Dictionary A

ABOVE GRADE to ATTIC VENTS

Above Grade - Any part of the structure or site feature that is above the finished ground level.

Abutment - The structure designed to receive thrust, supporting structure. Especially of a bridge or arch.

Aggregate - Course material; gravel, crushed stone or sand with which cement and water are mixed to form concrete.

Air Barrier -Material used to retard the passage of air.

Air-dried - Refers to lumber that has been seasoned or dried naturally as opposed to kiln dried.

Air Duct - Pipe, tube, or box section constructed to move air from the handling unit to the area in which it is needed.

Algae Discoloration - Roof discoloration caused by algae. Commonly called fungus growth.

Amps (Amperage) - Measurement of electricity, the higher the number of amps the more electricity you have available to you.

Anchor Bolts - Bolts that secure the sill plate, which is first component of the framing of the house, to the foundation walls.

Apartment - A room or rooms used as living quarters. Dwelling unit of a multifamily house.

Apartment Building - Dwelling comprising of three or more living units with shared entrances.

Apron - The piece of trim below the windowsill, installed to cover the rough edge of the wall finish. The area created by the extension of a concrete garage floor beyond the face of the building.

Air Space - Cavity or space in walls, windows or other enclosed parts of the building between structural members.

Airway - Space left between roof insulation and roof deck to allow the unobstructed movement of air.

Alteration - Any change that does not alter the total square footage.

Artificial Stone - Concrete unit artificially colored and shaped to resemble natural stone.

Architectural Shingles -(Laminated shingles) Strip shingles containing more than one layer of tabs to create extra thickness. Also called three-dimensional shingles or architectural shingles.

Asbestos Cement - Fire resistant waterproof building material made from cement and asbestos. Used in corrugated sheets, shingles, pipes etc. Asphalt - Bituminous compound used in construction for waterproofing, roofing, and driveway paving.

At Grade - Term applied to any part of the structure or feature that is located at the same level as the adjacent finished ground level.

Atrium - Interior enclosed court into which other rooms open.

Attic - The inside space between the ceiling and roof.

Attic Access - Hatch or door to the attic area.

Attic Vents - Ventilators inserted in the roof, at the gable ends or the soffits to provide air flow to the attic area, necessary to keep the attic area cool and dry.