RESOURCES

ConstructionGlossaryTermsVocabulary

Glossary

Search for glossary terms (regular expression allowed)

Glossaries

Term Definition
Pointing

pointing refers to the process of filling mortar in brickwork or masonry joints to improve the weatherproof condition of the structure . It is a finishing technique used to complete the mortar joints in masonry, whether it's stone or brick .

Point load

Point loads are critical in commercial construction projects in Australia, as they significantly impact the structural integrity of buildings. They are defined as concentrated forces applied at specific points on structural elements, such as beams, columns, or slabs.

Ply Or Plywood

Plywood, also known as ply, is a type of engineered wood product commonly used in Australian commercial construction projects. It is a wooden sheet material made up of multiple layers of timber, with each layer's grain direction running at right angles to the next . This cross-grain orientation provides plywood with exceptional strength, durability, and stability, making it an ideal material for various structural and non-structural applications.

Plumbing stack

a plumbing stack refers to a vertical pipe system that is part of a building's plumbing infrastructure. It is designed to transport wastewater and sewage from various fixtures such as toilets, sinks, and showers to the building's sewer line or septic system.

Plumbing rough in (roughin)

The plumbing rough-in process in Australian commercial construction projects involves installing the basic plumbing infrastructure before the walls and ceilings are put in place. This includes laying pipes for water supply, drainage, and waste systems, as well as installing fixtures such as toilets, urinals, sinks, and showers. The goal of the plumbing rough-in is to ensure that all plumbing components are properly positioned and connected before the final construction of the building. This helps to prevent costly delays and repairs later on. In Australia, plumbing rough-in work must comply with strict building codes and regulations to ensure safety and functionality. This includes using approved materials and methods, as well as obtaining necessary permits and inspections. Overall, the plumbing rough-in is a critical step in the construction process that requires careful planning and execution to ensure a successful project.

Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA)

The Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) is a technical code that outlines the requirements for the design, construction, installation, replacement, repair, alteration, and maintenance of plumbing and drainage systems in Australia . It is a crucial document that ensures all plumbing and drainage work in the country meets the minimum required standards.

Plumber

In the context of commercial construction projects in Australia, a plumber is a professional tradesperson responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing and drainage systems. These systems include pipes, fixtures, and appliances that are connected to water supply lines, drainage systems, and gas lines

Plumb

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "plumb" refers to the vertical alignment of structures or elements. When something is "plumb," it means it is perfectly vertical or upright, with no deviation from the true vertical line. This is crucial in construction to ensure the structural integrity and aesthetic quality of buildings and other structures.

Plastic Paints

Plastic paints, in the context of commercial construction projects in Australia, refer to a type of paint that incorporates synthetic resins, providing a durable and flexible coating suitable for various surfaces. These paints are known for their ease of application, quick drying times, and resistance to environmental factors such as moisture and UV radiation. They are often used for both interior and exterior applications due to their versatility and durability.

Plasterboard

Plasterboard, also known as drywall or gyprock, is a panel made of calcium sulfate dihydrate used in the construction of interior walls and ceilings . In the context of commercial construction projects in Australia, plasterboard is a widely used material for building interior linings.

Plaster

Plaster is a versatile and commonly used material for interior wall and ceiling finishes. It is a mixture of gypsum, water, and other additives that harden to form a smooth and durable surface. Plaster is available in various forms, including traditional plaster, plasterboard, and specialized plaster products.

Plaster is valued for its ability to provide a smooth and uniform finish, which is essential for creating a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance in commercial buildings. It is also fire-resistant, easy to clean, and can be painted or wallpapered to match the desired interior design.

Plank

A "plank" typically refers to a long, flat piece of timber, metal, or engineered material used in various construction applications. Planks are typically made from sturdy materials, such as Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) or aluminium , to provide a stable and secure working platform for workers and materials.

Pitch

The term "pitch" refers to the angle or slope of a roof or other inclined surface. It is typically expressed as a ratio of the rise (vertical height) to the run (horizontal distance) of the roof. For example, a pitch of 1:4 means that the roof rises one unit for every four units of horizontal distance.

Pilot Hole

A pilot hole is a small, preliminary hole drilled into a material to guide a larger drill bit or to facilitate the insertion of fasteners such as screws or bolts. The purpose of a pilot hole is to ensure accuracy and precision in drilling, to prevent the material from splitting or cracking, and to make the insertion of fasteners easier and more secure.  

Pier

A "pier" typically refers to a vertical structural element that is used to support loads and transfer them to the foundation. Piers are often used in situations where the soil near the surface is not capable of supporting the structure's load, so the load is transferred to deeper, more stable soil or rock layers.

Select a service to learn more

Planning & Development

Development Management

Early stage involvement designed to reduce client/ developer risk. Focus on budget, feasibility and constructibility.

Design & Documentation

Design Management

Collaborative, efficient coordination of design, documentation and specifications.

Project Management

Project Management

Professional management of construction projects. Focus on accountability, efficiency and risk mitigation.

Construction Services

General Contracting

Flexible project delivery models including construct only (GC), design & construct, construction management or cost-plus

Asset Management

Asset Protection

Asset management, planned and unplanned maintenance, abortive and remedial works, audits and inspections.

HSEQ Management

HSEQ Services

Health, Safety, Environment and Quality system management, auditing and risk analysis

Select your sector of interest to learn more

Aged Care

Aged Care

Aged Care construction and fitout

Childcare

Childcare & ELC

Turnkey Childcare planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Civil & Environmental

Civil & Environmental

Civil, infrastructure & environmental planning, design and project management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Commercial & Mixed-use

Commercial Construction

Commercial building project planning, design management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Community & Public

Public Spaces

Community centre & public venues planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Cultural & Worship

Cultural & Worship

Place of worship & cultural centre design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Education & Training

Schools & Training Facilities

General & specialist training facility planning, design and project management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Hospitality & Restaurants

Hospitality & Restaurants

Restaurant building project planning, design management, construction, fitout, refurbishment and lifecycle maintenance.

Healthcare

Healthcare

Public & private healthcare facility planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

General Practices

GP Clinics

Turnkey medical centre design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Diagnostic Imaging

Radiology Centres

Radiology clinic, imaging department planning, design and project management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Labs & Cleanrooms

ISO & TGA Cleanrooms

Lab & sensitive environment project planning, design management, construction, fitout, refurbishment and lifecycle maintenance.

Industrial & Logistics

Manufacturing & Warehousing

Factories, industrial project planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Data Centre & Energy Storage

Data Centres, Energy Storage

Data centre, battery research and production design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Retail & Shopping Centres

Retail & Shopping

Turnkey retail design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Office Buildings

Office fitout

Office space project planning, design management, construction, fitout, refurbishment and lifecycle maintenance.