Part: 1 | Understanding Construction Terminology from A-Z

By: William Nartowicz

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Demystifying Common Construction Terms

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Navigating the construction world can be daunting with its array of specific and technical terms. These phrases often describe design elements, architectural styles, or have unique industry-specific definitions.

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To help you feel more at ease, here’s a compiled list of essential construction terms and their meanings. Whether you’re new to the field or just looking to brush up on your knowledge, this guide will help you understand the language of construction professionals.

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• ATRIUM: An interior volume in a building, typically enclosed and climate-controlled. Often a prominent feature, similar to an interior courtyard.
• BIOMIMICRY: The practice of designing buildings and systems modeled on natural elements or processes. Can be functional or aesthetic in purpose.
• CANTILEVER: A portion of a structure that extends beyond its support, typically without external bracing beneath. The general rule is 1/3 overhang, 2/3 supported.
• DAMPPROOFING: A black tar-like material applied to the exterior of a foundation wall to resist moisture penetration.
• ENVELOPE: The entire exterior shell of a building, including walls, roof, windows, and doors that separate inside from outside.
• FROSTLINE: The depth to which the ground freezes. This varies by region and affects how deep footings or foundations must be placed.
• GLUE LAMINATED BEAM (GLULAM): A structural beam made of multiple wood layers bonded together with adhesives to form a strong composite member.
• INFILTRATION: The unwanted movement of air through cracks or gaps in a building envelope, often resulting in drafts and energy loss.
• JAMB: The vertical sides of a doorway or window opening, including both structural framing and finished trim.
• KEYSTONE: The central wedge-shaped stone or element at the top of an arch that holds the structure together.
• LINTEL: A horizontal structural member above an opening such as a door or window, used to support the load above.
• MULLION: A vertical bar or post that separates and supports adjacent window panes or panels in a curtain wall.
• NEWEL POST: The large, anchor post at the base or turns of a staircase that supports the handrail.
• OUTRIGGER: A projecting beam or rafter extending beyond a wall, often used to form an overhang or cornice.
• PARAPET: A low protective wall or railing along the edge of a roof, balcony, or terrace.
• QUARTER ROUND: A type of molding with a cross-section resembling a quarter circle, often used at the base of walls and cabinetry.
• REGISTER: A grille or vent cover placed over heating or cooling duct openings.
• SOLAR GAIN: The increase in temperature in a space due to solar radiation, an important factor in passive heating and cooling design.
• THRESHOLD: The strip or plate at the bottom of a doorway, often metal, wood, or stone, that bridges flooring materials or exterior transitions.
• UNDERLAYMENT: A thin layer installed over the subfloor or roof deck to provide a smooth surface or secondary waterproofing layer.
• VAPOR BARRIER: A material installed to reduce or prevent moisture movement through walls or ceilings, helping to control condensation.
• WALK-THROUGH: A final inspection of a completed or nearly completed building to identify deficiencies before project closeout.
• YARD OF CONCRETE: A cubic yard (3'x3'x3' = 27 cu. ft.) of concrete. Typically covers 80 sq. ft. at a 3.5" slab thickness.
• ZONE: A defined area of a building served by a dedicated HVAC loop or system with specific heating/cooling needs.

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About the Author

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William Nartowicz

Senior Architectural Project Manager

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William has extensive experience managing residential, commercial, and institutional renovation projects. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling New England, hiking, fishing, ice skating, and exploring local eateries, with a particular fondness for New Hampshire's strong hockey community and numerous lakes and trails.

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About Jewett

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Jewett Construction through its licensed division Jewett Design LLC. (“Jewett”) provides architectural services.