Home Improvement & House Remodeling. Room Addition, Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling

FREE ONLINE ESTIMATE

Full Name *

Phone # *

Email *

Additional Information

home / home remodeling guide / home remodeling and construction 101: glossary of terms - a

For a FREE Estimate Call (800) 724-9946

Home Remodeling and Construction 101:
Glossary of Terms - A

By Allen Shapiro

ABS

ABS is the abbreviation for (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). This is a rigid type of black plastic pipe commonly used for drain lines and waste water lines.

Aggregate

Aggregate is a crushed stone, slag or water-worn gravel that comes in a wide range of sizes which is used to surface built-up roofs. It is also used as a top layer in some flat-roof applications.

Algae

Although they share many characteristics with fungus, algae are classified as plants, micro organisms that may grow to colonies in damp, sunlit environments. It may become slimy over time as it grows on certain rooftops and it has the ability to discolor shingles.

Allowances

This term is commonly used in construction and remodeling contracts. It refers to the sum of money, set for items which have not been selected or specified in the construction contract. The homeowner will usually use his allowance to select certain materials or products such as flooring material or countertops.

Amperage (AMPS)

Amperage is a measuring unit for volume of electric flow. Most homes have an electrical service 'entrance' package of 125 or 200 amps. Some older homes have only 60 or 100 amp.

Anchor Bolts

In the construction industry, bolts used to secure a wooden sill plate to a concrete or masonry floor or wall. Anchor bolts are steel, 'L' shaped bolts and are used to anchor members of a steel building system to a foundation or other support.

APA Plywood

APA stands for American Plywood Association. APA plywood is plywood that has been rated by the American Plywood Association. For example, number one APA rated exterior plywood, contains no voids between laminate layers.

Asbestos

A strong and incombustible fiber widely used in the past for fireproofing and insulation. The small, buoyant fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed, causing a number of serious diseases including: asbestosis, a chronic disease of the lungs that makes breathing more and more difficult; cancer; and mesothelioma, a cancer (specific to asbestos exposure) of the membranes that line the chest and abdomen.

Architect

A person who functions as a creator, coordinator, author of the drawings and specifications and the general administrator of a construction project. To become an architect, one must complete a course of study in building and design, serve an internship and pass a test and be licensed by the state as an architect.

This glossary is provided by Remodeling California Inc. as part of the company's comprehensive Service Pledge. We, at Remodeling California Inc., believe that by providing you with knowledge and education, we assist you in making the right decisions regarding the types of services and products you may need or want.

The terms in this glossary are commonly used during home remodeling projects. These terms will be included in the estimate, plans, designs, and contract and usually translate into optional services and final charges. Please feel free to contact us with any question.

Allen Shapiro is a senior project manager for Remodeling California Inc., a leader in the Home Improvement industry. For more information about House Remodeling, feel free to Email Allen Shapiro or call (800) 724-9946.