heat transfer. The formula for thermal resistance is: R = thickness (in inches)/k.
Thermostat An automatic device controlling the operation of HVAC equipment.
Third-Party Certification An independent and objective assessment of an organization’s practices or chain of custody system by an auditor who is independent of the party undergoing assessment.
Three-Phase Power A combination of three alternating currents in a circuit with their voltages displaced at 120 degrees or one-third of a cycle.
Timely Access Entry provided to the consultant at the time of the site visit.
Timely Completion The completion of the Work or designated portion thereof on or before the date required.
Title Insurer The issuer (s), approved by Interim Lender and Permanent Lenders, of the title insurance policy or policies insuring the Mortgage.
Tolerance The amount that a manufactured part may vary from its specified size.
Topographic Survey The configuration of a surface including its relief and the locations of its natural and man-made features, usually recorded on a drawing showing surface variations by means of contour lines indicating height above or below a fixed datum.
Toxicity A reflection of a material’s ability to release poisonous or harmful particulate.
Toxic Waste Garbage or waste that can injure, poison, or harm living things, and is sometimes life threatening.
Transformer A transformer is a device that changes voltage from one level to another. A device used to transform voltage levels to facilitate the transfer of power from the generating plant to the customer.
Transient Lodging A building, facility, or portion thereof, excluding inpatient medical care facilities and residential facilities, which contains sleeping accommodations. Transient lodging may include, but is not limited to, resorts, group homes, hotels, motels, and dormitories.
Transistor A semiconductor device used to switch or otherwise control the flow of electricity.
Trap A fitting designed to provide a liquid seal which will prevent the back passage of air without significantly affecting the flow of waste water through it.
Triangulation A technique for making developments of complex sheet metal forms using geometrical constructions to translate dimensions from the drawing to the pattern.
Trimmer A piece of lumber, usually a 2 × 4, that is shorter than the stud or rafter but is used to fill in where the longer piece would have been normally spaced except for the window or door opening or some other opening in the roof or floor or wall.
Triple Net Lease A lease that requires the tenant to pay all expenses of the property being leased in addition to rent. Typical expenses covered in such a lease include taxes, insurance, maintenance, and utilities.
Truss A prefabricated sloped roof system incorporating a top chord, bottom chord, and bracing.
Turbulence Any deviation from parallel flow in a pipe due to rough inner wall surfaces, obstructions, etc.
UL Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. A private testing and labeling organization that develops test standards for product compliance. UL standards appear throughout specifications, often in roofing requirements and always in equipment utilizing or delivering electrical power (http://www.ul.com/).
Underwriter A company that guarantees or participates in a guarantee that an entire issue of stocks or bonds will be purchased.
Unfaced Insulation An insulation that does not have a facing or plastic membrane over one side of it.
Union Joint A pipe coupling, usually threaded, that permits disconnection without disturbing other sections.
Urea Formaldehyde A combination of urea and formaldehyde that is used in some glues and may emit formaldehyde at room temperature.
Utility Plan A floor plan of a structure showing locations of heating, electrical, plumbing, and other service system components.
Vacuum Any pressure less than that exerted by the atmosphere.
Valley The area of a roof where two sections come together to form a depression.
Valve A device designed to control water flow in a distribution system; common valve types include globe, gate, butterfly, and check.
Vapor Barrier The same as a moisture barrier.
Vapor Compression Chiller Refrigeration equipment that generates chilled water via a mechanically driven process using a specialized heat transfer fluid as refrigerant; comprised of four major components: a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator; operating energy is input as mechanical motion.
Variable Air Volume (VAV) HVAC System A central air-all HVAC system that utilizes a single supply air stream and a terminal device at each zone to provide appropriate thermal conditions through control of the quantity of air supplied to the zone.
Variable Rate A loan interest rate that varies over the term of the loan; the rate is usually tied to a predetermined index. Also called adjustable rate.
Vegetated Roof A roof that is partially or fully covered by vegetation. By creating roofs with a vegetated layer, the roof can counteract the heat island effect as well as provide additional insulation and cooling during the summer.
Vehicular Way A route intended for vehicular traffic, such as a street, driveway, or parking lot.
Veneer A thin layer or sheet of wood.
Veneered Wall A single-thickness (one-wythe) masonry unit wall with a backup wall of frame or other masonry; tied but not bonded to the backup wall.
Ventilation The exchange of air or the movement of air through a building; may be done naturally through doors and windows or mechanically by motor-driven fans.
Vent Usually a hole in the eaves or soffit to allow the circulation of air over an insulated ceiling; usually covered with a piece of metal or screen.
Ventilation Rate The rate at which indoor air enters and leaves a building. Expressed in one of two ways: the number of changes of outdoor air per unit of time (air changes per hour, or “ach”) or the rate at which a volume of outdoor air enters per unit of time (cubic feet per minute, or “cfm”).
Vent Stack A system of pipes used for air circulation and prevent water from being suctioned from the traps in the waste disposal system.
Vertical Pipe Any pipe or fitting installed in a vertical position or which makes an angle of not more than 45 degrees with the vertical.
View A drawing of a side or plane of an object as seen from one point.
Vision Glazing The portion of exterior windows above 2 ft. 6 in. and below 7 ft. 6 in. that permits a view to the exterior.
Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) A highly evaporative, carbon-based chemical substance that produces noxious fumes; found in many paints, caulks, stains, and adhesives. VOCs are capable of entering the gas phase from either a liquid or solid form.
Volt (E) or (V) The potential difference across a resistance of 1 ohm when a current of 1 amp is flowing. The amount of work done per unit charge in moving a charge from one place to another.
Voltage Drop The voltage lost along a length of wire or conductor due to the resistance of that conductor. This also applies to resistors. The voltage drop is calculated by using Ohm’s Law.
Voltage Protection A sensing circuit on an Inverter that will disconnect the unit from the battery if input voltage limits are exceeded.
Voltage Regulator A device that controls the operating voltage of a photovoltaic array.
Waiver of Lien An instrument by which a person or organization who has or may have a right of mechanic’s lien against the property of another relinquishes such right.
Warranty Legally enforceable assurance of quality or performance of a product or work, or of the duration of satisfactory performance. Warranty Guarantee and Guaranty are substantially identical in meaning; nevertheless, confusion frequently arises from supposed distinctions attributed to Guarantee (or Guaranty) being exclusively indicative of duration of satisfactory performance or of a legally enforceable assurance furnished by a manufacturer or other third party. The Uniform Commercial code provisions on Sales (effective in all states except Louisiana) use Warranty but recognize the continuation of the use of Guarantee and Guaranty.
Waste Pipe Discharge pipe from any fixture, appliance, or appurtenance in connection with a plumbing system which does not contain fecal matter.
Waste Water Spent or used water from a home, farm, community, or industry that contains dissolved or suspended matter.
Water-Cement Ratio The ratio between the weight of water to cement.
Water Hammer The noise and vibration which develops in a piping system when a column of noncompressible liquid flowing through a pipe line at a given pressure and velocity is abruptly stopped.
Water Main The water supply pipe for public or community use.
Waterproofing Materials used to protect below-and on-grade construction from moisture penetration.
Water Table The level to which water will rise in a well (except artesian wells).
Watt (W) The unit of electrical power commonly used to define the electricity consumption of an appliance. The power developed when a current of 1 amp flows through a potential difference of 1 V; 1/746 of a horsepower. 1 W = 1 J/s.
Watt Hour (Wh) A unit of energy equal to 1 W of power being used for 1 h.
Wetlands An area that is saturated by surface or ground water and containing vegetation adapted for life under those soil conditions, such as marshes, swamps, estuaries, etc. In stormwater management, it consists of a shallow, vegetated, ponded area that serves to improve water quality and provide wildlife habitat.
Wind Lift (Wind Load) The force exerted by the wind against a structure.
Windpower Power or energy derived from the wind (via windmills, sails, etc.).
Wiring (Connection) Diagram A diagram showing the individual connections within a unit and the physical arrangement of the components.
Working Drawings A set of drawings which provide the necessary details and dimensions to construct the object. May include specifications.
Write-off The accounting procedure used when an asset has been determined to be uncollectible and is therefore charged off as a loss.
Wythe A continuous masonry wall width.
Xeriscape A trademarked term referring to water-efficient choices in planting and irrigation design. It refers to seven basic principles for conserving water and protecting the environment. These include: (1) planning and design; (2) use of well-adapted plants; (3) soil analysis; (4) practical turf areas; (5) use of mulches; (6) appropriate maintenance; and (7) efficient irrigation.
Yield The effective return on an investment, as paid in dividends or interest. Expressed as a percentage, yield is computed by dividing the market price for a stock or bond into the dividend or interest paid in the preceding period.
Zenith Angle The angle between directly overhead and a line through the sun. The elevation angle of the sun above the horizon is 90 degrees minus the zenith angle.
Zinc Noncorrosive metal used for galvanizing other metals.
Zone Numbers They consist of numbers and letters on the border of a drawing to provide reference points to aid in indicating or locating specific points on the drawing.
Zoning The legal restriction that deems that parts of cities be for particular uses, such as residential, commercial, industrial, and so forth.
Zoning Permit A permit issued by appropriate governmental authority authorizing land to be used for a specific purpose.
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