Glossary

Glossary of 7847 Property Development Terms

D

Dado - A groove cut into a board or panel intended to receive the edge of a connecting board or panel.

Dado Head Stacked - This style of dado cutter has two outside saw blades, using a combination of chipper blades and shims between them the width of the dado is set.

Dado Head Wobbly - A single blade dado cutter where the blade is adjusted to wobble the width of the cut.

Dado Horned - This is caused by the outside blades of a stacked dado head cutting deeper than the chipper blades.

Dado Rail - Small piece of moulded wood affixed to a wall, usually about a third of the way up.

Dammar - A natural resin used extensively in the preparation of varnishes and lacquers; usually classified according to the place from which it is shipped to market, for example, Singapore dammar or Batavia dammar.

Damp - A structural problem often caused by poor ventilation in a building.

Damp Proof Course - A damp proof material placed just above the ground level in a brick or stone wall to prevent ground moisture from seeping up through the structure.

Damp Proofing - A process used on concrete, masonry or stone surfaces to repel water, the main purpose of which is to prevent the coated surface from absorbing rain water while still permitting moisture vapor to escape from the structure. (Moisture vapor readily penetrates coatings of this type.) Dampproofing generally applies to surfaces above grade; waterproofing generally applies to surfaces below grade.

Damper - A metal door placed within the fireplace chimney, normally closed when the fireplace is not in use.

Dampproofing - A process used on concrete, masonry or stone surfaces to repel water, the main purpose of which is to prevent the coated surface from absorbing rain water while still permitting moisture vapor to escape from the structure. (Moisture vapor readily penetrates coatings of this type.) Dampproofing generally applies to surfaces above grade; waterproofing generally applies to surfaces below grade.

Dampproofing Asphalt - The application of asphalt to act as a water-resisting treatment to the surface of a concrete or masonry wall.

Dampproofing Bituminous - Impregnated mixtures of hydrocarbons, like tar or asphalt, together with their nonmetallic derivatives used on a surface to prevent moisture from passing through, dampproofing will not ordinarily resist water under hydrostatic pressure.

Dampproofing Block - The act or process of applying a water-resistant material to the surface of a concrete or masonry block to prevent passage or absorption of water or moisture.

Dams End - Internal flashing that prevents water from moving laterally within a curtain wall or window wall system.

Darby - A flat tool used to smooth concrete flatwork immediately after screeding. See Bullfloating.

Date Closing - The date on which the seller wants all interested parties to submit their formal offers - usually by noon.

Date Of Bid - The date and time designated by the architect and owner for the receiving of bid proposals.

Date Of Entry - The date when the sale of the property is finally completed. All monies are transacted and the buyer takes physical possession or entry into the property.

Daylight - The end of a pipe (the terminal end) that is not attached to anything.

De Humidistat - A control mechanism used to operate a mechanical ventilation system based upon the relative humidity in the property.

De Lamination - Separation of the plies in a panel due to failure of the adhesive, usually caused by excessive moisture.

Dead Air Space - A confined space of air. A dead air space tends to reduce both conduction and convection of heat. This fact is utilized in virtually all insulation materials and systems, such as double glazing, fibreglass batts, rigid foam panels and loose fill insulations, such as vermiculite and cellulose.

Dead Blow Hammer - Strikes blows without damaging the work’s surface. The tool’s hollow head is partially filled with small metal shot, which reduces rebounding.

Dead Bolt - An exterior security lock installed on exterior entry doors that can be activated only with a key or thumb-turn. Unlike a latch, which has a bevelled tongue, dead bolts have square ends.

Dead Bolt - A lock bolt having no spring action nor bevel, and which is operated by a key or a turn piece.

Dead Light - The fixed, non-operable window section of a window unit.

Dead Load - Static non-moveable weight of materials on an object or support unit after construction is complete.

Dead Lock - A lock that contains only a deadbolt.

Deadlock - A lock that contains only a deadbolt.

Deathwatch Beetle - Pest which affects structural timbers especially hardwoods and those with fungal decay. Also know as Xestobium Refovillosum.

Debt - Money owed to a lender.

Debt Bad - An uncollectable debt.

Debt To Income Ratio - The ratio that reflects a borrowers total debt as a percentage of their gross income.

Debt Uncollectable - An uncollectable debt.

Debtors - Money owed to a company which includes the value of sales made where settlement from the customer is still awaited.

Decay - Disintegration of wood or other substance through the action of fungi.

Decay Wood - The disintegration of wood or other substance through the action of fungi.

Deck - A flat wood constructed area that serves as an extension to a house or it can also stand on its own.

Deck Bridge - The slab or other structure forming the travel surface of a bridge.

Deck Cedar -

• A flat floored roofless area adjoining a structure constructed of cedar wood
• A platform serving as a structural element constructed of cedar wood.
• Planks for flooring, from cedar, usually 2" nominal thickness.

Deck Curb - A curb supporting a deck in roof construction.

Deck Finish - A stain that goes on a deck to add colour and protection to the natural wood.

Deck Floor - A floor which serves also as a roof, as of a belfry or balcony.

Deck Joist - A joist used in building a deck.

Deck Ledger - A ledger used in building a deck.

Deck Paint - An enamel with a high degree of resistance to mechanical wear, designed for use on such surfaces as porch floors.

Deck Planks - Planks of wood used in building a deck.

Deck Rails - The railings around a deck area.

Decked - To have installed a deck.

Decking - The finished product of building a deck.

Decking Cellular - Metal floor or roof deck panels made of steel sheets corrugated and welded together in such a way that hollow longitudinal cells are created within the panels. Deck which during construction supports wet concrete and construction loads, but after concrete cures does not perform structural function in completed construction, deck also is fabricated of two sheets to form linear voids.

Decoration Interior - The trade of planning and execution of the layout, decoration, and furnishing of an architectural interior. Also called interior design.

Decorator Interior - A professional who specialises in the planning and execution of the layout, decoration, and furnishing of an architectural interior, also called an interior designer.

Dect Bus - A prefabricated unit containing one or more electric conductors, often a metal bar, that serves as a common connection for two or more circuits.

Dedicated Circuit - An electrical circuit that serves one appliance, or a series of electric heaters or smoke detectors.

Deed - The legal documents relating to property. These will include all matters that relate to the property since it was built.

Deed All Inclusive - A trust deed or mortgage that includes underlying financing; one payment is made to the all-inclusive mortgagee or beneficiary who then makes the payments on the underlying loans; also called a Wraparound Deed of Trust or Mortgage.

Deed Of Covenant - This is a document which confirms that the buyer of a property will comply with the rules and conditions affecting the property which can be found in the Title Deed or Lease.

Deed Quitclaim - A form of deed in the nature of a release containing both words of grant and of release, it does not provide a guarantee or warranty of title.

Deeds Release Fee - When you are selling the house, your solicitor will need to inspect the deeds.

Default - The failure to meet mortgage payments, lease payments or clauses, rent payment or clauses, or any other form of financial commitment to a loan.

Defects - Particular features that may affect either the present value or the ability to resell the property at a later date. It will be up to the surveyor to judge what the urgent and significant matters are that could affect the market value of the property. Defects are identified in homebuyers report/ full survey.

Deferred Completion - This is when completion takes place more than 28 days after the exchange of contracts.

Deferred Interest Mortgage - Interest is not paid during the deferral period. When the period is over, the accumulated interest is added to the original loan. Some lenders add this interest to the total of your loan to give a new loan figure and new interest payments. Others calculate your interest payments on the original loan as normal and then spread the repayment of the deferred interest over a set period of time. The latter method is better for you, as adding the deferred interest to the loan means you end up paying interest on the deferred interest!

Deficit Cash - In relation to a loan, this is money still owed and the end of the repayment period of an interest only mortgage.

Deflection - The amount of bending movement of any part of a structural member perpendicular to the axis of the member under an applied load.

Defrost Automatic - System of removing ice and frost from evaporators automatically.

Defroster Automatic - Machine used to remove ice and frost automatically.

Defrosting Water - Use of water to melt ice and frost from evaporator during off cycle.

Degree Day - A unit for measuring the extent that the outdoor daily average temperature (the mean of the maximum and minimum daily dry-bulb temperatures) falls below (in the case of heating, see Heating Degree Day), or falls above (in the case of cooling) an assumed base temperature, normally taken as 65 degrees Fahrenheit, unless otherwise stated. One degree day is counted for each degree below (for heating) or above (in the case of cooling) the base, for each calendar day on which the temperature goes below or above the base

Degree Of Angle - On an airless spray cap, the orifice angle; controls width of spray and pattern angle.

Delamination - Separation of the plies in a panel due to failure of the adhesive, usually caused by excessive moisture.

Demand Of Arbitration - A written notice by one party to a contract served on the other to avail of the arbitration provisions of the contract.

Demising Wall - The partition wall that acts as separation between two structures and/or internal living areas.

Demolish Building - The destruction, by means of explosives or otherwise, of a standing construction.

Demolition - The destruction, by means of explosives or otherwise, of a standing construction.

Demolition Asphalt - The destruction of roadways constructed of asphalt using large wheeled machinery that tears up the old asphalt into manageable pieces for easy removal.

Demolition Block - The act or process of tearing down an old block wall structure.

Density - The actual number of habitable rooms per hectare I a residential development.

Density Bulk - The weight of a material per unit of volume.

Dentil - A moulding motif that projects from the edge of a roof line or cornice.

Dentil Course - A row of small square bricks that are projecting and have small gaps between them and usually forming a cornice.

Deposit - A lump sum paid when contracts are exchanged. It can also refer to the down payment made on a new property in order to reserve it for you.

Depositors Cheque - A depositors cheque guaranteed for payment by the bank.

Depreciation - The actual loss in value of a property.

Depreciation Accelerated - The declining balance and sum of the years digits method which give greater depreciation to the early years of the life of the assets.

Design A Frame - An interior design style which features a steep peaked roofline and ceilings that are open to the rafters.

Design Heat Load - The total heat loss from a house under the most severe winter conditions likely to occur.

Design Interior - The trade of planning the layout and furnishings of an architectural interior.

Design Pressure - Specified pressure a product is designed to withstand.

Design Temperature - The temperature close to the lowest expected for a location, used to determine the design heat load.

Designer Interior - A professional who specialises in planning the layout and furnishings of an architectural.

Detached - Refers to a property which is not attached to another on either side and is therefore free standing.

Detached House - Separate residential building detached from any other building.

Detail Drawing - A top view drawing of a building or roof showing the roof perimeter and indicating the projections and roof mounted equipment, drawn to scale.

Detailing File - Basically a half-round combination file, this tool is handy for working small flats, rounds and hollows. Ends are tapered for work in confined spaces.

Develop - To bring a distressed property back to original or near original condition or to take existing open land and build one or more dwellings on that land.

Developers - Designers and builders of new houses.

Development Brief - A guidance published by the Council as a supplementary planning guidance for an individual site. This brief indicates the kind of development that the Council would ultimately support and encourage. It also specifies requirements of the Council or other regulatory bodies.

Development Permit - A development that has been given "blanket permission" by statute and as such is exempt of any further planning permission from local authorities.

Device - A component of a electrical system designed to carry electricity but not to use electrical power.

Dew Point - Temperature at which vapor condenses from the atmosphere and forms water.

Dewpoint - The temperature at which a vapour begins to deposit as a liquid. Applies especially to water in the atmosphere.

Diagonal Bond - This is a form of raking bond in which the bricks are laid in an oblique direction in the middle section of a thick wall, the bricks may also be laid in this fashion in paving.

Diagram Sun Path - A circular projection of the sky vault, similar to a map, that can be used to determine solar positions and to calculate shading.

Dial Gauge - This measuring instrument has a circular graduated face and a pin which activates a rotating pointer to measure variation in movement in thousands of an inch.

Diameter Number Steel - A number designating the size of a steel reinforcing bar, approximately the bar diameter in eighths of inches; for example, a #5 bar is approximately 5/8 inch in diameter; a #9 bar is approximately 1-1/8 inch in diameter (9/8); bar numbers are rolled onto the bar for easy identification.

Diameter Of Blade - The measurement of a saw blade measured on the extreme outside edge of two opposite tips. Larger diameter blades can accommodate more teeth for smoother cuts.

Diaphragm Blocked - A diaphragm in which all sheathing edges not occurring on framing members are supported on and connected to wood blocking.

Diatomaceous Earth Filter - Pool filter using DE as filtering medium, one designed to filter water through a thin layer of filter aid such as diatomaceous earth or volcanic ash, diatomite filters may be of the Pressure or Vacuum type.

Diffuser Air - Air distribution outlet or grille designed to direct airflow into desired patterns.

Diffuser Ceiling - A mechanical device through which warm or cold air is blown into an enclosure, for the purpose of to distributing conditioned air.

Difuse Radiation - Indirect sunlight that is scattered from air molecules, dust and water vapor.

Digital Protractor - Four tools in one, featuring an angle-finder, compound cut calculator, protractor and level.

Dimension Actual - The true size of a piece of lumber after it has been milled and dried; see Nominal Dimension.

Dimension Lumber - Yard lumber from 2 inches to, but not including, 5 inches thick and 2 or more inches wide. Includes joists, rafters, studs, plank, and small timbers.

Dimension Nominal -

• The named size; compare with Actual Size.
• An approximate rough cut dimension assigned to a piece of material as a convenience in referring to the piece, such as 2 by 4 or 500 pound.
• The stated size of a piece of lumber; its actual size is smaller.
• A dimension greater than a specified masonry unit dimension by the thickness of a mortar joint.
• This is the approximate facial size or thickness of tile, expressed in inches or fractions of an inch, for general reference, such as a "4 by 4" tile.
• Tubing measurement which has an inside diameter the same as iron pipe of the same stated size.

Dimmer Switch - An electrical switch that allows the brightness of the light to be regulated by dimming or increasing the light from the switch.

Dip Bottom - The lowest water or waste point in a trap.

Direct Lenders - A new form of mortgage lender who deals solely over the telephone or via the Internet.

Direct Nailing - To nail perpendicular to the initial surface or to the junction of the pieces joined. Also termed face nailing.

Direct Radiation - Solar radiation that comes straight from the sun, casting shadows on a clear day.

Directory Of Solicitors - This directory lists the law firms in your area, along with the type of work they specialise in. You can find one at any library and most citizens’ advice bureaux.

Disbursements - Fees such as stamp duty, Land Registry fees and search fees payable to the conveyancer by the buyer.

Discharge - A deed acknowledging that a debt has been repaid or the obligation otherwise fulfilled.

Disclosure - The act of making known a fact and/or series of facts as yet undisclosed.

Disconnect - A large (generally 20 Amp) electrical on off switch.

Disconnect AC (Air Conditioning) - The main electrical on off switch near the AC Condenser.

Discount Period - The time at the beginning of a mortgage life span when you are offered reduced repayments. This can be useful to help you overcome the often significant outlay involved with buying a property.

Discount Rate - A mortgage interest rate that is lower than the current rate for a certain period of time, e.g. 2.00% below variable rate for 2 years.

Discounted Mortgage Rate - A reduced mortgage rate that is subtracted from the Standard Variable rate.

Discounted Mortgages - With a discounted rate mortgage, the Standard Variable Rate is temporarily reduced by a set amount for a specified period. This usually ranges from one to five years. Once the discounted period is over, you then revert to paying the prevailing Standard Variable Rate. With this type of mortgage, it is the discount that is fixed and not the actual rate.

Dishing - Dish-shaped concave.

Disintegration Of Wood - Disintegration of wood or other substance through the action of fungi,

Dispenser Caulking - A device, usually hand powered, which dispenses liquid caulking into joints and seams.

Disposal Batch - The orderly placement or distribution of freshly mixed concrete or masonry.

Disposal Field - An area containing a series of one or more trenches lined with coarse aggregate and conveying the effluent from the septic tank through vitrified clay pipe or perforated, non-metallic pipe, laid in such a manner that the flow will be distributed with reasonable uniformity into natural soil.

Disposition - The deed giving you title to the property.

Distortion - Alteration of viewed images caused by variations in glass flatness or inhomogeneous portions within the glass. An inherent characteristic of heat-treated glass.

Distortion Glass - Alteration of viewed images caused by variations in glass flatness or inhomogeneous portions within the glass. An inherent characteristic of heat-treated glass.

Distribution Box - A box which contains the circuit breakers, connects to the service wires, and delivers current to the various outlets throughout a building or structure.

Distribution Box Electrical - The main box through which electrical power is brought into the home and then distributed.

Distribution Of Air - To force air to desired locations in a building or facility.

Distribution Panel - The main box through which electrical power is brought into the home and then distributed.

Divider Angle - A toolused by tilesetters to determine the degree of an angle to cut; used for fitting trim, moldings, and floors into corners; a corner angle is measured by adjusting the divider to fit the corner.

Divider Of Area - In roof construction, a raised double wood member attached to a properly flashed wood base plate that is anchored to the roof deck; used to relieve the stresses of thermal expansion and contraction in a roof system where no expansion joints have been provided.

Dividing Wall - A wall does not support any load other than its own weight and is usually for dividing purposed only.

DMR (Discounted Mortgage Rate) - A reduced mortgage rate that is subtracted from the Standard Variable rate.

Dock Board - Heavy timber used in the construction of the raised platform used for the loading and unloading of trucks.

Dock Bumper - Thick rubber units placed under loading dock openings to absorb the shock and prevent damage when trucks back in for loading or unloading.

Documents Bid - Drawings, details, and specifications for a particular project.

Documents Bidding - The bidding requirements and the proposed contract documents, including any addenda issued prior to receipt of bids.

Documents Of Bid - Drawings, details, and specifications for a particular project.

Dog Leg Chisel - Skewed blades are ideal for trimming joint work in furniture making and for undercutting.

Dohicky - Common technical term for whatever it is that you can't remember the real name of.

Dolly Varden Siding - Beveled wood siding which is rabbeted on the bottom edge.

Dome Skylight - A type of skylight exhibiting a characteristic translucent plastic domed top.

Doodad - Common technical term for whatever it is that you can't remember the real name of.

Doohdad - Common technical term for whatever it is that you can't remember the real name of.

Door Access - A door or panel creating a means of access for the inspection or repair of concealed equipment.

Door Accordian - A folding, hinged, or creased door with rollers which run along a track.

Door Active - In a pair of doors, the leaf that opens first and the one to which the lock is applied.

Door Anodized - A door which has been given an aluminum oxide coating by electrolytic action.

Door Automatic - A door equipped with a power-operated mechanism and controls that open and close the door automatically upon receipt of a momentary actuating signal; the switch that begins the automatic cycle may be a photoelectric device, floor mat, or manual switch.

Door Balanced - A door swung on an arm and pivot arrangement that is spaced out from the jamb so that some of the wind impinging on the door will assist in opening the door.

Door Bath Tub - A folding or sliding door mounted on a bath tub rim to keep water spray within the tub area when there is a shower over the tub.

Door Bevel - The angle of the lock edge in relation to the face of the lock stile; standard bevel is 1/8 inch in 2 inches (3.2 mm in 50.8 mm).

Door Bi Fold - A door with two leaves, hinged together to close on itself, one edge of each leaf is hinged at the jamb and the other edge is connected and guided by an overhead track.

Door Bifold - A door with two leaves, hinged together to close on itself, one edge of each leaf is hinged at the jamb and the other edge is connected and guided by an overhead track.

Door Birch - A door constructed or faced with a strong fine grained birch hardwood.

Door Blocking - Wood shims used between the door frame and the vertical structural wall framing members.

Door Bolt - The tongue of a lock installed to prevent a door opening.

Door Bumper - Rubber tip devices mounted on walls or baseboards that prevent door knobs from marring walls.

Door Carved - A door that has been finished with either factory or hand cutting onto its surface to improve its appearance.

Door Casing - The timber lining of a door opening.

Door Ceiling Access - A hinged door or loose fitting panel that allows for admittance to an attic.

Door Chain Hoist - A chain in a grooved pulley or sheave with a chain hook used to hoist a large door.

Door Combination - Combination doors used over regular openings. They provide winter insulation and summer protection and often have self storing or removable glass and screen inserts. This eliminates the need for handling a different unit each season.

Door Fire - A solid internal or external door designed to hold back a fire for a given period of time.

Door Folding - A folding, hinged, or creased door with rollers which run along a track.

Door French - A tall window that reaches to the floor and opens like a door.

Door Furniture - Decorative fittings on a door such as handles and plates.

Door Header - A lintel or beam located over a door to support the load from above the door.

Door Hollow Core - A door that is hollow and not made up with traditional members.

Door Jam Interior - The surrounding case into which and out of which a door closes and opens. It consists of two upright pieces called side jambs and a horizontal head jamb. These 3 jambs then have a door stop installed on them.

Door Operator - An automated door opener.

Door Pocket - A door which slides open into cavities within walls, seeming to disappear when open.

Door Schedule - A table on the blueprints that list the sizes, quantities and locations of all the doors in a property.

Door Shower -

• A folding or sliding door mounted on a bath tub rim to keep water spray within the tub area when there is a shower over the tub.
• A door leading into a dedicated shower area.

Door Slab - A rectangular door without hinges or frame.

Door Stop - The wooden stop that the door slab will rest upon when it's in a closed position.

Door Storm - A panel or sash door placed on the outside of an existing door to provide additional protection from the elements.

Door Walnut - A door which has a veneer of walnut.

Doorbuck - The rough frame of a door.

Doorjam Interior - The surrounding case into which and out of which a door closes and opens. It consists of two upright pieces called side jambs and a horizontal head jamb. These 3 jambs then have a door stop installed on them.

Doorjamb Interior - The surrounding case into which and out of which a door closes and opens. It consists of two upright pieces called side jambs and a horizontal head jamb. These 3 jambs then have a door stop installed on them.

Doric - The simplest of the three classical orders of Greek architecture.

Dormer - A window which projects from a sloping roof.

Dormer Cheeks - the side walls or a dormer.

Dormer Flashing - Sheet metal used to reinforce and weatherproof the joints and angles on a dormer.

Dormer Projection - The extension of a dormer from the main structure of a building.

Dormer Window - A window projecting from a room.

Double Agent - An Estate Agent who will reveal the seller's lowest asking price to the buyer in order to make a quick sale.

Double Back Plastering - A method of plaster placement characterized by application in successive operations with no setting or drying time allowed between coats.

Double Glass - Window or door in which two panes of glass are used with a sealed air space between, also known as Insulating Glass or Double Glazing.

Double Glazing - A window with two panes of glass and a space between them; double glazing significantly reduces cold, heat and noise transmission through the window.

Double Glazing Engineer - A qualified professional that specialises in double glazing engineering.

Double Glazing Plans - Drawn plans detailing the double glazing layout in a building.

Double Glazing Report - An in-depth report detailing the double glazing integrity of a building.

Double Glazing Survey - An in-depth survey detailing the double glazing integrity of a building.

Double Hung Window - A window which operates by means of two sashes that slide vertically past each other.

Double Plate - Two pieces of lumber located on the upper horizontal section of a framed wall that acts to tie partitions and walls together.

Double Square - This unique tool is designed for checking squareness of a board’s edge after planeing and jointing. Fit’s easily in a work apron pocket.

Double Strength - In float glass, approximately 1/8" (3 mm.) thick.

Double Swing Door - A door that opens or swings both ways as opposed to a traditional single swing door that opens either in or out, a double swing door opens both in and out.

Double Swing Window - A window that opens or swings both ways as opposed to a traditional single swing windows that opens either in or out, a double swing window opens both in and out.

Double Tree - Refers usually to a precast roof deck panel poured with two fins in its underside to impart flexural rigidity.

Double Up Plastering - A method of plaster placement characterized by application in successive operations with no setting or drying time allowed between coats.

Dovetail Anchor - A fastener with an interlocking joint that is wider at its end than at its base.

Dovetail Joint - A joint where the fingers are shaped like a doves tail, used to join pieces at 90 degrees.

Dovetail Saw - The most important of the back saws (and one of the smallest). Almost entirely dedicated to one function: cutting dovetails, where a clean and accurate saw cut is the hallmark of fine work. Have three handle designs: closed, pistol-grip and a turned spindle-like handle.

Dovetail Square - Lays out and marks dovetail joints with consistent accuracy.

Dowel - A wood pin used to align and hold two adjoining pieces.

Dowel Center - Metal buttons that go into a predrilled dowel hole to mark the position for drilling the second piece.

Doweling - To fasten or align with dowels.

Dowels -

• A usually round pin that fits tightly into a corresponding hole to fasten or align two adjacent pieces.
• A piece of wood driven into a wall to act as an anchor for nails.

Down Drain System - Potable water is circulated from the storage tank through the collector loop. Freeze protection is provided by solenoid valves opening and dumping the water at a preset low temperature. Collectors and piping must be pitched so that the system can drain down, and must be assembled carefully to withstand 100 psi. city water line pressures. Pressure reducing valves are recommended when city water pressure is greater than the working pressure of the system.

Down Payment - The difference between the sales price and the mortgage amount. A down payment is usually paid at closing.

Downpipe - Guttering that draws rainwater down from the room throw drain pipes that run straight down from the roof line to the ground.

Downspout - Metal or plastic tubing connected to the gutter for runoff.

Downspout Leader - A pipe for conducting rainwater from the roof to a cistern or to the ground by way of a downspout.

Downspout Strap - A piece of metal which secures the downspout to the eaves or wall of a building.

Draft Bankers - A method for the payment of funds that is guaranteed by your bank and more secure than a personal cheque.

Draft Contract - The first stage of the Conveyancing process, it is a legal document that sets out the terms of the sale. It is drawn up by the seller's solicitor using information from the deeds of the property. However, it is not a standard contract and is likely to change or clarify in detail quite considerably. The contract has two parts: Particulars of Sale and Conditions of Sale. The Particulars describe the property, what is included and details of the lease or freehold. The Conditions have information about the proposed completion date and any deposit required when contracts are exchanged.

Draft Contract Approved - Once both parties are satisfied that all the details of the draft contract are accurate, and your solicitor has made sure that there is nothing that should reasonably either preclude the seller from buying, or warrant your withdrawal from the sale, then the draft contract is approved and sent to both parties for signature.

Draft Space Attic - A partition in an attic, from roof to ceiling level, dividing the attic into discrete areas to prevent the spread of smoke and drafts.

Draft Transfer - A legal document issued by the vendor's solicitor to the purchaser's solicitor setting out the terms and conditions of sale.

Drafting Back - The reverse flow of chimney gases into the building through the barometric damper, draft hood, or burner unit. This can be caused by chimney blockage or it can occur when the pressure differential is too high for the chimney to draw.

Draftsman - A person who draws plans or designs, as of structures to be built.

Drain - Any pipe that carries waste water or water born waste in a building or house drainage system.

Drain Area - Any drain installed for the purpose of collecting rain water from an open area and channeling it to the storm drain

Drain Back System - The solar heat transfer fluid automatically drains into a tank by gravity. Drain back systems are available in one or two tank configurations. A heat exchanger is necessary, because the city inlet pressure would prevent draining. The heat transfer fluid in the collector loop may be distilled or city water if the loop plumbing is copper. If the plumbing is threaded galvanized pipe, inhibitors may be added to prevent corrosion. Most inhibitors are non-potable and require a double wall heat exchanger. The pump used must be sized to overcome static head.

Drain Down System - Potable water is circulated from the storage tank through the collector loop. Freeze protection is provided by solenoid valves opening and dumping the water at a preset low temperature. Collectors and piping must be pitched so that the system can drain down, and must be assembled carefully to withstand 100 psi. city water line pressures. Pressure reducing valves are recommended when city water pressure is greater than the working pressure of the system.

Drain Inside - In roofing, a drain positioned on a roof at some location other than the perimeter. It drains surface water inside the building through closed pipes to a drainage system.

Drain Perimiter - 3" or 4" perforated plastic pipe that goes around the perimeter (either inside or outside) of a foundation wall (before backfill) and collects and diverts ground water away from the foundation. Generally, it is day lighted into a sump pit inside the property, and a sump pump is sometimes inserted into the pit to discharge any accumulation of water.

Drain Pipes - Guttering that drains rain water from the roof.

Drain Storm - A drain that carries away rainwater, drainage or excess surface water.

Drain Tile - A perforated, corrugated plastic pipe laid at the bottom of the foundation wall and used to drain excess water away from the foundation. It prevents ground water from seeping through the foundation wall, sometimes called a Perimeter Drain.

Drain Waste Vent (DWV) - The section of a plumbing system that carries water and sewer gases out of a property.

Drainage - The process of allowing water to flow off and away from a property.

Drainage System - Complete system of piping used for carrying away waste water and sewage, also called House or Building Drainage System.

Drainage System Building - Complete system of piping used for carrying away waste water and sewage, also called House Drainage System.

Drainage System House - Complete system of piping used for carrying away waste water and sewage, also called Building Drainage System.

Drainpipes - Guttering that drains rain water from the roof.

Draught Bankers - A method for the payment of funds that is guaranteed by your bank and more secure than a personal cheque.

Draughtsman - A person who draws plans or designs, as of structures to be built.

Draw - The amount of progress billings on a contract that is currently available to a contractor under a contract with a fixed payment schedule.

Drawing Detail - A top view drawing of a building or roof showing the roof perimeter and indicating the projections and roof mounted equipment, drawn to scale.

Drawing Outline - A top view drawing of a building or roof showing only the perimeter drawn to scale.

Drawing Perimeter - A top view drawing of a building or roof showing only the perimeter drawn to scale.

Drawings Architectural - Drawings produced by an architect.

Drawings As Is - A set of drawings prepared by the general contractor, which includes any revisions in the working drawings and specifications during construction, indicating how the project was actually constructed; sometimes called As Built Drawings or As Builts.

Dressed And Matched - Boards or planks machined in such a matter that there is a groove on one edge and a corresponding tongue on the other.

Dressed Lumber - Smooth finished lumber product.

Dressed Size - The dimension of lumber after being surfaced by a planer.

Dressed Size Lumber - The dimension of lumber after shrinking from green dimension and after machining to size or pattern.

Dried Kiln - Lumber that has been heated in a kiln to dry and control the amounts of moisture.

Drier Paint - Usually oil-soluble soaps of such metals as lead manganese, or cobalt, which, in small proportions, hasten the oxidation and hardening (drying) of the drying oils in paints.

Drill Breast - A portable drill equipped with a plate that the operator leans against to provide pressure.

Drill Corded - Maybe the most popular power tool ever, the corded drill is a true jack-of-all-trades. Bore holes in a range of materials, drive screws and nuts, brush away paint and rust, sand edges and stir paint – these are just a few of the tasks this tool can accomplish.

Drill Cordless - All the benefits of a corded drill, but without a tether. Allows you to work on top of a ladder, on damp ground and without the tangles of a cord. The tradeoff is that a cordless may not be able to handle more rugged work or have quite the power of a corded.

Drill Hammer - Specially designed to both rotate the bit and apply a pulsing pressure that breaks through masonry neatly, faster and easier than a rotary-action alone. Intended for concrete and other masonry work.

Drill Heavy Duty - Perfect for propelling large multi-spur bits, fastener bits and hole saws. Necessary for tasks such as boring fist-sized holes.

Drill Press - Extremely versatile tool for hole boring, the drill press bores a variety of holes accurately and easily. It can also sand, rout, polish, saw, shape, grind, sharpen and mortise. Used in both metalworking and woodworking.

Drill Press Radial - A drill press with the head mounted on a tube which is laterally and vertically adjustable, this type gives greater throat clearance but is not as solid as a conventional drill press so run out can be a problem.

Drill Right Angle - Allows you to reach around a corner or into a confined space to bore holes or drive screws. Great for smaller jobs such as drilling pilot holes or driving screws inside a cabinet.

Drip -

• A member of a cornice or other horizontal exterior finish course that has a projection beyond the other parts for throwing off water.
• A groove in the underside of a sill or drip cap to cause water to drop off on the outer edge instead of drawing back and running down the face of the building.

Drip Cap - A thin strip of material above a door to drain off water.

Drip Cut - A groove in the underside of a horizontal board or masonry unit (such as a sill), which projects beyond the wall surface below to prevent water from moving back towards the wall surface.

Drip Edge - A drainage edge on a roof line to drain off water.

Drippage - Bitumen material that drips through roof deck joints, or over the edge of a roof deck.

Driver Angle - A unique tool that simplifies work in corners and at awkward angles. It holds a driver bit at a 60-degree angle to the bladed. Turning the handle rotates the bit. Bits are stored in the handle

Drop Ceiling - A ceiling that is suspended below an existing ceiling and is connected to that overhead structural member of surface.

Drop Siding - Usually ¾ inch thick and 6 and 8 inches wide with tongued-and-grooved or shiplap edges. Often used as siding without sheathing in secondary buildings

Dropping A Stinger - In carpentry, means cutting short on the bottom of a stairs, to allow for thickness of the first tread.

Drum Plant - A plant used for the manufacture of asphalt. Can be either a drum mix plant or a batch plant.

Drum Wall - A type of wall using stacked 55 gallon drums for heat storage

Dry Drainage Well - A pipe made of stones buried below the elevation of the footings to collect water from the drainpipe and evaporate it during hot weather.

Dry Glazing - Also called compression glazing, a term used to describe various means of sealing monolithic and insulating glass in the supporting framing system with synthetic rubber and other elastomeric gasket materials.

Dry In - To install the black roofing felt (tar paper) on the roof.

Dry Rot - A wood fungus that thrives in damp or wet conditions and infects wood or timber.

Dry Seal - Accomplishment of weather seal between glass and sash by use of strips or gaskets of Neoprene, EPDM, silicone or other flexible material. A dry seal may not be completely watertight.

Dry Sheet - A ply mechanically attached to wood or gypsum decks to prevent asphalt or pitch from penetrating the deck and leaking into the building below.

Dry Well - A pipe made of stones buried below the elevation of the footings to collect water from the drainpipe and evaporate it during hot weather.

Dryer Control Automatic - In a concrete batching plant, a system that automatically maintains the temperature of aggregates discharged from the dryer within a preset range.

Dryers Calcium - Used widely in combination with other metal driers to convert paint to hard films.

Drying Accelerated - The process of drying block or brick with relatively warm, dry air, or other means.

Drying Air - Drying by oxidation or evaporating by simple exposure to air; used for drying block, brick, wood, or paint without any special equipment, simply by exposure to ambient air.

Drying Artificial - The process of drying block or brick with relatively warm, dry air, or other means.

Drying Quick - A material with a relatively short drying time.

Dryrot - This is a fungus which attacks structural and joinery timbers and flourishes in moist, unventilated conditions and can cause serious problems.

Drywall - Sheet Rock, Drywall, Wall Board, Gypboard Or Gypsum - A manufactured panel made out of gypsum plaster and encased in a thin cardboard, usually 1/2" thick and 4' x 8' or 4' x 12' in size. The joint compound, Green board type drywall has a greater resistance to moisture than regular (white) plasterboard and is used in bathrooms and other wet areas.

Drywall Bull Nose - Rounded drywall corners.

Drywall Construction - A type of construction in which the interior wall finish is applied in a dry condition, generally in the form of sheet materials or wood panelling as contrasted to plaster.

Drywall Hammer - A special hammer used for nailing up gypsum board. It is also known as an ax or hatchet. Edges should be smooth and the corners rounded off. The head has a convex round & checkered head.

Drywall Mud - A powder that is usually mixed with water and used for joint treatment in gypsum or wallboard finish.

Drywall Nails - Nails used for hanging regular drywall that is to be taped and finished later must have adequate holding power and a head design that does not cut the face paper. They must also be of the proper depth to provide exactly 1 inch penetration into the framing member. Nails commonly used are chemically-etched and are designed with a cupped head.

DTIR (Debt To Income Ratio) - The ratio that reflects a borrowers total debt as a percentage of their gross income.

Duct - A cylindrical or rectangular tube used to move air either from exhaust or intake, and for distributing warm air from the heating plant to rooms, or air from a conditioning device or as cold air returns. The installation is referred to as duct work.

Duct Air - Ducts, usually made of sheet metal, that carry cooled air to all rooms.

Duct Bank - A group, series, or tier of round or rectangular metal pipes used to distribute warm or conditioned air throughout a building or structure.

Duct Connection Bus - A metal bar serving as a common connection for two or more circuits in a prefabricated unit.

Duct Work - The installation of cylindrical or rectangular tubing used to move air either from exhaust or intake, and for distributing warm air from the heating plant to rooms, or air from a conditioning device or as cold air returns. The installation is referred to as duct work.

Ducts - Round or rectangular pipes connecting to heating and cooling systems within a building that circulates warm and cold air.

Due Diligence - This is a process that will be undertaken by a mortgage lender to assure themselves that the risk of lending you the substantial amount of money required to purchase a house is minimised. Involves checking your personal details/ status and that of the property you wish to buy. The term is used in other industries to, to indicate a period of research, or checks to ensure the suitability of an undertaking of some sort.

Due On Sale - A clause in a mortgage contract requiring the borrower to pay the entire outstanding balance upon sale or transfer of the property.

Dumbwaiter - An elevator with a maximum footage of not more than 9 sq. ft. floor area; not more than 4" headroom and a maximum capacity of 500 lbs. used for carrying materials only.

Dump Ash - A metal access door in the floor of a fireplace firebox to dump the ashes into the ash pit below.

Duplex - Residence within two adjoining structures.

Dura Board - A panel made out of concrete and fibreglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing material. Commonly used on bathtub decks. Sometimes called Wonder board.

Dura Rock - A panel made out of concrete and fibreglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing material. Commonly used on bathtub decks. Sometimes called Wonder board.

Duraboard - A panel made out of concrete and fibreglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing material. Commonly used on bathtub decks. Sometimes called Wonder board.

Durarock - A panel made out of concrete and fibreglass usually used as a ceramic tile backing material. Commonly used on bathtub decks. Sometimes called Wonder board.

Durometer - The measurement of hardness of a material. A gauge to measure the hardness of an elastomeric material.

Dust Zinc - Finely divided zinc metal, gray in colour, used primarily in metal primers.

Dutch Bond - In masonry, a bond having the courses made up alternately of headers and stretchers.

Dutch Door - A door divided horizontally in half; the halves may be opened together or individually.

Duty Stamp - A government tax on buying properties.

Dwarf Wall - A framed wall of less than normal full height.

Dwelling - A house, flat, or other form of living unit.

Dwelling Single Family - A house built for the purpose of a single family as opposed to multi families such as a duplex or apartment complex.

DWV (Drain Waste Vent) - The section of a plumbing system that carries water and sewer gases out of a property.

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