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Home Remodeling and Construction 101:
Glossary of Terms - D

By Allen Shapiro

Damper

A damper has two definitions

1. A device, used to vary airflow through an air duct. Depending on the type of ducts and HVAC system, a damper may be immovable, manually adjustable, or part of an automated system.
2. An air valve that regulates the flow of air inside the flue of a furnace or fireplace.

Damp Proofing

Damp proofing is the set of actions, taken to stop the passage of moisture through a wall or floor. This term is commonly used to describe the sealing of foundation walls to help prevent outside moisture from entering a basement.

Deck

A roof's deck is the surface, installed over the supporting framing members, to which the roofing is applied. The material used to finish the roof determines deck types. Most roofs require solid plywood or oriented strand board sheathing, while wood shingle and tile roofs need spaced board sheathing.

Dimension lumber

Also known as softwood dimension lumber, dimension lumber consists of boards more than 2 inches thick but less than 5 inches thick. This wood is used in construction and is sold as 2 by 4s, 4 by 8s, or 2 by 10s. It includes joists, rafters, studs, and planks.

Disinfectants

Disinfectants are one of three groups of anti-microbial materials, registered by the EPA for public heath uses. EPA considers an anti- microbial to be a disinfectant when it can cause the destruction of pathogenic and other kinds of microorganisms by physical or chemical means. The ideal disinfectant would offer complete sterilization, without harming other forms of life, and is inexpensive, and non-corrosive.

Designer

A designer is the person who designs houses, interiors, landscaping or other objects. When used it the context of residential construction and home improvement, it usually suggests that a designer is not a licensed architect.

Double Hung Window

A double hung window is a window with two vertically sliding sashes. This is an old but very common window design, and is usually made out of wood and tends to require frequent repairs.

Drywall

Also known as gypsum wallboard or sheetrock, drywall is a wall finish consisting of a manufactured panel made out of gypsum plaster and encased in a thin cardboard. Drywall is usually 1/2" thick and 4' x 8' or 4' x 12' in size. The panels are nailed or screwed onto the framing and the joints are taped and covered.

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.