Home Building Glossary

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

E (cont.)

 

Energy Star
A federal government standard for rating energy efficiency of consumer and building products, administered by the Department of Energy.

Engineered Stone
A quartz-based stone used as a countertop surface, engineered to enhance moisture resistance and heat resistance.

Expansion Joint
A gap etched in semi-hardened concrete, which allows concrete to expand and contract with
temperature changes, thus minimizing cracking.

Exposed Aggregate
A concrete finishing technique, in which top concrete layer is rinsed off, leaving a finished stone appearance.

F

Felt
An asphalt-based, rolled paper product, applied between wood roof decking and shingles.

Fiber (in concrete)
A strengthening agent added to ready-mixed concrete to diminish cracking potential.

Fiber-Cement
A composite, cement-based type of house siding, nailed into place then painted.

Finish Coat      
The final, and usually second coat, of interior wall or exterior siding paint.

Flashing
Flexible strips of steel or aluminum used to provide a weatherproof barrier where roofing meets brick or siding.

Flat Chord Truss
See “open-web” truss.

(F continued on next page)

 

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