casement window: A hinged window, usually metal, that opens out.

casing: Molding of various widths and thicknesses used to trim door and window openings at the jambs.

caulking: A waterproof material used to seal cracks.

central heating: A system by which the heat from a single source is distributed with ducts.

chase: A slot or continuous groove built in masonry wall to accommodate ducts, pipes, or conduits.

chimney: A vertical flue for passing smoke from a heating unit, fireplace, or incinerator.

chinking: Caulking or flexible sealant used to seal joints between logs.

chord: Bottom chord of a truss is the horizontal member of a truss connecting the lower corners. The top chord of a truss are the two sloping members of a truss which connect the lower corners with the ridge or peak.
clear title: A title to property that is free of any defects.

cleat: A piece of wood, normally used in frame construction, fastened to another member to serve as a brace or support.

collar beam: Nominal 1 or 2 in. thick members connecting opposite roof rafters. They serve to stiffen the roof structure.

column: A vertical timber, multiple studs or steel pipe that supports any vertical lead in addition to its own.

computer-aided design: Using the computer to perform drafting and design functions.

concrete: A mixture of cement, sand, and gravel with water.

CMU: Concrete masonry unit (concrete block).

conditions and restrictions: The term used to designate any conditions to which the use of land may not be put and the penalties for failure to comply.

conduit, electrical: A pipe, usually metal, in which wire is installed.

coping: A cap or top course of a masonry wall to protect lower areas from water penetration.

corbel: A ledge or shelf constructed by laying successive courses of masonry out from the face of the wall.

core: The inner layer or layers of plywood. The core may consist of veneer, solid lumber, or composition board.

corner braces: Diagonal braces at the corners of frame structure to stiffen and strengthen the wall.

cornice: The part of a roof that projects out from the wall.

cornice return: That portion of the cornice that returns on the gable end of a house.

counterflashing: A flashing used under the regular flashing.

cove: Molded trim of a concave shape used around cabinet construction and other built-ins.

crawl space: The shallow space below the floor of a house built above the ground. Generally it is surrounded with the foundation wall.

cricket: A device used at roof intersections to divert water.

cross bracing: Boards nailed diagonally across studs or other boards to make framework rigid.

crown molding: A decorative molding used at the top of cabinets, at ceiling corners, and under a roof overhang.

 

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