Before you begin any work in your home, there are a few "construction terms" we thought you should learn. You don't want to be lost in a world you don't understand.
Scroll down to see "What does it mean when my contractor says..."
SPECS - These are the exact details manufacturers provide the industry which contain important installation information about the product. The proper terminology is specifications. For example, the specs for an range will contain a diagram with exact dimensions and clearances for that particular model including its height, depth and utility connection information.
TRIM - Trim is a tile term. It describes the pieces of tile that line the outermost edge of a shower, counter or step. When tile shopping, make sure you choose a tile that has matching trim pieces. You may think it is easy to find something that matches, but its not.
B.T.U. - British Thermal Units.
G.F.I. - Ground Fault Breaker for wet areas such as the kitchen or bathroom.
ARC FAULT BREAKERS - For bedrooms
SUPPLY LINES - These are the lines that connect water or gas from the wall to your fixture or appliance. They have braided mesh exteriors and are flexible. Look behind your toilet, that supply line is bringing in your water.
ROUGH TOP - This is the wood underlayment (plywood sheet) that is nailed to the top of your cabinetry. It is the structure that will hold your granite, tile or other solid surface material.
"What does it mean when my contractor says..."
...I need to upgrade my service panel?
You are probably adding additional appliances that require a higher electrical capacity (see list below.) Remember, older holmes do not have enough electrical breakers required for new appliances because some of them did not exist back then!
- microwaves
- computers
- double ovens
- warming drawers
- incandescent lighting
- jacuzzi tub
- anything that was not already existing in your house
...I need to
