Construction Glossary
50 terms every homeowner should know
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Change Order
Written modification to the original construction contract scope or price
Composite Decking
Engineered wood-alternative decking made from recycled materials and polymers
Contingency Budget
Reserve funds set aside for unexpected costs during construction
Cost Per Square Foot
Standard pricing metric for construction calculated by dividing total cost by square footage
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Demo Day (Demolition)
The phase where existing structures and finishes are removed to prepare for construction
Draw Schedule
Payment timeline tied to construction milestones rather than single lump sum
Drywall
Gypsum-based panels used to create interior walls and ceilings
Drywall Finishing
The process of taping, mudding, and sanding drywall joints to create smooth surfaces
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Fascia
The vertical board running along the roof edge where gutters attach
Final Walkthrough
Owner inspection of completed work before final payment and project closeout
Fire Separation
Fire-rated barriers between dwelling units or attached structures
Flashing
Waterproof material installed at joints and transitions to prevent water infiltration
Framing
Building the structural skeleton of walls, floors, and roofs using dimensional lumber
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LVL Beam (Laminated Veneer Lumber)
Engineered lumber beam made from laminated wood veneers for superior strength
Lien Waiver
Document releasing contractor's or supplier's right to place a lien on your property
Load Calculation
Engineering analysis determining structural capacity and support requirements
Load-Bearing Wall
Structural wall that supports weight from above, including roof and upper floors
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R-Value
Measurement of thermal resistance used to rate insulation effectiveness
ROI (Return on Investment)
Percentage of renovation cost recovered when selling your home
Rebar (Reinforcing Bar)
Steel bars embedded in concrete to increase tensile strength
Retainage
Percentage of payment withheld until project completion to ensure quality
Rigid Foam Insulation
Solid foam board insulation providing high R-value per inch
Rough Inspection
Building department inspection of framing and systems before covering with drywall
Rough-In
Initial installation of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems before walls are closed
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Scope of Work
Detailed description of all work, materials, and deliverables included in a construction project
Setback Requirements
Minimum distances structures must maintain from property lines
Snow Load Rating
Structural capacity to support snow weight on roofs
Soffit
The finished underside of a roof overhang or eave