What Does The Term Journeyman Mean In Construction? A journeyman in construction is an accomplished and skilled craftsman within any of the labor disciplines, such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work. After completing the apprenticeship program within their trade, journeymen are considered to be the most knowledgeable workers and are essential for guiding apprentices in […]
What Does Box Trench Mean In Construction? Trench boxes are safety devices used to protect workers in trenches. They are square structures made up of pre-constructed side sheets and adjustable cross members that provide stability to a trench and keep the utility workers safe while they carry out their duties. Trench box installation requires knowledge […]
What Is Compartmentation In Fire Protection? Compartmentation in fire protection is the process of dividing a structure into smaller sections or units, known as compartments in order to limit the spread of fire and smoke. This is done by using fire-resistant materials such as walls and floors that are designed to remain functional for a […]
What Does Portico Mean In Architecture? In architecture, a portico is a colonnaded porch or entrance to a structure, or a covered walkway supported by regularly spaced columns. It is often used as the entrance to a building and can be prostyle (open at the sides as well as the front) or pseudoperipteral (surrounded by […]
What Does Rising Dampness Mean In Construction? Rising dampness in construction is a relatively rare form of dampness that affects the walls of buildings. It occurs when moisture from the ground travels up through the walls by capillary action. This can cause damage to building materials such as render, efflorescence, and cracks in masonry. To […]
What Does Widow’s Walk Mean In Architecture? A widow’s walk is a raised rooftop platform enclosed by railings and often crowned with an inner cupola or turret, which is commonly found in coastal houses in 19th-century North America. This design is thought to be a variation of Italianate cupolas, which are also known as belvederes. […]
What Does Roof Slating Mean In Construction? Roof slating is the process of installing roofing slates, which are stone slabs made out of slate, on a roof. Slates are suitable for roofs with a pitch of more than 20 degrees and are laid to the same double lap principles as plain tiles. The size of […]
What Does Brick Spalling Mean In Construction? Brick spalling is the process of deterioration in concrete and bricks that results in pitting, flaking, delaminating, or cracks appearing on the surface. This is caused by moisture trapped inside the brick when temperatures drop below freezing. Common causes of spalling bricks include water erosion, poor drainage, improper […]
What Does Floating Screed Mean In Construction? A floating screed is a type of unbonded screed that is laid on top of the insulation to create a thermally efficient floor. It is commonly used in structures with underfloor heating or for situations where acoustic or thermal insulation is required. Floating screeds are separated from the […]
What Does High-Pressure Laminate Mean In Construction? High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) is a form of decorative laminate in which the layers of Kraft paper impregnated with melamine resin are infused with decorative paper and protective overlay and the resulting laminate is attached to the substrates at high pressures and temperatures. HPL is produced by saturating multiple […]