Building inspectors can uncover problems that should be addressed in remodeling and also monitor compliance with building codes during construction.
Remodeling Glossary
Having trouble relating to some of the construction or remodeling jargon that you're not used to? Don't worry, you're not alone. Use the handy locator below to search the glossary for terms you'd like to understand better. It is alphabetized, and easy to use.
| Earnest Money Agreement | An earnest money agreement is a contract between a buyer and a seller of real estate. It is also called a real estate purchase and sale agreement. |
| Earthquake Strap | A metal strap used to secure gas hot water heaters to the framing or foundation of a house. It is intended to reduce the chances of having the water heater fall over in an earthquake, causing a gas leak. |
| Easement | A formal contract that allows a party to use another party's property for a specific purpose. For instance, a sewer easement might allow one party to run a sewer line through a neighbor’s property. |
| Eave Vent | Vent opening located in the soffit under the eaves of a house to allow the passage of air through the attic and out the roof vents. |
| Eaves | The projecting overhang at the lower edge of a roof. |
| Efflorescence | A white chalky material, which is very often found on concrete basement walls and other concrete surfaces where water has leached some of the chemicals out of the concrete. The appearance of the material is typically a sign of past or present moisture pen. |
| Egress | A means of exiting the home. An egress window is required in every bedroom and basement. Normally a 4' X 4' window is the minimum size required. |
| Electrical Rough | Work performed by the Electrical Contractor to the point where all outlet, switch, and fixture boxes are installed, and all electrical wires are run (before insulation and drywall). |
| Electrical Service Panel | Refers to the high-voltage electrical system’s first point of entry into a home beyond the meter. |
| Electricity | Provides power for lighting, appliances, and heating & cooling in a home. A meter records usage for billing by your local utility. |
| Elevations | The exterior view of a home design that shows the position of the house relative to the grade of the land. |
| Energy Dissipation Basin | A pit or ditch sometimes filled with gravel that is used to collect storm water. Water in the ditch soaks into the ground slowly which prevents soil erosion and flooding. |
| Estimating | The process of calculating the cost of a project. This can be either a formal or a quick and imprecise process. |
| Exposed Aggregate | A method of finishing concrete which washes the cement/sand mixture of the top layer of the aggregate - usually gravel. Often used in driveways, patios and other exterior surfaces. |
| Exterior Envelope | The part of the building that consists of all of the elements protecting it from the elements including roofing, siding, windows, exterior doors, porches, flashing trim, caulking, waterproof decking, venting systems, and chimneys |
| Extrusion | A form produced by forcing material through a dye. |
