Business / Construction Glossary

(GF CI) Or (GF): Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter an ultra sensitive plug designed to shut off all electric current. Used in bathrooms, kitchens, exterior waterproof outlets, garage outlets, and 'wet areas'. . . . View Full Definition

A-C: An abbreviation for air conditioner or air conditioning.

A-C Condenser: The outside fan unit of the Air Conditioning system. It removes the heat from the freon gas and 'turns' the gas back into a liquid and pumps the liquid back to the coil in the furnace.

A-C Disconnect: The main electrical ON-OFF switch near the A/C Condenser.

Aerator: The round screened screw-on tip of a sink spout. It mixes water and air for a smooth flow.

Aggregate: A mixture of sand and stone and a major component of concrete.

Air space : The area between insulation facing and interior of exterior wall coverings. Normally a 1' air gap.

Allowance(s) : A sum of money set aside in the construction contract for items which have not been selected and specified in the construction contract. For example, selection of tile as a flooring may requ . . . View Full Definition

Amortization : A payment plan by which a loan is reduced through monthly payments of principal and interest.

Anchor Bolts: Bolts to secure a wooden sill plate to concrete , or masonry floor or wall.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR): Annual cost of credit over the life of a loan, including interest, service charges, points, loan fees, mortgage insurance, and other items.

Appraisal: An expert valuation of property.

Apron: A trim board that is installed beneath a window sill

Architect : One who has completed a course of study in building and design, and is licensed by the state as an architect. One who draws up plans.

Area Wells: Corrugated metal or concrete barrier walls installed around a basement window to hold back the earth

Assessment : A tax levied on a property, or a value placed on the worth of a property.

Assumption : Allows a buyer to assume responsibility for an existing loan instead of getting a new loan.

Astragal: A molding, attached to one of a pair of swinging double doors, against which the other door strikes.

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