A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
| °c | Degrees Centigrade |
| °F | Degrees Fahrenheit |
A
| A | |
| AA | Aluminum Association |
| AAMA | While many will associate the AAMA as an acronym for American Association of Medical Assistants which provides medical assistant professionals with education, training and certifications, in the construction trade, AAMA stands for “American Architectural Manufacturers Association”; an organization that brings codes, test, standards and certification to the glass, glazing, storefront, window, door and skylight industry. |
| AAMA Gold | An AAMA certification program relating to testing in areas of air leakage, water penetration, structural performance, operating forces, forced entry resistance and life cycle durability in doors and windows. |
| AAMA Silver | An AAMA certification program relating to testing in areas relating to the thermal performance only. |
| Absorbed | The collection of dissolved resin in condensed form in and on the anodic film. |
| Absorptance | Energy that is not transmitted through the glass or reflected off its surfaces is absorbed. IE; ratio of radiant energy absorbed compared to the total radiant energy. Note that once glass has absorbed radiant energy, the energy is transformed into heat, raising the glass temperature. |
| Access Door | Service access door. Also a door in an area where sliding wall panels stack. |
| Accessible | Designs for approaching areas inside or outside facilities. |
| Accessory Groove | A shape included on a fenestration product frame that is designed to mate with installation accessories. |
| Accreditation | Certification of competence in a specified subject or areas of expertise, and of the integrity of an agency, firm, group, or person, awarded by a duly recognized and respected accrediting organization. |
| ACDD | Annual Cooling Degree Days |
| Acoustics | A science that deals with the production, control, transmission, reception, and effects of sound |
| Acrylic | Derived from acrylic acid. Known by trade names Plexiglas, Acrylite, Lucite, and Perspex among several others. Often used in sheet form as a lightweight or shatter-resistant alternative to glass. |
| Acrylic Paint or Latex | A paint composed of acrylic resins, thinned with water. |
| Activator | A material component that, when added to the base compound of a multi-component system, will cause or accelerate the curing process. |
| Active Door (Or Leaf) | First operating door in a door pair. The active door is usually equipped with the lock cylinder. |
| Active Multipoint Point Locking Hardware | A lock with at least two locking points other than the latch and center deadbolt. |
| Active Panel | In paired or dual window or door units, this is the main or first operating panel. The secondary panel is called the passive panel. |
| Active Solar Heat Gain | Solar heat that passes through a material and is mechanically captured. |
| Addendum | Written or graphic instructions issued prior to the execution of the Contract which modify or interpret the bidding documents, including Drawings and Specifications, by additions, deletions, clarifications or corrections. Addenda will become part of the Contract Documents when the Construction Contract is executed. |
| Addition | The construction of a room that is attached to an existing structure. |
| Adhesion | That property of a coating or sealant which measures its ability to stick or attach/bond to the applied surface. |
| Adhesion Peel Test | The bond separation test. The material is pulled away from the surface at a certain angle (90° or 180° angle to the plane to which it is adhered. Values are expressed in pounds/inch width. |
| Adhesive | A sticky substance to bond one material to another. Use the term “Adhere” instead of “Glue.” Do not use “Glue,” “Cement,” or Mastic. |
| Adhesive Failure | Failure of the bond between the sealant and the surface to which it is in contact. |
| Adhesive Material | The seal between a material and the surface to which it adheres. |
| Adjustable | A window, door or skylight that can be tweaked into true or square to become for effective. |
| Advertisement for Bids | Published public notice soliciting bids for a construction project. Most frequently used to conform to legal requirements pertaining to projects to be constructed under public authority, and usually published on newspapers of general circulation in those districts from which the public funds are derived. |
| AEC | Aluminum Extruders Council |
| Aeroelastic (Dynamic) Model | This is a building model that is constructed to deflect and oscillate in response to fluctuating air flow induced forces. Strain gauges mounted on elastic elements and accelerometers attached to the frame of this type of model are used to measure peak and mean values of fluctuating moments, deflections and accelerations for the overall building. While this type of model is not primarily used for curtain walls, curtain wall performance can be affected by in-plane and out-of-plane racking of the curtain wall system as the building deflects. Peak deflections obtained from the aeroelastic model tests can be used to estimate maximum deflections of the system elements. |
| Aerogel | Aerogel was first created in 1931. It is a synthetic porous ultralight material. It has an extremely low density[2] and low thermal conductivity. Nicknames include frozen smoke or blue smoke. |
| Aerosol Foam Sealant | A sealant that expands in volume as it is dispensed from a container, using propellant under pressure, to form a rigid or semi-rigid cellular mass. |
| Aesthetics | The science and philosophy of beauty. |
| AFUE | Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency |
| Aging in Place | The ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level |
| Agreement | On a construction project, the document stating the essential terms of the Construction Contract which incorporates by reference the other Contract Documents. The document setting forth the terms of the Contract between the Architect and a consultant. |
| AHDD | Annual Heating Degree Days |
| AIA | American Institute of Architects |
| Air And Water Barrier (Air/Water Barrier) | Wall system layer(s) that limits the transfer of liquid water and air through the system. The barrier shall be adequate to withstand design wind load requirements, either independently or through a backup system. The terms “air and water barrier” and/or “air/water barrier” may also indicate a material that is also a vapor retarder. |
| Air Barrier | The assembly of materials used in building construction to cut down on the passage of air in and out of the building. |
| Air Barrier Foam Sealant | Also referred to as expanding foam. An aerosol foam product dispensed as a bead into the air gap area around the fenestration perimeter to reduce the infiltration or ex-filtration of air between the fenestration product and the rough opening. |
| Air Infiltration | Unintentional or accidental introduction of outside air into a building, typically through cracks in the building envelope and through use of doors, windows and other openings. Also caused by low quality windows and doors. As a low air infiltration number is best, a blower door test us often used to zero in on problem areas of infiltration. |
| Air Leakage | Leakage through the window assembly itself. It is indicated by an air leakage rating (AL) expressed as the equivalent cubic feet of air passing through a square foot of window area. |
| Air Leakage Rate | The volume of air flowing per unit of time through leakage paths in the closed window product under specified temperature and pressure conditions on both sides of the window. |
| Air Leakage Resistance | The amount of air leaking through cracks in walls, windows, and doors. |
| Air Mass | The ratio of the mass of atmosphere along the actual observer-to-sun line to the mass that would exist if the observer was at sea level, a standard barometric pressure and if the sun was directly overhead (at the zenith). |
| Air Pockets | Bubbles of air entrapped within a sealant, or between two adjacent beads of sealant applied successively in a joint. |
| Air Seal | A continuous seal put into the air gap area around the interior side, exterior side or both sides of the fenestration perimeter to restrict infiltration or exfiltration of air past the fenestration product. |
| Airblast OverPressure | The variation of air pressure caused by a blast event relative to ambient pressure conditions. |
| Air-leakage Rating | A measure of the rate of air-leakage around a window, door, or skylight in the presence of a specific pressure difference. It is expressed in units of cubic feet per minute per square foot of frame area (cfm/sq ft). Formerly expressed as cubic feet per minute per foot of window perimeter length (cfm/ft) but not now in use. The lower a window’s air-leakage rating, the better its airtightness. |
| Airlock Strip | The weatherstripping attached to the edges of each wing of a revolving door. |
| Airspace | The physical distance between the two sheets of glass in double insulated glass unit or both of the two spaces in a triple insulated glass unit. |
| Airspacer | The physical product that separates the two or more lites of glass in an insulating glass unit. The material may be aluminum, stainless steel, silicone, plastic to name a few. Also available in several colors. Often times manufactures place a manufacturing stamp on the spacer component as a permanent reference for manufacturing date and time. |
| ALC | Air Leakage Control |
| Alder | A widely distributed tree of the birch family that has toothed leaves and bears male catkins and woody female cones. |
| Alkyd (Paint) | A paint composed of a chemically synthesized, alkyd derived base, thinned with mineral spirits. The current version of “oil” based paints. |
| All-Glass Door | See GLASS DOOR. |
| Alteration | A planned or executed change to an existing building, short of complete demolition of the building. |
| Alternate | Mechanism used in Bid Documents to seek separate bids for a different design than the “Base Bid” design. May be “Additive” or “Deductive” alternates. |
| Aluminum Spacer | Ueog = 0.223 + 0.842Ucog – 0.153Ucog2 |
| Aluminum Windows | Windows with the frame and sash made out of aluminum. Aluminum window frames are light, strong, durable, and easily extruded into the complex shapes required for window parts. The biggest disadvantage of aluminum as a window frame material is its obviously high thermal conductance. |
| Ambient Temperature/Conditions | The temperature or conditions (humidity, air velocity, light exposure, etc.) which surround or encompass the area of concern, i.e., a test specimen, framing member, etc. |
| Amplitude | The difference between the maximum and minimum pressure that is developed in a sound pulse. |
| Anchor | Any device used to secure a building part or component to adjoining construction or a supporting member. See also and . |
| Anchor Point | A line (or point) of reference on fenestration products and/or the building where attachment is made. |
| Anchorage | The attachment of the individual products or mulled fenestration assembly to the rough opening with regard to transferring load. |
| Angular Distortion | The rotation of the exterior face of the framing member from its nominal position. Normally this is caused by thermal stresses during pouring and curing, improper handling or uneven glazing pressures. |
| Annealed Glass | Standard sheet of float glass which has not been heat-treated. Further processing is required to transform annealed glass into safety glass. |
| Annealing | Heating above the critical or recrystallization temperature, then controlled cooling of metal, glass, or other materials to eliminate the effects of cold-working, relieve internal stresses, or improve strength, ductility, or other properties. |
| Annealing Lehr | An on-line, controlled heating/cooling apparatus located after the tin bath and before the cooling conveyor of a float glass production line. Its purpose is to relieve induced stress from the flat glass product to allow normal cold end processing. |
| Annual Energy | The composite fuel and electric energy at the building site boundary for heating, cooling, and lighting the building, including pump energy and fan energy. |
| Annual Loads | The separate energy requirements for each of the three factors heating, cooling, and lighting. |
| Anodic Finishes | Anodic coatings are composed of aluminum oxide and are an integral part of the aluminum substrate. Careful control is permitted by the electrolytic anodizing process, and it provides substantial improvement over the natural oxide film due to greater thickness, density, and hardness of these factory-produced finishes. They may be clear (natural) or colored. Color is electrolytically deposited or integral. Pre-anodic chemical treatments clean and prepare the aluminum for the anodic finish. The Aluminum Association classifies architectural anodic coatings depending on coating thickness and recommended use. Further detailed information and specifications on anodic finishes are available from the Aluminum Association and the American Architectural Manufacturers Association. |
| Anodize | To give an aluminum oxide coating by electrolytic action. |
| Anodizing Aluminum | Aluminum that is treated by electrolysis to develop a finished surface (an extremely hard, noncorrosive oxide film). The electrochemical process produces an anodic coating by converting aluminum into aluminum oxide by electrolytic action. The resulting finish may be either clear or colored, and is an integral part of the aluminum. |
| ANSI | An acronym for the American National Standards Institute, which is an non-profit organization that oversees the development of voluntary consensus standards for products, services, processes, systems, and personnel in the United States. The organization also coordinates U.S. standards with international standards so that American products can be used worldwide. |
| Anti-Reflective Coating | A transparent coating, typically 150 nm thick, which reduces surface reflectance by using destructive interference between light reflected at the substrate surface and light reflected at the coating surface. |
| Anti-Walk Blocks | Elastomeric blocks that limit glass from moving lateral in the glazing rabbet which may result from thermal, seismic, wind load effects, building movement, and other forces that may apply. |
| Application Life | The period of time during which a sealant, after being mixed with a catalyst or exposed to the atmosphere, remains suitable for application; also referred to as work life, or pot life. |
| Applied Coating | The process of applying an organic coating using various application methods on a prepared surface and curing it into a continuous film. |
| Applied Films | Window film often is applied to the room-side glass surface of windows. Since window film absorbs the portion of solar heat that it does not reflect or transmit, it increases the glass temperature and may cause thermal stress on the glass or insulated glazing seals, particularly on sunny but cold days. Before installing window film, be sure to check whether this interferes with the warranty conditions for your windows and whether self-installation would meet the window film’s warranty requirements |
| Applied Flange | A separate flange that may be added to or removed from the window or door frame. (a.k.a. field-applied/mechanically attached, non-integral flange) |
| Applied Muntin | A profile member applied to the exterior or interior of a lite of glass to simulate individual glass lites. The members may be tape applied, sandwiched with the glass and glazed in, or designed to be removable. |
| Applied Stop | Surface mounted stop attached to a cased opening frame. |
| Approval | The term “approved,” where used in conjunction with the Architect’s action on the Contractor’s submittal, applications, and requests, is limited to the Architect’s duties and responsibilities as stated in General and Supplementary Conditions. |
| Apron | A molding applied horizontally to the wall, directly below the window sill. It is used to hide the rough edge of the drywall or plaster below the window framing |
| Arch or Arch-top Window | A four sided unit with a curve at the top |
| Architectural | Conventional aluminum oxide coatings which are formed in sulfuric acid based |
| Architectural Color Anodic Finishes | Clear aluminum oxide coatings that are dyed to produce a range of colors including gold, red, yellow, blue, turquoise and black. Only colors meeting the weathering requirements as outlined in Section 9.7, Weathering, are covered by this specification. Anodizing process recommendations of the dye manufacturer are to be strictly followed. Additional coating thickness in excess of Class I may be necessary for exterior color-fastness. Electrodeposited coatings may also be over-dyed. |
| Architectural Coordination Details | Fenestration details provided in architectural drawings, at bid or contract document stages, usually in large 1” = 1’-0” or 3” = 1’-0” scale, indicating fenestration external and internal profiles, adjacent materials, and interfaces; along with scope definition and coordination notes. These are typically generated as supplemental or overlaid 2-D drawings, not solely as “views” of the overall building BIM model. |
| Architectural Profile Details | Fenestration details provided in architectural drawings, at concept or design- development stages, usually in small 1/16” = 1’-0” or 1/8” = 1’-0” scale, indicating fenestration external profiles only, without great detail in adjacent materials, and interfaces. These are typically generated as “views” of the overall building BIM model. |
| Architectural Terrace Door | A door primarily used for terrace access in high-rise applications/buildings. Architectural terrace doors consist of one or more glazed panels contained within one master frame. The operable panels will be hinged on either jamb, and can swing either to the exterior or interior (not both). The door is not used as a primary entrance door because of the nature of the sill/threshold design used to meet performance requirements. Architectural terrace doors are not tested for limited water and meet the requirements of AAMA 910. |
| Architectural Walls | Walls having formed framing members (usually extrusions) and sizeable areas of glass, often with opaque panel areas also. |
| Architectural Windows | A window in its most primitive form was an unglazed hole. Unfortunatley, some bottom end windows don’t provide much more than this. An architectural window implies a better quality, more solidly built article of construction. |
| Area | Thermal performance characteristics of fenestration products are dependent on the vision area, spandrel area, center-of-glass area, edge-of-glass area, frame area and total area. |
| Areaway | An uncovered space next to the fountain walls of a building, for entrance of light and air to the basement. |
| Argon | An inert, nontoxic and orderless gas used in insulating glass units to reduce heat transfer. |
| Argon Fill | The act of filling an insulated glass unit with argon gas. |
| Argon Gas (Argon Filled) | An inert, nontoxic gas placed between glass panes in insulated glass units in order to improve the insulating value of sealed glass units. |
| Armored Faceplate | Tamper-proof faceplate or front of a lock mortised in the edge of a door to cover the lock mechanism. |
| Art Glass | Any of the several varieties of glass using combinations of colors, special effects of opaqueness and transparency, etc., to create an aesthetic effect. When used in windows and doors, the art glass can be incorporated into the thermal pane, therefore sealed off for protection and damage due to dirt and debris. Often times, back lighting can be incorporated into the thermal pane to illuminate the beauty of the glass. |
| As-Build Drawings | A drawing or print marked by the Contractor to show actual conditions of a project as constructed after construction. |
| ASHRAE | An acronym for the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers, a group responsible for standards for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. Particularly important to green building construction is ASHRAE 90.1. |
| ASME | American Society of Mechanical Engineers |
| Aspect Ratio | The quotient of the long side of a glazing lite over the short side of that lite. |
| Assembled Unit | A unit, complete in its entirety, shipped with all parts and sub-assemblies in complete connection with each other and with no separate pieces. Screens, if offered, may be shipped separately. |
| Assembly Drawings | Drawings that show typical cross sections of the egress window system. |
| ASTM | An acronym for the American Society for Testing and Materials. An non-profit that develops and publishes standards, definitions of materials, methods for testing materials, recommended installation practices, and specifications for materials. |
| Astm (American Society For Testing And Materials) | A group that develops test methods and materials standards that are widely used by the construction and building design industries. Considered one of the bases for acceptable testing levels of quality for materials used in construction. |
| Astragal | An astragal is commonly used to seal between a pair of doors. The word “astragal” comes from the Greek and Latin for “vertebra,” and the original astragals used in architecture were made in a beaded design, thereby resembling a vertebra. |
| Asymetrical Insulating Glass Unit | Insulating glass units in which the panes of glass are of a different thickness or type or both. |
| At-Rest Position | The position of the levers of the handle set when not in use. The at-rest position of the levers is typically horizontal. |
| Atrium | A large enclosed open space with the shell of a building. |
| Atrium Glazing | Horizontal (or similar) light transmitting material located in the roof sections of the atrium space; the glazed area is assumed to be uniformly distributed over the entire atrium roof with a minimum of ten percent of the gross glazed area used for structural support members. |
| Authentic Divided Lites (ADL) | Also known as True Divided Lites (TDL). See True Divided Lites. |
| Auto Adhesion | The adhesion of a specific uncured sealant to the same cured sealant. |
| Automatic Operator | Power-operated door activating device and control, actuated by approaching traffic or remote switch. |
| Auxillary Tests | Additional mandatory testing of a specimen as outlined in Clause 9.3.6 of 101/I.S.2/A440-11 |
| Award | The acceptance of a bid or negotiated proposal by an owner. |
| AWG | American Wire Gauge |
| Awning | Window very similar to a side hing casement except that the sash is hinged at the top and not the side. Awnings always swings out. |
| Awning Window | See AWNING, HOPPER, and PROJECTED WINDOW. |
| Awning, Hopper And Projected Window | A window consisting of one or more sash hinged at the top or bottom which project outward or inward from the plane of the frame. An awning rotates about its top hinge(s) and projects outward. A hopper window rotates about its bottom hinge(s) and projects inward. |
| Azimuth | The horizontal angle subtended between two planes, one being the plane passing vertically through the position of the sun and normal to the earth’s surface and the other being the plane aligned to the north and south, and normal to earth’s surface. |
B
| Back Check | A resistance to cushion and slow down the opening swing of a door before reaching the closer swing limit. |
| Back Closure | Complementary member used in forming tube for side jamb. |
| Back Dam | The rear upturned leg of a masonry sill, sill pan or sub-sill designed for the purpose of diverting liquid water. A sealant joint can also be used to form a back dam provided it is part of a continuous air seal. |
| Back Plate (A.K.A Escutcheon) | A plate typically featuring a bearing for the rotation of a lever. It is also used to cover and protect bored preparations used to install hardware in the door. |
| Back Stop | A mechanical feature of a door closer which completely stops the opening swing of a door at a pre-set position. |
| Back Up | A material placed into a joint, primarily to control the depth of the sealant. |
| Backband | Backband moldings are used in conjunction with Casing or Baseboard to create a wide variety of trim options for windows and doors. Adding an extra piece of back band moulding can add that extra boost of architectural interest. |
| Backbedding | The bedding of glazing compound which is placed between the face of glass and the frame or sash containing it. |
| Backer Rod | A material placed into a joint, primarily to control the depth and shape of the sealant. Also serves as a bond breaker. |
| Backset | The distance from the front of the face plate of the locking hardware to the rotation axis of the actuation lever or knob. |
| Baffle | A shielding surface in a test apparatus located to separate the specimen from the heating or cooling equipment. |
| Balance | A mechanism, used in single- and double-hung windows, that offers a counterbalance to the weight of the window’s sash when opening and closing. Comes in visions of constant force balance, spiral balance and block-and-tackle balance. |
| Balance | A mechanical device used in hung windows as a means of counterbalancing the weight of the sash. |
| Balance Rated Travel Range (Brtr) | The rated travel range of the balance as specified by the manufacturer. |
| Balanced Door | A door equipped with double-pivoted hardware so designed as to cause a semi- counterbalanced swing action when opening. |
| Balcony | An exterior floor that projects from the wall of a building, is completely supported by the building structure, and is enclosed by a parapet or railing. |
| Baluster | Any of a number of closely spaced vertica decorative supports for a railing or balustrade. |
| Barrier Free | The elimination of barriers or obstructions to permit ready access to and through entrances for those who are confined to wheelchairs or otherwise physically handicapped. |
| Barrier Systems | The location of the weatherability is determined by the integrity of the first (exterior) surface of the wall and the first surface of the window or door. The two surfaces are usually connected together by a sealant joint, effectively creating the water barrier for the building. |
| Barrier Systems | The location of the weatherability is determined by the integrity of the first (exterior) surface of the wall and the first surface of the window or door. The two surfaces are usually connected together by a sealant joint, effectively creating a water barrier for the building. |
| Barrier Wall | A wall system that is intended to manage all water at the exterior surface. |
| Baseline Unit | One test specimen representative of the product line under evaluation fabricated using standard construction for that product line with the highest conductivity glazing option for that product line. A baseline test specimen glazed with an insulating glass unit (IGU) shall be filled with air. |
| Basement Window | Any window type intended for the purpose of ventilating or illuminating a basement or cellar. |
| Basic Wind Speed | The wind velocity used to calculate external pressures acting on a surface or structure. Basic Wind Speed is expressed in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (kph) and is based on wind speed maps included in building codes or other related standards. |
| Bay Windows | Usually a projecting combination of three windows, arranged with two operating and one fixed picture window, where the fixed window is parallel to the wall and usually half the total width of the opening. |
| Bead | Often called a “stop” or a “bead stop”, a bead is a wood strip against which a swinging sash closes. Also, a finishing trim at the sides and top of the frame to hold the sash, as in a fixed sash or a double-hung window. A strip of sealant, glazing compound or putty. |
| Beam | A horizontal load-supporting member of a building which directly supports a floor; may be of wood steel, or concrete; transmits load horizontally to vertical columns or bearing walls. Normally beams are larger and are spaced further apart than “joist.” |
| Bearing | The area of contact between a structural member (beam, girder, footing) and its underlying support (column, bearing wall, load bearing ground). |
| Bearing Wall | A wall which supports any vertical load in a building (such as floors, roofs, joist, beams or girder) as well as its own weight. |
| Bed Or Bedding | The bead of compound applied between two materials, normally the glass or panel and the stop or frame. |
| Bedding Of Stop | The application of sealant at the base of a channel, just before the stop is placed in position, or buttered on the inside face of the stop. |
| Beige Profile | A profile, the color of which is defined by the color space falling within the parameters LH = 61 to 87, aH = -2.5 to 4.0, and bH = 6.5 to 23. |
| Bent Glass | Glass that has been curved by heating to above its softening point and then bent by gravity or press molds; also termed “curved glass.” |
| BETEC | An acronym for the Building Enclosure Technology and Environment Council. A voluntary membership council of the National Institute of Building Sciences. BETEC is charged with encouraging optimum energy use of buildings through a better understanding of how overall, complex building components interact with each other and with the environment. |
| Between Glass Muntin | A small profile member installed between the lites of glass, in a sealed insulating glass unit, to simulate individual glass lites. |
| Bevel | A sloped or canted surface contiguous with a vertical or horizontal one. |
| Bevel Of Sealant Bead | In glazing, a bead of sealant applied to provide a slanted top surface so that water will drain away from the glass or panel. |
| Beveled Glass | Is usually made by taking thick glass and creating an angled surface cut (bevel) around the entire periphery. |
| BHMA | Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association |
| Bid | A complete and signed proposal to do the construction work or designated portion thereof for the dollar amount stated in the bid. |
| Bidder | One who submits a bid for a prime contract with the Owner, as distinct from a sub-bidder who submits a bid to another bidder. Technically, a bidder is not a contractor on a specific project until a contract exists between him and the Owner. |
| Bidding Documents | The advertisement or invitation to bid, instructions to Bidders, the bid form the drawings, the specifications, and any Addenda issued prior to receipt of bids. |
| Bi-Folding Doors | Bi fold doors are also known as bi-Folding Doors and folding sliding doors. In its simplest term, a bifold is a door that slides open while its panels fold up and stack neatly against the wall – like a concertina or an accordion. |
| Bi-folding Windows | Windows that fold to one side or both in a tight, compact stack. |
| Bim Elements | BIM elements represent different parts of a building, such as a window or door. |
| Bim Families | BIM families are collections of similar elements, such as windows, sometimes referred to as Industry Foundation Classes (IFCs). |
| Bim Manager | The project executive, often employed by the construction management firm or architect of record, responsible for maintaining the project BIM model, and all related processes and protocols. The project BIM manager’s responsibilities as defined herein are not the fenestration manufacturer’s. |
| BIPV | Building Integrated Photovoltaics. See photovoltaics. |
| Bite | Amount of overlap between the stop and the panel or light. The distance that the surround member (rail or stile) overlaps the glazing. |
| Bite | The dimension by which the inner or outer edge of the frame or glazing stop overlaps the edge of the glazing. |
| Bite Failure | Glazing or infill panel disengagement from the fenestration system that is attributed to an inadequate bite. |
| Bituminous | Describing cement, mastic, or roofing, indicating a product in which asphalt is a major ingredient. |
| Blackbody | The ideal, perfect emitter and absorber of thermal radiation. It emits radiant energy at each wavelength at the maximum rate possible as a consequence of its temperature, and absorbs all incident radiance. |
| Blank | Thin plastic sheeting or other suitable material applied to the exterior surface of the test specimen (tare reading). |
| Blast (Explosion) | A rapid chemical or nuclear reaction that produces sound, heat, light and a shock wave. |
| Blast Consultant | An individual, firm or institution employing such persons that have demonstrated experience with the accepted practices for blast resistant design. |
| Blast Event | An explosion resulting in a time-dependent variation of air pressure that radiates from the explosion. |
| Blast Tests | Tests designed to simulate the effects on an explosion. |
| Blast-Resistant Windows | Windows resistance to blast and blast-type attacks. |
| Bleeding | A migration of a liquid to the surface of a component or into/onto an adjacent material. |
| Blind Nailing | Nailing in such a way that the nail heads are not visible on the face of the finished work. |
| Blind Stop | The blind stop serves the same purpose as the inside stop, except it is positioned for function on the exterior of the window. Often serve as a stop for storm windows and screens. |
| Blister | A rounded elevation of the pultruded surface with boundaries that may be more or less sharply defined. |
| Block | A small piece of elastomeric or other suitable material used to support or position the glass in the frame |
| Block Frame Fenestration Product | A type of non-finned fenestration product (either window or door) that has no factory-applied moldings and that is installed into the rough opening either by driving fasteners through shimmed side jambs or by use of installation clips or brackets. (Sometimes called “Box Frame”.) |
| Block Frame Window | Replacing a window that utilizes the existing wood perimeter frame of the old window. |
| Blocking | A lineal piece of suitable material designed to support and prevent rotation of the replacement window sill. |
| BOAF | Building Officials Association of Florida |
| Board Foot | A unit of measure represented by a board one foot long, one foot wide and nominally one inch thick, or 144 cubic inches. |
| BOCA | An acronym for Building Officials and Code Administrators International. Development and enforcement of building codes. |
| Bond | The arrangement of bricks in certain overlapping patterns to give the finished structural unit additional strength and to allow the individual elements to act together as a cohesive, integrated unit. Commonly used bonds are Running, common, English, and Flemish bonds. |
| Bond Breaker | A material used to prevent three-sided adhesion in sealant joints. |
| Bookfold | All four or three wings of a revolving door folded so that they are parallel and point in the same direction. |
| Boot Glazed | The rubber gasket that cups the edge of a piece of glass perimeter installation into a sash. |
| Borrowed Light | An interior window between rooms which allows light from one room to enter another – It is an older term, but not entirely out of use – use instead “glazed opening. |
| Bottom Arm | The arm mechanism attached to the bottom rail of a door and connecting to the spindle of a floor closer or pivot. |
| Bottom Rail | The horizontal bottom part of a window sash. |
| Bottom Sweep | A flexible weatherstripping attached to the bottom of a door to prevent the infiltration of air, water, insects or sound. |
| Boundary Layer | The atmospheric layer from the ground surface up to a height where ground based obstacles such as buildings, trees and low hills cease to affect wind characteristics. In this layer the vertical distribution of mean wind speed, turbulence intensity and scale (gustiness) are determined primarily by surface features. |
| Boundary Layer Wind Tunnel (Blwt) | A low velocity wind tunnel with a long test section designed to physically model the atmospheric boundary layer. The floor of the wind tunnel is covered with surface features scaled to the same scale as the structure under study so as to develop a boundary layer with air flow characteristics similar to those for the actual site. |
| Bow Window | A rounded bay window that projects from the wall in an arc shape, commonly consisting of four or more sashes. |
| Box Bay | A window style of a bay window with the side windows that project away from the home’s exterior at 90 degree angles and the center picture window is parallel to the wall. |
| Box Strike | See STRIKE. |
| Boxframe | Door or window frame with no exterior casing or flange for mounting to a wall. (a.k.a. Non-Flanged Door/Window) |
| Brake Shape | Sheet stock bent or “broken” to desired shape, as required by specific job, on a power or manual brake machine. This shape is often used to cover conditions which cannot be covered by stock shape. |
| Breakaway Force | The force required to start a sash (or panel) in motion from a fully closed position. |
| Breakaway Mechanism | See COLLAPSING MECHANISM. |
| Breakout | Individual fiberglass strands which are loose or frayed, typically near fabricated edges. |
| Breather Tube | Similar to “Capillary Tubes”, are metal tubes placed in the edges of insulated glass units to accommodate for pressure changes during shipping over high altitudes. The tube is sealed upon installation. |
| Brick Mold | An exterior trim molding forming a boundary between bricks or other siding and a window or door. It is sometimes provided with a recess to receive a screen or storm door. |
| Brick Molding | refers to the exterior trim on all types of windows and doors, whether the house is brick or not. |
| Bridge | The portion of the extruded framing member which connects the exterior face with the interior structural portion of the frame. This portion of the thermal break cavity is removed by sawing or milling after pouring and curing of the thermal break material |
| British Thermal Unit (Btu) | The heat required to increase the temperature of 1 lb. of water 1 degree F. |
| Broker | A person who buys and sells goods or assets for others. |
| BTU | An abbreviation for British Thermal Unit. This is the heat required to increase the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. |
| Bubble | An inclusion of a gaseous or liquid material within the vinyl or at the glass-vinyl interface. |
| Bubbling | Open or closed pockets in a sealant caused by release, production, or expansion of glasses. |
| Buck | A rough wooden framework built into a window or door opening in a concrete or masonry wall, to which the window or door frame is secured. |
| Budget | The sum established by the Owner as available for the entire Project, including the construction budget, land costs, equipment costs, financing costs, compensation for professional services, contingency allowance, and other similar established or estimated costs. |
| Building Envelope | The outer elements of a building, both above and below ground, that divide the external from the internal environments. |
| Building Information Modeling (Bim) | An integrated construction project workflow and process, in which up-to-date, reliable information is used to coordinate design, manufacturing, and construction activities of all parties involved, with information kept in a single building model. |
| Building Paper | A membrane material made of cellulose paper impregnated with asphalt (to inhibit passage of liquid water through the material) and which is commonly used as a concealed water-resistive barrier (WRB), similar to polymer house wraps, in membrane/drainage walls. |
| Building Paper | A membrane material typically made of cellulose paper impregnated with asphalt (to inhibit passage of liquid water through the material) and which is commonly used as a concealed water-resistive barrier (WRB), similar to polymer house wraps, in membrane/drainage walls. |
| Building Permit | A permit issued by a village, town, city, county, state or federal governmental authority allowing construction of a project in accordance with approved Drawings and Specifications. |
| Building Seismic Safety Council (Bssc) | The Building Seismic Safety Council was established in 1979 under the auspices of the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) for dealing with the complex regulatory, technical, social, and economic issues involved in developing and promulgating building earthquake hazard mitigation regulatory provisions that are national in scope. Building Seismic Safety Council, 1090 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, DC 20005. |
| Building Type | A classification of a building according to principal activities or uses for which it was constructed, such as housing, jail, shopping center. This is not the same as an “occupancy type” of building codes. |
| Bulkhead | The member of an entrance frame which forms a base for a sidelight. |
| Bull-Nose | Convex rounding of a member, such as a radius face plate. |
| Burglar Proof Doors | Reinforced doors designed to be secure and to frustrate any attempted burglary. |
| Butt | Abbreviation for Butt Hinge, which is a hinge designed for application to the edge of a door. |
| Butt Glazing | The installation of glass products where the vertical glass edges are without structural supporting mullions |
| Butt Joint | A meeting of two members squarely end to end. |
| Buttering | Application of sealant compound to the flat surface of some member before placing the member in position, such as the buttering of a removable stop before fastening the stop in place. |
| Butt-Hung Door | A door hung on Butt Hinges. |
| Butyl | A synthetic rubber, or elastomer, butyl rubber is impermeable to air and used in many applications requiring an airtight rubber. Often used around windows and doors. |
| By Owner | The term “by others” means that work shown or described in the contract documents and labeled with this designation is not included in the specific sub-trade’s contract, but will be required to be done within the General Contractor’s contract. |
| Bypass | A bypass door is a type of door system often used with closets. Bypass doors open by sliding on a track behind/in front of each other. |
C
| CABO | Council of American Building Officials |
| Cam Lock | On a double hung or single hung window, a hardware that pulls the sash together and locks the window. |
| Camber | A slight rising from a plane to gain an actual or apparent effect of arching. |
| Caming | Refers to the grooved metal bars that hold textured glass and bevels in place, creating a decorative art glass design. |
| Cap Bead | A beveled seal applied to the top of the glazing rabbet to shed water away from the glazed infill. |
| Capillary Tubes | Similar tol “Breather Tubes”, are metal tubes placed in the edges of insulated glass units to accommodate for pressure changes during shipping over high altitudes. The tube is sealed upon installation. |
| Capstock | The outer layer in a co-extrusion generally exposed to weathering. It could also be the outer layer designated for color, appearance or other performance criteria. |
| Carbon Neutral | A term used to describe the action of organizations, businesses and individuals taking action to remove as much carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as each put in to it. |
| Casement | A window sash that swings open on side hinges: in-swinging are French in origin; out-swinging English. Hardware can be a hand crank, push bar or a lever handle. |
| Casement Window | A window consisting of one or more sash hinged to open from the side (adjacent to the jambs), which project outward or inward from the plane of the window in the vertical plane. |
| Casing | Exposed molding or framing around a window or door, on either the inside or outside, to cover the space between the window frame or jamb and the wall. |
| Catalyst | A material which speeds the cure of a compound. |
| Caulk | To fill or close seams or crevices of in order to make watertight, airtight, etc |
| Caulking | Is both the processes and material to seal joints or seams in various structures. Commonly made of silicone, bituminous, acrylic, or rubber-based material. |
| Cavity | The hollow, channel or void provided in the extruded framing member into which the liquid thermal break material is poured. |
| Cavity To Vent Ratio | The volume of the drainage and ventilation cavity in m3 (ft3) between the rain screen and the air/water barrier, divided by the area of the vent in the rain screen in m2 (ft2). It does not include the volume of rigid non-air permeable insulation such as closed cell foams, but does include the volume of fibrous insulation such as mineral wool insulation. The cavity to vent ratio shall be expressed as m3/ m2 (ft3/ft2). |
| Cavity Wall | A type of building wall construction consisting of an outer wall secured to an inner wall separated by an air space. |
| Cellular PVC | Cellular PVC is made from a foam extrusion process that creates not only a stronger but a lighter material for many applications, including replacement windows. Cellular PVC is roughly 140 percent more durable than vinyl and has roughly double the insulation properties. |
| cellulose Composite Material | A composite material whose ingredients include cellulose elements. These cellulose elements appear in the form of, but are not limited to, distinct fibers, fiber bundles, particles, wafers, flakes, strands, and veneers. |
| Cement Casing | The pan installed in the floor to house the floor bearing and/or operator of a revolving door or the floor mounted operator or closer for a swinging door. |
| Cementitious Material | Material binding aggregate particles together into heterogeneous mass. |
| Center Pivot Windows | Also referred to as a center hinge window. The hinges of a window sash that are centrally located in the frame so that the window rotates horizontally about its center line. Often incorporated in round windows that are required to open. |
| Center Shaft | The vertical shaft to which the wings of a revolving door are fastened. |
| Center-Hung Door | A door hung on center pivots. |
| Center-Of-Glass Area (Cog) | For thermal transmittance, this includes all vision area except the area within 64 mm (2.5 in.) of the primary sash or frame. For VT and SHGC determination, center-of- glass area is taken to be the vision area. |
| Center-Pivot | Swing hardware having its pivot axis on the thickness centerline of the door and normally located about 2 from the hinge jamb. |
| Centor Pivot Doors | A door that is supported by, and swings about, pivot pins. The pins are inserted into or attached to the door on the center line of its thickness. |
| Certification | A process that indicates a representative sample of a product line has been tested, that the product meets specified requirements, and that the product is subject to ongoing inspections by an outside certification agency. |
| Certification for Payment | A signed statement from the Architect to the Owner confirming the amount of money due the Contractor for Work accomplished and/or materials and equipment suitably stored. |
| Certification Program | A program sponsored by a HUD approved organization concerned with product evaluation. This organization maintains periodic testing, inspection and listing of products that meet this standard. |
| Certified Product | A product which meets all requirements of the certification program and is included in that listing. |
| Certified Wood | Wood and paper products come from responsibly managed forests – as defined by a particular standard. |
| CFM | Cubic Feet per Minute. |
| CFR | Code of Federal Regulations |
| Change Order | A written order to the Contractor signed by the Contractor, Owner, and the Architect, issued after the execution of the Contract, authorizing a Change in the Work or an adjustment in the Contract Sum or the Contract Time. The Contract Sum and the Contract Time may be changed only by Change Order. |
| Channel | A three-sided, U-shaped opening in sash or frame to receive light or panel, as with sash or frame units in which the light or panel is retained by a removable stop. Contrasted to a rabbet, which is a two-sided L-shaped opening, as with face-glazed window sash. |
| Channel Depth | The measurement from the bottom of the channel to the top of the stop, or measurement from sight line to base of channel. |
| Channel Glazing | The sealing of the joints around lights or panels set in a U-shaped channel employing removable stops. |
| Channel Width | The measurement between stationary and removable stops in a U-shaped channel at its widest point. |
| Chase | A rough channel formed in the inner face of a wall to receive piping, wiring, or ductwork and keep it behind the finished surface. |
| Check Rail | Also referred to as a meeting rail, it is the horizontal bottom rails on the upper and horizontal top rail on the lower sashes that meet when a double-hung window is closed. |
| Check Stile | See Meeting Stile |
| Chemical Compatibility | “Chemical Compatibility” is in accordance with a definition outlined in ASTM C717, “Standard Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants.” Compatibility is defined as the capability of two or more materials that can be placed in contact or close proximity with one another with each material maintaining its usual physical or chemical properties, or both. Specifically, this is to ensure that the components do not interact (chemically or otherwise) to the extent that their properties are altered, which could adversely affect the performance of each component. |
| Chemical Curing Sealant | A sealant that cures primarily through chemical reaction. |
| Chemically Bonded | (When related to a welded corner) A process where the two polymer profiles or pieces are heated and fused together with the aid of a chemical reaction. The reaction and bonding is similar to the original extrusion process. |
| Chemically Strengthened Glass | Glass that has been strengthened by an interchange of molecules at the glass surface, the modified molecules are larger than the original, placing the glass surface in compression. |
| Chips | Minor damage to the pultruded or coated surface that removes material, but does not cause a crack or craze. |
| Chord | For bent glass, the dimension measured straight across the bend. |
| Chromogenic Glazing | A broad class of switchable glazings including active materials (i.e.: electrochromic) and passive materials (photochromic and thermochromic). |
| Circle Top | Sometimes called a round top, arch top or circle head, are semi-circular windows that usually accompany common rectangular-shaped windows. They allow more external light to enter, but normally don’t open. So, added ventilation isn’t a consideration. Circle-top windows creatively enhance their companion windows, providing a sense of richness and sophistication. |
| Cladding | Sometimes referred to as window wrapping, Refers to the application of aluminum or vinyl sheeting cut and formed to create a covering or coating attached to the exterior face of a door or window to provide a low-maintenance surface. |
| Cladding | See FENESTRATION CLADDING. |
| Cladding Support | A sub-support between the exterior wall cladding and the building frame that acts to transfer loads back to the structure. Not to be confused with panel stiffener, which typically acts to limit cladding deflection. |
| Cladding System | Material assembly applied to a building as a nonload-bearing wall, or attached to a wall surface as a protective and ornamental covering. |
| Clash Detection | Identification of physical interference between building components in a virtual (modeled) environment. |
| Class I (A4) | High performance anodic finishes used in exterior applications receiving periodic maintenance such as curtain walls. Minimum coating thickness of 18 microns (0.7 mil). |
| Class Ii (A3) | Commercial anodic coatings used in interior applications or exterior applications receiving regularly scheduled cleaning and maintenance such as storefronts. Minimum coating thickness of 10 microns (0.4 mil). |
| Clear Anodic Coatings | electrolytes. These coatings are transparent and allow the natural aluminum color to show through. |
| Clear Glass | Architectural clear glass is mostly of the soda-lime-silica type, and composition varies between manufacturers, but is generally 70 – 74 percent silica, 5 – 12 percent lime, and 12 – 16 percent soda, with small amounts of magnesium, aluminum, iron, and other elements. |
| Clearance | See DOOR CLEARANCE. |
| Clerestory | A window in the upper part of a lofty room that admits light to the center of the room. Historically, clerestory denoted an upper level of a Roman basilica or of the nave of a Romanesque or Gothic church, the walls of which rise above the rooflines of the lower aisles and are pierced with windows. |
| Climate Change | A change in global or regional climate patterns. |
| Clipped Canopy | See REVOLVING DOOR CANOPY. |
| Clips | Wire spring devices to hold glass in a rebated sash, without stops, and face glazed. |
| Closer | See DOOR CLOSER. |
| Closing Force | See OPERATING FORCE and FORCE TO LATCH DOOR |
| CO | Carbon Monoxide |
| Coalescence | To unite, to join together. |
| Coated Glass | Glass with a very thin film use as a reflective surface. |
| Coating | A protective and/or decorative layer applied to a surface without the use of an adhesive. |
| Coating/Finishes | greater thickness, density and hardness of these factory-produced finishes. They may be clear (natural) or colored. Color is electrolytically deposited or integral. Pre- anodic chemical treatments clean and prepare the aluminum for the anodic finish. |
| Codes | Regulations, ordinances or statutory requirements of a village, town, city, county, state, or federal government relating to building construction, adopted and administered for the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare. |
| Coefficient Of Expansion | A value denoting the rate at which a material expands with rising temperature. |
| Coefficient Of Variation | A fraction or percentage indicative of the variability or distribution of a value. |
| Coextrusion | Profiles extruded from two or more concentric streams of compounds. The separate streams may be compounded to provide different characteristics such as strength or weathering. |
| Cohesive Failure | Failure characterized by splitting within the sealant resulting from over-extension. |
| Cohibition Point | Retraint point. A location where movement is restricted between the sash and the frame. |
| Coil Stock | Stock rolls of aluminum used for custom exterior trim. |
| Coil-Applied Coating | The process of applying a resinous coating onto a coil of aluminum, and curing it into a continuous film, prior to the fabrication process. |
| Coincidence Dip | A frequency or set of frequencies at which the sound transmission loss across a material will decrease due to the resonant characteristics of the material. |
| Cold Flow | Deformation, under gravitational force, at or below room temperature. |
| Collaboration Software | An application that facilitates file sharing, reading various file types and bringing them together in one user interface. |
| Collapsing Mechanism | The revolving door mechanism, top and bottom, that allows the door to turn properly and breakaway when required. |
| Colored Marking | Discoloration on the surface of the pultruded product that cannot be removed by rigorous cleaning. |
| Color-Hold Guidelines | Predictive target color regions within a three-dimensional model which constitute acceptable appearance retention levels of color change resulting from weathering of a specific product type and color. |
| Column | A supporting pillar. |
| Combination Assembly | An assembly formed by a combination of two or more separate fenestration products whose frames are mulled together utilizing a combination mullion or reinforcing mullion. |
| Combination Doors | A door composed of a prime door with a storm door affixed to the exterior face of the assembly. Combination doors are offered by the manufacturer as a complete factory pre-assembled or integral unit. Operation of the prime door and storm door shall be completely independent of each other. Combination doors are marked and tested as single integral units. |
| Combination Mullion | A horizontal or vertical member formed by joining two or more individual fenestration units together without a mullion stiffener. |
| Combination Storm Window | A window that is made of a storm window with screen and primary window combined. |
| Combustion | A chemical process of oxidation that occurs at a rate fast enough to produce a temperature rise and usually a light, either as a glow or flame. |
| Commercial Building (As Defined In The Iecc) | All buildings other than detached one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses and residential buildings, Groups R-2 and R-4. |
| Commercial Entrance System | A system of products used for ingress, egress and rescue in non-residential buildings. Commercial entrance systems typically utilize panic hardware, automatic closers, and relatively large amounts of glass. Commercial entrance systems are often site assembled. They are typically subject to high use and possibly abuse and are designed to withstand such use and abuse. |
| Commercial Glazing | Generaly referring to commercial or architectural applications of glass for windows and doors. |
| Common Mullions | Occur when two or more similar units are assembled in rows or ribbons (back to back). The individual units must be tested to the appropriate section(s) of this standard, but may be either factory or field mulled. Evidence of compliance shall be either by testing or mathematical calculation. |
| Compartmentalization (Segmentation) | The principle of dividing the vent and drainage cavity into smaller confined air cavities to control vertical or horizontal air flow inside the wall for the purpose of maintaining the pressure equalized air space. |
| Compatibility | When materials maintain physical and functional properties when in direct contact or close proximity to each other. The ability of two or more materials to exist in close association for an indefinite period with no adverse effect of one on the other. |
| Compatible | Two or more substances which can be mixed or blended or in close proximity without separating, reacting, or affecting the material adversely. |
| Compatible Materials | Materials that can exist in contact or close proximity to one another without detrimental effects on either. |
| Complete | The term “complete” means all surfaces or areas of a construction item. |
| Complete Window Replacement | The installation of a replacement window where the previously installed window (frame and sash) is completely removed. |
| Compliant | Expression of dissatisfaction (other than Appeal) to the AAMA Validator or Chief Engineer, Certification Programs by a licensee, any person, or organization, relating to either the operation of the certification program or qualifications of a certified product, where a response is expected. Complaints and responses must be in writing. If the complainant deems the response unsatisfactory, he may file an Appeal. |
| Composite Frame | composite windows or doors are made from a mixture of synthetic and natural materials, such as vinyl and wood, which is held together by an epoxy resin. May also mean two or more separate materials for example, an interior wood element with an exterior fiberglass element. |
| Composite Materials | Window and door members that are comprised of two or more materials. They are structurally combined or connected so as to perform structurally as a singular material, e.g., poured and de-bridged aluminum shapes, fiberglass, and man-made wood products. |
| Composite Materials | Window and door members that are comprised of two or more materials. They are structurally combined or connected so as to perform structurally as a singular material (e.g., poured and debridged aluminum shapes, fiberglass, and man-made wood products). |
| Composite Section | A framing member consisting of an interior and exterior extruded aluminum section, both of which are mechanically joined by a polyamide structural thermal barrier to improve the thermal performance of the assembly. |
| Composite Unit | A fenestration product consisting of two or more sash, leaves, lites or sliding door panels within a single frame utilizing an integral mullion (not to be confused with products made from cellulose composite materials). |
| Composite Windows | Refers to a window made of several compounds. Examples are fiberglass windows, Andersons fibrex and pultrusion window products. |
| Compound | A formulation of ingredients, usually grouped as vehicle or polymer pigment and fillers, to produce caulking compound, elastomeric joint sealant, etc. |
| Compression | Pressure exerted on a sealant in a joint, as by placing a light or panel in place against bedding, or placing a stop in position against a bead of sealant. |
| Compression Gasket | A gasket designed to function under compression. |
| Compression Set | The permanent deformation of a material after removal of the compressive stress. |
| Compression Strength | The maximum compressive stress which a material is capable of sustaining. Compressive strength is calculated from the maximum load during a compression test and the original cross-sectional area of the specimen. |
| Concentrated Load | A force applied to a fixed point load on a window, door, TDD, SSP, roof window or unit skylight component. |
| Concrete Masonry Unit (Cmu) | A pre-cast masonry block used to construct walls. |
| Condensation | The deposit of water vapor from the air on any cold surface whose temperature is below the dew point, such as a cold window glass or frame that is exposed to humid indoor air. |
| Condensation Gutter | A trough for carrying off condensed water; this may be drained to the exterior or allowed to evaporate. |
| Condensation Resistance | referred to as “CR” measures how well a window resists the formation of condensation on the inside surface. CR is expressed as a number between 1 and 100. The rating value is based on interior surface temperatures at 30%, 50%, and 70% indoor relative humidity for a given outside air temperature of 0° Fahrenheit under 15 mph wind conditions. The higher the number, the better a product is able to resist condensation. CR is meant to compare products and their potential for condensation formation. CR is an optional rating on the NFRC label. |
| Condensation Resistance Factor (Crf) | A rating number obtained under standard test conditions as prescribed in AAMA 1503. The CRF is essentially the ratio of the difference between an average inside surface temperature and the outside air temperature, and the difference between the inside air temperature and the outside air temperature. The CRF allows for comparison of the relative performance of fenestration systems based on the point at which an objectionable amount of condensation occurs. The CRF is dimensionless and expressed as a number between 1 and 100. The higher the CRF, the higher the resistance to condensation. |
| Conditioned | Space within a building that is provided with a heating and/or cooling system. |
| Conditioned Space | An area or room within a building that: (a) is heated or cooled by any equipment or appliance; (b) contains un-insulated ducts; or (c) has a fixed opening directly into an adjacent area or room that is heated or cooled by any equipment or appliance or contains un-insulated ducts. |
| Conduction | One of the three ways in which heat is transferred through a medium from an area of higher temperature to an area of lower temperature. |
| Conduction | The transfer of heat through matter, whether solid, liquid, or gas. |
| Conservatory | A sunroom featuring a high percentage of glazed surfaces used as walls and roof systems. |
| Consistency | Degree of softness or firmness of a compound as supplied in the container, and varying according to method of application, such as gun, knife, tool, etc. |
| Construction Documents | The term “Construction Documents” means the Scope of Work. List architectural drawings, specifications, shop drawings, manufacturing details, test reports or contracts, building permits, applicable codes. |
| Construction Joint | The linear void between two adjacent building elements. |
| Construction Management | The combined operations for the authorization, purchasing, supervision, accomplishment, and acceptance of a construction project. |
| Consultant | An individual or organization engaged by the Owner or Architect to render professional consulting services, supplementing the Architect’s services. Types of consultants could be Engineers, acoustical, energy, or cost consultants. |
| Contract Administration | The duties and responsibilities of the Architect during the Construction Phase, which includes observation of construction, checking shop drawings, and approving pay requests. |
| Control Joint | A joint acting to regulate the location and degree of cracking and separation resulting from the dimensional change of different elements of a structure. |
| Convection | One of the three ways in which heat is transferred. The tendency of heat transfer process involving motion or currents of hotter, less dense air to rise, and cooler, denser air to sink, causing the transfer of heat. |
| Coordinator | A mechanism which controls the order of closing of a pair of swing doors, used with doors equipped with overlapping astragals and certain panic hardware which requires one door to close ahead of the other. |
| COP | Coefficient of Performance |
| Cope | To join two molded strips at an angle by fitting one over the other, instead of mitering. |
| Co-Polymer | A polymer containing two or more chemically different types of monomers. |
| Corner Bracket | A bracket which is connected to a door frame jamb and head at the upper hinge corner to support an exposed overhead door closer. Used only on out-swinging doors. |
| Corner Post | A glass-holding mullion which connects two plates of glass at an angle, forming a corner. |
| Corner Seal | Formed when a sealant is installed to prevent air and water intrusion at corner details. |
| Cornice | Any horizontal decorative molding that crowns a building or furniture element— the cornice over a door or window, for instance. |
| Corrosion | The deterioration of metal by chemical or electro-chemical reaction resulting from exposure to weathering, moisture, chemicals or other agents or media. |
| Cottage Window | a double-hung window with an upper sash at 1/3 size and bottom sash 2/3 size. This is inverse to an Oriel style window where the top sash is larger at 2/3 size and bottom sash is smaller at 1/3 size. |
| Counter-Flashing | Horizontally applied sheet (flashing) material that joins layers of flashings where they join the weather resistant barrier, enhancing drainage by gravity. |
| Coupling | The ability of materials that are rigidly connected, to transmit vibrations or sound energy from one point to another location. The amount of energy transfer will depend upon the type of material. |
| Cover Plate | A finish plate used to cover the exposed face of a floor closer not covered by the threshold; also, a plate used to cover the exposed face of a closer mounted in the head of a door frame or a section of threshold over a floor closer. |
| Covering | A surface or component that provides protection or security by its position over a space. Coverings include, but are not necessarily limited to roofs, roof systems, glazed surfaces, screened panels or other similar assemblies. |
| CPSC | Consumer Products Safety Commission |
| Crash Bar | The cross bar of a panic exit device, serving as a push bar to actuate the panic hardware. |
| Crash Bar Housing | The housing at either end of a crash bar which is mounted on the surface of a door. |
| Creep | Time dependent part of strain resulting from stress. |
| Cremone | A locking device consisting of two long rods, the ends of which engage at sill and head. |
| CRF | The AAMA rating is called the Condensation Resistance Factor (CRF). CRF numbers for windows range from 30 to 80; the higher the number, the better the window is at resisting condensation. |
| Cripple Stud | A short stud above or below a window or door opening. |
| Critical Interface | The interface between the fenestration product or other building component, and the surface of the building that requires protection from water intrusion. The critical interface can include, but is not limited to, any or all of the following: the mounting flange/nailing fin, exterior frame of a non-flanged product, the exterior edge of a casing of a brick mold of the fenestration product and the sheathing WRB or rough opening frame; the trim and siding/cladding interface; or it can be the nail or other penetrations through the window trim. |
| Cross Rafter | In a skylight system, a structural framing member between rafters; generally at or near horizontal. |
| CSA | Canadian Standards Association |
| CSI | Construction Specifications Institute |
| Curb | A wall or frame used to raise roof windows, skylights, or sloped glazing above the surface of the roof. |
| Cure Time | The period of time that a reacting thermosetting material is exposed to specific conditions to reach a specified property level. The time required for a poured and debridged section to develop maximum physical properties. |
| Curing | Chemical process of developing ultimate properties of a finish or other material over a specified period of time. Compare to Drying. |
| Curing Agent | One part of a two-part sealant, which when added to the base will cause the base to change its physical state by chemical reaction between the two parts. |
| Curtain Wall | A system of an outer covering of a building in which the outer walls are non-structural, but merely keep the weather out and the occupants in. The wall transfers horizontal wind loads that are incident upon it to the main building structure through connections at floors or columns of the building. The outdoor surface may be metal, glass, concrete, or other material. Transparent assemblies are referred to as vision panels, and opaque assemblies are referred to as spandrel panels. |
| Curved Glass | See BENT GLASS. |
| Custom Made Windows | Window, and doors, that are made to custom size, shape, operations, wood species, finishes, hardware, glass and obscurity |
| Custom Sized | Windows made to a size other than manufactures standard selection of sizes. |
| Cut-Back | (For replacement windows without old frame tear-out.) The difference between the measured opening size and the manufactured frame dimensions that allows the installation of the window with the manufacturer’s recommended clearances. Similar to Rough Opening Gap for new windows. |
| CWDMA | Canadian Window and Door Manufacturers Association |
| Cyclic Bending | The repeated application and removal of a bending load to a framing member so as to investigate fatigue life, composite interaction, possible changes in physical properties, etc. |
| Cylinder | The cylindrical mechanism which receives the key used to operate a locking mechanism. |
| Cylinder Cam | Usually refers to the flat metal plate on the end of a mortise type cylinder, serving to actuate the lock mechanism. |
| Cylinder Guard | Hardened protective shield to prevent pulling of cylinder. |
| Cylinder Ring | Spacing collar to accommodate longer cylinders. |
D
| Dade County Approved Doors | The Miami-Dade Building Code requires that every exterior opening – residential or commercial – be provided The Miami-Dade Building Code requires that every exterior opening – residential or commercial – be provided with protection against wind-borne debris caused by hurricanes. |
| Dade County Approved Windows | Essentially all of Florida. |
| Damp Surface | For the purposes of this document, a ‘damp surface” is ‘damp-to-touch’ and is characterized by a lack of visible water on the surface and no transfer to the skin upon touching. |
| DAP Shipment | “Delivered At Place” means the seller is responsible for arranging carriage and for delivering the goods ready for unloading by purchaser. The purchaser is responsible for import clearance and any applicable local taxes or import duties. |
| Dark Brown Profile | A profile, the color of which is defined by the color space falling within the parameters LH = 13 to 33, aH = -1.0 to 6.0, and bH = 1.0 to 6.5. |
| Dark Green Profile | Color defined by the color space falling within the parameters LH = 20 to 40; aH = -20 to -2; bH = -2 to 4 |
| DASMA | Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association |
| DAT Shipment | “Delivered At Terminal” means the seller is responsible for arranging carriage and for delivering the goods and for unloading. The buyer is responsible for import clearance and any applicable local taxes or import duties. |
| Daylight Opening | The area of glass visible in a glazed sash. Or can be thought of as the area in which the sun can shine through. |
| Daylighting | The effective use of natural lighting from both the sun and the sky for meeting at least part of the lighting needs within an occupied space. Associated with this is an assumption that all or part of the installed lighting system uses some type of lighting control strategy to respond to the available daylight. |
| DDP Shipment | “Delivered Duty Paid” means that the seller fulfils full responsibility for deliver. The seller has to bear the risks and costs, including duties, taxes and other charges of delivering the goods thereto, cleared for importation. |
| Dead Load | The part of the total building load contributed by the structural building elements and materials. |
| Deadlatch | A latch bolt having an auxiliary feature which prevents its retraction by end pressure when in projected position. |
| Deadlock | A lock in which a bolt is moved by means of a key or thumb turn, and is positively stopped in its projected position. |
| Dealer | A person or firm who buys and sells goods |
| debriding | The process whereby the aluminum bridge connecting the exterior and interior portions of the extruded thermal break cavity is removed either by milling or sawing. |
| debriding Time | The minimum time required for the mixed thermal break material to develop sufficient hardness to allow debriding. |
| Deck | An exterior floor supported on at least one side by an adjacent structure, posts, piers or other independent supports. |
| Decorative Laminate | A layer of natural or synthetic material bonded with an adhesive system to the interior or exterior surface of a plastic skylight, window and door profiles. |
| Decorative Profile | Profiles that do not comprise part of the main-frame or sash, are not integral to the structure of the assembled unit, and/or are not components related to the retention of glass, such as decorative muntin and glazing stop profiles. |
| Decoupling | The ability of materials to isolate vibrations or sound energy from one point to another location. Resilient materials, such as foam or rubber would provide this type of isolation. |
| Deflection | The displacement in a structural member that occurs when a load is applied to the structure. |
| Deflection Resistance | The ability of the thermal break material to resist distortion due to wind loading, gasket pressure, fabrication or handling which would exceed the deflection limits specified for the product. |
| Degree day | A unit that represents a one-degree Fahrenheit deviation from some fixed reference point (usually 65° F) in the mean, daily outdoor temperature. See also heating degree day. |
| Delamination | The separation of two or more layers or plies of reinforcing material within pultrusion. |
| Delete | To take something out of the building or contract – do not confuse with “omit” which means not to install something in the first place. |
| Density | The mass per unit volume of a material, i.e., the mass of the thermal break material divided by the volume of that material. |
| Density Tolerance | Insures that the finished profiles conform to the original design, weight, and to a lesser extent, the dimensions presented in the drawings. |
| Desiccant | Is a hygroscopic and extremely porous crystalline substance that induces or sustains a state of dryness. Is used in the sealed airspace of a window to absorb and remove moisture. |
| Design Displacement | The portion of total vertical movement resulting from live load, system dead load and/or column creep and, unless otherwise specified, is defined to be 80% of the total vertical displacement (unless otherwise quantified through detailed calculations, and clearly called out in project specifications. OR The design earthquake lateral displacements, excluding additional displacement due to actual and accidental torsion. Numerically, this is the calculated elastic deflection multiplied by an appropriate deflection amplification factor that approximates the actual inelastic displacement. An earthquake that would produce ground motions at the site under consideration having a 90% probability of not being exceeded in 50 years. (Previously, some referred to this as the “probable earthquake.”) As defined in 1997 SBC |
| Design Earthquake | earthquake at the site under consideration that produces ground motions having 90% 501.4-00, 501.6-01 probability of not being exceeded in 50 years.” As defined in 1997 UBC: “the design . ’ basis ground motion is that ground motion that has a 10% chance of being exceeded in 50 years as determined by a site specific hazard analysis or may be determined from a hazard map.” |
| Design Factor | For glass, the average resistance to external loads fore given size, type and thickness GDSG 1 87 divided by the loads corresponding to the maximum allowable breaking probability. |
| Design Intent (Di) Models | Fenestration BIM models of standard “catalog” products, of standard size and configuration, often made available through manufacturers’ websites or industry warehousing/library sites, intended for use in early stages of design for visualization, rendering, product selection, and other high-level conceptual purposes as “basis of design.” DI models are provided prior to fenestration purchase order issuance. |
| Design Pressure | The structural wind loading requirements |
| Design Wind Load | The wind load pressure a product is required by the specifier to withstand in its end use application. |
| Detail | A drawing, at a larger scale, of a part of another drawing, indicating in detail the design, location, composition and correlation of the elements and materials shown. |
| Dew Point | The temperature at which water vapor in air will condense at a given state of humidity and pressure. |
| Dew Point Temperature | The temperature at which water vapor in air will condense at a given state of humidity and pressure. |
| DHI | Door and Hardware Institute |
| Die-Parting Line | A lengthwise flash or depression on the surface of a pultruded part. |
| Diffuser | A translucent glazing layer or fenestration product accessory designed to transmit direct-beam radiation diffusely, i.e. many directions. |
| Dimensional Stability | The degree that an extruded profile retains its original length and resists shrinkage, after being subjected to elevated temperatures. Dimensional stability is an excellent indicator of any internal or residual stresses in the profile that may have resulted from the extrusion process. |
| Direct Glaze | A sashless window unit in which the glass is glazed directly into a frame. |
| Directed | Terms such as “directed,” “requested,” “authorized,” “selected,” “approved,” “required,” and “permitted” mean “directed by the Architect,” “requested by the Architect,” and similar phrases. |
| Disengagement | Separation of one decking system component from another, as in a fastener head pulling completely through a plank. Disengagement does not include movement of one component relative to another. |
| Displacement | A vector or the magnitude of a vector from the initial position to a subsequent position assumed by a body. |
| Dispute | Disagreement between two parties (typically a licensee and a test lab, or a licensee and a customer) which is brought to AAMA for a decision based on procedural documents. Disputes shall be addressed, in writing, to the Validator, the AAMA Chief Engineer, Certification Programs, or the Certification Policy Committee, as appropriate. A response unsatisfactory to any party may result in an Appeal. |
| Distortion | The optical effect due to the variation of sheet glass thickness. |
| Divided Light | A window with a number of smaller panes of glass separated and held in place by muntins. |
| Divider | A solid element other than a frame or sash that is used to create divided lights, including muntins as well as grilles that lie between the indoor and outdoor glass layers. |
| Division | One of the sixteen organizational subdivisions used in the specifications and in construction information filing. |
| Division Bar | A resilient member used vertically or horizontally, supporting lightweight building materials when combined with a structural element. |
| Dock | A deck designed and located for the reception of water-going vessels and the loading/unloading of people and materials to/from docked vessels. |
| DOE | (United States) Department of Energy |
| DOE-2.1E | A building-simulation computer program, by Dept of Energy, used to calculate total annual energy use. |
| Dogging Device | A device used to lock the crash bar on a panic exit device in the open position. |
| Door | A means of access for the purpose of ingress and egress. A movable structure used to close off an entrance, typically consisting of a panel that swings, slides or rotates. |
| Door Backset | Dimension from plane of face of door to plane of face of frame. |
| Door Clearance | The margin of clearance around the edge of a door, between door and frame. |
| Door Closer | A device or mechanism to control a door during its opening and closing cycle; may be overhead or floor mounted, and either exposed or concealed. |
| Door Frame | The assembly of members into which a door fits when closed, consisting of jambs and head but no sill. |
| Door Holder | A hardware device designed to limit the swing of a door and hold it in an open position. |
| Door Light (Lite) | The glass area in a glazed door. |
| Door Opening | The opening dimension of a doorway, measured from inside of jambs and from floor line to underside of head of frame. The opening size is usually the nominal door size, and is equal to the actual door size plus clearances and threshold height. |
| Door Rollers | The wheels on sliding doors that movement. |
| Door System | One or more leaves or panels contained within one master frame with a sill/threshold and with or without mullions or hardware. The operable panels are hinged or sliding. The hinged panels can swing inward or outward. |
| Doorbuck | A door frame of rough material to which the finished door frame is attached. |
| Doppeltür | German: Double door |
| Dormer | A structural element of a building that protrudes from the plane of a sloping roof surface. |
| Double Acting Door | A door equipped with hardware which permits it to swing in both directions from the plane of its frame. |
| Double Glazing | In general, two pieces of glass separated by an air space to improve insulation against heat transfer and/or sound transmission. In factory-made double glazing units, the air between the glass sheets is thoroughly dried and the space is sealed airtight, eliminating possible condensation and providing superior insulating properties. |
| Double Slider | A sliding window with both sash slide side to side. |
| Double-Hung | A sliding window with both sash slide up and down. A counterbalance mechanism usually holds the sash in place. |
| Double-Hung Tilt | A double-hung window with the sashes made to tilt to the interior of the home for ease of cleaning. |
| Double-Strength Glass | Glass that is 1/8″ in thickness. More exactly, sheet glass between 0.115″ and 0.133″ (2.92–3.39 mm) thick. |
| Drainage And Ventilation Cavity | A cavity which is located behind the rain screen cladding element of the wall system and is on the exterior side of the air and water barrier (AWB) that allows the system to drain and vent. |
| Draindown | The observed dripping/sag/flow of any component from the constructed sample as a result of the softening or liquefaction of the self-adhered flashing adhesive or sealant. |
| Drained Cavity Wall Cladding | wall system that consists of an exterior cladding, a cavity, and an AWB to manage air leakage and water penetration. The exterior cladding sheds the majority of water. Water that penetrates the cladding is drained to the exterior of the building with flashing, drainage paths and weeps. |
| Dreh Kipp Fenster | German: Exact translation is “turn tilt window” or “rotary tilt window”; general meaning: tilt/turn window |
| Drehfenster | German: Pivot window |
| Drift | Generally refers to horizontal displacement. Story drift (or inter-story drift) refers to lateral movement (displacement) of one level (story) of a structure with respect to the level (story) above or below due to the design lateral forces. Story drift is the calculated elastic drift that has been amplified by factors required by government regulations or codes. |
| Drip | Any exterior projecting fin, groove, molding or cornice at the outer edge of a sill, soffit, or other projecting member in a wall designed to interrupt and divert the flow of water away/ downward over the wall or inward across the soffit. A small groove on the underside of a drip cap or window sill to prevent water from running back under the cap or window. |
| Drip Cap | A specialty component or molding made of either wood, aluminum or vinyl installed above a window or door. Commonly installed over windows and doors to direct water away from the building in order to prevent seepage, also called a drip molding. A rounded or beveled metal strip attached to the bottom of an exterior door to prevent water from draining or blowing under the door. |
| Drip Mold | A molding shaped for drip. |
| Dropped Dart Impact Resistance | Measures the resistance of the profile to cracking or breaking during the fabrication processes, such as sawing, routing and punching. impact resistance also indicates resistance to general abuse during transportation, storage and installation. |
| Drum | The curved sides of the enclosure, either glass or sheet metal of a revolving door. |
| Dry Glazing | A flexible vinyl seal or other acceptable material that does not have adhesive properties. |
| Dry Seal | Accomplishment of a weather seal between the glass and sash by use of elastomeric or other flexible material strips or gaskets. |
| Drying | Process of developing, solely by evaporation of volatile ingredients, ultimate properties of a finish or other material over a specified period of time. Compare to Curing. |
| DT | Duty assessed using the US Customs Haronized Tariff Schedule. Determined by the description and value of imports in US dollars. |
| Dual Action Hinged Glass Door | Dual action hinged glass doors consist of one or more glazed panels contained within an overall frame designed so that one of the glazed panels is operable in a swing mode and can be tilted inward from the top for ventilation. |
| Dual Door | A side-hinged door composed of one of the configurations listed in Clause 4.5.1 of 101/I.S.2/A440-11. |
| Dual Glazing | Two layers of glazing material mounted in a common frame and/or sash, separated by a space, and sealed or non-sealed. |
| Dual Mode | The primary and secondary window/door, or both primary windows/doors, are closed, the primary windows/doors are locked, and the insect screen (when offered or specified by the manufacturer) is in the stored position. |
| Dual Window | A window composed of one of the configurations listed in Clause 4.5.1 of 101/I.S.2/A440-11 and offered by the manufacturer as a complete factory preassembled or integral unit. |
| Dual-Action | A window consisting of a sash that tilts from the top and swings inward from the side for cleaning of the outside surface. Also referred to as “tilt-turn” window. |
| Dual-Action Side- Hinged Door | A door system consisting of one or more leaves contained within an overall frame and designed such that one of the leaves is operable in a swing mode and can be tilted inward from the top for ventilation. |
| Dual-Sealed Units | Sealed insulating glass units fabricated with an inner seal and an outer secondary seal. Generally, each of the two seals has been selected for its special performance characteristic, i.e. adhesion and moisture vapor transmission properties. |
| Durability | The capability of maintaining the serviceability of a product, component, assembly or construction over a time. |
| Durometer | An instrument used to measure hardness of a material. Shore Hardness is a commonly used hardness measurement scale. |
| Dutch Door | A two piece entry door in such that the top half operates separately than the lower half. |
| Dwell Time | The time from the point the test apparatus clutch slips until the apparatus changes direction. |
| Dynamic Glazing | Any Glazing System/Glazing In-fill that has the fully reversible ability to change its performance properties, including U-factor, SHGC, or VT. This includes, but is not limited to, shading systems between the glazing layers and chromogenic glazing. |
| Dynamic Windows | Windows or door systems include switchable windows and shading systems such as motorized shades, switchable electrochromic or gasochromic window coatings, and systems that have variable optical and thermal properties that can be changed in response to occupant preferences. |
E
| Ecological | Relating to or concerned with the relation of living organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings |
| Ecologically Balanced | Ecological balance is a theory stipulating that natural conditions, including numbers of various animal and plant species, remain stable on their own through variations over time. |
| Edge Blocks | Continuous or short lengths of elastomeric materials located at both jambs of the frame for centering the glass in the framed opening and for preventing lateral “walking.” They also protect the glass edges from being nicked during installation. |
| Edge Clearance | The dimension between the edge of glass or panel and its surrounding frame, measured normal to the edge in the plane of the glass or panel. |
| Edge Cover | The dimension by which the inner edge of the frame or stop overlaps the edge of the glass or panel. |
| Edge Effects | Two-dimensional heat transfer through a spacers on a glass perimeter. |
| Edge Slip (Edge Mismatch) | An edge condition in which one component glass of a (edge mismatch) laminate extends beyond the other. |
| Edge-Glued Joint | A joint between two pieces of wood longitudinally glued edge to edge. |
| Edge-Of-Glass Area (Eog) | For thermal transmittance, this area includes all vision area within 64 mm (2.5 in) of the primary sash or frame. |
| EER | Energy Efficiency Ratio |
| Effective Moment Of Inertia | The moment of inertia or ability of the composite structure to resist deflection under load. This property is usually determined by testing the composite rather than attempting to mathematically predict composite performance. |
| Effective Thermal Conductivity | The combined effects of conduction, convection, and radiation in fluid-filled (gas- filled) enclosures and cavities, converted into an apparent or effective conductivity of a solid. |
| Efficient Windows | The term used to describe the double glazing or triple glazing use in modern windows in homes. Unlike the original single glazing or old double glazing, energy-efficent glazing incorporates coated (low-emissivity) glass to prevent heat escaping through the windows. |
| EGIA | Electric and Gas Industries Association |
| Egress | A means of exiting. An egress window is one that is large enough for an adult to exit the room in case of an emergency. The size will be defined by national or local building codes. |
| Egress | The act of leaving an enclosed space. In the window industry the term refers to the dimensions of the opening of a window or door (the horizontal clear distance, vertical clear distance and the area of the opening which are established by the building codes). The reason for establishing minimum egress dimensions is to insure that a person attempting to leave a building in an emergency situation will have room to maneuver. Also proper “egress” will allow a fireman to enter a home while wearing emergency equipment. In 1985, the minimum egress dimensions required by most codes are 22″ horizontally, 24″ vertically and 5.7 square feet in area. Some areas of the country use different dimensions. |
| Egress Window | A window that provide emergency exits in case of fire. Egress windows shall have a clear opening, measured when the operable part of the window is completely open, of 5.7 square feet and meeting the following minimum dimensions. |
| Egress Window System | A “primary window” and, if provided, any screen, secondary window or other device, together with the necessary operating instructions constitute an “Egress Window System,” which complies with the requirements of this standard and that, when properly installed in a manufactured home, provides a means of egress when access to the exterior passage doors are unavailable. |
| Eiche | German: Oak |
| EIFS | Exterior Insulation and Finish System. A nonload-bearing outdoor wall finish system consisting of a thermal insulation board, an attachment system, a reinforced base coat, exterior joint sealant, and a compatible finish. |
| Elastic Recovery | Elastic recovery is the ability of the cross-linked sealant to recover from a constant external deformation. Elastic recovery is a measure of the cross-linking density of the system. |
| Elastomer | An elastic, rubber-like substance, such as natural or synthetic rubber. |
| Elastomeric | An elastic rubber like substance. |
| Elastomeric Material | A term often used for rubber and polymers that have properties similar to those of rubber. Thermal break polymers having the elastic properties of natural rubber. |
| Electric Operator | Uused to operate an window or door automatically. |
| Electric Strike | See STRIKE. |
| Electrochromic | Glass or glazing whose light transmission properties are altered when voltage is applied. |
| Electrochromic Glazing | Glazing with optical properties that can be varied continuously from clear to dark with a low-voltage signal. Ions are reversibly injected or removed from an electrochromic material. |
| Electrodeposited Color Anodic Finishes (A44) | Colored anodic coatings achieved in a multi-step process involving a clear anodizing step, followed by an electrolytic deposition of stable metal compounds at the pore base of the anodic coatings to obtain the color. A wide range of colors including the champagnes, bronzes, black, blue, burgundy, green, gray and gold can be achieved through different electrochemical techniques. A44 finishes may be over dyed to produce additional colors (A44/A43). |
| Electrolysis | Chemical decomposition of metal surface by the action of dissimilar metals and moisture. |
| Electrolytic Coloring | A multi-step process involving a clear anodizing step, followed by an electrolytic deposition of stable metal compounds at the pore base of the anodic coatings to obtain the color. |
| Electromagnetic Spectrum | The range of radiant energy |
| Elevation | A drawing of the front, side, or rear of the building drawn to scale. (2) The height above surface of the earth or the vertical distance from a given reference elevation. |
| Elongation | Increase in length expressed as a percentage of original length. The extension or growth of a material in one direction usually with a shrinkage or reduction in one or both of the other orthographic directions. |
| Emergency Exit Window | Fire escape window (egress window) large enough for a person to climb out. In U.S. building codes, each bedroom must be provided with an exit window. The exact width, area, and height from the floor are specified in the building codes. |
| Emergency Release | A safety device other than panic hardware which permits egress under emergency conditions. |
| Emissivity | The relative ability of a surface to radiate heat, with emissivity factors ranging from 0.0 (or 0 percent) to 1.0 (or 100 percent). |
| Emittance | The ratio of the radiant flux (heat) emitted by a object to that emitted by a blackbody at the same temperature and conditions. |
| Enclosure Wall | The curved wall components of a revolving door. |
| End Dam | Any means provided to stop the flow of water out from the ends of the sill, panning system, or subsill and into the wall cavity, such as, but not limited to, sealants, upstands, plates, or gaskets. |
| Energy Panel | A glazed Fenestration Attachment designed to be mounted to the interior or exterior of a primary fenestration product such that a gap is created between the glazing systems of the attachment and the primary fenestration product. |
| Energy Ratings | Performance ratings. National Fenestration Rating Council (HVRC) measuring windows on their U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, Visible Transmittance, Air Leakage and Condensation Resistance. |
| ENERGY STAR® | An international standard for energy efficient consumer products originated in the United States. It was created in 1992 by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. An Energy Star qualified home uses at least 15% less energy than standard homes built to the 2003 International Residential Code. |
| English Basement | A basement with half its height above grade level. |
| Entrance | The doorway, vestibule or lobby through which one enters a building. |
| Entry Doors | A doorway that allows entrance to or exit from a building |
| Environmental Management | The organizational structure, planning and resources for developing, implementing and maintaining policy for environmental protection. |
| Environmental Stewards | Refers to responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices. Aldo Leopold (1887–1949) championed environmental stewardship based on a land ethic “dealing with man’s relation to land and to the animals and plants which grow upon it.” |
| Environmentally Friendly | Also referred to as environment-friendly, eco-friendly, nature-friendly, and green are marketing terms referring to goods and services, laws, guidelines and policies that inflict reduced, minimal, or no harm upon ecosystems or the environment. |
| EPA | Enivronmental Protection Agency |
| EPDM | A synthetic rubber; Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. |
| Equal Lite | Equally sized and spaced sashes. |
| Equivalent Combined Load | Various long and short term loads combined into a single load; loads are combined in a manner that considers the variability of glass strength with load duration. |
| Equivalent Glass Area | Triangular or quadrilateral glass areas interpreted into equivalent rectangular areas for the purpose of determining resistance to loads. |
| Equivalent Triangular Load Duration (Td) | The time duration of the positive phase of a blast pressure pulse idealized as a triangle. |
| Equivalent Weatherstrip | Manufacturers shall classify their products in groups called Series. Each series defines significant properties of the product group that relate to its component materials, construction, and intended application. Changes in component materials such as yarn, fin, and backing materials that alter the product’s performance or application shall denote a change in series. Changes in a product’s construction such as method of attachment to a base, number of extending fins that alter the product’s performance or application shall also denote a change in series. |
| Escutcheon Plate | A flat ornamental piece of metal for protection and often decoration, around a keyhole, door handle, or light switch. |
| Eucalyptus | A fast-growing evergreen Australasian tree that has been widely introduced elsewhere. It is valued for its timber. |
| Evacuated Glazing | referred to as Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG). The most thermally efficient gas fill would be no gas at all—a vacuum –in which the space between surfaces two and three is evacuated to a minimum of less than one millionth of normal atmospheric pressure. At that level, there is no conductive or convective heat exchange between the lites of glass, thus lowering the U-factor. – See more at: http://www.aamanet.org/news/2/10/0/all/1086/coming-soon-to-a-window-near-you-vacuum-insulated-glazing#sthash.gIibyqGw.dpuf |
| Execution And Coordination | BIM model, representing external extents and attributes of fenestration profiles and accessories; and used in coordination, clash detection, sequencing, and other |
| Expansion Joint | A separation between building elements that allows independent movement without damage to the assembly. |
| Exposed Surfaces | Those surfaces which are visible when the coated product is installed. These may include both closed and open positions of operating sash, ventilators, doors or panels. |
| Extensioin Crank | A pole, rod or extension used to open and close windows, awnings and skylight that are out of reach. |
| Extension Bolt | See FLUSH BOLT. |
| Extension Jamb | Wooden or vinyl trim that extends the window jamb to match the wall thickness. |
| Exterior | Exposed surfaces visible when viewed from the building exterior with operating sash, door, or ventilators in the closed and locked positions. |
| Exterior Glazed | Glazing infills set from the exterior of the building. |
| Exterior Insulation And Finish System (Eifs) | A non-load-bearing outdoor wall finish system consisting of a thermal insulation board, an attachment systems, a reinforced base coat, exterior joint sealant, and a compatible finish. |
| Exterior Perimeter Seal | Sealant that seals the joint between the building construction materials, such as masonry, and doors or windows. |
| Exterior Rain Screen | An exterior cladding that allows venting to occur for the purpose of controlling water penetration through the system. |
| Exterior Stain Finish | Single or multi-layered coating system designed to yield a variegated or grained pattern. |
| Exterior Stop | The removable glazing bead that holds the glass or panel in place when it is on the exterior side window. In contrast to an interior stop located on the interior side of the glass. |
| Exterior Surface | Exposed surfaces visible when viewed from the building exterior with operating sash or ventilators in the closed and locked positions. |
| Exterior Trim | Trim that is installed on the exterior window or door. |
| Exterior Walking Surface | Flooring designed to be used outdoors as a component of decks, docks, balconies and stairs. |
| Extraneous Air | Air entering into the monitored/tested area from sources other than the specimen being tested. |
| Extrud Ability Limits | A set of guidelines established by The Aluminum Association and the Aluminum Extruders Council that provides quality extrusions with standard tooling. Dimensional tolerances, gap-width ratios, extrusion factor and inscribing circle are examples of these limits. |
| Extruded Aluminum | Aluminum pushed through a die to create a thick and strong type of aluminum profile. Used to make window and sash frame in aluminum window or as cladding for exterior applications on wood windows. In contrast to roll-form aluminum, which is rolled in sheets and much thinner. |
| Extruded F-Rating | Formed by forcing plastic material or metal through a shaped opening. |
| Extrusion | The process of producing vinyl or aluminum shapes by forcing heated material through a die. |
| Eyebrow | A small and usually short window that is fixed in place or hinged at the bottom and rounded at the top. Usually located on a roof where a dormer would be. Often found on Greek Revival and Italianate houses. |
F
| F.S. | Federal Specifications |
| Façade | The front of a building. |
| Face Clearance | The dimension between the face of a light of glass or panel and the nearest face of its retaining frame of stop, measured normal to the plane of the glass or panel. |
| Face Glazing | On rabbeted sash without stops, the triangular bead of sealant applied with a glazing knife after bedding, setting and clipping the lite in place. |
| Face Sealed Systems | A wall system that uses an exterior cladding and sealant or gaskets to control air leakage and water penetration. These components are installed to form an air and water tight seal around the building in the plane of the cladding. |
| Face Shim | Spacer placed between the glass face and the glazing stops to center the glass in the glazing channel. |
| Facing Material | The integrated structural layer of the self adhering flashing. |
| Failed I.G. Unit | An installed unit failure exhibits permanent material obstruction of vision through the unit due to accumulation of dust, moisture or film on the internal surface of the glass. Surface numbers 2 or 3 in dual-pane units; surface numbers 2, 3, 4 or 5 on triple-pane units. |
| Falling Weight Impact Resistance | Measures the resistance of the profile to cracking or breaking during the fabrication processes and general abuse during transportation, storage, installation and use. |
| Falt- und Schiebetüren | German: Folding and sliding doors. See Folding Doors |
| Falttüren | German: Folding Doors. |
| Fanlight | A half-circle window over a door or window, with radiating bars. Also called circle top transom. |
| Faqade | A face of a building, usually the front. |
| Feasibility Study | A detailed investigation and analysis conducted to determine the financial, economic, technical or other advisability of a proposed project. |
| Fee | A term used to denote payment for a professional service. |
| FEMA | Federal Emergency Management Agency, the lead agency for overall administration of the NEHRP program. |
| Fenestration | This term, as used in architecture and construction, refers to the design, construction, or presence of windows, doors, storefront glass and curtain wall in a building. Interestingly, in reference to shipping, it is the practice of placing holes in the rudder of a ship to reduce the work required to move the rudder while preserving its ability to steer the ship. |
| Fenestration Cladding | The exterior components that cover the frame, sash, leaf, or sliding door panel members and constitute the weather-resistant surface. Some claddings function only as an aesthetic covering, while others contribute partially to the structural strength of the product. This use of cladding should not be confused with the definition of “Components and Cladding – Elements of the building envelope that do not qualify as part of the main wind-force resisting system” as found in ASCE/SEI 7. |
| Fenestration Product | Any transparent or translucent glazing material plus any associated sash, framer mullions, and/or dividers, in the envelope of a building, including, but not limited to: windows, sliding glass doors, french doors, skylights, curtain walls, and garden windows. |
| Fenestration System | Common types of commercial fenestration systems installed in commercial buildings including windows, curtain wall, window wall, storefront and doors. |
| Fenestration Testing Laboratory | Refers to either an individual test facility or the collective group of independent testing laboratories that have been inspected and accredited by nationally and internationally recognized governing bodies to perform fenestration test standards. |
| Fenster | German for Window |
| Fiber Bloom | A pultrusion surface condition exhibiting a fiber prominence or fiber show that usually has a white or bleached color and a sparkling appearance as a result of incomplete fiber coverage with resin, or resin removal from the surface by degradation. |
| Fiber Reinforced Thermoset | Material in which fibers are blended with resin materials and cured into thermoset composites. |
| Fiberglass | A composite material made by embedding glass fibers in a polymer mix. Becoming a common choice in replacement windows. |
| Fichte | German: Spruce |
| Field Sound Transmission Class (Fstc) | A single number rating system, similar to STC, that is applied to field test data under ASTM E336. |
| Fillet Bead | Caulking or sealant installed at the intersection of two surfaces which meet at an angle, often 90 degrees. |
| Film | The clear plastic material placed on glass, and often the frame and sash, to allow temporary protection during construction and installation. |
| Finger Guard | A closure strip of soft material such as rubber or plastic, which is applied at the edge of a door or to the pivot jamb adjacent to door, to prevent damage to hands or fingers inserted between door and frame. |
| Finger Joint | A glued joint consisting of a series of interlocking fingers, precision-machined on the ends of two pieces of wood to be jointed. |
| Finger Lifts | Small holes or indentations on a double hung window’s bottom sash that allow a person to slide the window sash up and down. |
| Finish Hardware | Hardware that is within sight. |
| Fir | An evergreen coniferous tree with upright cones and flat needle-shaped leaves, typically arranged in two rows. Firs are an important source of timber and resins. |
| Fire Endurance | A measure of elapsed time during which a material or assemblage continues to exhibit fire resistance. |
| Fire Exposure | Process by which or extent to which materials or assemblies are subjected to the conditions created by fire. |
| Fire-Retardant Barrier | A layer of material which, when secured or otherwise interposed between a material and a potential fire source, delays ignition, combustion or other deterioration of the material when the barrier is exposed to fire. |
| Fire-Test-Response Characteristic | A response characteristic of a mater, or assembly of materials, to a prescribed source of heat or flame, under controlled fire conditions per ASTM E119. |
| Fixed Door | One or more non-operable assembled leaves or sliding door panels within a door frame and threshold/sill. |
| Fixed Light | A window which glass is installed directly into non-operating framing members. |
| Fixed Panel | An inoperable panel of a sliding glass door or slider window. |
| Fixed Window | Type of window that doesn’t open |
| Flame | A hot, usually luminous zone of gas, or particulate matter in gaseous suspension, or both, that is undergoing combustion. |
| Flame Resistance | The ability to withstand flame impingement or provide protection from it. |
| Flange (Frontal Flange) | Refers to a type of window which includes a permanent appendage projecting parallel to the plane of the wall, located at or near the exterior surface of the window for the purpose of installing the window against a backstop, buck, receptor or other such stepped features that have been incorporated into the rough opening. |
| Flanker | A window placed to the side of larger center window unit. |
| Flanking Transmission | Sound transmission from the source to the receiving location by a path other than through the test specimen. |
| Flashing | Sheet metal, thermo plastic or other material that directs water away from window or door opening. To prevent water seepage or leaks with the purpose of preventing water penetration by draining water away from the window or door to the exterior. |
| Flashing System | integrated system of flashings intended to move incidental water to the building exterior. |
| Flashing System | Integrated system of flashings intended to move incidental water to the building exterior. |
| Flat Glass | A general term covering sheet glass, plate glass, float glass, window glass, and various forms of rolled glass, and named according to the method used in its manufacture. See also , , and SHEET GLASS. |
| Flexural Modulus | The ratio of nominal stress to corresponding strain below the proportional limit of a material. A constant or coefficient which expresses the degree to which a substance is subject to bending. (The Modulus of Elasticity as determined, by calculation, from a bending test.) |
| Float Glass | Glass formed by a process of floating the molten glass material on a bed of molten metal suchn as tin. It produces a high-quality glass without polishing and grinding. |
| Float Glass | contact with the tin is known as the tin surface or tin side. The top surface is known as the atmosphere side or air side. |
| Floor Anchor | A metal device attached to the back of a door frame jamb at its base, to secure the frame to the floor. It may be either fixed or adjustable in height. |
| Floor Check | See FLOOR CLOSER. |
| Floor Closer | A door closing device which is installed in a recess in the floor below the door to regulate the opening and closing swing of a door. |
| Floor Hinge | See , which is the preferred term. |
| Floor Pivot | A center or offset pivot which is located at the floor or threshold. |
| Floor-to-Ceiling Glass | Used for describing things such as windows that are the full height of a wall |
| Fluid Head | The amount of thermal break material which is forced ahead of the filling nozzle. This material promotes complete filling of the cavity and reduces the likelihood of entrapped air bubbles or voids. |
| Flush Bolt | A rod or bolt which is mounted flush with the edge or the face of the inactive door of a pair, to lock the door to the frame at head and/or sill. When mounted in the edge, operation is by means of a recessed lever. (See SURFACE BOLT.) |
| Flush Bolt Backset | The distance from the outside of the face plate to the inside surface of mounting tabs. |
| Flush Door | Are simple interior and exterior solid or hollow core doors that feature plain facings on both sides of the construction. |
| Flush Fin | A replacement window commonly used in California, where original windows are often aluminum, and exteriors are often stucco. Have large exterior flange to hide the existing window frame. |
| Flush Glazing | A method of setting glass whereby glazing beads are recessed within and flush with the edge of the frame. |
| FMA | Fenestration Manufacturers Association |
| Foam Spacer | Foam material with desiccant and high-strength adhesive used instead of a metal spacer to improve insulation. |
| Fogged Unit | A permanent deposit of contaminates on the interior glass surfaces of an insulating glass unit. |
| Fogging | A film on the inside of sealed insulating glass that is the result of a faulty seal. |
| Fogging | A deposit of contamination left on the inside surface of a sealed insulating glass unit due to extremes of temperatures or failed seals. |
| Folding Door | A door that can fold flat against each other often compared to an accordion. Folding off to the side, these doors are designed to provide quick and easy space divisions and, when open, to provide large clear spaces. |
| Folding Windows | Similar to a folding door that folds off to one or both sides in a compact arrangement. |
| Foot Bolt | A locking hardware operated by using the foot. |
| Footcandle (Fc) | The units of luminance (amount of light flux) incident on a surface; in this study assumed to be determined at the horizontal work plane (2.5 ft above the floor). |
| Force | A push or pull action that tends to change the shape of a deformable body or the state of motion of an object. |
| Force To Latch Door | The force required to close door and fully engage latch in accordance with Clause 6.4.5.1 [of AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440-111. |
| Forced Entry Resistance (Fer) | The ability of a window or door in the locked position to resist entry under a specified load and conditions. |
| Foyer | The entrance hall of a house or other building type. |
| FPM | Feet Per Minute |
| Frame | The fixed frame of a window which holds the sash or casement as well as hardware. The outside perimeter of a window or door consisting of two side jamb members, one head member and one sill member. In a window, the frame will hold the glass lights or sash panels. An assembly of structural members that surround and support the sash, ventilators, doors, panels, or glazing that is installed into an opening in a building envelope or wall. |
| Frame Area | This area includes the area of the framing that is in a plane parallel to the infill. This area can be calculated by multiplying the width of the framing systems times its length. |
| Frame Jamb Primary Material Group | A general category of frame jamb material which is an AAMA approved material type as verified by the frame jamb manufacturer. Aluminum and PVC are separate Frame Jamb Primary Material Groups. |
| Frame Jamb Structures | The segment of window frame which provides the pocket and guides the vertical travel of the sash of a complete window. |
| Frame Liners | Vinyl or aluminum track assemblies or covers that are fitted into wood window jambs, heads, and sills. |
| Frame Materials | This test will assure the durability of the lamination when exposed to friction loaded cycle testing. Satisfactory completion of this test will qualify the specific frame jamb structure and it’s layered material(s) as a new approved frame jamb material. |
| Frame Size | Window unit size, measured from outside edge to outside edge. |
| Free Standing | Structurally independent of an adjacent wall or other background, as a free-standing column. |
| French Casement | A dual operating hinged window, each hinged on the outside edge, with no center post. There is an unobstructed view to the outside when both sashes are open. |
| French Door | Dual hinged doors that open from the middle. Can swing either in or out and have no center post when open. |
| French Sliding Door | Similar to a French swing door, but slides open instead of swings. |
| French Window | Two sash, each hinged on one stile and opening in the middle. |
| Frequency | The number of sound wavelength cycles that occur within one (1) second represented as cycles per second (cps). |
| Friction Allowance (Fa) | An approximation of additional amount of force required to operate the window unit in either direction over and above the weight of the sash and exclusive of breakaway and sash operating force. This force is due to the frictional factors acting on the window unit; the greater the effect of these factors the higher the frictional allowance. The unit of measure for the FA is Newton’s per meter (pounds of force per inch) of sash stile height. |
| Friction Balance Adjustment (Fba) | FBA is an independent friction setting that contributes to the forces that act upon the vertical movement of a sash in an installed window. Balance adjustment instructions shall be specified by the balance manufacturer for use by the window manufacturer. |
| Friction Balance Rated Capacity (Fbrc) | The manufacturer’s specified minimum and maximum weight capacity per balance based upon the Balance Rated Travel Range (BRTR): FBLRC = Friction Balance Lowest Rated Capacity FBHRC = Friction Balance Highest Rated Capacity |
| Friction Shoe/Clutch | A component of a Type 1 balance which uses friction to resist the vertical movement of the sash and provides an engagement location for the pivot pin or pivot bar. The friction shoe/clutch is permitted to provide other functions not related to vertical sash counterbalancing and is available in assorted sizes that suit the pocket size of varied frame designs. |
| Friction Test | A test to determine the maximum amount of resistance attainable by a friction shoe in the pocket of a specific frame jamb structure and geometry. The results of this test may be used to qualify existing and new frame jamb structures and materials with the tested friction shoe. |
| Front doors | The main entrance to a house. |
| FSC | Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international non-profit, multi-stakeholder organization established in 1993 to promote responsible management of the world’s forests. |
| FSC Chain of Custody Certification | A certification allows companies to label their FSC products, which in turn enables consumers to identify and choose products that support responsible forest management. |
| Full Divided Lite | Replication of the True Divided Lite (TDL), with a spacer between the sheets of glass and behind the outside grilles. |
| Full Frame Replacement | To replace a window by removing the old window sash and frame down to the studs so the new window, measured to fit the old rough opening, will fit properly. |
| Full Round | A window in a true round, wheel, shape. |
| Full Travel Range | That travel range of the balance from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position. |
| Fully Tempered Glass | Glass that has been heat treated to a high surface and/or edge compression to meet the requirements of ASTM C1048 (kind FT) or CAN/CGSB 12.1. Fully tempered glass, if broken, will fracture into many small pieces (dice) which are more or less cubical. Fully tempered glass is approximately four times stronger than annealed glass of the same thickness when exposed to uniform static pressure loads. |
| Fusion Weld | Also called a welded corner, it is the process of fusing vinyl iwindow corner pieces together using heat. |
G
| Galvanic Corrosion | A form of deterioration of metal resulting from the electrochemical reaction that occurs when certain dissimilar metals are in contact with each other in the presence of moisture. |
| GANA | Glass Association of North America |
| Garage Door | See VEHICULAR-ACCESS DOOR. |
| Garden Window | See GREENHOUSE WINDOW. |
| Gas Fill | A gas other than air, usually argon or krypton, placed between glazing panes to reduce the U-factor by suppressing conduction and convection. |
| Gas Filled Units | Insulating glass units with a gas other than air in the air space to decrease the unit’s thermal conductivity U-value and to increase the unit’s sound insulating value. |
| Gas Retention | The ability of a sealed insulating glazing unit to retain its original gas-filled composition. In the long term, diffusion through frame and edge-seal materials allows air to progressively replace the original gas(es). |
| Gasket | Preformed shapes (strips, grommets, etc.) of rubber or rubber-like composition, used to fill and seal a joint or opening, either alone or in conjunction with a supplemental application of a sealant. |
| Gasochromic Glazing | Glazing which uses the phenomenon of chromism due to tin injection / ejection to color the window. The application of gas flow transporting ions to the surface (catalyst), which changes solar and visible transmittance. See also SWITCHABLE GLAZING. |
| Gateway Performance Requirements | The requirements for minimum gateway test size, air leakage resistance, structural design load and overload testing, water penetration testing, forced-entry resistance, and auxiliary testing which are the conditions permitting a product entry into a performance class. They are specifically indicated for each product operator type in Table 12.2 of AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/LS.2/A440-1L |
| Gateway Test Size | The test specimen size specified to enter a performance class. |
| Gear-Type Rotary Operator | A mechanical operating device for opening and closing projected windows that are not skylights or roof-windows. It consists basically of an operating handle turning an input shaft, which drives a gear mechanism that causes an arm or arms to pivot, operating a window. |
| Gel Time | The period of time from the initial mixing of the reactants of a plastic or rubber composition to the time when gelatin occurs, as measured by a specific test. The time in seconds for the mixed thermal barrier material to change from a liquid to a solid including mixing time. |
| General Conditions | That written part of the Contract Documents which sets forth many of the rights, responsibilities and relationships of the parties involved. |
| German Windows | Referred to as German windows, any European Window or door is a highly engineered window product consisting of multi-laminated lumber glued up cross-grain to establish long term durability and usability. Clad windows from Europe consist of thick aluminum extrusion offset from the wood to eliminate direct convection and breathability. |
| GFRC | Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete |
| Girth | For bent glass, the dimension measured along the curve or bend. |
| Glass | An inorganic transparent material composed of silica (sand), soda (sodium carbonate), and lime (calcium carbonate) with small quantities of alumina, boric, or magnesia oxides. |
| Glass Door | A door with no stiles in which glass forms the structure. Provision is made for mounting on hinges or pivots. |
| Glass Façade | A facade is generally one exterior side of a building, usually, but not always, the front. It comes from the French word façade which literally means “frontage” or “face”. In architecture, the facade of a building is often the most important aspect from a design standpoint, as it sets the tone for the rest of the building. From the engineering perspective of a building, the facade is also of great importance due to its impact on energy efficiency. |
| Glass Fiber Board | Fibrous glass insulation consisting of inorganic glass fibers formed into rigid boards using a binder. |
| Glass Size | The measurement of the complete pane of glass, not just the visible part. |
| Glass Stop | A glazing bead which is either applied to, or is an integral part of the frame. |
| Glaze | To install glass lights or infill material. |
| Glazed Doors | Any door wth glass panels |
| Glazed Windows | Any window with glass panels |
| Glazing | The glass or plastic panes in a window, door, or skylight. Can also refer to the process of fitting the glass into its frame or door panel. |
| Glazing (N) | An infill material such as glass or plastic. |
| Glazing (V) | The process of installing an infill material into a prepared opening in windows, doors, TDDs, roof windows, SSPs or unit skylights. |
| Glazing Bead | A molding or stop around the inside of a window frame to hold the glass in place. |
| Glazing Channel | Channel into which the glass is inserted and which retains the glass in place. |
| Glazing Channel Width | The measurement between the stationary stop and the removable stop. |
| Glazing Compound | A soft, dough-like material used for filling and sealing the spaces between a light of glass and its surrounding frame and/or stops. |
| Glazing Gasket | A preformed elastomeric or plastic material applied between the face of the glass or panel and the framing to provide resilient support between the glass or panel and the framing and to prevent the passage of air and water. Gaskets are normally used alone but in some installations may be used in conjunction with a supplemental application of sealant. |
| Glazing Stop | Fixed or removable portion of the glazing channel which prevents inward outward movement of the glass edges. |
| Glider | Simply a horizontal sider window. |
| Gothic | A style of window commonly found in Gothic architecture that is typically long and narrow with a pointed arch at the top. |
| Gradient Wind | The wind at the top of the atmospheric boundary layer. Wind above the so-called gradient level is not directly influenced by the local surface conditions. In the boundary layer wind tunnel the gradient wind may be referred to as the free-stream wind. |
| Gray Profile | A profile, the color of which is defined by the color space falling within the parameters LH = 33 to 74, aH = -3 to 4, and bH = -5.5 to 5.5. |
| Greenhouse | A glazed enclosure described by the following criteria: 1. Commercial use or detached from other structures; 2. Not accessible to the public; 3. Exclusively for growing plants; 4. Ridge no more than 20 feet above grade |
| Greenhouse Effect | The trapping of the sun’s warmth in a planet’s lower atmosphere due to the greater transparency of the atmosphere to visible radiation from the sun than to infrared radiation emitted from the planet’s surface. |
| Greenhouse Window | A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides and top; except the bottom, which serves as a shelf. |
| Grilles | Vertical and/or horizontal bars that visually divide a pane of glass into sections. Some be detached for ease of cleaning. |
| Grilles Between Glass | Enclosed in the space between panes of glass, they are bars that visually divide the glass. |
| Groove | Long narrow grooves or depressions in a surface of a pultrusion parallel to its length. Sometimes referred to as a Sink Line or a Sink Mark. |
| Guard Bar | A protective bar applied to the lower portion of a door or sidelight to prevent accidental contact with glass. |
| Guard Rail | A railing for traffic separation and control. |
| Gun Consistency | Sealant formulated in a softness suitable for application through the nozzle of a caulking gun. |
| Gun Gray Consistency | Compound formulated to a degree of viscosity suitable for application through the nozzle of a caulking gun. |
| Gunnable Foam Sealant | An aerosol foam container from which the polymer is extruded through a mechanical dispenser designed for on and off flow at the point of extrusion. A gun- type devise is intended for multiple containers and many re-use cycles. |
H
| H Airline Craze | Multiple fine pultrusion surface separation cracks that exceed 6 mm (1/4 in) in length and do not penetrate in depth to the equivalent of a full ply of reinforcement. |
| Habitable | An area designed to afford living space by virtue of its environmental control using heating and/or air conditioning. |
| Hair-Line Joint | The fine line of contact between abutting members, with a maximum joint width of 1/64”. |
| Half Round | Also called half circle, circle top or round top, it is a window with a flat bottom and rounded top. Circle top portion has a height that is half its width. |
| Half Screen | A screen used on double hung or slider windows to cover just one sash. |
| Hallmark | By the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA). Considered a mark of excellence among architects, contractors and other specifiers and is accepted industry-wide. |
| Hand Of Door | The designation of direction of swing of door. Viewed in plan, a clockwise swing inward is right hand, and outward is left hand reverse; a counterclockwise swing inward is left hand, and outward is right hand reverse. |
| Handicap Accessible Windows | Accessibility refers to the design of products, devices, services, or environments for people with disabilities. Therefore, windows can be made to accommodate people with disabilities with well placed hardware, handles and operational function. |
| Handicap Hardware | Hardware designed specifically to accommodate the needs of the physically handicapped and to provide for ease of operation of doors and accessibility. |
| Handing | A term to describe the way a door or window opens. Manufactures determine handing by different means and either from the inside or outside so care must be taken when trying to ascertain handing. |
| Handle | A component which enables the movement of a sash, leaf, or panel or which activates a mechanism which locks or unlocks a sash, leaf, or panel. |
| Handle Set | Door hardware. Includes the interior and exterior door handle or knob, strike plate, turning mechanism, core, spindle and lock plate. |
| Hard-coat Glass | Low-E glass is manufactured by adhering a thin layer of molten tin onto a sheet of glass while the glass is still slightly molten. The tin actually becomes “welded” to the glass. This process makes it difficult or “hard” to scratch or remove the tin. Often this glass has a blueish tint to it. |
| Hardness | Resistance to indentation as measured under specific conditions. |
| Hardware | The mechanisms that allow doors and windows to operate and lock. Includes hinges, locks, keepers, gears, restrictors and handles. |
| Hardware And Weatherseal “Package” | A unique combination of locks, strikes, hinges, operators (push bars, rotos, etc.), limited opening devices, stay bars, friction adjusters, rollers, counter-balances, snubbers, and/or weather seals, used across a range of individual products. |
| Hardwood | Wood obtained from deciduous trees, mainly used for finished wood trim, doors, panels, and furniture such as oak, birch, ash, poplar, teak, mahogany, butternut, etc. |
| Haustüren | German: House doors |
| HDG or HAN | common handling service fee by shipper. |
| Head | The top horizontal piece of a window or door. |
| Head Bolt | A locking device that is mortised vertically on a door. |
| Head Expander | An inverted U-channel installation accessory that may be fitted to the head of a replacement window to accommodate differences between rough opening and window heights. |
| Head Flashing | Sheet material, integrated with the water-resistive barrier, that bridges and protects the joint (gap) between the window or door frame members at the head, and the adjacent construction for the purpose of preventing water penetration by draining water away from the window or door. |
| Head Track | The top track of a sliding door or sliding window. |
| Header | A horizontal load bearing beam used in framing. Jt is placed at the top of a rough opening to support the weight of the wall and roof above. |
| Header | A horizontal structural member (beam) that supports the load over an opening, such as that of a door or window. The header transfers that load to the vertical members at the sides of the opening. |
| Heat Build-Up | A temperature rise above ambient air temperature caused by absorption of the sun’s energy. Heat build-up is one of the factors in the dimensional stability of the window assembly. |
| Heat Gain | The transfer of heat from the outside to the inside of a house through conduction, convection and radiation. |
| Heat Loss | The transfer of heat from the inside to the outside of a house by means of conduction, convection and radiation. |
| Heat Loss Rate | The rate at which heat is lost from a system or component of a system, per degree of temperature difference between its average temperature and the average ambient air temperature. |
| Heat Resistance | Measures the resistance to surface degradation such as blistering, cracking or delamination. The profile is exposed to a temperature well above the material’s heat distortion temperature in order to predict or accelerate potential surface imperfections that would not be evident otherwise |
| Heat Strengthened Glass | Process to strengthen glass. Twice as strong as annealed but not as strong as fully tempered. Heat strengthened glass is recommended for hard to reach glass units because any glass manufacturing defects are exposed in the heating furnace and hence don’t become an issue in the building at some later time. |
| Heat Transfer | The movement of thermal energy from one thing to another thing of different temperature. |
| Heat Treated | See and HEAT-STRENGTHENED GLASS. |
| Heat-Absorbing Glass | Window glass containing chemicals (with gray, bronze, or blue-green tint) which absorb light and heat radiation, and reduce glare and brightness. See also Tinted glass. |
| Heating Degree Day | Term used by heating and cooling engineers to refer to the amount of heating requirements of buildings. The base temperature is 65 degrees Fahrenheit. A heating degree day is counted for each degree below 65 degrees reached by the average daily outside temperatures in the winter. For example, if on a given winter day, the daily average temperature outdoors is 30 degrees, then there are 35 degrees below the base temperature of 65 degrees. Thus, there are 35 heating degree days for that day. |
| Heben Schiebetür | German: Lift Slide Doors. |
| Heel Bead | Sealant applied at the base of a channel, after setting the lite or panel and before the removable stop is installed, to prevent leakage past the stop. Sealant must bridge the gap between the glass and frame. |
| Hertz (Hz) | Dimension of a sound frequency in cycles per second. |
| High Density Polyethylene | Those linear polyethylene thermoplastics having a standard density of 0.941g/cm3 or greater. |
| High- Transmission Glass | Glass that transmits an exceptionally high percentage of visible light. |
| High-Cyclic Movement Sealants | High-cyclic movement sealants are those which have a cyclic movement capability of >12.5%. |
| Hinge | Moveable joint or mechanism that allows a window or door to swing open |
| Hinge Backset | Distance from stop side face of door to edge of hinge cut-out on both door and frame. |
| Hinged Egress Window | A hinged perimeter frame window assembly consists of any primary window which has passed the applicable performance requirements, in Section 2.1 that is mounted into a stationary perimeter frame and is permanently pivoted or hinged at one jamb to permit |
| Hinged Glass Door | Hinged glass doors consist of one or more glazed panels contained within an overall frame designed so that one or more of the glazed panels are operable. The operable panels swing either to the inside or to the outside (not both). Panels shall be all operable or some operable and some fixed. Panels shall lock or interlock with each other or shall contact a jamb member where the panel is capable of being securely locked. |
| Hinged Patio Doors | A single or dual paneled patio door. The door panels open from the center and swing either inward or outward. |
| Hinged Rescue Window | Any window that is mounted into a stationary perimeter frame and is permanently hinged at one jamb. |
| Hinged Windows | Windows (casement, awning, dual action and hopper) with an operating sash that has hinges on one side. See also Projected window. |
| Historical Duplication | Custom fabrication of fenestration products to duplicate design elements of years past. |
| Historische Bauelemente | German: Historical elements |
| Hold-Back Feature | A mechanism on a latch which serves to hold the latch bolt in a retracted position. |
| Holder | See DOOR HOLDER. |
| Holz-Aluminium Fenster | German: Wood – aluminum windows. |
| Holzfenster | German: wood windows |
| Homogeneous Material | A material in which relevant properties are not a function of the position within the material. |
| Hopper | Window with sash hinged at the bottom. |
| Horizontal Pivoted Window | See PIVOTED WINDOW |
| Horizontal Slider | Also referred to as a gliding window, it is a window in which the one or both sash slides horizontally. |
| Horizontal Sliding Window | A window that consists of one or more sash that slide or roll horizontally within a common frame, and can also contain fixed lites/sash. Typically, operating sash are identified with an (X) and fixed lites or fixed sash are identified with an |
| Hot-Applied Sealant | A sealant that is applied in a molten state and develops properties by cooling to ambient temperature. Also called hot-melt sealant. |
| House Wrap | A polymer-based sheet material provided in a variety of dimensions and used as a WRB (the user of this product shall defer to manufacturer’s instructions). |
| Humidity, Absolute | The mass of water vapor per unit of volume. |
| Humidity, Relative | The percentage of moisture in the air in relation to the amount of moisture the air |
| Hung Window | A window consisting of vertically sliding sash which utilize counterbalancing devices to allow the sash to be opened to any variable position between its fully open and fully closed limits. Common types are single hung, double hung, and triple hung. See also VERTICAL SLIDING WINDOW. |
| Hurricane Glass | See impact resistance |
| HVAC | Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning |
| Hybrid Tubular Daylighting Device (HTDD) | A tubular daylighting device (TDD) whose light transmitting tube consists of more than one material and/or has more than one geometry throughout its length. Typically used with suspended ceilings or to illuminate spaces without ceilings. |
I
| IBC | An acronym for International Building Code. A collection of codes published by the International Code Council that covers all buildings except one and two story homes and townhomes up to three stories tall. |
| ICBO | International Conference of Building Officials |
| ICC | An acronym for International Code Council. A national organization that publishes model codes for adoption by states and other agencies. Codes include the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). |
| ICC-ES | International Code Council Evaluation Services, Inc. |
| ID | Inside Diameter |
| IECC | An acronym for the International Energy Conservation Code, which is a publication of the ICC that establishes minimum regulations for energy-efficient structures. |
| IGMA | Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance |
| Impact Resistant | The ability of a material to withstand a high force or shock applied to it over a short period of time. |
| Impact Resistant Glass | Windows utilizing special laminates to offer extra protection. Used in areas prone to hurricanes. |
| Impact Resistant Windows
|
A laminated product. There are two main types or residential impact resistant windows, depending on the degree of impact resistance you are looking for. |
| Impact Strength | Resistance to fracture under shock force. The ability of the thermal barrier material to resist breaking, cracking or shattering when subjected to a sudden concentrated load. Impact loads may occur during handling, installation or fabrication of the framing members. |
| Impaling Pin | A pin-type device with a sharp point that is used to pierce and retain insulation materials in position. |
| Importers | The generic definition to bring merchandise or commodities from a foreign country for sale. However,it is actually more than that. An importer must deal with the shipping, bonds, fees, surcharges, tax, levies, filing fees, duties and filing charges for the product imported. And, with regard to wood windows, must file the Lacey Act paperwork and fees appropriate with the wood species. |
| Impulse | The area under the pressure-time history curve with the units of kPa^msec or psnmsec. |
| Inactive | A window or door panel that is secondary and will open only after a primary or active panel is opened first. |
| Inactive Door Or Leaf | The last door of a pair of doors to be released when unlocking, usually the one not equipped with primary lock. |
| Inactive Multipoint Locking Hardware | A lock with at least two lock-points that are driven by a single input. |
| Inclusion | Any foreign matter or particles that are either encapsulated or imbedded in the pultrusion. |
| Industrial Walls | Walls composed either of preformed metal sheets made in stock patterns and sizes, used in combination with standard windows, or of large metal-faced insulated panels, used either with or without fenestration. Typical usage of such walls is on industrial type structures. |
| Industry Foundation Classes (Ifcs) | IFCs define how “things” such as structure, doors, walls and fans (as well as abstract concepts) should be described so that different software packages can use the same information. |
| Inert Gas | Refers to the use of chemically nonreactive gas(es) within the cavity of a sealed insulating glass unit for the purpose of reducing conductive/convective heat transfer. |
| Infill | Various material glazed into a framing system. |
| Infiltration | A term that describes the air or water that moves between the inside and outside of a building. See air leakage. |
| Infrared Radiation | Invisible, electromagnetic radiation beyond red light on the spectrum, with wavelengths greater than 0.7 microns. |
| Inoperable | No longer opening, closing, locking or unlocking as originally designed. |
| Inorganic | Designating or composed of matter that is not animal or vegetable; designating or composed of any chemical compound not classified as organic. Most inorganic compounds do not contain carbon and are derived from mineral sources. |
| Insect Screen | A mesh made of metal wire, fiberglass, or other synthetic fiber material attached to a frame. Sllows ventilation when a window is opened, while still keeping insects outside. |
| Insert Replacement | A replacement window that utilizes use of the original frame. |
| Inside Radius | The distance from the center of the unit to the inside of the revolving door drum. |
| Inside Stop | A thin, vertical piece of wood that keeps the sash in place. |
| Install | The term “install” is used to describe operations at project site including the actual “unloading, unpacking, assembly, erection, placing, anchoring, applying, working to dimension, finishing, curing, protecting, cleaning, and similar operations.” |
| Installation Accessories | Components supplied by the fenestration manufacturer that are specifically designed to mate or “trim out” the product with various surrounding constructions. |
| Installation Holes | Holes in window or door frames that are fabricated by the manufacturer to locate and accommodate installation fasteners. |
| Installation Masters | An AAMA backed intensive training and certification program that incorporates industry-accepted best practices for proper installation of fenestration products industry wide. |
| Installer | An “Installer” is the Contractor or an entity engaged by the Contractor, either as an employee, subcontractor, or sub-subcontractor, for performance of a particular construction activity, including installation, erection, application, and similar operations. |
| Insulated Shutters | Insulating panels that cover a window opening to reduce heat loss. |
| Insulating Glass | Two or more pieces of glass spaced apart and hermetically sealed to form a single glazed unit with one or more air spaces in between. Also called double glazing. |
| Insulating Value | See U-factor. |
| Insulation | Construction materials used for protection from noise, heat, cold or fire. |
| Insulation Rating (Ul)/T-Rating (Opl) | A measure of the perimeter fire containment system’s resistance to both flame passage and heat transfer and requires the maximum temperature rise on the unexposed surface of the fill material or on the interior surface of the curtain wall 25 mm (1 in) above the fill material not to exceed 163°C (325°F)above the starting temperature. For perimeter fire containment systems having a clearance distance of 150 mm (6 in) [100 mm (4 in) for the T-Rating] or greater between the curtain wall and the floor, the Insulation Rating also requires the average temperature rise on the unexposed surface of the fill material not to exceed 121°C (250°F) above the starting temperature. |
| Inswing | Doors or windows with panels that swing inward. |
| Integral Color Anodic Finishes | Coatings are formed in special electrolytes that produce colors in the aluminum oxide coating as it forms. A range of colors from light to dark bronze and black is achieved with this process. |
| Integral Fin | See Mounting Flange. |
| Integral Mullion | A horizontal or vertical member which is bound at either end or both ends by crossing frame members. |
| Integral Ventilating System/Device | An apparatus that is independent from but installed into a window, door, or unit skylight product for the purpose of controlling the transfer of air through the window, door, or unit skylight product. |
| Integration Of The Assembly | In a wall assembly the flashing needs to be properly integrated with the water resistive barrier (WRB). Together with the facing material, the integrated flashing and WRB form a weather resistive integrated system. |
| Integrity Rating (Ul)/F-Rating (Opl) | A measure of the perimeter fire containment system’s ability to withstand the fire exposure test without permitting the passage of flame through openings or the occurrence of flaming on an element of the unexposed surface of the fill material or floor or on the interior surface of the curtain wall above the fill material. |
| Interior | Exposed surfaces visible when viewed from the building interior with operating sash, doors, or ventilators in the closed and locked position. |
| Interior Accessory Window | A glazed frame and/or sash, attached inboard of existing prime windows, curtain wall, or storefront, in commercial buildings, to enhance control of themal transmittance, solar heat gain, sound, air leakage, and/or daylight. IAWs are not intended for occupant operation or to be used with the exterior windows in the nor are they intended to provide any specific resistance to air leakage or water penetration, or withstand structural load. |
| Interior Casing | Interior trim around a door or window. |
| Interior Door | A door system not intended for use in exterior applications. |
| Interior Glazed | Glazing infills set from the interior of the building. |
| Interior Glazing Depth | The measurement from the bottom of the glazing channel to the top of its stops. |
| Interior Grills | Aluminum grilles that are sealed in the airspace of a double or triple paned glass unit. |
| Interior Stop | The removable molding or bead located on the interior side that holds the lite or panel in place. (See .) |
| Interior Window | A window system not intended for use in exterior applications. |
| Interlayer | A layer of material acting as an adhesive between layers of glazing. |
| Interlock | The encounter location where two adjacent sliding doors or gliding windows connect. |
| Interlocker | An upright frame member of a panel in a sliding glass door or sliding window which engages with a corresponding member in an adjacent panel when the units is closed. Also called interlocking stile. |
| Intermediate Pivot | A jamb mounted alignment and/or reinforcing offset pivot located between the top and bottom offset pivots on a door. |
| Internal Loads | Loads from pressures within a building; this may be stack pressures, pressures from air conditioning fans, or pressures caused by air infiltration. |
| Internal Muntins | Decorative grid installed between the glass lites that do not actually divide the glass. |
| IRC | An acronym for the International Residential Code, a publication of the ICC that outlines codes for single-family homes, and low-rise multi-family buildings. |
| Isocyanate | An organic compound having at least one isocyan group united with an oxygen (NCO). |
| Isocyanate Component | One of the two components of a thermal break system. Normally in this application, it is a polymeric isocyanate or a blend of materials whose major component is an isocyanate. |
| Isolation Coating | A material that separates two adjacent materials to prevent galvanic corrosion of one of the materials by the other material. |
| IWC | Inches of Water Column (also iwc) |
| Izodimpactor | A machine designed for the testing of the impact resistance of materials such that the specimen is held as a vertical cantilever beam and is broken by a single swing of a pendulum with the line of initial contact at a fixed distance from the specimen clamp and from the centerline of the notch and on the same face as the notch as described in ASTM D256. |
J
| Jack Stud | A block or short stud nailed to the rough door or window studding to add strength and to provide a solid bearing for the lintel and nailing member for the finished door jamb or window frame. |
| Jal-Awning | A window consisting of a multiplicity of top-hinged sash arranged in a vertical series within a common frame, each operated by its own control device which |
| Jalousie | Window made up of several horizontally-mounted glass slats that fit together tightly when closed and rotate outward when cranked open. |
| Jamb | Width of the window frame from the inside to the outside. Vertical pieces are called side jambs. Horizontal top pieces are called head jambs. Horizontal bottom pieces are called sills. |
| Jamb Anchor | A metal device inserted in the back of a metal frame to anchor the frame to the wall. A masonry anchor is used in masonry wall, a stud anchor in a wall built with wood or metal studs. |
| Jamb Clips | Used in replacement window installation or for windows and doors that do not have a nailing flange. They are the metal brackets that secure the window jamb to the stud next to the window opening. |
| Jamb Depth | The measurement of the window or door from the inside of the exterior trim to the inside of the interior trim. |
| Jamb Extension | A piece that is added to the window jamb to match the wall’s thickness. |
| Jamb Flashing | Sheet material, integrated with the weather-resistive barrier, that bridges and protects the joint (gap) between the window or door frame members at the jambs, and the adjacent construction for the purpose of preventing water penetration by draining water away from the window or door. |
| Jamb Liner | Used to make a window fit properly within a frame. In modern replacement windows, it contains the track on which a double-hung window sash slides. |
| Jambliner System | Consists of rigid structural members that mount in the jambs of a typical woodframed hung window and have, as part, a set of installed sash balances. Sash Balances that are designed for exclusive use in jambliner systems rely on the friction between the sash stiles and the jambliner surfaces to hold the sash in a stationary position throughout sash travel. |
| J-Channel | A cosmetic piece used as an interface between exterior siding and a window for a finished appearance. |
| Joint | The space or opening between two or more adjoining surfaces. |
| Joist | The sub-deck structural element located directly beneath the plank system. |
| Joist Spacing | The distance between the center of each joist, commonly 16” or 24”. |
K
| Kastendoppelfenster | German: Box double window |
| KD Unit | A KD unit is shipped in a disassembled condition and later assembled according to the instructions of the manufacturer utilizing all of the components supplied or specified by the manufacturer. |
| Keeper | Sash hardware that the lock arm engages. |
| Kert | A narrow slot cut in to the face of a material such as wood or metal. |
| Keyed-Alike Cylinders | Cylinders operated by the same key. (Not to be confused with master-keyed cylinders.) |
| Keyed-Different Cylinders | Cylinders requiring individual keys for their operation. |
| Kick Plate | A plate applied to the face of the bottom of a door or sidelight to protect against abrasion or impact loads or to maintain sight lines. |
| Kiefer | German: Pine |
| King Post | The vertical member at the center of a triangular truss. |
| King Stud | The full length stud next to a door or window opening to which the trimmer and lintel are nailed. |
| Kipp Fenster | German: Tilt window |
| Knife Consistency | Compound formulated to a degree of firmness suitable for application with a glazing knife such as used for face glazing and other sealant applications. |
| Knob | A round handle for actuating a locking or latching device. |
| Knocked Down (KD) | A system that is sold a kit for assembly on site. |
| Krypton | An inert, nontoxic gas used in insulating windows to reduce heat transfer. |
| KWH | Kilowatt Hour. Unit of energy or work equal to one thousand watt-hours expended over one hour. |
L
| Laitance | An accumulation of fine particles on the surface of fresh concrete due to an upward movement of excess water. |
| Laminate | A layer of film or veneer applied to the surface of the profile. |
| Laminated Glass | Two or more sheets of glass with an inner layer of transparent plastic, typically of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), sandwiched together under heat and pressure to which the glass adheres if broken. Used for safety glazing and sound reduction. |
| Larche | German: Larch. A conifer similar to fir. |
| Latch | A mechanism having a spring-activated beveled latch bolt but no locking device. Retraction of the latch bolt is by lever handle or knob. |
| Latex | A colloidal dispersion of a rubber resin (synthetic or natural) in water and which coagulates on exposure to air. |
| Lead Compound Content | The percentage by weight of lead or lead compounds in formulations used to make profiles. Restrictions on lead content are meant to ensure that compounds do not contain lead in excess of United States Safety Standards. |
| Lead Content | Insures that compounds do not contain lead in excess of United States safety standards |
| Lead glass | Lead glass is a variety of glass in which lead replaces the calcium content of a typical potash glass. |
| Leaf | A part of a side-hinged door system, glazed or unglazed, surrounded by a frame. Leaves can be fixed in place (inoperable) or movable (operable). |
| LED lighted glass | Thermal pane glass with LED lights inside the thermal pane. Used to back light art glass or beveled glass. Recommended use for doors and bay/bow windows. |
| LEED | An acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The LEED rating system offers four certification levels for new construction — Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum — that correspond to the number of credits accrued in five green design categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources and indoor environmental quality. By fulfilling credits, projects earn points that determine its certification level: Certified (40-49 points), Silver (50-59 points), Gold (60-79 points) and Platinum (80+). |
| LEED Certification | Stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a certification program focused primarily on new, commercial-building projects and based upon a points system. The more points you earn, the higher your rating. |
| Letter Slot | See MAIL SLOT. |
| Level | Having a horizontally flat, even surface with no irregularities and no vertical tilt. No part of the surface is higher or lower than any other part. |
| Lever Handle | A bar-like grip which is rotated about an axis at one of its ends to operate a latch. |
| Lever-Type Operator | A mechanical operating device for opening and closing project-out windows that are not skylights or roof-windows. It consists basically of a bar-like operating mechanism that is used to push open and pull closed the sash portion of an operable window. |
| Life Cycle Assessment | Referred to “LCA”. Is a multi-step procedure for calculating the lifetime environmental impact of a product or service. The complete process of LCA includes goal and scope definition, inventory analysis, impact assessment, and interpretation. |
| Lift | Handle for raising the lower sash in a double-hung window. Also called sash lift. |
| Lift And Slide Hardware | Hardware used in a sliding door or horizontal sliding window application that lifts a sliding sash/panel vertically before the sash/panel can be moved horizontally. |
| Lift Rail | A horizontal member applied to the top or bottom of the glass and used to operate the sash. |
| Lift Slide Doors | Primarily used for very large and heavy doors. The hardware, when activated, lifts the massive sash off and away from other components as a way to reduce friction when opening. Typically can be made up to 22′ wide as a two panel door. French style double doors also available as a lift slide door. |
| Light | A window; a pane of glass within a window. Double-hung windows are designated by the number of lights in upper and lower sash, as in six-over-six. Also spelled informally lite. |
| Light Brown Profile | A profile, the color of which is defined by the color space falling within the parameters of LH = 33 to 61, aH = -1.5 to 12.5, and bH = 3.0 to 12.5. |
| Light Green Profile | Color defined by the color space falling within the parameters LH = 45 to 80.5; aH = -25 to -3; bH = 1 to 14. |
| Light or Lite | One piece of glazing. Another term for a pane of glass used in a window. |
| Light Reducing Glass | Glass formulated to reduce the transmission of visible light. |
| Light Shaft | A shaft that extends from a roof window, through the attic, to light a room. |
| Light Well | An open area within a building or in a subsoil space around a basement window, which provides light and air. |
| Lighting Power | The lighting power load including the lamp, density ballast and controls (in watts) associated with a given space area (in square feet); the units are power per unit area, or watts per square foot (w/s.f.). |
| Light-to-Solar-Gain Ratio | A measure of the ability of a glazing to provide light without excessive solar heat gain. It is the ratio between the visible transmittance (VT) of a glazing and its solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). Abbreviated LSG. |
| Limited Travel Range | Any range within the Full Travel Range. The limits of this range shall be measured from the point of full retraction as specified by the balance manufacturer. |
| Limited Water (Lw) | The water penetration resistance performance is achieved by testing at a pressure less than the minimum test pressure required for the indicated performance class and performance grade (design pressure). |
| Lineal | An stock length of window material that is used to make window or door components. |
| Linear-Type Operator | A mechanical operating device for opening and closing projected windows that are not skylights or roof-windows. It consists basically of an operating handle turning an input shaft, which drives a gear mechanism that causes an arm to move linearly, operating a window. |
| Lintel | A piece of wood, stone, or steel placed horizontally across the top of door and window openings to support the wall above the opening. Also called a Header. |
| Liquid Applied Flashing | A material that is fluid at the time of application that provides a water-resistive seal around building openings at or near the interface between the through-wall penetration and the building envelope. |
| Liquid Applied Water Resistive Coating/Sealant | A product applied to a surface in a liquid/fluid state to improve the water resistance of the substrate and interfaces with that substrate. |
| Liquid Crystal Glazing | Laminated glass that can change from clear to diffused through the use of liquid crystals, controlled by an electrical current. |
| Listed | To be included in a list published by a HUD approved certification program. |
| Lite | An individual pane of glass in a window or door. |
| Live Load | That part of the total load on structural members that is not a permanent part of the structure. it may be variable, as in the case of loads contributed by people, furniture, wind, snow or earthquake loads. |
| Lock | Hardware for keeping a door or window securely fastened. |
| Lock Backset | Distance from vertical centerline of leading edge of lock stile of door to centerline of lock cylinder, measured parallel with door face. |
| Lock Faceplate | The exposed plate which sets in the edge of a door to cover a locking mechanism. |
| Lockset | Hardware for securing a door. Includes inside and outside door handles, keys, latch bolt, dead bolt, strike plate, and other parts. |
| Lock-Strip Gasket | A gasket in which sealant pressure is attained by inserting a keyed locking strip into a mating keyed groove in one face of the gasket. Also called a structural gasket. |
| Long-Wave Infrared Radiation | Invisible radiation, beyond red light on the electromagnetic spectrum (above 3.5 micro meters). Emitted by warm surfaces such as a body at room temperature radiating to a cold window surface. |
| Low Emissivity Glass | Glass with a transparent metallic or metallic oxide coating applied onto or into a glass surface, which reflects long-wave infrared energy and thus improves the U- value. |
| Low Emittance (Low-E) Coating | A coating that has a reduced ability to radiate heat energy; when facing an airspace this property reduces the amount of heat transfer across the space. |
| Low-Conductance Spacers | Material placed between panes of glass designed to reduce heat transfer at the edge of an insulating window. Spacers are placed between the panes of glass in a double- or triple-glazed window. |
| Low-Cyclic Movement Sealants | Low-cyclic movement sealants are those having minimum movement capability through their useful life in mechanically restricted joints. |
| Low-E Glass | Short for low emissivity glass. It refers to a type of coated glass to offer better UV protection and energy efficiency. |
| Low-Emittance (Low-E) Coating | Microscopically thin, virtually invisible, metal or metallic oxide layers deposited on a glazing surface primarily to reduce the U-factor. The coatings let visible light pass through the glazing, while reflecting radiant infrared energy. |
| Lumber Yard | A business that sells building materials for construction and home improvement related uses. Often also provide planning services and drafting details. |
M
| MAF Ratio | The manually applied force (MAF) divided by the Test Weight. |
| Mahogany | Hard reddish-brown timber from a tropical tree, used for high-quality wood products. |
| Mail Slot | An opening provided in a door, sidelight or adjacent construction for the insertion of mail. (Size and location usually governed by the Postal Code.) |
| Manually Applied Force (Maf) | That externally applied force required to cause movement of the guide block when a balance is mounted in the test apparatus with test weight attached. |
| Manually Applied Force Ratio (Mafr) | The ratio of the maximum MAF to test weight (See Sections 8.4.4 and 8.4.5 of AAMA 902). |
| Manufactured Home | A dwelling, other than site built, constructed in accordance with Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards/24 CFR 3280 and 24 CFR 3282. |
| Manufacturer | A company which fabricates and/or assembles one or more parts, components, and/or accessories or supplies entire fenestration systems. |
| Masonry Clip | A clip that allows an installer to mount a replacement window to existing brick, concrete, wood or metal walls. |
| Masonry Opening | A brick, stone or stucco opening. |
| Mass Law | A rule of sound attenuation stating that the sound transmission loss across a barrier will increase approximately 6 decibels for every doubling of the barrier’s mass per projected unit area. |
| Master Frame | Primary structural system containing sub-assemblies which shall be attached to a manufactured home wall. |
| Master Key | A key to operate cylinders, each of which may be set to an individual key. |
| Mastic | A material composition that, after application as a thin layer, is converted to a solid protective, or decorative, or functional adherent film. |
| Material Changes | Variations in the composition of approved frame jamb primary material groups (PVC, aluminum) that influence the pocket inner wall surfaces or structural characteristics will be considered new frame jamb structures. Material composition variations of frame jamb primary material groups for purposes of material stability, resistance to exposure, service for life, color changes and enhancements for processing shall not constitute a material change. Significant material changes that are indicated, but not itemized by the frame jamb manufacturer may be specifically referenced by the manufacturer’s product series identification of the frame jamb. |
| Material Flow Analysis | MFA is an important tool to study the bio-physical aspects of human activity on different spatial and temporal scales. |
| Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) | Data for evaluating hazards, toxicity and proper handling of chemicals are furnished by thermal break suppliers in the form of a MSDS. |
| Maximum Capable Event | The maximum intensity of earthquake ground shaking that may ever be expected at the building site within the known geological framework. In areas on NEHRP maps with an Aa (acceleration coefficient) value of 0.3 or greater, this ground shaking intensity may be taken as the level of earthquake ground motion that has a 98 percent change of non-excedance in 50 years, or an average return period of 2,500 years. This event has also been termed a “Maximum Credible Earthquake,” and, most recently (1997 NEHRP “Provisions”) a “Maximum Considered Event.” |
| MDF | An acronym for medium-density fiberboard. An engineered wood product used in doors and trim. |
| Mechanical Fastening | The method employed to join together two or more components of a window using a mechanical device such as a screw, rivet, etc. |
| Mechanical Window | A window with corners mechanically screwed, as opposed to a welded, together. |
| Mechanically Attached Flashing | Flashing which is permanently attached using screws, staples or other mechanical fasteners. |
| Mechanic’s Lien | A legal charge on property in favor of persons supplying labor or materials for a building for the value of labor or materials supplied by them. Clear title to the claim for the labor, materials or professional services is settled through the “release of liens” which is accomplished through a form given to the owner by the contractor. |
| Medium Stile | See STILE. |
| Medium-Cyclic Movement Sealants | Medium-cyclic movement sealants are those having a cyclic movement capability of >5% to 12.5% through their useful life. |
| Meeting Rail | The horizontal part of a hung window where two panels meet and create a weather barrier. |
| Meeting Stile | A vertical part of a sliding glass door or a sliding window that meets to fill the opening between the sash when the sash are closed. |
| Meeting Stile | One of the two adjacent vertical leaf, sash or panel members that come together when in the closed position. |
| Membrane Drainage System | A wall system in which the first (exterior) building surface is considered cosmetic and not the sole method of protecting the building from moisture, e.g., stucco, brick veneer, or siding. The waterproofing and weatherability of the fenestration product is integrated into the system and is waterproofed and sealed to a surface behind the first (exterior) building surface. The fenestration product is usually integrated (sealed) to an underlayment membrane or flashing system not exposed to the weather. Moisture collected at the underlayment membrane or flashing is drained to the exterior at the bottom-most locations of each floor, story, or level. |
| Meranti | The soft weak light usually pinkish to dark red wood of various trees of the genera Hopea and Shorea of Malaysia, Borneo, and the Philippines that is sometimes substituted for mahogany in cabinetwork |
| Meranti | Dark Red Meranti is sometimes referred to as Red Lauan, and very commonly used in southeast Asia. Also called Philippine Mahogany but Meranti bears no relation to what is considered to be “true” mahogany. A meranti tree can reach a 200′ height and a trunk diameter of 6′. A lumberman’s dream, it will also be branch free for 90′. |
| Metadata | The collection of attributes associated with a particular object. |
| Metal Curtain Wall | An exterior curtain wall which may consist entirely or principally of metal, or may be a combination of metal, glass and other surfacing materials supported by or within a metal framework. |
| Metal Spacers | Roll-formed metal shapes used at the edges of an insulating glass unit to provide the desired spacing of the glasses; metal spacers allow areas for sealant applications and contain desiccants. |
| Metal-Clad Windows | Exterior wood parts covered with roll formed or extruded aluminum, copper, bronze or vinyl as a protect from the elements. |
| Methylene Chloride | Solvent formerly used for cleaning and flushing thermal break compounds from the nozzles and operating parts of the mixing and filling machine. (Suspected of being an animal carcinogen.) |
| Micron | One millionth (10-6) of a metric meter. |
| Migration | Spreading or creeping of oil or vehicle from a sealant out onto adjacent non-porous surfaces. (See BLEEDING.) |
| Mil | One thousandth of an inch, or 0.0254 millimeter. |
| Mill Construction | A type of “slow-burning” construction made of masonry walls, heavy timber framing, and planked or laminated wood floors. |
| Mill Finishes | Uncoated aluminum that possesses a silvery, natural finish. This finish protects aluminum against most atmospheric corrosion. Atmospheric or certain job-site conditions may affect the surface appearance of mill finish aluminum. |
| Millwork | Doors, windows and door frames, mantels, panel work, stairways, and woodwork. |
| Mineral Fiber Board | A fibrous insulation board composed of either inorganic glass fibers or inorganic steel slag or rock fibers, bonded together using a binder. Commonly, however, this term is used and understood to mean slag wool. |
| Minimum Gateway Test Size | The test specimen size specified to enter a performance class at the lowest or minimum level. |
| Miter | Most commonly, a joint made by joining together two 45 degree bevels. |
| Mitered Corners | Usually a 45-degree mitered joint produced in some sash where vertical jamb members meet horizontal head and sill members. |
| Mixing Ratio | Amount of resin component with respect to the isocyanate component present in the thermal break material measured either by volume or by weight. |
| Model Building Code | A construction code developed from input from industry, building officials, and others for use as a guide for the development of state and local building codes. Model building codes have no legislative or jurisdictional power. |
| Model Energy Code (MEC) | The Model Energy Code is cited in the 1992 U.S. Energy Policy Act (Epact) as the baseline for residential Energy Codes in the United States. It has been succeeded by the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) published by the International Code Council (ICC). It contains energy efficiency criteria for residential and commercial buildings. |
| Model Server | Model servers allow centralized storage of IFC information models, allowing them to be accessed and modified via the Internet, and manipulated by a large audience over the building’s lifecycle. |
| Modular Opening | “M.O.” Callout opening. |
| Modular Size | “M.S.” Callout size. |
| Modulus | Stress at a given strain, or tensile strength at given elongation. |
| Modulus of Elasticity | The ratio of stress to strain, being an indicator of a material’s bending resistance to a load. |
| Moisture Barrier | A layer of material used to retard or prevent the absorption of moisture into a construction. |
| Moisture Content | The percentage of dry weight that is composed of water, such as in wood. |
| Moisture Penetration | Moisture migration between the glass and interlayer which may cause hazing or other discoloration of the interlayer. Normally, this will not be a cause for rejection. |
| Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (Mvtr) | The rate at which moisture vapor permeates through a polymer film. |
| Molding | A strip of wood or other material having a rounded or otherwise decorative surface; used to conceal joints or to accent and highlight other surfaces. |
| Monolithic Glass | A single lite of glass. |
| Mortise | A hole or rectangular slot that is cut into a piece of wood to be fitted with a corresponding Tenon. |
| Mortise Lock | A lock to be inserted edgewise in the stile of the door. |
| Mortise Type | Which has a threaded surface which screws directly into a lock case, with a cam which engages the lock mechanism. |
| Mortise-and-Tenon | A type of woodworking joint that is simple and strong. Formed mortise is cut in one piece of wood and is fitted with another piece of wood called the Tenon. |
| Mounting Distance | The distance from the bottom of the weatherstrip backing to an opposite mating surface. |
| Mounting Flange | A permanently attached appendage protruding from the body of a window or door. It is used as either an installation attachment feature or part of the weather barrier interface between the product and the wall, or both. (Also known as Integral Mounting Flange or Nail Fin.) |
| Mounting Surface | The exterior surface(s) of the pre-existing window frame. |
| MPF | Merchandise processing fee assessed by US Customs |
| Mull Cover | The connecting cover of two windows assembled in tandem. |
| Mulled | Where two windows are joined together at the mullion. |
| Mulled Fenestration Assembly | An assembly of two or more individual products that will be installed in a single rough opening (individual products are those primary or dual windows, or primary sliding glass doors as defined herein). Mullion elements may be horizontal, vertical, or both. |
| Mulling | When two or more windows are joined together, either vertically or horizontally. |
| Mullion | A major structural piece joining two windows, which can run vertically or horizontally. |
| Mullion Elements | One or more of the following: 1)Reinforced or non-reinforced frame member(s) 2)Reinforced or non-reinforced mullion member(s) 3)Additional independent reinforcement shapes. |
| Mullion Stiffener | An additional reinforcing member used in a reinforcing mullion. Mullion stiffeners carry the entire wind load or share the load with adjacent frame members. |
| Mullion, Combination | A horizontal or vertical member formed by joining two or more individual fenestration units together without a mullion stiffener. |
| Mullion, Integral | A horizontal and/or vertical member which is bounded at either end or both ends by crossing frame members. |
| Mullion, Reinforcing | A horizontal or vertical member with an added continuous mullion stiffener and joining two or more individual fenestration units along the sides of the mullion stiffener. |
| Multi-Bar Hinge | A mechanical device which, when mounted in a window in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, is used to support a variety of in-plane sash types; such as, project-out (at bottom), project-in (at top), casement (out-swinging or inswinging), parallel opening (four sides of sash opening outward) and certain types of sash which are opened primarily for glass cleaning. |
| Multi-Layer | Frame materials that have laminated or applied, multi-layer structure within the frame pocket must qualify with complete testing according to 8.1 through 8.1.5.2. |
| Multiple Glazing Panel (Mgp) | A glazed panel that can be installed in or on a sash, leaf, or panel on either the interior side or exterior side of the primary glazing. An MGP is tested only in conjunction with a specific primary window or door. |
| Multiple-Glazed Units | Units of three glass lites (triple glazed) or four glass lites (quadruple glazed) with two and three air spaces respectively. |
| Multi-Point Hardware | A lock assembly featuring two or more locking points other than the combination of one latch bolt and one deadbolt. Multipoint hardware typically features one latch bolt, one deadbolt, and additional auxiliary locking points. |
| Multipoint Lock | A lock that secures the window or door at several or multiple locations and which simultaneously lock into place through the action of a continuous travel drive rail. |
| Muntin | A secondary framing member (horizontal, vertical, or diagonal) to hold the window panes in the sash. This term is often confused with mullion. |
| Muntin Bars | Also called grilles or muntin grills, muntins are bars that separate glass into a decorative pattern. |
N
| NAHB | National Association of Home Builders |
| Nailing Fin | An accessory, through which a window is nailed in place to the structure of the building. |
| Natural Convection | A heat transfer process involving motion in a fluid (such as air) that is caused by a difference in the density of the fluid and the action of gravity. This is an important part of heat transfer from the glass surface to room air. |
| Needle Glazing | Application of a small bead of sealant / compound at the site line by a nozzle gun. |
| Negative Pressure | Pressure acting in the outward direction. |
| NEHRP | National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program. It was developed in response to the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Act of 1977. The principal agencies involved in the NEHRP are: FEMA – Federal Emergency Management Agency, the lead agency for overall administration of the NEHRP program. NSF – National Science Foundation, which supports academic research studying all aspects of the earthquake hazard problem. NIST – National Institute for Standards and Technology (formerly the National Bureau of Standards), which supports standardization activities, including those related to building construction. USGS – United States Geological Survey, which studies and defines earthquake hazards from the seismological and geological points of view; produces the base maps for seismic hazard. |
| Neoprene | A synthetic rubber having physical properties closely resembling those of natural rubber. It is made by polymerizing chloroprene, and the latter is produced from acetylene and hydrogen chloride. |
| Net Zero | Also known as a zero net energy (ZNE) building, net-zero energy building (NZEB), or net zero building, is a building with zero net energy consumption, meaning the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is roughly equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site |
| New Construction Windows | New construction windows involve installing the window prior to exterior waterproofing and finishes. Comes with a new frame of proper jamb thickness or with extension jamb accessories. |
| New Frame Jamb Structures | A frame jamb structure that has variation(s) in material composition and/or design geometry to the inner pocket walls of previously approved frame jamb structures. |
| New Installation | Installation of a fenestration product in a new building or wall. |
| NFPA | National Fire Protection Association |
| NFRC | This acronym stands for the “National Fenestration Rating Council”. This independent organization is a non-profit that certifies windows, doors and skylights for energy efficiency. |
| NFV | Net Free Venting |
| NGA | National Glass Association |
| NIBS | National Institute of Building Sciences |
| NIST | National Institute for Standards and Technology (formerly the National Bureau of Standards), which supports standardization activities, including those related to building construction. |
| Noise Reduction (Nr) | The difference between the Sound Pressure Level on each side of a barrier for a given measured frequency. |
| Non-Combustible | Will not combust. |
| Non-Drying | A sealant that does not set up or cure. |
| Non-Fin | A fenestration product that has no integral appendage attached to the body of the window or door for the purposes of installation or air/water resistance. Also called Block Frame. |
| Non-Habitable | An area designed to afford living space on a less than year-round basis by virtue of its lack of environmental or temperature control systems. Non habitable space is designed to serve as recreational space on a seasonal basis. |
| Non-Hung Window | A window consisting of vertically sliding sash which utilize mechanical retainers or slide bolts to allow the sash to be opened to any one of the pre-selected positions between its fully open and fully closed limits. |
| Non-Integral Door Bottom Weatherseal | A door bottom weatherseal which can be readily removed from an assembled and installed door product which is not an integral part of a door panel. |
| Non-Keyed Cylinder | For inactive doors. It is a door handle that has no key and cannot be locked from the outside. |
| Non-Operable | Intended to not open or close. |
| Non-Resilient Tape | A high solids content, mastic material furnished in varying thicknesses and widths, in a roll form; easily deformed and permanently soft and tacky. |
| Non-Sag | A sealant formulation having a consistency that will permit application in vertical joints without appreciable sagging or slumping. A performance characteristic which allows the sealant to be installed in a sloped or vertical joint application without appreciable sagging or slumping (thixotropy). |
| Non-Skinning | A product that does not form a surface skin after application, and usually remains tacky or sticky. |
| Non-Staining | Characteristic of a compound which will not stain a surface. |
| Non-Volatile | Any substance which does not evaporate or volatilize under normal conditions of temperature and pressure. |
| Normal Use | (Pertaining to windows, doors, secondary storm products, operable unit skylights, and roof windows) Intended for operation for reasons in addition to cleaning and maintenance of the window(s), door(s), operable unit skylight(s), or roof window(s) in question. |
| Nozzle | The tubular tip of a caulking gun through which the compound is extruded. |
| Nozzle Setting | Adjustment to the filling machine to control the rate of flow of the thermal break material into the cavity and maintain the proper fluid head during filling. |
| NPEA | National Patio Enclosure Association |
| NSA | National Sunroom Association |
| NSF | National Science Foundation, which supports academic research studying all aspects of the earthquake hazard problem. |
| NWWDA | This acronym stands for stands for National wood window and Door Association, now called the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA). It is a trade organization for standards in wood window and door manufacturing. |
O
| O.C. | On Center |
| Oak | Oaks are common in many north temperate forests and are an important source of hard and durable wood used chiefly in construction, furniture, and (formerly) shipbuilding. |
| Obscure Glass | Any textured glass (frosted, etched, fluted, ground, etc.) used for privacy, light diffusion, or decorative effects. |
| OCF | One component foam that is the same as aerosol foam sealant. |
| Octagon Windows | A window having eight angles and eight sides. Defined as specialty windows and are often used in the design of high-end homes to achieve a classical look. |
| OD | Outside Diameter |
| Off-Centerness | The distances between the respective center-lines of the pile and the overall width evidenced by uneven flanges. |
| Offset | The shape of the strip in which the web of the strip is not aligned with the cavity and looks similar to the letter “C”. |
| Offset Pivot | A pin-and-socket hardware device with bearing contact by means of which a door is suspended in its frame, allowing it to swing about an axis which is normally located about %” out from the door face. |
| OITC | An acronym that stands for Outdoor/Indoor Transmission Class, which is the standard used for indicating the rate of transmission of sound between outdoor and indoor spaces in a structure. |
| Oleoresinous | A compound consisting of natural and synthetic resins mixed with drying oils. |
| One-step Distributor | A term for a company that buys products directly from a manufacturer and then sells them directly to the end user. As opposed to two step distribution. |
| Opaque | Preventing light from traveling through and therefore not transparent or translucent. |
| Open Unit | A unit, complete in its entirety, with the exception of glass, glazing materials or screens, which is shipped in an assembled condition and later glazed according to the instructions of the manufacturer. |
| Open-Air Arena Test | A blast test conducted in an open field with explosives. Multiple specimens may be included in such a test at various distances and orientations from the detonation source. |
| Opening | A breach or aperture in a wall or roof surface intended to accept a fenestration product or that is left open. |
| Open-Stud Framing | A building framing system comprised of unsheathed structural components (studs, headers, sills, plates, etc.) and areas of sheer wall framing. |
| Operable Door | A door that is intended to be opened and closed. |
| Operable Window | Any window that is able to open and close. |
| Operating Force | The force required to initiate or maintain a sash, leaf, or panel motion in either the opening or closing direction. |
| Operational Hardware | Components of an egress system that require manipulation or operation by an occupant to effect egress. For the purpose of this standard, “locks” or “latches” are defined as devices intended to prohibit the opening of the window from the exterior. |
| Operator | The hardware piece that is most likely crank-operated device for opening and closing casement or jalousie windows. |
| Option | Term used in construction documents to indicate that contractor may use one of several products at his or her choice. |
| Organic | Designating or composed of any chemical compound containing carbon; derived from living organisms. |
| Organic Coating | Organic coatings including paints, enamels and resins. A wide range of colors is achieved through the addition of pigments. |
| Organic Ginishes | Organic coatings including paints, enamels, and resins. A wide range of colors is achieved through the addition of pigments. For further detailed information concerning organic coatings on aluminum, contact the American Architectural Manufacturers Association. |
| Orial Double Hung | a double-hung window where the top sash is larger at 2/3 size and bottom sash is smaller at 1/3 size. In contrast to Cottage Double Hung with an upper sash at 1/3 size and bottom sash 2/3 size. |
| Oriel | A bay window type that extrudes or extends from a building, usually from an upper floor, that is supported by corbels or brackets. |
| Orientation | Placement of windows in regard to access, view, sun, shade, etc. |
| OSHA | Occupational Safety and Health Administration |
| Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class (Oitc) | A single-number rating calculated in accordance with ASTM E1322, using values of outdoor-indoor transmission loss. It provides an estimate of the sound insulation performance of a facade or building elements. The frequency range used is typical of outdoor traffic noises. |
| Outside Stop | Also called a blind stop, it is the piece of wood trim that is attached to the side jambs on the exterior. See blind stop. |
| Outswing | Windows or doors that swing out. |
| Overall Dimensions | The external height and width of the product, expressed in millimeters or inches. |
| Overall Heigh Allowances | This allowance relates to the AAMA Certification Program, under which window and door manufacturers are permitted to use, without a Waiver of Retest, pile weatherstrips whose nominal height is from +0.5mm (+0.020 in) to -0.3mm (-0.010 in) difference than those used in the test window or door. |
| Overall Height | The total thickness of the weatherstrip excluding appurtenances protruding above the pile. |
| Overhead Closer | a.) Surface type – An exposed door swing control and closer device mounted on the surface of a door and frame at its head; b.) Semi-concealed type – A door swing control and closing device mortised into the door top rail and/or frame head; and c.) Concealed type – A door swing control and closer device enclosed within the door top rail and/or frame head. |
| Owner’S Representative | A party designated by the owner to act on his behalf. |
| OX / XO | Used to diagram windows and doors. The “X” indicates the operating panel while the “O” indicates the stationary panel. |
P
| P&P | Policies and Procedures |
| PA | Pascal (unit of pressure) |
| Pan Flashing (A.K.A. Sill Pan) | A type of flashing used at the base of a rough opening to divert water to the exterior or to the exterior surface of a concealed WRB. Pan flashings have upturned legs at the rear interior edge (back dam) and right and left sides (end dams), to form a threesided pan that has the front open for drainage. They are intended to collect and drain water toward the exterior, including water that may enter through the window unit or around the window (between the rough opening and the fenestration). Pan flashing can be made from self-adhered flashing or from rigid or semi-rigid material, such as metal or a semi-rigid polymer. |
| Pan/Panning | Cosmetic covering, usually found on the exterior of the window or door to achieve aesthetic sight lines or to integrate the window or door system into the building surface or weatherproofing system. If panning is being used for weatherability, the panning is not considered cosmetic, but rather part of the window system. |
| Pane | One of the compartments of a door or window consisting of a single sheet of glass in a frame; also, a sheet of glass. |
| Panel | A major component of a sliding glass door, consisting of a light of glass in a frame installed within the main (or outer) frame of the door. A panel may be sliding or fixed. |
| Panel Support | A sub-support between the panel and the building frame which is usually continuous and acts to transfer loads back to the structure. Not to be confused with a panel stiffener, which typically acts to limit deflection of the flat area of the panel. |
| Panic Bar | See PANIC EXIT HARDWARE. |
| Panic Device | See PANIC EXIT HARDWARE. |
| Panic Device Case | See CRASH BAR HOUSING. |
| Panic Exit Hardware | A door locking mechanism designed to be always operable from the interior by pressure on a crash bar or lever. |
| Panning | In replacement window work, the outside aluminum trim that can extend around the perimeter of the window opening; used to cover up the old window material. Panning can be installed in the opening before the window, or can be attached directly to the window before installation. |
| Parallel Opening Window | A of an sash that moves in direction perpendicular to the plane of the frame for the purpose of ventilation. The sash remains parallel to the frame throughout its range of motion. |
| Parallel-Schiebe-Kipp | German: Parallel tilt and slide unit. See Tilt Slide |
| Parameter | A variable characteristic attribute of an object. |
| Parametric Object | An intelligent object that is part of a single building database, represented in any number of views. |
| Partial Window Replacement | The installation of a replacement window where some component of the previously installed window frame will remain in the wall. |
| Particle Dispersed Glazing | Glazing in which the orientation of small particles between two sheets of glass is controlled electrically, thus changing its optical properties. |
| Parting Stop | A narrow strip, either integral or applied, that holds a sash or panel in position in a frame. |
| Passive Door | One or more hinged leaves or sliding door panels that are normally held inactive by latching or locking hardware, but can become active on the release of the latching or locking hardware. |
| Passive Haus | A German standard for energy use. Heat demand requirement of the Passive House Standard is 4.75 kilo BTUs per square foot per year. Passive House is the gold standard for high performance construction today. |
| Passive House Windows | Super insulated and tightly built windows that meet the rigorous and voluntary energy efficiency standards set by the passive house concept that originated in Germany. To be certified Passive Haus in Germany, windows need to meet a European U value of 0.08 (USA converted U value = 0.1409) for the complete window unit. |
| Passive Solar | Refers to the use of the sun’s energy for the heating and cooling of living spaces. In this approach, the building itself or some element of it takes advantage of natural energy characteristics in materials and air created by exposure to the sun. In passive solar building design, windows, walls, and floors are made to collect, store, and distribute solar energy in the form of heat in the winter and reject solar heat in the summer. |
| Passive Solar Heat Gain | Solar heat that passes through a material and is captured naturally, not by mechanical means. |
| Passivehaus | The term passive house (Passivhaus in German) refers to a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in a building, reducing its ecological footprint. It results in ultra-low energy buildings that require little energy for space heating or cooling. |
| Patio Cover | A one story structure not exceeding 3657 mm (12 ft) in height. Enclosure walls shall be permitted to be of any configuration, provided the open or glazed area of the longer wall and one additional wall is equal to at least 65 percent of the area below a minimum of 2032 mm (6 ft. 8 in) of each wall, measured from the floor. |
| Patio Doors | Traditionally a large glass sliding door leading to a patio. North American style patio doors are usually simple two panel sliders. |
| Patio Enclosure | A sunroom installed over an exterior surface such as a deck or patio slab. |
| Patterned Glass | A type of glass used to control light, obscure visual detail for privacy, or to provide decorative effects. |
| Patterned Glass | Rolled glass having a distinct pattern on one or both surfaces. |
| Peak Blast Pressure (Pi | The maximum value of the pressure over ambient pressure with units of kPa (psi). |
| Peak Demand | The maximum instantaneous power demand experienced at a particular point in time. The peak cooling demand is the heaviest cooling load seen by the air handlers; the peak heating load is the highest instantaneous heating load seen by the heating system. |
| Peak Load | The maximum thermal load to be provided by a heating or cooling system in a house. |
| PEC Model | Project execution and coordination models. PEC models are project-specific fenestration BIM models that are provided at pre-defined milestones in the project execution process for insertion into the overall project BIM model. |
| Performance | Defined in the dictionary as the action or process of carrying out or accomplishing an action, task, or function. Exactly what is needed for the many window and door openings we have in our home. |
| Performance Bond | An insurance document purchased by the contractor which guarantees that the work will be performed in accordance with the Contract Documents. |
| Performance Class | One of the five performance classes (R, LC, CW, AW, and SK) within the classification system that provides for several levels of performance. NOTE: This allows the purchaser or specifier to select the appropriate level of performance depending on climatic conditions, height of installation, type of building, etc. |
| Performance Condition | Level of protection provided by a fenestration system. |
| Performance Grade (PG) | A rating given by the North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS). A numeric designator that defines a specific set of NAFS-specified product performance requirements for a specific Design Pressure (DP) range as required by conditions at the intended location of the building. |
| Perimeter Fire Containment | The ability of a system of individual components assembled in a specific manner to contain and restrict the migration of flame and hot gases from the floor of origin to the floor(s) above at the building perimeters. These components are: 1) a floor with an hourly fire endurance rating; 2) an exterior curtain wall with or without a hourly fire endurance rating, and 3) the fill material installed between the floor and the curtain wall. |
| Permanent Deformation | A change in shape or dimension that does not disappear when pressures are no longer applied. |
| Permanent Set | The amount of deflection left in a member after the application and release of a load. |
| Permeability | The time rate of water vapor or gas transmission through a unit area of the material of unit thickness induced by unit vapor pressure difference between two specific surfaces under specified temperature and humidity conditions. |
| Permeance | The time rate of water vapor or gas transmission through a unit area of a body, normal to specific parallel surfaces, under specific temperature and humidity conditions. |
| Permit | A document issued by a local, state, county, or federal governmental authority having jurisdiction to authorize specific work on a building. |
| Photochromic | Glazing with the optical properties that change in response to the amount of incident light. |
| Photovoltaics | Photovoltaics (PV) are solid-state, semiconductor type devices that produce electricity when exposed to light. Electrons in the photovoltaic material are knocked free by light to flow out of the device as an electric current. The more intense the sunlight, the stronger the electric current. |
| Physical Interlock | The provision in the design of the thermal break cavity which involves the incursion of metal lugs into the cavity area. These lugs prevent the pulling apart of the aluminum components from the thermal break material should a loss of adhesion occur. |
| Picture Slider | A horizontal sliding window with one or two moving sash located on one or both sides of a fixed panel to make up a two or three panel window. |
| Picture Window | A large, fixed window framed so that it is usually, but not always, longer horizontally than vertically to provide a panoramic view. |
| Pile Weatherstrip | Upright cut threads or filaments interlaced, woven, or otherwise joined to a backing. |
| Pine | An evergreen coniferous tree that has clusters of long needle-shaped leaves. Many kinds are grown for their soft timber, which is widely used for furniture and pulp. |
| Pitch | The perceived tone of a sound based upon its representative frequency |
| Pivot | An axis or hardware about which a window, sash, panel, or leaf rotates. |
| Pivot Bar Or Pivot Pin | Components that link the sash to the friction shoe/clutch of the balance. |
| Pivot Window | A window with a sash that swings open or shut by revolving on pivots at either side of the sash or at top and bottom. |
| Plank Support Span | The distance between plank support, including standard joist spacing and other support configurations such as angled joists. |
| Plank System | Deck planks and the accessories that mate the planks to sub-decking or other deck components. Plank systems include planks, fasteners, installation clips or clip systems. |
| Plank Walking Surface Area | The area of the plank that is exposed after assembly and provides the uppermost surface. |
| Planks | The uppermost deck components that together comprise the walking surface. |
| Plastic Film | A thin plastic film, sometimes used as the inner layers in a triple- or quadruple-glazed window. Used to greatly reduce the weight of true triple or quad glass. |
| Plastic Film | A thin, plastic substrate sometimes used as the inner layers in a triple- or quadruple- glazed window. |
| Plastic Glazing | Plastic infill materials (including, but not limited to, acrylic, co-polyester, fiberglass-reinforced plastic, and polycarbonate) that are glazed or set in a frame or sash. |
| Plastics | Artificial substances made of organic polymers that can be extruded or molded into various shapes including window frames and sashes. |
| Plate Glass | Thick fine-quality glass, typically used for doors and store windows and originally cast in plates. It has been replaced by float glass. |
| Plate Glass | Flat glass with surfaces that are essentially plane and parallel; it is formed by a rolling process, ground, and polished on both sides. It is available in thicknesses varying from 3.2 mm to 31.8 mm (1/8 in to 1-1/4 in), but has been replaced by float glass. |
| Plinth Block | The rectangular slab or block that forms the lowest part of the base of a column, statue, pedestal, or pier. Also called plinth course. Considered the lowest part of the wall of a building that appears above ground level and defines the base of door casing. |
| Plumb | A term that means that something is straight up and down. Is perpendicular to the ground. To make vertical. |
| Pocket (Channel) | A three-sided, U-shaped opening in a sash or frame to receive glazing infill. Contrasted to a rabbet, which is a two-sided, L-shaped section, as with face glazed window sash. |
| Pocket (Channel) Depth | The inside dimension from the bottom of the pocket to the top. Pocket depth equals the bite plus the edge clearance. |
| Pocket (Channel) Width | The measurement between stationary stops (or stationary stop and removable stop) in a U-shaped channel. |
| Pocket Door | A door panel that slides into an cavity in the wall. |
| Points | Thin, flat, triangular or diamond shaped pieces of zinc used to hold glass into wood sash by driving them into the wood. |
| Polarization | The condition of electromagnetic waves in which the transverse motion or field of the wave is confined to a plane or ellipse. |
| Polybutene | A light-colored liquid, straight-chain aliphatic hydrocarbon polymer that is nondrying and widely used as a major component in sealing and caulking compounds. It is essentially non-reactive and inert. |
| Polycarbonate | A synthetic thermoplastic resin, a linear polymer of carbonic acid, used for molded products, films, and nonbreakable windows. |
| Polyester Resin | Any of a group of thermosetting synthetic resins which are poly-condensation products of dicarboxylic acid and dihydroxy alcohol. |
| Polyethylene | A straight chain plastic polymer of ethylene. |
| Polyethylene (Pe) Blend | Thermoplastics based on polymers made with ethylene as essentially the sole monomer. This shall also be permitted to include PE thermoplastics from pre- and post-consumer recycled thermoplastic materials. |
| Polyisobutylene (Pib) | Synthetic rubber manufactured from isobutylene. |
| Polymer | A high molecular weight chemical structure consisting of a long chain of small molecular units. |
| Polymerized | Treated by heating or cooking so that molecules of different substances unite into larger molecules of a different substance with individual characteristics. |
| Polyol | A polymer or copolymer terminated with one or more hydroxyl groups (OH). |
| Polyol Component | One of the two components of a thermal break system. Normally in this application, it is a fully compounded blend of polyether polyols with small amounts of catalyst and additives present. |
| Polypropylene (Pp) | Polymer prepared by polymerization of propylene as essentially the sole monomer. |
| Polystyrene (Ps) | Polymer prepared by polymerization of styrene as essentially the sole monomer. |
| Polysulfide | Long-chain aliphatic polymers containing disulfide linkages. They can be converted to rubbers at room temperature upon addition of a curing agent. |
| Polysulfide Base | Sealants made from polysulfide synthetic rubber. |
| Polysulfide Sealant | Polysulfide liquid polymer sealant which are mercaptan terminated, long chain aliphatic polymers containing disulfide linkages. They can be converted to rubbers at room temperature without shrinkage upon addition of a curing agent. |
| Polyurethane | Product produced by the reaction of a polyfunctional isocyanate with a polyol or other reactant containing two or more hydroxyl groups. |
| Polyurethane Sealant | An organic compound formed by the reaction of a glycol with an isocyanate. |
| Polyvinyl Butyl | Material used in laminated safety glass and auto glass. Causes shattered glass to be held in place. Referred as PVB. |
| Polyvinyl Chloride | A common extruded product used in replacement window fabrication and as an exterior cladding on wood windows. Referred to as PVC. |
| Porch Enclosure | A sunroom installed as part of a porch. |
| Porosity | The presence of numerous visible pits or pin holes at or near the substrate surface. |
| Positive Pressure | Pressure acting in the inward direction. |
| Pot Life | The time interval following the addition of an accelerator or curing agent, before a chemically curing material will become too viscous to apply satisfactorily. Also called work life. |
| Pour Speed | The speed at which the material flows from the nozzle into the cavity and the part being filled moves under the nozzle. |
| Poured And Debridged | Framing system thermal break made by flowing a catalyzed liquid material with low thermal conductivity into a one-piece channel and then removing the base of the channel or bridge after solidification to form a thermally improved extrusion. |
| PPM | Parts Per Million (also PPM) |
| Pre-Cast Window Sill (A.K.A. Window Sill) | A product used at the sill of a window masonry opening designed with a slope for the purpose of draining water away from the window masonry opening to the exterior of the building. |
| Prefinished | For windows and doors, pre-finished products is a highly sought after option for the quality and completeness of the finish. Creates a furniture grade finish. Refers to a unit that is applied with paint or stain in a factory setting. |
| Pre-hanger | Generally a company that purchases door components for final assembly. |
| Preload | A positive and negative wind load (a reduced design pressure) that is applied to a fenestration product or wall assembly to condition the system before running an air leakage, water penetration or structural test. |
| Preshimmed Tape Sealant | A sealant having a preformed shape containing solids or discrete particles that limit its deformation under compression. |
| Pressure | Differential force per unit area between the interior and exterior surfaces of the test specimen. |
| Pressure Build Or Foaming Pressure | A value for maximum pressure developed under specified conditions as determined by the test method described in AAMA 812-04. |
| Pressure Coefficient | A coefficient which is a function of the building shape, a particular location on the building, the direction of the wind and other factors. The pressure on any part of the building is determined by multiplying the velocity pressure by the appropriate pressure coefficient. Pressure coefficients may be positive or negative. What the BLWT test does essentially is determine the maximum pressure coefficients at numerous locations on the building which the designers will need to determine the design wind loads the wall will be subjected to under extreme wind conditions. |
| Pressure Differential (AP) | The difference between the absolute air pressure on the external surface of a window and the absolute air pressure on the internal surface of the same window. The difference is positive when the external pressure is higher than the internal pressure. When the external pressure is lower than the internal pressure, the difference is negative. This pressure differential is expressed in Pascals (Pa). |
| Pressure Equalization | The use of ventilation to achieve a balance in pressure between the drainage and ventilation cavity, and the exterior. |
| Pressure Equalized Rain Screen Wall System (Prwc) | A wall system that functions to control air leakage and water penetration within the cavity through use of an exterior rain screen, a compartmented drainage and ventilation cavity, and an air and water barrier. |
| Pressure Tap | A hole, approximately 1 mm in diameter, drilled perpendicularly through the exterior surface of the model wall, into which a metal tube is inserted from the interior surface. The metal tube provides attachment for a plastic tube which leads to the instantaneous pressure measuring device. A sufficient number of pressure taps must be used to adequately define the pressure distribution on the entire wall and on any special exterior architectural feature or geometry. |
| Primary Active Panel | The main operating panel in a pair of bi-hinge doors. |
| Primary Door | That door in a dual-door system so designated by the manufacturer, capable of protecting the building’s interior from climactic elements (as opposed to a secondary door used mainly for performance enhancement). |
| Primary Seal | The seal beyond which no water is allowed to pass. It is the location within the wall construction that is ultimately responsible for maintaining water impermeability between the interior and exterior of a building envelope. |
| Primary Sealant | A sealant applied to the inner shoulders of a spacer with its principle purpose to minimize moisture, gas and solvent migration into the unit’s air space. |
| Primary Window | That window in a dual window unit so designated by the manufacturer, capable of protecting the building’s interior from climatic elements (as opposed to a secondary window used mainly for performance enhancement). |
| Prime | Undercoat is a preparatory coating put on materials before painting. Priming ensures better adhesion of paint to the surface, increases paint durability, and provides additional protection for the material being painted. |
| Prime Door | A swinging exterior passage door capable of protecting the building’s interior from climatic elements. A prime door does not require a storm door to perform as intended, but storm doors may be applied as additional protection from climatic elements. |
| Prime Window (Primary Window) | The first window completely installed in a rough opening, which is designed to function as the sole fenestration product (contrasted to a storm window, which serves as a secondary window in conjunction with a primary window). |
| Primed Window | A window or door unit that already has a coat of primer applied and is ready to be painted on site. |
| Primer | A coating specifically designed to enhance the adhesion of sealant systems to certain surfaces, or to form a barrier to prevent migration of components, or to seal a porous substrate. |
| Priming | Sealing of a porous surface so that a compound will not stain, lose elasticity shrink excessively, etc., because of loss of oil or vehicle into the surround. A sealant primer or surface conditioner may be used to promote adhesion of a curing-type sealant to certain surfaces. |
| Produced Xustainably | Is the creation of goods and services using processes and systems that are: Non-polluting. Conserving of energy and natural resources. Economically viable. Safe and healthful for workers, communities, and consumers. |
| Product Designations | Skylights included in this document are identified by the product designation code, which includes product type, performance class, performance grade and size tested. |
| Product Line | A given series of fenestration products typically defined by operator type, frame type and a set of basic frame profiles. |
| Product Type | Each product type and class requires testing the largest size (maximum glazed area) for which compliance is desired for entry into the performance class. |
| Production Unit Testing Procedure | Performance testing of a randomly selected production unit, conducted in accordance with the requirements of the certification program. |
| Production Units | Primary windows and sliding glass doors which are intended for installation in manufactured housing. |
| Profile | Referring to the cross-sectional geometry or property of a frame, sash, or its components. |
| Project | Dimensionally-accurate project-specific fenestration BIM models, provided at predefined milestones in the project execution process, for insertion into the project |
| Project in Windows | Window that tilt, swing or tilt toward the interior. |
| Project Manual | The 8 2″x 11″ paper size bound book of written documents prepared by the Architect for a Project, including the bidding requirements, Conditions of the Contact and technical Specifications, used by the Contractor in bidding & building the project. |
| Projected Window | A window fitted with one or more sashes opening on pivoted arms or hinges that project away from the wall. Refers to casements, awnings, and hoppers. |
| Projected Window | Projected windows have one or more sash hinged or pivoted at the top or bottom which project inward or outward from the plane of the window with or without fixed lites of glass. |
| Proponent | The entity that orders the test. This may be a window or component manufacturer, an installer, contractor or builder. |
| Propylene Carbonate | Solvent used for cleaning and flushing thermal break compounds from the nozzles and operating parts of the mixing and filling machine. |
| Prototype | A unit built strictly for testing purposes. |
| Prototype Units | A unit built strictly for test purposes. |
| Provide | The construction term “provide” means “to furnish and install, complete and ready for the intended use.” |
| PSF | Pounds per Square Foot |
| PSI | Pounds per Square Inch |
| Pull Hardware | A fixed handle or grip used to pull a door open. |
| Pull Stile | A vertical member applied to the side of the glass and used to operate the sash. |
| Pulsating Pressure | A pressure in which pressure difference across the specimen is rapidly transitioned from one level of differential air pressure to another and back within a prescribed time period. |
| Pultrusion | A continuous process of manufacturing of composite materials with constant cross-section whereby reinforcing fiber, typically polyester polymers, are pulled through a resin. |
| Punched Opening | A discrete elevation of curtain wall, storefront or sloped glazing that is surrounded in its entirety by another building wall system such a masonry, EIFS, panels or similarly cladding systems. |
| Punched Openings | Generally, the construction term for conventional windows. |
| Purlin | A horizontal beam along the length of a roof, resting on a main rafter and supporting the common rafters or boards |
| Push Hardware | A fixed bar or plate used to push a door open. |
| Push-out Casement | A casement window opened by pushing out the window. |
| PVC | See Polyvinyl chloride |
| Pyrolytic Coating | A low-e, thin-film coating applied at high temperature. See also HARD COATING. |
| Pyrolytic Low-E | A low- E coating which typically uses tin oxide with some additives deposited directly onto a glass surface while it is still hot. The result is a baked-on surface layer that is hard and durable and thus sometimes referred to as a “hard coat.” Pyrolytic coatings are typically used in insulated glass units with the low-E surface inside the sealed air space, but can also be applied to single-pane glass and separate storm windows. |
Q
| Quarter Round | A window unit one quarter of a circle in shape. |
R
| Rabbet | A groove, channel or recess in a piece of wood that is typically joined to the matching piece of wood. |
| Racking | Movement and distortion of sash or frames so that the corners no longer form their original angles. |
| Radiant Heat | Heat energy transmitted by electromagnetic waves in contrast to heat transmitted by conduction or convection. |
| Radiation | The transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves from one separate surface to another. Energy from the sun reaches the earth by radiation, and a person’s body can lose heat to a cold window or skylight surface in a similar way. Low-E glass reduces the transfer of heat from radiation. |
| Radiation | Energy released in the form of waves or particles, due to a change in temperature within a gas or vacuum. |
| Radius | The measurement from the center of a circle to the outside edge. |
| Rafter | For sloped glazing, a main nominally vertical framing member. |
| Rail | Horizontal member of a window or door. |
| Rain Screen | An exterior wall construction technique consisting of an exterior cladding (outer leaf), a cavity, and an inner leaf. Rain screens are subdivided into two distinct performance categories, one being pressure equalized rain screen and the second being drained and back ventilated (D&BV). |
| Reaction | A mutual action of chemical agents upon each other, resulting in a chemical change. |
| Receptor | A device installed in a rough opening that is designed to receive the window. |
| Reclaim | The action or process of reclaiming or being reclaimed or reused. |
| Recycle | To make something new from something that has been used before. |
| Recycled Aluminum | Is the process by which scrap aluminium can be reused in products after its initial production. The process involves simply re-melting the metal, which is far less expensive and energy-intensive than creating new aluminium |
| Recycled Content | Refers to the portion of materials used in a product that have been diverted from the solid waste stream. |
| Reference Velocity Pressure | The pressure equal to the product of the square of the reference velocity, a factor of one-half and the air density. |
| Reflectance | The ratio of reflected radiant energy to incident radiant energy. |
| Reflection | The process by which incident flux leaves a surface or medium from the incident side, without change in frequency. |
| Reflective Coated Glass | Glass with metallic or metallic oxide coatings applied onto or into the glass surface to provide reduction of solar radiant energy, conductive heat energy and visible light transmission. |
| Reflective Glass | Window glass coated to reflect radiation striking the surface of the glass. |
| Reflectivity | The reflectance of a microscopically homogeneous sample with a clean, optically smooth surface and of thickness sufficient to be completely opaque. |
| Refraction | The phenomenon of light or other waves being deflected from a straight path when it passes at an oblique angle from one medium (such as air) to another (such as glass). |
| Regulation | The term “Regulations” includes laws, ordinances, statutes, and lawful orders issued by authorities having jurisdiction, as well as rules, conventions, and agreements within the construction industry that control performance of the Work. |
| Reinforced Mullion | A connecting member that goes between two windows, two doors, or between an adjacent window and door that is reinforced with a material such as steel or aluminum. |
| Reinforced Thermoplastics | Compound in which a thermoplastic is blended with or chemically coupled to reinforcing additives, such as fibers, spheres or other materials. |
| Reinforcement | The material added to individual sash, leaf, panel, or frame members to increase strength and/or stiffness. |
| Reinforcing Mullion | A horizontal or vertical member with an added continuous mullion stiffener and joining two or more individual fenestration units along the sides of the mullion stiffener. |
| Relative Heat Gain | An energy comparison factor for glass products combining the radiant and conductive heat gas in under specific conditions, (200 BTUs times the shading coefficient + 14 degrees times the summer U-value). |
| Relative Humidity | The percentage of moisture in the air in relationship to the amount of moisture the air could hold at that given temperature. At 100 percent relative humidity, moisture condenses and falls as rain. |
| Relative Pressure | The dimensionless ratio of a sound’s pressure to a standardized reference sound pressure. |
| Releasing Agent | A petroleum-based agent, usually spray applied to a wall or fixture, that will not permit cementitious material to adhere to the wall or fixture. |
| Relief Kerf | A kerf that is cut or machined into a frame member that helps prevent warping. |
| Remodel | To replace or improve a building or its parts. |
| Remodel | To replace or improve a building or its components |
| Removable Double Glazing | The use of a second sash or pane of glass as a storm panel to provide an air space between the glass of the window and the storm panel. |
| Removable Interior Grille | Grilles that are fastened to the inside of the window with latches, pins or snaps that can be removed for cleaning. |
| Removable Mullion | A mullion separating door openings, designed to permit its temporary removal. |
| Removable Multiple Glazing Panel (Rmgp) | A glazed panel that can be installed in a sash, leaf, or panel on either the interior side or exterior side of the primary glazing. |
| Repair | The term “repair” means to fix and restore a portion or portions of the building to a sound, acceptable state of operation and serviceability or appearance. Repairs will be expected to last approximately as long as a replacement. |
| Replace | The term “replace” means to remove an existing element or elements from the building and install a new element of like kind or a salvaged element acceptable to the Owner and Architect, completely and properly anchored to the substrate and surrounding materials; also the term can mean to provide a substitute or replacement for an item. |
| Replaceable Weatherseal | A seal which can be readily removed from a retaining groove of an assembled and installed fenestration product and not an integral part of a framing member or applied with adhesives. |
| Replacement Installation | Installation of a fenestration product that is designed for replacement of existing like and type, by either destructive or nondestructive installation methods. |
| Replacement Windows | A window that is installed in an existing window opening after removal of all or part of a previously installed window. The generic replacement window is a vinyl fabricated window replaced inside the frame of the original window, hence often referred to as “slide-in” or “pocket window”. |
| Reset | The term “Reset” means to remove an existing element or elements from the building and reinstall it completely and properly anchored to the substrate and surrounding materials. |
| RESFEN | A computer program used to calculate energy use and associated costs based on window selection in residential buildings. |
| Residential Building | Any building used or intended primarily for a single or multiple family dwelling. |
| Residential Building – Group As Defined In The Iecc) | Residential occupancies containing more than two dwelling units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature such as apartment houses, boarding houses (not transient), convents, monasteries, rectories, fraternities and sororities, dormitories and rooming houses. For the purpose of this code, reference to Group R- 2 occupancies shall refer to buildings that are three stories or less in height above grade. |
| Residential Building – Group R-4 (As Defined In The Iecc) | Residential occupancies shall include buildings arranged for occupancies as Residential Care/Assisted Living Facilities including more than five but not more than 16 occupants, excluding staff. For the purpose of this code, reference to Group R-4 occupancies shall refer to buildings which are three stories or less in height above grade. |
| Residential Translucent Sloped Glazing System | A translucent glazed roof structure over a conditioned or un-conditioned space having a minimum glazed area of 15 square feet. |
| Resilient Tape | A pre-shaped, rubbery sealing material furnished in varying thicknesses and widths, in roll form. May be plain or reinforced with scrim, twine, rubber or other materials. |
| Resin Chemical Family | Shall refer to the base chemistry of the resin backbone. Examples (not exclusionary) include: Polyester, Vinyl Ester and Urethane. |
| Resin Component | A synonym for polyol component. |
| Responsible Contractor | The party contractually responsible for that portion of the work. |
| Retrofit | To add new materials or equipment not provided at the time of original construction. |
| Retrofit Window | A replacement window designed to be installed over a pre-existing window frame. |
| Retrofitting | Adding or replacing items on existing buildings. Typical retrofit products are replacement doors and windows, insulation, storm windows, caulking, weatherstripping, vents, landscaping. |
| Reuse | Use again or more than once. |
| Reveal | That part of the edge of a door or window frame/jamb not covered by the casing. |
| Reverse Cottage Window | A type of double-hung window in which the lower sash is smaller than the upper sash. See Orial Double Hung. |
| Revolving Door | An exterior door consisting of two or more leaves that pivot about a common vertical axis within a cylindrically shaped vestibule. |
| Revolving Door Canopy | That circular part of a revolving door between the ceiling sheet and the roof sheet. Any canopy that has a flat side and is not a complete circle is referred to as a clipped canopy. |
| Rework Material | Principally material from a manufacturer’s facility or another facility of known compatible composition that has been reground, pelletized or pulverized after having been previously processed by extrusion. |
| Rigid (Static) Model | This is a building model of rigid construction which remains undeflected and stationary when placed in the flowing air of the BLWT. It is the type of model used to establish wind load or curtain walls. Pressure taps distributed over the surfaces of this type of model are used to obtain pressure distributions. |
| Rim Type | Which is mounted on the surface of a door, usually by screws from the reverse side. It is mounted independently of the lock and engages with the lock mechanism by means of a tail piece or metal extension. |
| Roll Screen | An insect screen that rolls up or to the side for storage. |
| Roll shutters | A rolling component or sectional overhead door consisting of many horizontal slats. |
| Rolladen | A German roll shutter used for shading, security, privacy and storm protection. |
| Roller Assembly | Consists of roller(s), roller axle(s), any roller tire(s), any roller assembly housing(s), any height adjustment mechanism, and where used as an integral part of the roller assembly, sill rail of the sliding glass door operating panel. |
| Roller Latch | A hardware device for holding a door in closed position. It consists of a spring-loaded roller mortised into the edge of a door so as to engage with a grooved strike mortised into the frame jamb. |
| Roller Strike | See STRIKE. |
| Roll-form Aluminum | A thin sheet of aluminum used to clad the exterior of wood windows. Much thinner than windows clad with extruded aluminum. |
| Roof | The cover of a building; includes the roofing system. Assembly of interacting components designed to weatherproof, and sometimes to insulate the roof surface of a building. |
| Roof Window | A fixed or operable window similar to a skylight placed in the sloping surface of a roof. |
| Roof, Sunroom | The cover over a sunroom structure. Sunroom roofs shall be made of solid panel materials, glazed surfaces, screening or other materials and assemblies. |
| Room Temperature | Temperature normally experienced in the average workplace and defined as 24°C ± 5°C (75 °F ± 10°F). |
| Rough Opening | The opening in a wall into which a door or window is to be installed. |
| Rough Opening Gap | The space between the rough opening and the window or door frame. |
| Round Top | A semicircle window, usually placed on top of another window or a door. See Circle Top. |
| R-Point | equal to double that of other anchors, achieved by using two anchors instead of one or by using an anchor that is twice as rigid as those used at other points. |
| R-value | A measure of the resistance of a glazing material or fenestration assembly to heat flow. It is the inverse of the U-factor (R = 1/U) and is expressed in units of hr-sq ft.-°F/Btu. A high-R-value window has a greater resistance to heat flow and a higher insulating value than one with a low R-value. |
S
| Saddle | See THRESHOLD. |
| Safe Off Void | The gap or linear void area between the curtain wall system and the structural floor slab. |
| Safety Glass | Annealed glass that is strengthened, toughened or reinforced that is less subject to breakage or splintering. There are two types of safety glass that meet the CPSC-federal standard, 16 CFR 1201, Cat. II: Tempered and Laminated. |
| Safety Glazing | The use of safety glass and certain plastics in hazardous locations. Building codes require safety glazing in two broad types of hazardous locations. (1) Glazing subject to accidental human impact, such as in doors, sidelights (glazing next to doors), other glazing that extends to or near the floor or walking surface, and glazing in the walls and enclosures of bathing compartments. (2) Skylights or sloped glazing in walls and roofs greater than 15 degrees from the vertical. Laminated glass or certain plastics are required to reduce the possibility of any part of the glazing from vacating the glazed opening when broken. |
| Safing Impaling Clip | A “Z”-shaped, galvanized steel clip used to retain the fire safing materials. |
| Sag And Flow Test | A procedure involving vertical applications of sealants to specified surfaces or shapes under predetermined conditions of temperature and time intervals. The tendency to run or sag is observed and is reported as none, very slight, slight, etc. |
| Sagging | The inability of a sealant to support its own weight in a joint. |
| Sash | A portion of a window that includes the glass, rails and stiles, but does not include the frame into which it is fitted. |
| Sash Balance | A mechanism comprised of springs, pulleys or counterweights that help a double-hung window remain open. |
| Sash Balance Adjustment | If applicable, enables a single balance or combination of balances, to accommodate a range of sash weights. Adjustment details and sash weight range shall be specified by the balance manufacturer. |
| Sash Balance Rated Capacity | The manufacturer’s specified minimum and maximum weight carrying capacity per balance based on the Balance Rated Travel Range (BRTR). BLRC = Balance(s) Lowest Rated Capacity, BHRC = Balance(s) Highest Rated Capacity |
| Sash Cord | The rope that attaches a double hung sash to the sash balance. |
| Sash Crack | The total length of prime sash crack between the sash of the operable lights and the main frame and between meeting stiles or rails. The crack length of lights that are not normally operable but are easily removable shall be included when determining total crack length. For fixed windows, the crack length is the perimeter of the main frame measured adjacent to the glass. |
| Sash Lift | A handle attached to or routed into the bottom rail of the lower sash in a single- or double-hung window. |
| Sash Limiter | Hardware that controls a window opening amount. |
| Sash Lock | Hardware attached to the sashes of a double hung window that can fix both in the shut position |
| Sash Opening | The clear daylight opening of an open sash. |
| Sash Operating Mode | The direction and movement of the operable portion of a window assembly. Sash operating modes include, but are not limited to, project-out awning, project-in hopper, outward-projecting casement, horizontal sliding or rolling, vertical sliding or hung, etc. |
| Sash Pulls | The routed handle on the vertical stiles of a sliding window that allow the window to be easily opened. |
| Sash Travel Range | The total range of sash travel, during normal operation, from the fully-closed to the fully-opened positions with restraints such as sash stops or any other limiting means in place. |
| Sash Weight (Wgt) | The total weight of the sash including the glazing material, framing members, latches, lock(s) and all other components and attachments. |
| Sash Weights | The counterweights of older double-hung windows that kept the sash from closing. Usually found behind the window jamb inside the wall. |
| Sawtooth Roof | A roof composed of a series of single-pitch roofs whose shorter or vertical side has windows for light and air. |
| SBCCI | Southern Building Code Conference International |
| Scant Plastic | A condition along the edge of the laminate where the vinyl interlayer does not extend completely to the edge of the innermost glass component. Measurement is made of the maximum extent of the void from the edge of the innermost glass component. |
| Screen | Woven mesh of metal, plastic, or fiberglass stretched over a window opening to permit air to pass through, but not insects. |
| Screen Frame | The frame surrounding a screen. |
| Screening | A mesh-like material that can cover a fenestration opening. |
| Screw-On Bead Or Stop | A stop, molding or bead fastened by screws. |
| Scribe | To score or mark along a cutting line. |
| Seal Plug | Weather barrier installed to prevent entry of water, snow, dust, or insects into a rough opening gap. |
| Sealant | Any of a variety of compounds used to fill and seal joints or openings in wood, metal, masonry, and other materials, as contrasted to a sealer, which is a liquid used to seal a porous surface. Some common types of sealants are: neoprene, polysulfide rubber, silicone, acrylic latex, butyl rubber, and polyurethane. |
| Sealant Bead | A sealant or compound, such as caulking or glazing bead, etc., applied to a joint regardless of the method of application. Also, a molding or stop used to hold glass or panels in position. |
| Sealed Insulating Glass Units | Units constructed of two or more lites of glass separated and hermetically sealed to spacer frames at the glass edges with the enclosed air changer(s) dehydrated at the plant’s atmospheric pressure. |
| Sealer | A liquid used to seal a porous surface. (See Sealant) |
| Sealing Wire | An additional material that is inserted into the head of some polyamide strips and which is heat activated during the curing process of liquid or powder coating. |
| SEB | Single Entry Bond required by US customs on every shipment with a commercial Value of $2,000 or more. |
| seb | The surface or surfaces of a wall responsible for preventing water infiltration into the building interior. In Surface Barrier Systems, the exterior-most surface is the weather resistant barrier (WRB). In Membrane/Drainage Systems, the membrane applied behind the exterior surface is the weather resistant barrier (WRB). |
| Secondary Active Panel | The panel in a set of bi-Folding Doors that does not have the lockset. |
| Secondary Door | That door in a dual-door system so designated by the manufacturer, used on the interior or exterior of, and in tandem with, a primary door designated by the manufacturer to be used for the purpose of performance enhancement. Not to be used by themselves as primary doors. |
| Secondary Lock | A secondary lock is any lock that does not allow forced-entry from the exterior by restricting the movement of a sash or vent to less than one-half inch. Any mechanism which allows more than a one-half inch opening shall be classified as a ventilating lock. |
| Secondary Sealant | A sealant applied into the exterior glass-spacer cavity to provide elastic, structural bonding of the assembly, in single-sealed units, this sealant also has low gas and moisture vapor transmission property to achieve effective unit performance. |
| Secondary Storm Product (Ssp) | A door, window, or skylight product intended to be used only in conjunction with a primary door, window, or skylight product for the purpose of enhancement of performance in a system with the primary product. A secondary storm product can be attached to the internal or external frame or sash of the primary product. A secondary storm product is also considered a secondary door or window. |
| Secondary Window | That window in a dual window unit so designated by the manufacturer, used on the exterior of, or interior of, and in tandem with a primary window for the purpose of performance enhancement. Not to be used by themselves as primary windows. |
| Sectional Drawing | A drawing of a surface revealed by an imaginary plane cut through the project, or portion thereof, in such a manner as to show the composition of the surface as it would appear if the part intervening between the cut plane and the eye of the observer were removed. |
| Security Doors | A range of measures used to strengthen doors against door breaching, ram-raiding and lock picking, and prevent crimes like burglary and home invasions |
| Security Hardware | Hardware providing protection from fire, intruders, and other external agents. |
| Security Shutters | A rolling heavy gauge shutter used to protect your home and family from exterior forces applied to the windows or doors. |
| SEER | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio |
| Seismic Load | Building movement and forces caused by earthquake motion. |
| Self-Adhering Flashings | Flexible facing materials coated completely or partially on at least one side with an adhesive material and which do not depend on mechanical fasteners for attachment. They are used to bridge the joint (gap) between fenestration framing members and the adjacent weather resistive barriers or sealed drainage plane material. The purpose of flashing is to drain water away from the fenestration product to the exterior. |
| Self-Cleaning Glass | Glass coated with a layer of titanium dioxide that reacts with sunlight to break down dirt and dust. |
| Self-Leveling Sealant | A sealant formulation having a consistency that will permit it to achieve a smooth level surface when applied in a horizontal joint. |
| Series | Manufacturers shall classify their products in groups called Series. Each series defines significant properties of the product group that relate to its component materials, profile, geometry, and intended application. Changes in component materials such as material durometer (greater than ± 10%), UV stabilizer, or grade of a material that alter the product’s performance or application shall denote a change in series. Changes in the density (greater than ± 15%) of foam filled weather seals shall denote a change in series. Design and construction characteristics such as profile geometry, designed method of compression, or hollow versus solid foam core that alter the product’s performance or application shall also denote a change in series. |
| Serviceability | The capacity of a building product, component, construction or assembly to perform the function(s) for which it was designed and constructed. |
| Serviceable | Accessible without major reconstruction of the widow, door, SSP, TDD, roof window, or unit skylight. |
| Setting | Placement of lites or panels in sash or frames; and action of a sealant as it becomes more firm after application. |
| Setting Block | A small piece of neoprene or other suitable material used to position a piece of glass in its frame. |
| Setting Block | A device or member that supports the weight of the glazing and is in direct contact with an edge of the glazing after final installation. |
| Setting Time | A term used rather loosely to describe that period when a material has either dried sufficiently through solvent release, or cured sufficiently through chemical reaction, to reach a specified condition. |
| SGCC | Safety Glazing Certification Council |
| Shade Screen | Also called a solar shade, solar screen or sun screen, it is a specially manufactured heavy screen that helps reduce glare, block harmful UV rays and improve the energy efficiency of the home. |
| Shading Coefficient | A measure of the ability of a window or skylight to transmit solar heat, relative to that of a 3mm sheet of clear single glass. It is being phased out in favor of the solar heat gain coefficient, and is approximately equal to the SHGC multiplied by 1.15. It is expressed as a number without units between 0 and 1. The lower a window’s solar heat gain coefficient or shading coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits, and the greater is its shading ability. Included is the directly transmitted solar radiation, as well as the solar energy absorbed and then redirected to the indoor space. |
| Shear Panel | A panel used to brace a building wall against racking; in skylights, glass may be used as a shear panel, requiring special design considerations. |
| Shear Strength | The maximum shear stress that a material is capable of sustaining. Shear strength is calculated from the maximum load during a shear or torsion test and is based on the original dimensions of the cross section of the specimen. Ability of the thermal barrier material to resist slippage or tearing parallel to the line of application of loading (pure or transverse shear) or perpendicular to the line of load application as in bending (longitudinal shear). |
| Sheathing Tape | A tape manufactured for the purpose of sealing horizontal, vertical, and diagonal joints in the weather resistant barrier (WRB). Appropriate materials for this purpose are those recommended by the weather resistant barrier (WRB) manufacturer for the intended purpose. |
| Sheet Glass | A transparent, flat glass found in older windows, now largely replaced by float glass. |
| Sheet Glass | Flat glass made by continuous drawing and whose surface has a characteristic waviness. Because of the long usage of the term, much thin float glass is still incorrectly referred to as sheet glass. |
| SHGC | See solar heat gain coefficient |
| Shim | A thin, flat or wedge-shaped piece of suitable material used to level or plumb a window or door frame during installation. Lateral shims are placed at the jambs; setting shims are placed at the sill. |
| Shock Tube Test | A blast test conducted in an enclosure that utilizes compressed air, fuel/air mixtures or explosives to simulate a blast event. |
| Shockwave | A mass of highly compressed air that radiates out from an explosion source producing an increase in ambient air pressure. |
| Shoe/Clutch | A component of a Type 2 balance which provides an engagement location for the pivot pin or pivot bar. The shoe/clutch is permitted to provide other functions not related to vertical sash counterbalancing and is available in assorted sizes that suit the pocket size of varied frame designs. |
| Shore “A” Hardness | Measure of firmness of a compound by means of a Durometer Hardness Gauge (A hardness range of 20-25 is about the firmness of an art gum eraser. A hardness of 90 is about the firmness of a rubber heel). |
| Shore D Hardness | Provides a relative ranking of profile surface hardness. Measure of the firmness of a material measured by means of a Durometer Hardness |
| Shore Hardness | Measure of firmness of a material measured by means of a Durometer Hardness Gauge. (A range of 20-25 is about the firmness of an art gum eraser. 90 is about the firmness of a rubber shoe heel). |
| Shore Hardness | Gauge (a range of 20-25 is about the firmness of an art gum eraser; 90 is about the firmness of a rubber shoe heel). |
| Short-Wave Infrared Radiation | Invisible radiation, just beyond red light on the electromagnetic spectrum (between 0.7 and 2.5 microns), emitted by hot surfaces and included in solar radiation. |
| Shrinkage | A permanent loss of overall length due to material construction and/or relaxation from environmental and/or installation factors. |
| Shrinkage Test | A determination of the percentage loss in volume of a sealant when tested in a specified size and shape under controlled conditions of temperature, humidity, and time intervals. |
| Shrinkage, Dry | A uniform, end to end contraction of the thermal break material in the extruded cavity after the material has been fully cured. Dry shrinkage is characterized by the absence of thermal break resin on the cavity walls in the “shrink back” area. |
| Shrinkage, Wet | The end to end contraction of the freshly poured thermal barrier material as it gels or sets up within the extruded cavity caused by the center of the pour solidifying quicker than the outer perimeter. Wet shrinkage is characterized by a thin layer of thermal barrier resin on the cavity walls in the “shrink back” area. |
| Side Jamb | The vertical side pieces of a window or door frame. |
| Side Jamb Pivot | See INTERMEDIATE PIVOT. |
| Side Light | See Side Lite |
| Side Lite | Also referred to as a side light. Usually stationary and with a vertical emphasis that flanks a door where visual emphasis is desired. |
| Side-Hinged (Inswinging) Window | A window that consists of sash hinged at the jambs and swings inward using exposed butt hinges or concealed butt hinges and in some cases friction hinges. It is primarily for cleaning or escape and rescue purposes, but not for ventilation other than in the case of emergency. The gateway test size is larger than for casement windows, but otherwise the same requirements are met. |
| Side-Hinged Door System | A door system having, at a minimum, a hinge attachment of any type between a leaf and jamb, mullion or edge of another leaf but having a single, fixed vertical axis about which the leaf rotates between open and closed positions. These systems include, as a minimum, a single operating leaf, surrounding frame, and components. The surrounding frame has vertical and horizontal members that are joined at the intersection and that fully encompass the operating and/or fixed leaf/leaves. Additional operating and/or fixed leaves, side lites, transoms, framing, and mullions are often included. |
| sidelights | Nnormally fixed units, installed adjacent to a door. |
| Sight-Line | The line defining the perimeter of the daylight opening of a window. It may be formed by the sash, spacer assembly, or the glazing stop. |
| Silicone Sealant | A sealant having as its chemical composition a backbone consisting of alternating silicon-oxygen atoms. |
| Sill | The lowest horizontal member in a door, window, or sash frame. |
| Sill Angle | The pitch of the exterior window sill. An L-shaped installation accessory that may be employed at the sill of a replacement window to accommodate the slope of the existing sill construction. |
| Sill Horn | The horizontal projection of a wood window sill that forms the base for the brick molding. |
| Sill Nosing | A wood member attached to the outside of the sill. This nosing is added to a narrow sill and may help to tie together a single mullion or double mullion unit, etc. |
| Sill Pan | An under window or door flashing for maximum weatherproofing protection. Used to divert water to the exterior. |
| Sill Track | The track provided at the sill of a sliding glass door. Also, the sill member incorporating such a track. |
| Simulated Divided Lites (SDLs) | A window meant to look as if it is made up of true divided panes of glass. It is actually made of a single large piece of glass with grilles installed on the inside and outside surfaces of the glass. Meant to closely simulate true divided lites. The better simulated SDL’s have spacer bars inserted inside the glass between the inside and outside grid bars. |
| Single Glazing | One single thickness of glass in a window or door. |
| Single Material | Profiles extruded from a single compound. Weathering and other physical characteristics are uniform throughout the profile. |
| Single Mode | The primary unit is closed and the outer window/door is opened fully, and the insect screen (when offered or specified by the manufacturer) is in the functional position. |
| Single-Acting Door | A door mounted to swing in one direction only from the plane of its frame. |
| Single-Hung Window | A hung style window with two sashes; the top one stationary and the bottom movable. |
| Single-Sealed Units | Sealed insulating glass units where the structural bonding and moisture sealing is accomplished by a single seal at the edge. |
| Single-Wtrength Glass. | Glass that is 3/32″ thick. Specifically thickness between 0.085″and 0.100″ (2.16–2.54 mm). Opposed to double-strength glass that is 1/8″ thick. |
| Site-Built System | A fenestration assembly supplied in an unassembled or partially assembled state consisting of more than one supplier’s fabricated parts, components, locking/latching hardware, and/or accessories for final assembly at the project site. Excluded from this definition are door systems that are shipped from a district manufacturer without locking/latching hardware. NOTE: As no individual distinct manufacturer incurs the sole responsibility for the design, composition, and performance of site-built fenestration assemblies, such assemblies are not addressed by this Standard/Specification. |
| Skin | Door covering material. |
| Skylight | A roof window that gives light and ventilation. |
| Slab | A door panel without the hardware. |
| Slag Wool/Rockwool | A fibrous insulation board consisting of inorganic steel slag or rock fibers bonded together with thermosetting resins acting as a binder system. |
| Slider | See HORIZONTAL SLIDING WINDOW. |
| Sliding Doors | A door that opens by sliding instead of swinging |
| Sliding Glass Door | A door fitted with one or more panels that move horizontally on a track and/or in grooves. Moving action is usually of rolling type (rather than sliding type). Also called gliding door, rolling glass door, and patio sliding door. |
| Sliding Window | A window fitted with one or more sashes opening by sliding horizontally or vertically in grooves provided by frame members. Vertical sliders may be single- or double-hung. |
| Sliding Windows | A window that opens by sliding instead of swinging |
| Sloped Glazing | A glass and framing assembly that is sloped more than 15° from vertical and which forms essentially the entire roof of the structure. Generally this is a single slope construction. (Other than unit skylights.) |
| Sloped Glazing System | A glass and framing assembly that is sloped more than 15° from vertical and which forms essentially the entire roof of the structure; generally this is a single slope construction. |
| Sloped Sill Adapter | Enclose the cavity between the bottom of the replacement window and the sloped wooden sill of the old window |
| Sloughing | A condition wherein scales peel off or become loose, either partially or entirely, from the pultrusion. |
| SMA | Screen Manufacturers Association |
| Smart Window | Generic term for windows with switchable coatings to control solar gain. |
| Smoke | The airborne solid and liquid particulate and gases evolved when a material undergoes pyrolysis or combustion. |
| Smoke Containment | The ability of a system of materials assembled in a specific manner to contain and restrict the migration of smoke from the floor of origin to the floor(s) above. |
| Smoke Seal | A seal that exhibits the ability to prevent the passage of smoke and hot gases. |
| Snap-In Bead Or Stop | A stop, molding or bead that snaps into position without additional fastening. (See SCREW-ON BEAD OR STOP.) |
| Snow Load | Loads imposed on a building wall, roof, or skylight by the accumulation of snow; generally a long-term load. |
| Snubber | An inter-locking alignment component or feature, used at the “hinge side” of a projected or casement sash, to ensure proper seating of weather seals, or for structural integrity. Also known as snug bars, or bevel blocks. |
| Socially Responsible | Is the idea that a company should embrace its social responsibilities and not be solely focused on maximizing profits. |
| Soffit Bracket | A bracket for mounting an exposed overhead door closer to the underside of a door frame head or transom bar; used for outswinging doors only. |
| Soft Coating) | Generally refers to silver-based, low-e coating. So called due to its susceptibility to damage through abrasion. The coating generally consists of a multilayer structure of alternate dielectric and thin transparent metal layers which are deposited in a vacuum chamber. Also known as sputtered coating. |
| Soft-Coat Glass | A coating used in an insulating glass unit that offers glass low-emissivity and better solar control with a process called sputter coating. Unlike hard-coat glass, soft-coat glass requires special care and handling. |
| Softwood | Type of lumber from conifer evergreen trees, such as pine, fir, larch, ceder, and redwood. |
| Solar Absorptance | Fraction or percent of the sun’s radiation that is absorbed by a surface or material; for glass, standard values are normally published for the sun’s rays normal to the surface. |
| Solar Coefficient Glass | is a value that determines one type of thermal performance of a glass unit (panel or window) in a building. Essentially, it is the ratio of solar gain (due to direct sunlight) passing through a glass unit to the solar energy which passes through 3mm Clear FloatGlass. |
| Solar Control Coatings | Thin film coatings on glass or plastic that absorb or reflect solar energy, thereby reducing solar gain. |
| Solar Control Glass | Glass that has a special coating for absorbing and reflecting solar energy. |
| Solar Energy | Thermal radiation from the sun; as measured by short radiation wavelengths, less than three microns long. |
| Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) | The fraction of solar radiation admitted through a window or skylight, both directly transmitted, and absorbed and subsequently released inward. The solar heat gain coefficient has replaced the shading coefficient as the standard indicator of a window’s shading ability. It is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window’s solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits, and the greater its shading ability. SHGC can be expressed in terms of the glass alone or can refer to the entire window assembly. |
| Solar Radiation | The total radiant energy from the sun, including ultraviolet and infrared wave lengths as well as visible light. |
| Solar Reflectance | Fraction or percent of the sun’s radiation that is reflected by a surface or material. |
| Solar Reflecting Glass | Glass with a transparent metal or metal oxide coating which reflects a portion of the sun’s radiation. |
| Solar Screen | A sun shading device, such as screens, panels, louvers, or blinds, installed to intercept solar radiation. |
| Solar Spectrum | The intensity variation of sunlight across its spectral range. |
| Solar Transmittance | Fraction or percent of sun’s radiation that is transmitted by a transparent or translucent material. |
| Solarium | A sunroom featuring a high percentage of glazed surfaces used as walls and roof systems. |
| Solid-Core Door | Doors that are solid underneath the door skins, as opposed to a hollow-core doors. |
| Solids Content | A determination of the non-volatile matter of a compound at a specified temperature and time interval. Usually expressed in percentage by weight and the difference between this figure and 100%, represents the volatile matter or loss by evaporation. |
| Solids Content Test | A determination of the non-volatile matter of a sealant at a specified temperature and time interval, usually expressed as percentage by weight of the solid matter left after evaporation. |
| Solvent Release Sealant | A sealant that cures primarily through solvent evaporation. |
| Sone | The unit of measure of loudness defined as 40 dB at 1000 Hz. |
| Sound Attenuation Glass | Glass fabricated to reduce or control the levels of environmental sound |
| Sound Glass | Glass fabricated to reduce or control the levels of environmental sound |
| Sound Intensity | The square of the relative pressure of a sound representing the power per unit area of the sound in “watts per square meter” (W/m2). |
| Sound Power (W) | Rate of transmission of a sound’s energy in “Watts” (W). |
| Sound Pressure Level (SPL) | Twenty times (20x) the base ten logarithm of a sound’s relative pressure represented in decibels (dB). |
| Sound Transmission Class (STC) | The sound transmission loss rating of a material over a selected range of sound frequencies. The higher the number, the less sound transmitted. |
| Sound Transmission Coefficient | The fraction of the airborne sound power incident on the test specimen that is transmitted by the specimen and radiated on the other side. |
| Sound Transmission Loss (STL) | Ten times (10x) the common logarithm of the reciprocal of the sound transmission coefficient. The quantity so obtained is expressed in decibels (dB). |
| Sound-Insulating Glass | Glazing that is fixed on resilient mountings and separated so as to reduce sound transmission. Also known as sound-resistive glass. |
| Spacer | A material, (aluminum, stainless steel, foam or thermal plastic) separating two panes of glass in an insulating glass panel. |
| Spacer Corners | Specific methods used in joining the spacer lengths into spacer frames including interlocking keys, bending, soldering, or welding. |
| Spacer Depth | That dimension of the spacer that is measured perpendicular to the glass surface. |
| Spacer Width | That dimension of the spacer that is measured perpendicular to the glass surface and establishes the unit’s air space. |
| Span | The clear distance measured parallel to the length of a mullion or divider between support points. |
| Spandrel | A portion of an exterior wall between a window on one floor and a window on the floor above. |
| Spandrel Area | The area of the spandrel infill between the primary sash or frame members. |
| Spandrel Beam | A beam which lies in the same vertical plane as the exterior wall. |
| Spandrel Glass | Unlike vision glass, which is meant to be transparent,spandrel glass is designed to be opaque in order to help hide features between the floors of a building, including vents, wires, slab ends and mechanical equipment. |
| Specialty Shape Windows | Generally referred to as windows with odd or uncommon shapes. |
| Specificatons | Apart of the Contract Documents contained in the Project Manual consisting of written descriptions of a technical nature of materials, equipment construction systems, standards and workmanship. Under the Uniform System, the Specifications comprise sixteen Divisions. |
| Spectrally Selective Glazing | Glazing that is transparent to some wavelengths of the solar spectrum and reflective to others. Typical spectrally selective coatings are transparent to visible light and reflect short-wave and long-wave infrared as well as UV radiation. Spectrally selectivity can be achieved with low-E coatings and/or high-performance tints. |
| Spectrally Selective Tint | A tinted glazing with optical properties that are transparent to some wavelengths of energy and reflective to others. Typical spectrally selective tints are transparent to visible light and reflect short-wave and long-wave infrared radiation. |
| Speed Control | The mechanism that controls the rate of speed at which a door will operate. |
| Spindle (A.K.A Split Spindle) | A rigid bar or bars which transfer movement of the handle to the lock mechanism. |
| Spray Coating | The process of applying a resinous coating by atomizing it into a spray or mist, and curing it into a continuous film. |
| Sputtered Low-E | A multi-layered low-E coating deposited on glass or plastic film. Typically consists of three primary layers with at least one layer of metal. Sputtered coatings often use one, two or three silver layers and must be protected from humidity and contact. For this reason, they are often referred to as “soft coat.” Sputter coatings are typically used in insulated glass units with the low-E surface inside the sealed air space, but can also be applied to plastic and used in suspended films or retrofit window films. |
| Square | Two construction members that meet at a right (90°) angle. In fenestration, the condition in which the jambs are perpendicular to the head and sills. |
| Square Foot | The area of a unit measured in feet. |
| Stacked | Two or more windows arranged vertically. |
| Stagger | To offset building members or fasteners in a horizontal or vertical plane in alternating sequence. |
| Stained Glass | Colored glass used to form decorative or pictorial designs, notably for church windows, both by painting and especially by setting contrasting pieces in a lead framework like a mosaic. When incorporated into windows and doors, the stained glass is placed inside the glass thermal pane and sealed. |
| Standard | An approved criterion governing the quality of a construction material, operation, functional requirement, or method of assembly. |
| Standard Test Profile | A specific part selected by the manufacturer that is representative of a single or multiple product series that is to be used in AAMA certified products. The part is representative of a series in component materials, profile geometry, or other characteristics that alter a product’s performance or application. |
| Static Pressure | Application of a fixed pressure difference across the specimen. |
| Stationary | A inoperable panel or sash. |
| Stationary Stop | The permanent stop or lip of a rabbet onto which the lites or panels are set. |
| STC | Sound Transmisson Class |
| STC Reference Contour | A curve that is fitted to the measured transmission loss data from 125 Hz to 4000 Hz to determine the Sound Transmission Class of a barrier. |
| Stewardship | The careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care |
| Stick Grille | A grille with no exterior frame. |
| Stiffener | A reinforcing member which serves to limit the deflection of the member to which it is attached. |
| Stile | The upright or vertical edges of a door, window, or screen. |
| Stile and Rail Door | A type of wood door with decorative raised panels surrounded by a frame. |
| Stock | Standard size raw building materials or standard equipment. |
| Stool | The shelf-like board of the interior part of the window sill, against which the bottom rail of the sash closes. |
| Stop | The molding on the inside of a window frame against which the window sash closes; in the case of a double-hung window, the sash slides against the stop. Also called bead, side stop, window stop, and parting stop. |
| Store Front | The side of a store facing a street, usually containing display windows. |
| Store Front Sash | An assembly of moulding members forming a continuous frame for a fixed glass store front. |
| Storm Door | An additional, non-thermal door placed in front of an exterior door for additional protection for weather elements. |
| Storm Window | A second window placed either inside our outside of a window to protect against bad weather and to offer increased insulation. |
| Story | A horizontal division of a building; that portion between one floor and the floor above. |
| Story Drift | See DRIFT |
| Story Height | Vertical distance between a designated point or component at one floor level and the same designated point or component at adjoining floor levels of a building structure. |
| Straw Foam Sealant | An aerosol foam container from which the polymer is extruded through a simple tube dispenser. A straw-type dispenser is attached to the valve of the container and is controlled by a lever actuator-connector. Normally this devise is intended for limited re-use. |
| Stress Relaxation | Stress relaxation is that property which enables a compound to be extended without increasing its internal stress. |
| Strike | An opening or retaining device provided in the head, jamb or threshold of a door frame or in the edge of a stile of an inactive door to receive a lock or latch bolt. (Also referred to as a Keeper or Strike Plate). a) Box Strike – A strike consisting of a face plate with rectangular opening and a box-like enclosure attached to the back of the plate and surrounding the opening. b) Dustproof Strike: A strike which is placed in the floor, sill or threshold of an opening, to receive a flush bolt, and is equipped with a spring-loaded follower to cover the recess and prevent its filling with dirt. c) Electric Strike: A strike used with a latch lock and designed to be actuated by a remotely controlled electro-magnet, to permit the door to be opened without retracting the latch. d) Roller Strike: A strike for latch bolts, having a roller mounted in the tip to reduce friction. |
| Striking Off | The operation of smoothing excess sealant at the sight line. |
| Structural Gasket | A synthetic rubber gasket designed to engage the edge of glass or panel in a surrounding frame by forcing an interlocking filler strip into a grooved recess in the face of the gasket. Such gaskets are structurally capable of transmitting wind and dead loads from the glass or panel to the frame. |
| Structural Glass | Flat glass that is usually colored or opaque and frequently ground and polished, used for structural purposes. Also, glass block, usually hollow, that is used for structural purposes. |
| Structural Glazing | Glazing which is part of the structural design of the facade of a building. |
| Structural Glazing Gaskets | Cured elastomeric channel-shaped extrusions used in place of a conventional sash to install glass products onto structurally supporting sub-frames with the pressure of sealing exerted by the insert of separate lock strip wedging splines. |
| Structural Integrity | A structure’s uncompromised ability to safely resist the required loads. |
| Structural Mullions | Also called “mullion stiffeners,” must independently or in conjunction with Common or Combination Mullions be designed to withstand full design load requirements of the project specifications. Evidence of compliance shall be either by testing for mathematical calculation. |
| Structural Silicone Glazing | A system in which the glass product is bonded to the framing members of a curtain wall utilizing a structural silicone adhesive / sealant without the presence of outdoor retainers or stops. |
| Structural Test Pressure (Stp) | The overload pressure differential applied to a window, door system, TDD, roof window, SSP. or unit skylight. (Not to be confused with design pressure (DP) or Performance Grade (PG)). |
| Stucco | Cementitious mixture used for exterior plaster. |
| Styrene Copolymers | Those polymers incorporating styrene and at least one other functional group in the repeating unit through co-polymerization of the base monomers. |
| Sub-Assembly Unit | A unit, complete in its entirety, including the glazing of windows or other glazing panels into their respective fixed or moving sash frames, which is shipped with such glazing panels separate from each other or from any master frame. This master frame may either be disassembled or assembled. The connection of the master frame to the glazed, fixed, or moving panels shall take place later according to the instructions of the manufacturer utilizing all of the components supplied by the manufacturer. |
| Subcontractor | A person or organization who has a direct Contract with a prime Contractor to perform a portion of the Work at the site. |
| Sub-Frame | A framework built fastened and sealed into a window or door opening in a concrete or masonry wall, to which the window or door frame is secured. |
| Subsill | A separate framing member that, when installed on the underside of a sill, becomes an integral part of the sill. |
| Substantial Completion | The term “Substantial Completion” means the date on which the Architect issues a Certificate of Substantial Completion based on an inspection of the Work, by which it can be determined that the Work is sufficiently complete in accordance with the Contract Documents so that the Owner can occupy or utilize the Work for the use for which it is intended. A Certificate of Substantial Completion may be issued for each individual building as it is completed, if this is in the Owner’s best interests. |
| Substrate | Inner layer of a co-extrusion. |
| Substructure | That part of a building structure below the ground. |
| Summer Mode | When the primary window/door is closed and latched, the secondary window/door or outer primary window/door is opened fully and insect screen (when offered or specified by the manufacturer) is in the functional position. |
| Sun Control Film | A tinted or reflective film applied to the glazing surface to reduce visible, ultra-violet, or total transmission of solar radiation. Reduces solar heat gain in summer and glare. Some can be removed and reapplied with changing seasons. |
| Sun Screen | A screen consisting of a heavy mesh to filter or block direct sun and solar heat gain. |
| Sunlight | The portion of solar energy which is detectable by the human eye; it accounts for about 44 percent of the total radiation wavelength spectrum. |
| Sunroom | A one-story structure attached to a dwelling with a glazing area in excess of 40 percent of the gross area of the structure’s exterior walls and roof. |
| Sunspace | A sunroom. |
| Super Window | A window with a very low U-factor, typically less than 0.15, achieved through the use of multiple glazing, low-E coatings, and gas fills. |
| Superstructure | That part of a building structure above the foundation or ground level. |
| Supplier | A person or organization who supplies materials or equipment for the Work, including that fabricated to a special design, but who does not perform labor at the site. |
| Surface Barrier Wall Systems | Systems in which the outermost surface of the wall or roof is the sole barrier to intrusion of liquid water. |
| Surface Bolt | A rod or bolt mounted on the face of a door to lock it to the frame and/or sill. It is operated manually. |
| Surface Coating | The deposition of a thin-film coating on a surface. |
| Surface Coefficient (H) | The ratio of steady-state heat exchange between the surface and its external surroundings to the temperature difference between the surface and its surroundings. It is expressed in terms of time rate of heat flow per unit area of a particular surface by the combined effects of radiation, conduction and convection for a unit temperature difference between the surface and the air. Subscripts I and II are used to denote indoor and outdoor air spaces, respectively. |
| Surface Conductance | The time rate of heat flow between a unit area of a surface and its surrounding environment resulting from radiation, conduction, and convection, induced by a unit temperature difference between the surface and the environment (sometimes called surface or air film coefficient). Subscripts are used to differentiate between the room-side temperature difference between the test specimen surfaces |
| Surplus Plastic | Excess vinyl interlayer extending beyond the glass edges of the laminate. Interlayer should be trimmed flush when required depth of silicone joint exceeds design thickness of outboard ply. |
| Surround | The accent trim around a window or door. |
| Suspended Film | Polymer-based, optically clear glazing layer mounted between glass layers in a multiple-glazed system. |
| Suspended Film Insulating Glass Unit | I.G. unit manufactured with a light and energy controlling film suspended within the air space. |
| Suspended Glazing | Glazing system suspended from above. This innovation, first achieved in projects of the 1960s, made possible continuous glass facades, without mullions. |
| Sustainability | The quality of not being harmful to the environment or depleting natural resources, and thereby supporting long-termecological balance. |
| Sustainable | The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level. |
| Sustainable Business Practice | A process by which companies manage their financial, social and environmental risks, obligations and opportunities. Often defined as managing the triple bottom line: profits, people and planet |
| Sustainable Design | Also called environmental design, environmentally sustainable design, environmentally conscious design, etc., is the philosophy of designing physical objects and services to comply with the principles of social, economic, and ecological sustainability. |
| Sustainable Economics | Is the ability of an economy to support a defined level of economic production indefinitely. |
| Sustainable Forest | A forest that is carefully managed so that as trees are felled they are replaced with seedlings that eventually grow into mature trees. |
| Sustainable Standards | Voluntary, usually third party-assessed, norms and standards relating to environmental, social, ethical and food safety |
| Sweep | The bottom vinyl piece on a door that offers a tight seal when the door is closed by making contact with the threshold. |
| Sweep Strip Or Door Sweep | A weatherstrip mounted at the top or bottom edge of a swing door. |
| SWI | Steel Window Institute |
| Swing | The direction of opening of a swing door. (Same as Hand of Door). |
| Swing Of Wings | The arc of travel of the wings of a revolving door beyond the enclosure walls. |
| Swinging Exterior Passage | A swinging exterior passage door installed in an exterior wall. A passage door which is side hinged and operates by swinging inward or outward. |
| Switchable Glazing | Glazing with optical properties that can be reversibly switched from clear to dark or reflective. |
| Switchable Glazings | Glazings with optical properties that can be reversibly switched from clear to dark or reflective with the application of an external stimulus, e.g.: heat, light, electric signal, etc. Also known as DYNAMIC GLAZING. See also GASOCHROMIC GLAZING. |
| Sympathetic Resonance | The phenomenon whereby materials of similar characteristics (mass, stiffness, etc.) respond to incident sound frequencies in a similar manner thereby aiding in the transmission of the sound. The use of dissimilar materials can reduce the transmission of sound. |
| System | The parts, components, hardware, and/or accessories that yield a complete, fully functional assembly. |
T
| Tape Sealant | A sealant having a pre-formed shape, and intended to be used in a joint under compression. |
| Telescoping Patio Doors | Similar to a multi-panel lift/slide, a telescoping door door consists of several — three or more — panels that slide past each other. |
| Temperate Northern Climate | In weather testing, a North American metropolitan area testing site located within 73 to 100°W longitude and 37 to 50°N latitude. |
| Tempered Glass | Treated glass that is strengthened by reheating it to just below the melting point and then suddenly cooling it. When shattered, it breaks into small pieces. Approximately five times stronger than standard annealed glass; is required as safety glazing in patio doors, entrance doors, side lights, and other hazardous locations. It cannot be recut after tempering. |
| Template (For Hardware) | A master pattern or scaled drawing showing all dimensions and hole spacing for hardware application. |
| Tenon | A rectangular extension that is cut in a piece of wood to be joined with a piece of wood with a coordinating mortise. |
| Tensile Strength | The greatest longitudinal stress a substance can bear before rupturing. |
| Terne (metal) | An alloy of lead and tin applied to steel by dipping steel into molten terne metal. The alloy has a dull appearance resulting from the high lead content. |
| Test Pressure Difference | Difference between the external pressure and the internal pressure across a closed and locked test specimen expressed as Pascals (lbf/ft2). It is called positive pressure when the external pressure of windows and doors is higher than the internal pressure and is called negative pressure when the external pressure is lower than the internal pressure. |
| Test Specimen | A complete, fully functioning window, door, SSP, TDD, roof window, or unit skylight supplied by the applicant and fitted in the test apparatus in accordance with the manufacturer’s written installation instructions (including manufacturer’s instructions for clearance, shimming and anchoring). |
| Test Weight | The amount of weight that is attached to the guide block when performing test procedure from Sections 8.2 and 8.3 of AAMA 902-07. Test weight equals the balance’s rated capacity without regard to built-in friction of the window unit. Test weight will equal Balance(s) Lowest Rated Capacity (BLRC) when performing the test procedure from Section 8.2. Test weight will equal Balance(s) Highest Rated Capacity (BHRC) when performing the test procedure from Section 8.3. |
| Testing Laboratories | A “testing laboratory” is an independent entity engaged to perform specific inspections or tests, either at the Project Site or elsewhere, and to report on and, if required, to interpret results of those inspections or tests. |
| Thermal Barrier | The insertion of a non-heat-conducting material between two (2) conductive members, thus avoiding heat transfer. |
| Thermal Break | An element of low thermal conductivity placed in an assembly to reduce or prevent the flow of thermal energy between conductive materials. |
| Thermal Bridge | A thermally conducive area of an exterior enclosure which will allow heat to transfer from the interior of the building to the exterior at a greater rate then the other parts of the enclosure. |
| Thermal Conductivity | Ability of a material to allow the flow of heat from its warmer surface through the material to its colder surface. |
| Thermal Conductivity | The time rate of heat flow per unit area under steady-state conditions from the air on the warm side of a body to the air on the cold side, per unit temperature difference between the warm and cold air. |
| Thermal Cycling | The repeated heating and cooling of a specimen from a stated low temperature to a stated high temperature and back again. |
| Thermal Diffusivit Y | Thermal conductivity per unit of heat capacity. |
| Thermal Emissivity | Similar to thermal emittance, except that the suffix “-ivity” refers to a property of general material, while “-ance” refers to a specific material with a certain thickness, surface finish, etc. |
| Thermal Emittance | The ability of a surface to emit long-wave radiation relative to that of a perfect black body. Also known as the long-wave infrared emittance. A perfect black body has an emittance equal to 1.0, while a perfect reflector has an emittance equal to zero. |
| Thermal Expansion | Change in dimension of a material as a result of temperature change. |
| Thermal Isolation | Physical and space conditioning separation from conditioned space(s) consisting of existing or new walls, doors and/or windows. The conditioned space(s) shall be controlled as separate zones for heating and cooling or conditioned by separate equipment |
| Thermal Mass | Mass in a building (furnishings or structure) that is used to absorb solar gain during the day and release the heat as the space cools in the evening. |
| Thermal Movement | Thermal movement is the expansion or contraction of the curtain wall elements due to the rise and fall of their temperature. |
| Thermal Radiation | The heat transfer by radiation from surfaces at or near the room temperature (i.e.: wavelengths in the range 2.5-50 microns). It is often referred to as far IR radiation or long-wave IR radiation. |
| Thermal Resistance | A property of a substance or construction which retards the flow of heat; one measure of this property is R-value. |
| Thermal Short Circuit | The by-passing of the low conductivity of the thermal break material by a highly conductive material such as aluminum or a steel fastener. If the aluminum bridge were not removed or debridged from the cavity it would become a thermal short circuit. |
| Thermal Stress | Stress in glass caused by temperature differences either between the central area of the glass and the edges or between the surfaces and the thickness center; the latter is often referred to as “thermal shock.” |
| Thermal Transmittance (U-Factor) A.K.A. U- Value | A measure of the total heat transfer through a fenestration system including boundary air films, due to conduction, convection and radiation under specific environmental conditions expressed in W/(m2-°C) [Btu/(ft2-h-°F)]. The lower the U- factor, the less heat will be transferred through the fenestration system. For fenestration systems, the overall U-factor is dependent on the area-weighted U- factors contributed by the center-of-glass, the edge-of-glass and the frame. |
| Thermally Broken | It is manufacturing the aluminum frame window with a barrier in between the inside and outside window frames that will prevent the conductive thermal energy loss. |
| Thermochromics | Glazing with optical properties that can change in response to temperature changes. |
| Thermogram | An image of an object taken with an infrared camera that shows surface temperature variations. |
| Thermoplastic | A polymer material that turns to liquid when heated and becomes solid when cooled and is able to repeat these processes. |
| Thin Stile | See STILE. |
| Threshold | The member that lies at the bottom of a sliding glass door or swinging door; the sill of a doorway. |
| Threshold Limit Value | The concentration that should not be exceeded during any part of the working exposure. |
| Threshold Limit Value (1) | Time Weighted Average (TLV-TWA) The time weighted average concentration for a normal 8-hour workday and a 40-hour workweek, to which nearly all workers may be repeatedly exposed, day after day, without adverse effect. |
| Threshold Limit Value (2) | Short Term Exposure Limit (TLV-STEL) – The concentration to which workers can be exposed continuously for a short period of time without suffering from 1) irritation, 2) chronic or irreversible tissue damage, or 3) narcosis of sufficient degree to increase the likelihood of accidental injury, impair self-rescue or materially reduce work efficiency, and provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded. It is not a separate independent exposure limit, rather it supplements the time-weighted average (TWA) limit where there are recognized acute effects from a substance whose toxic effects are primarily of a chronic nature. |
| Through-Wall Flashing | Flashing that extends completely underneath the sill or over the head of a window, and has an upturned leg on the interior side. |
| Through-Wall Penetration | Any opening in an exterior wall of a building that penetrates the water protecting surface(s) of the wall. |
| Throw | The distance which a lock bolt or latch bolt projects when in locked position. |
| Thumbturn | A permanently attached small lever which, when turned, operates the bolt on a lock in the same manner as a key. |
| Tight Grasping, Pinching Or Twisting Motion | The application of forces that require more than 22.2 N (5 lbf) to be exerted by the fingers, hands, wrists, arms, or other body parts(s). Furthermore, the rotational movement of the wrist, shoulder, or other body part(s) should not exceed 95 degrees. Grasping is the act of wrapping one’s hand around an object, such that the opposing finger(s) and thumb contact one another. |
| Tilt Lift Slide Doors | Doors that tilt to the interior for secure ventilation and also lift at the bottom rail to slide to the side. |
| Tilt Slide Door | A sliding door that may tilt in a locked and secure position and slide to the side. Easily described as a sliding door similar to the sliding door of a mini van. Windows may also be made in this function. Used in places of large windows or doors that have no corresponding floor space for a swing function. Unlike traditional sliding windows or doors, these units have superior air infiltration ratings. |
| Tilt Turn Doors | Also referred to as tilt and turn doors. Refers to the dual action unit such that it tilts while still locked and secured on bottom hinges and turns like a regular door. These doors are used for patio door and side entry doors. Not used for front entry doors. |
| Tilt Turn Windows | Also referred to as tilt and turn windows, and means the window is a dual action window such that the sash tilts slightly toward the inside and turns like a casement swing window. Used in all aspects of windows with minor configuration for multi-story safety limits; tilt first; turn first; egress compatible; turn only; tilt only. |
| Tilt Window | A single- or double-hung window whose operable sash can be tilted into the room for interior washability. Also half the operation in a dual action window such as a tilt/turn unit. |
| Tilt Windows | Windows that tilt as a single open operation, primarily towards the inside. |
| Tinted Glass | Glass colored by incorporation of a mineral admixture. Any tinting reduces both visual and radiant transmittance. |
| Tinted Glass | Body colored glass of specific batch ingredient formulation to produce light reducing and / or heat absorbing glass products. |
| Toe Bead | Sealant applied at the base of the channel, prior to setting the lite or panel, to prevent leakage. |
| Tooling | The operation of pressing in and striking sealant in a joint; to press the sealant against the sides of a joint and secure good adhesion; the finishing off of the surface of a sealant in a joint so that it is flush with the surface. |
| Top-Hinged Window | A window consisting of sash hinged at the head which swings inward or outward using a continuous top hinge or individual hinges, primarily for cleaning or emergency escape and rescue purposes and not for ventilation. |
| Top-hung Screen | An insect screen for patio doors that have top rollers or guides. |
| Torsion | The twist induced in a product by the application of a static load to an extreme free corner of that product and normal to its plane. |
| Torsional Strength | The ability of the thermal break material to resist twisting or rotation as a result of a torsional load such as that resulting from thermal stresses, handling, fabrication or uneven glazing pressure. |
| Total Area | This area is the area of the entire fenestration system being considered, vision area or spandrel area plus frame area. |
| Total Design Displacement | The design earthquake lateral displacement, including additional displacement due to actual and accidental torsion. |
| Total Glass Thickness | The sum of the thicknesses of all layers of glass in the window, not including the thickness of any glazing cavities. |
| Total Glass Thickness | The sum of thicknesses of all layers of glass in the window, not including the thickness of any glazing cavities. |
| Total Heat Gain – Summer/Daytime | (BTU per hour, per square foot) The sum of the radiant energy and the conductive energy transmitted into the building. (Shading coefficient times ASHRAE solar heat gain factors + summer U-value times the indoor / outdoor temperature differences.) |
| Total Heat Gain – Summer/Nighttime | (BTU per hour, per square foot) The conductive energy transmitted into the building. (Summer U-value times the indoor / outdoor temperature difference.) |
| Total Heat Loss – Winter/Daytime | (BTU per hour, per square foot) The resultant of the radiant energy transmitted into the building and the conductive energy transmitted out of the building. (Shading coefficient times ASHRAE solar heat gain factors + the winter U-value times the outdoor / indoor temperature difference.) |
| Total Heat Loss – Winter/Nighttime | (BTU per hour, per square foot) The conductive energy transmitted to the outdoors. (Winter U-value times the outdoor / indoor temperature difference.) |
| Total Maximum Displacement | The maximum considered earthquake lateral displacement, including additional displacement due to actual and accidental torsion. |
| Total Vertical Movement | Vertical movement of one floor slab of a structure relative to adjacent floor slabs. |
| Total Window Product | Complete window unit including the frame, any dividers, and the edge of glass, divider edge, and center of glass areas. |
| Translucent | A material that permits the passage of light. |
| Transmission Loss (Tl) | See SOUND TRANSMISSION LOSS |
| Transmittance | The percentage of radiation that can pass through glazing. Transmittance can be defined for different types of light or energy, e.g., visible light transmittance, UV transmittance, or total solar energy transmittance. |
| Transmittance (Vt) A.K.A. Visible Light Transmittance (Vlt) | VT. The VT is dimensionless and is expressed as a decimal less than 1.0. The lower the value for VT the less visible light is transmitted into the building. |
| Transom | A window stacked above another window or door, to allow extra light or ventilation into a location. |
| Transom Bar | The horizontal frame member which separates the door opening from the transom. |
| Transom Bracket | A bracket used to support an all-glass transom over an all-glass door when the latter has no metal top rail and no transom bar is used. |
| Transom Window | The window sash located above a door. Also called transom light. |
| Transparent | A material that permits the passage of light with minimal distortion or scattering, so that the bodies lying on the opposite side from the viewer may be clearly seen. |
| Trapezoid Windows | a four-sided shaped window that has two sides that are parallel and two sides that are not parallel. |
| T-Rating | By definition it is a measure of the time it takes for any thermocouple on the unexposed side (the side of the assembly away from the fire) to reach a temperature 325°F above the temperature of this thermocouple prior to the start of the test. Thus it is a measure of thermal conductivity. |
| Tributary Width | The width of wind-bearing area contributing to the load on a mullion or divider. |
| Trim | Decorative covering framing the interior of the fenestration product after it’s installed. |
| Trim Hardware | Decorative finish hardware used to operate functional hardware or the door itself. |
| Trimmer Stud | See Jack Stud. |
| Triple Glazing | Three panes of glass or plastic with two air spaces between. |
| Triple Hung Window | Triple hung windows are vertically operating windows in which the sash weight is offset by a counterbalancing mechanism mounted in the window. One or more locking devices are furnished to secure the sash in the closed position. Three sash in a triple hung window are operable. |
| Triple Slider | A three sash slider, with the center sash being stationary and the two flanker sashes movable sideways. |
| Tropical Awning Window | A window consisting of one or more top-hinged or pivoted sash which swings outward at the bottom edge, operated by one control device securely closing them at both jambs without the use of any additional manually controlled locking devices. |
| True Divided Lites (TDL) | Before glass was made in large sheets, windows were made by joining small panes with wood strips. Therefore, a window or door with true muntin grids are separating smaller pieces of glass. |
| True Muntins | A profile member used horizontally or vertically to divide a vision area into individual smaller lites of glass. |
| Tubular Daylighting Device (TDD) | A non-operable device primarily designed to transmit daylight from a roof surface to an interior ceiling surface via a tubular conduit. The device consists of an exterior glazed weathering surface, a light transmitting tube with a reflective inside surface and an interior sealing device, such as a translucent ceiling panel. See also Hybrid Tubular Daylighting Device. |
| Türen | German for Doors |
| Turn-Tilt Window Unit | See DUAL-ACTION WINDOW |
| Two-Part (MultiComponent) Sealant | A product comprised of a base and curing agent or accelerator, necessarily packaged in two separate containers which are uniformly mixed just prior to use. |
| Two-step Distributor | A term for a company that buys products directly from a manufacturer, and then sells them to a retail store, which then sells to retail consumers. As opposed to one step distribution. |
| Type 1 Friction Based Sash Balance | A mechanical device comprised of a lifting force source and an attached friction shoe/clutch, which, when mounted in a window unit, contributes to proper sash operation and maintaining sash position at any point along the full range of travel. |
| Type 2 Friction Based Sash Balance | A mechanical devise comprised of a lifting force source and a friction mechanism integral to the balance. The balance, when mounted in a window unit, contributes to proper sash operation and maintaining sash position at any point along the full range of travel. |
| Type A Products | Products that pass this specification without use of a primer. (See Annex 3 in AAMA 711) CAUTION: Type A products may require a primer under certain field conditions. The type classification only relates to passing this specification. Consult the flashing manufacturer for installation conditions and details. |
| Type B Products | Products that require a primer to pass any part of this specification. (See Annex 3 in AAMA 711) |
| Typical | Means that the item referred to is repeated several times in similar circumstances and locations. |
U
| UBC | An acronym for the Uniform Building Code, published by the International Council of Building Officials until 1997, which promoted safety in construction. It was replaced in 2000 by the new International Building Code (IBC), published by the International Code Council (ICC) |
| U-Factor | Indicates the rate heat flows through a product for each degree of temperature difference between one side and the other. U-Factor is the inverse of R-Value. The lower the U-Factor the greater a window’s resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value. |
| U-factor (U-value) | A measure of the rate of non-solar heat loss or gain through window or door assembly. It is expressed in units of Btu/hr-sq ft-°F (US) or W/sq m-°K (European metric). Values are normally given for NFRC/ASHRAE winter conditions of 0° F (18° C) outdoor temperature, 70° F (21° C) indoor temperature, 15 mph wind, and no solar load. The U-factor may be expressed for the glass alone or the entire window, which includes the effect of the frame and the spacer materials. The lower the U-factor, the greater a window’s resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value. To convert the U-factor from US (imperial/IP) to European (metric/SI), multiply the imperial number by 5.678. For example, If U=0.35 Btu/hr-sq ft-°F in imperial units, then 0.35*5.678 = 1.9873. The U-factor in metric units will be 1.9873 W/sq m-°K. |
| UL | Underwriters Laboratories |
| Ultraviolet | The invisible rays of the light spectrum which are below the visible range consisting of radiation below 400 nanometers. |
| Ultraviolet Exposure | The exposure of the thermal break material to light in the ultraviolet range of the spectrum primarily from direct or reflected sunlight. |
| Ultraviolet Light (UV) | The invisible form of radiation which is not visible to the human eye. It’s in an invisible part of the “electromagnetic spectrum”. Ultraviolet rays are found in everyday sunlight and can cause fading of paint finishes, carpets, and fabrics. |
| Unconditioned | Interior or exterior space with no temperature control system. |
| Uniform Bead | Sealant applied to a joint, with uniform width and appearance. |
| Unit | Refers to a complete window, door, or skylight assembly, including frame, sash (or door slab), and glass. |
| Unit | Refers to complete or total assembly, such as for fenestration products including all frame, sash, glazing, door slabs, hardware or other elements defining the complete fenestration product. |
| Unit Dimension | The measurement of a window or door unit, including the frame. Does not including brickmould. |
| Unit Skylight | A complete factory assembled glass- or plastic-glazed fenestration unit consisting of not more than one panel of glass or plastic installed in a sloped or horizontal orientation primarily for natural daylighting. Unit skylights are either fixed (non- operable) or venting (operable). |
| United Inch | A term coined by the window industry. A unit of measurement of window frames, treating the combined width and height in inches as a single measure of length. |
| Unobstructed Glass Opening | The visible glass in a window unit. |
| Upstand | The vertical portion of a panning, flashing, or subsill system that prevents the migration of collected water behind the membrane or into the wall cavity. Collected water is drained to the building exterior. |
| Urethane | Elastomeric material formed by the reaction of a polyol and organic isocyanate. Also called polyurethane. |
| Urethane Sealant | Urethane sealant is best recommended for indoor use such as in kitchens, restaurants or warehouse floors where industrial spills are more likely to occur. The fact that it protects against heavy foot traffic also makes it ideal for these areas. |
| USGBC | An acronym for the U.S. Green Building Council. A non-profit organization most widely recognized for LEED as a certification program for buildings, homes and communities that guides the design, construction, operations and maintenance. |
| USGS | United States Geological Survey, which studies and defines earthquake hazards from seismological and geological perspectives, and which produces extensive seismic hazard maps for the United States. |
| UV | Ultraviolet |
| UV Glass | See Low-e glass |
| UV Radiation | Radiation in the invisible spectrum at shorter wave lengths than visible light; generally reference is to the UV portion of the sun’s radiation. |
| U-value | Rate of heat flow through a building (difference between the indoor and outdoor air temperature), a building part (as a wall or window), or a given thickness of a material (as insulation) with lower numbers indicating better insulating properties. |
| U-Value of Window (Uw) | The overall heat transmission in unit time through unit area of the total window product and its boundary air films, induced by unit temperature difference between the environments on each side. The U-value, multiplied by the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures and the total window area, yields the total heat transfer through the window resulting from conduction, convection, and radiation. |
V
| Vapor Barrier | Material used in the house envelope to retard the passage of water vapor or moisture. |
| Vapor Retarder | A material that reduces the diffusion of water vapor across a building assembly. |
| Vehicular-Access Door | A door that is used for vehicular traffic at entrances of buildings such as garages, loading docks, parking lots, factories, and industrial plants, and that is not generally used for pedestrian traffic. |
| Veneer | A layer of natural material applied to the surface of the composite by means of an adhesive. |
| Vent | The movable framework or sash in a glazed window that is hinged or pivoted to swing open. |
| Vent Limiter | Hardware that restricts the amount a window is able to open. |
| Ventilation | Ventilation is the process of supplying and removing air by natural or mechanical means to and from any space. Such air may or may not be conditioned. Proper ventilation improves indoor air quality by allowing air changes within the indoor environment. |
| Ventilators, Integrated | Integrated fenestration ventilators are devices independent from, but installed into a fenestration product for the purpose of providing supplemental air ventilation through the fenestration product. Various configurations are available; commonly these systems consist of an exterior (canopy) component covering an opening fabricated through the fenestration product, coupled with an interior component that may adjust to vary the amount of air that flows through the device. |
| Venting | Providing circulation of air or ventilation between two walls or partitions by the use of tubes, breather vents or openings. |
| Venting Unit | A window unit or door that is able to open. |
| Vertical Fenestration | Fenestration products that are installed at an angle less than 15 degrees from vertical. |
| Vertical Sliding Window | A hung or non-hung window consisting or at least one manually operated sash that slides vertically within a common frame. |
| Vertically Pivoted Window | See PIVOTED WINDOW |
| VI | Vinyl Institute |
| Vinyl | Polyvinyl chloride material, which can be both rigid or flexible, used for window and door frames. |
| Vinyl Chloride Copolymer | A compound based on a polymer prepared by the co-polymerization of vinyl chloride and other monomers: the vinyl chloride content being at least 80% mass. |
| Vinyl Glazing | A system for holding glass in place with extruded vinyl channel or roll-in shapes. |
| Vinyl Windows | Type of window where the frame and sash are created out of vinyl. |
| Vinyl-clad Window | Windows in which the exterior wooden parts are covered or capped in vinyl. |
| Viscoelastic | The property of material that possesses both viscous and elastic behavior. For acoustical applications, a viscoelastic system will dissipate some of acoustical energy in the form of heat. |
| Viscosity | Resistance of a fluid to uniformly continuous flow with out turbulence, inertia, or other forces. The degree to which the thermal break material resists fluid flow under a given applied load and at a given temperature. |
| Visible | A measure of the fraction of visible light that a fenestration system allows into the building. The default and most commonly used reference is the normal incidence |
| Visible Light | The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that produces light that can be seen. Wavelengths range from 380 to 720 nanometers. |
| Visible Light Transmission | The fraction of the visible portion of the solar spectrum that is transmitted through the glazing (VLTg) or window (VLTw). |
| Visible Transmittance (VT) | A rating of the NFRC that indicates the percentage or fraction of the visible spectrum (380 to 720 nanometers) of light that can come into a room through a window. VT will always be a number between 0 and 1, with a higher number meaning more natural light is coming through. |
| Vision Area | The area of the vision infill between the primary sash or frame members. |
| Voluntary Standard | A standard established by a private sector association, organization or technical society, and available for public use. |
W
| Waiver of Lien | An instrument by which a person or organization who has or may have a right of mechanic’s lien against the property of another relinquishes such right. Waivers of linen are provided to the owner by the general contractor and his sub-contractors & suppliers, at the time a pay request is submitted. |
| Walking Beam Pivot | A form of retractable to center-hung pivot. |
| Wall | One of the sides of a room or building connecting floor and ceiling of foundation and roof. |
| Wall Post | The end components of the enclosure walls of a revolving door. |
| Warm Edge | Term used to describe technology that uses insulating spacers to achieve better thermal performance of an insulating glass unit, particularly evident in the increase of edge surface temperatures on the indoor side in the winter. |
| Warm-Edge Technology | The use of low-conductance spacers to reduce heat transfer near the edge of insulated glazing. |
| Water Damming | Water retained by an upright surface. |
| Water Leakage | The penetration of water that would continuously or repeatedly wet parts of a building or components not designed to be wetted. |
| Water Penetration | Penetration of water beyond the plane intersecting the innermost projection of the test specimen, not including interior trim and hardware, under the specified conditions of air pressure difference across the specimen. |
| Water Penetration Resistance | A measurement of the resistance of a fenestration product to the passage of water. |
| Water Penetration Resistance Test Pressure | The pressure differential applied across a test specimen to determine the water penetration resistance rating. |
| Water Spray Volume | Amount of water sprayed onto the test specimen. |
| Waterproofing | A procedure to make a material impervious to water or dampness, designed to resist a head of water (water pressure). Any of the material used to waterproof |
| Water-Resistive Barrier (Wrb) | The surface(s) of a wall system which complies with ICC AC 38 and is responsible for preventing water infiltration to the building interior. A membrane, which can be a house wrap or building paper, whose primary function is to act as a drainage plane for liquid water, which has a permeance low enough to keep liquid water from penetrating through the surface. |
| Wavelength | The distance between two consecutive points of maximum pressure in a sound pulse. Represented as “l” or “lambda”. |
| WDMA | An acronym for the Window and Door Manufacturers Association. It is a trade organization that defines standards for the window, door and skylight industry. |
| Weather Resistant Barrier (Wrb) | The surface or surfaces of a wall responsible for preventing air and water infiltration to the building interior. |
| Weatherability | The ability of a material to maintain durability under the influence of ultraviolet (UV) light, heat, time and moisture as imposed by laboratory weathering devices |
| Weatherstripping | A strip of resilient material for covering the joint between the window sash and frame in order to reduce air leaks and prevent water from entering the structure. |
| Weep Hole | A small opening in a wall or window sill member through which water may drain to the building exterior. |
| Weep Screed | A permanent member with gaps designed to allow liquid water to exit from the membrane drainage plane to the exterior of a building; located at the bottom of wall claddings between the membrane drainage plane and the cladding. |
| Weeping | Failure of a sealant to support its own weight in a horizontal joint, but less pronounced than sagging; the elimination of water or moisture through weep holes in a wall or sash. |
| Weld | As in vinyl, a way to use heat to fuse two components together. |
| Wet Glazed | Glass that is installed using glazing compounds that seals it to the frame. |
| Wet Glazing | Glazing compounds, e.g., glazing tapes, caulking, and adhesives that are applied to the exterior or interior, or both, that interface between the glass and sash or glazing. |
| Windload | The force on a structure arising from the impact of wind on it. |
| Window Cleaner Anchor | An anchor, either single or double headed, conforming to ASME A39.1 Standard Safety Requirements for Window Cleaning, that will allow a window cleaner to safely access across a window for cleaning. Also known as a Davit. |
| Window Hardware | Various devices and mechanisms for the window including catches, fasteners and locks, hinges, pivots, lifts and pulls, pulleys and sash weights, sash balances, and stays. |
| Window Opening Control Device | (WOCD) A safety device that keeps a window from opening more than 4 inches, which can be disengaged in emergencies. |
| Window Replacements | Use of pocket replacements or slide-in replacements. |
| Window/Wall Assembly | The building envelope and the fenestration products incorporated into it. |
| Windows | An opening in the wall of a building for the admission of air or light, or both, commonly fitted with a frame in which are set movable sashes containing panes of glass. |
| Wood Curtain Wall | Designed to replicate the crisp, clean aesthetics and narrow site lines of aluminum storefront systems but made of high quality wood post. |
| Wood Doors | A moving structure used to block off, and allow access to, an entrance to or within an enclosed space, such as a building. |
| Wood Windows | Type of window where the frame and sash are primarily made out of wood. |
X
Y
Z
| Zoning Ordinance | The control by a municipality of the use of land and buildings, the height and bulk of buildings, the density of population, the relation of a lot’s building coverage to open space, the size and location of yards and setbacks, and the provision of any ancillary facilities such as parking. Zoning, established through the adoption of a municipal ordinance, is a principal instrument in implementing a master plan. |