Louver - A vented opening into the home that has a series of horizontal slats and arranged to permit ventilation but to exclude rain, snow, light, insects, or other living creatures.

Outrigger - An extension of a rafter beyond the wall line. Usually a smaller member nailed to a larger rafter to form a cornice or roof overhang.

Bedrock - A subsurface layer of earth that is suitable to support a structure.

Blocked (rafters) - Short "2 by 4's" used to keep rafters from twisting, and installed at the ends and at mid -span.

EER (energy efficiency ratio) - A measure of cooling efficiency computer by dividing a cooling unit's output in BTUs by its input in watts.

Incandescent lamp - A lamp employing an electrically charged metal filament that glows at white heat. A typical light bulb.

ú Septic permit - A health department authorization to build or modify a septic system.

Allowance(s) - A sum of money set aside in the construction contract for items which have not been selected and specified in the construction contract. For example, selection of tile as a flooring may require an allowance for an underlayment material, or an electrical allowance which sets aside an amount of money to be spent on electrical fixtures.

Beam - A structural member transversely supporting a load. A structural member carrying building loads (weight) from one support to another. Sometimes called a "girder".

Damper - A metal "door" placed within the fireplace chimney. Normally closed when the fireplace is not in use.

Faced concrete - To finish the front and all vertical sides of a concrete porch, step(s), or patio. Normally the "face" is broom finished.

Flakeboard - A manufactured wood panel made out of 1" - 2" wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood in the exterior wall and roof sheathing. Also called OSB or wafer board.

Heat meter - An electrical municipal inspection of the electric meter breaker panel box.

King stud - The vertical "2 X's" frame lumber (left and right) of a window or door opening, and runs continuously from the bottom sole plate to the top plate.

Lateral (electric, gas, telephone, sewer and water) - The underground trench and related services (i.e., electric, gas, telephone, sewer and water lines) that will be buried within the trench.

Mortgage broker - A broker who represents numerous lenders and helps consumers find affordable mortgages; the broker charges a fee only if the consumer finds a loan.

Rail - Any relatively lightweight horizontal element, especially those found in fences. Also the horizontal pieces between panels in a panel door.

STC (Sound Transmission Class) - The measure of sound stopping of ordinary noise.

Suspended ceiling - A ceiling system supported by hanging it from the overhead structural framing.

Valuation fee - Th fee paid by the prospective borrower for the lender's inspection of the property. Normally paid upon loan application.