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Glossary

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Glossaries

Term Definition
Landing

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, a "landing" typically refers to a flat, horizontal platform or area at the end of a flight of stairs or between flights of stairs. It serves as a resting place and provides a transition between different levels of a building. Landings are important for safety, accessibility, and functionality within a structure.

In broader construction terminology, landings can also refer to any flat area where people can stand, such as those found at the entrance of a building or at the top of a staircase. They are designed to accommodate foot traffic and often adhere to specific building codes and regulations to ensure safety and accessibility, such as the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) standards.

Laminate

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "laminate" typically refers to a material made by bonding together multiple layers to form a composite. These layers are often adhered using heat, pressure, or adhesives to create a product that is durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing. Laminates are commonly used for surfaces such as countertops, flooring, cabinetry, and wall panels.

Ladder

In Australian commercial construction projects, a ladder is a portable device used for accessing elevated areas or working at heights. It typically consists of two long side rails connected by a series of rungs or steps. Ladders are commonly used for tasks such as painting, electrical work, plumbing, and various other construction-related activities.

Knot

In Australian commercial construction projects, a "knot" refers to a unit of measurement used to quantify the number of timber boards or planks in a bundle. It is commonly used in the timber industry to describe the quantity of timber products being supplied or used in construction.

Kiln Drying

Kiln drying in the context of Australian commercial construction projects refers to the process of drying timber in a controlled environment using a kiln. This method involves placing sawn timber in a kiln, where temperature, humidity, and air circulation are carefully regulated to reduce the moisture content of the wood to a specific level.

Kerfing

In Australian commercial construction projects, "kerfing" refers to a technique used to create curves or bends in materials that are typically rigid, such as wood, metal, or plasterboard. This is achieved by making a series of cuts, known as kerfs, along the material. These cuts do not go all the way through the material but are deep enough to allow it to bend or flex. The spacing and depth of the kerfs determine the radius of the curve that can be achieved.

Kerb

In Australian commercial construction projects, the term "kerb" refers to a raised edge or border that is typically constructed from concrete, stone, or other durable materials. It is used to separate different areas of a construction site, such as parking lots, driveways, and pedestrian walkways.

Joist

In Australian commercial construction projects, a joist refers to a horizontal structural member that spans an open space and supports the floor or ceiling above. Joists are typically made of wood, steel, or concrete and are used to distribute the weight of the floor or ceiling and any loads applied to it, such as furniture, people, or equipment.

Joint

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, a "joint" refers to a point where two or more components or materials are connected or come together. Joints are critical in construction as they ensure structural integrity, accommodate movement, and provide a seal against environmental elements.

Jamb

In Australian commercial construction projects, a jamb refers to the lining or side-post that forms the sides of a door or window frame, fireplace, or other opening in a wall . It is a vertical element that makes up the frame of a door or window, and is typically made of wood, metal, or other materials.

Jack rafter

In Australian commercial construction projects, a "jack rafter" refers to a type of rafter that is shorter than the full length of the roof slope. Jack rafters are used in roof framing and are typically found in hip and valley roof structures. They extend from a hip rafter to the eave or from a valley rafter to the ridge.  

Isolated Pier

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, an isolated pier is defined as a type of shallow foundation that distributes the load over a larger area of soil . It is also referred to as a spread footing pier or pad pier.

In terms of masonry, an isolated pier is considered to be a structure with a length less than one-fifth of its height and 'free' ends . This definition is relevant to the use of concrete masonry in construction projects, such as those involving isolated piers supporting carports, verandahs, porches, and similar roof structures

Interior finish

Interior finishes in Australian commercial construction projects refer to the materials and techniques used to cover and enhance the interior surfaces of a building. These finishes play a crucial role in creating a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and comfortable environment for occupants.

Insulation

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, insulation refers to materials or systems installed in buildings to reduce the transfer of heat, sound, or electricity. The primary purpose of insulation in these projects is to enhance energy efficiency, improve acoustic performance, and ensure occupant comfort.

Insulating glass

In Australian commercial construction projects, insulating glass, often referred to as insulated glass units (IGUs) or double glazing, consists of two or more glass panes separated by a spacer and sealed to create a single unit with an air or gas-filled space between the panes. This design enhances thermal insulation by reducing heat transfer between the interior and exterior environments, thereby improving energy efficiency in buildings. The space between the glass panes can be filled with air or inert gases like argon or krypton to further enhance insulation properties. Insulating glass is commonly used in windows, facades, and curtain walls in commercial buildings to improve thermal comfort, reduce energy costs, and minimize noise transmission. Additionally, it can be combined with other glass technologies, such as low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, to further enhance its performance.

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