Home Building Glossary

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H (continued from previous page)

 

Heat Pump
A home heating device which works by transfer of heat rather than combustion, most commonly used in moderate climates.

 

Heavy Gauge Wire
A larger, higher voltage wire used by HVAC contractors.


House Wrap
A rolled film which serves as a breathable moisture barrier, applied by house framers as the last exterior wall layer before veneer.

HVAC
Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning.

 

 

I

 

I-Joist
A manufactured wooden joist, made from plywood or oriented strand board, engineered for
uniform straightness and strength, available in multiple sizes.

Inspection
The process of ensuring compliance with code in building construction, conducted by a building inspector employed by city, county, or state.

J

Joist
A horizontally installed beam used to support floors or ceilings.

Joist Hanger
A steel fastening device, used to allow perpendicular nailing of one joist to another when design considerations make overlap of joists impossible.

Joint Compound
The paste used by drywall finishers to fill in and smooth over joints between boards.

 

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