Glossary Terms

HVAC

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, a collective term for the systems that control indoor climate and air quality in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. These systems are essential for creating comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient environments by regulating temperature, humidity, and airflow regardless of external weather conditions. HVAC technology has evolved to combine multiple functions into integrated units

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Header

A header is a critical horizontal structural component that supports loads above wall openings such as doors, windows, or other voids. Essentially, a header acts as a beam that carries and distributes the weight of the structure above the opening, transferring these loads to the adjacent framing members on either side.  Without an appropriately sized and installed header, walls with

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Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is one of the most enduring and sought-after flooring options, valued for its natural beauty, strength, and versatility. Made from the dense wood of deciduous trees, hardwood floors bring warmth, character, and a timeless quality to any interior space. Unlike softer woods or engineered alternatives, hardwood flooring consists of solid or layered planks crafted from species such as

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Grade Level

Grade level refers to the ground surface elevation immediately surrounding a building or structure. It is a critical measurement in construction, landscaping, and architectural design, determining how a building interacts with its site environment.   Understanding and managing grade level is essential for foundation stability, drainage, accessibility, and compliance with building codes.     What is Grade Level?   Grade level is the

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Glazing

Glazing refers to the glass components in windows, doors, skylights, and curtain walls, as well as the methods used to install and secure them. It plays a pivotal role in shaping the visual appearance, thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and safety of any building.  Beyond merely filling openings, glazing technologies have upgraded to address performance demands such as insulation, noise reduction,

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Gable

A gable is the triangular portion of a wall that sits between the edges of a sloping roof. It forms the end wall of a building under a pitched roof, where two roof planes meet at a ridge. The shape and design of the gable have a significant influence on the architectural style, aesthetics, and structural performance of a building.  

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