Clear definitions for roofing, siding, painting, hardscaping, and construction terms. Understand your project like a pro.
40 terms across 6 categories
Terms related to roofing materials, installation, and maintenance.
10 terms
Exterior cladding materials, installation methods, and related concepts.
8 terms
Paint types, finishes, preparation, and application terminology.
6 terms
Paving, concrete work, driveways, patios, and retaining walls.
8 terms
General construction, permits, codes, and building concepts.
4 terms
Window and door types, energy ratings, and installation.
4 terms
A layer of crushed gravel mechanically compacted to create a stable foundation for pavers, concrete, or other hardscape.
Hardscape & PavingA protective coating applied to concrete surfaces to protect against stains, moisture, and wear.
Hardscape & PavingState-issued certification required for contractors to legally perform construction work above certain value thresholds.
ConstructionThe lower edges of a roof that project beyond the exterior walls, providing protection from rain and sun.
RoofingExterior Insulation and Finish System, a multi-layered synthetic stucco system providing insulation and a smooth finish.
Siding & ExteriorPlanned gaps in concrete that allow for thermal expansion and contraction without random cracking.
Hardscape & PavingThe vertical board that runs along the edge of the roof, covering the ends of the roof rafters and providing a surface for gutter attachment.
RoofingA durable siding material made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers that can mimic the appearance of wood, stucco, or masonry.
Siding & ExteriorThin pieces of metal or other waterproof material installed at roof intersections and projections to prevent water infiltration.
RoofingHorizontal siding where each row overlaps the one below it, creating a traditional clapboard appearance.
Siding & ExteriorWater-based paint that uses acrylic or vinyl polymers as binders, offering easy cleanup and low VOC emissions.
PaintingA wall that supports weight from above, transferring it to the foundation—as opposed to partition walls that only define spaces.
ConstructionGlass with a thin metallic coating that reflects heat while allowing visible light through, improving window energy efficiency.
Windows & DoorsThe level of glossiness in dried paint, ranging from flat (matte) to high-gloss.
PaintingIndividual units of concrete, brick, or natural stone used to create durable outdoor surfaces for patios, driveways, and walkways.
Hardscape & PavingSpecially designed pavers with gaps or porous material that allow rainwater to drain through into the ground below.
Hardscape & PavingA specialized sand containing polymers that hardens when activated with water, used to fill joints between pavers.
Hardscape & PavingUsing high-pressure water spray to clean exterior surfaces before painting or to remove dirt, mold, and debris.
PaintingA preparatory coating applied before paint to improve adhesion, block stains, and ensure uniform color.
PaintingA measure of thermal resistance—how well a material prevents heat transfer. Higher R-values indicate better insulation.
ConstructionA structure designed to hold back soil on sloped properties, preventing erosion and creating level areas.
Hardscape & PavingA ventilation system installed along the peak of a roof that allows hot air to escape from the attic.
RoofingThe structural surface beneath roofing materials, typically made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) attached to the roof framing.
RoofingThe first layer of traditional stucco application, scored with horizontal lines to provide a mechanical bond for the next coat.
Siding & ExteriorThe horizontal underside of a roof overhang, typically ventilated to allow airflow into the attic space.
RoofingA measure of how much solar radiation passes through a window—expressed as a number between 0 and 1.
Windows & DoorsConcrete that is patterned and colored while still wet to resemble brick, stone, tile, or other materials.
Hardscape & PavingA cement-based exterior finish applied over wire lath in multiple coats, creating a durable, textured surface.
Siding & ExteriorThe essential process of preparing surfaces for painting, including cleaning, scraping, sanding, and priming.
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