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Glossary

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Glossaries

Term Definition
Forms
Prepared forms of timber or other material for the casting of concrete.
Form work
the outer timber frame that concrete is poured into. This is removed once concrete is dry.
Footing

In Australian commercial construction projects, a "footing" refers to the structural component of a building's foundation system that is responsible for distributing the load of the building to the ground. Footings are crucial for ensuring the stability and integrity of a structure. They are typically made of concrete and are designed to support the weight of the building, including live loads (such as people and furniture) and dead loads (such as the building materials themselves).

Flush Joint

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, a Flush Joint refers to a type of joint between two pieces of material, where each piece and the jointing material, if any, lie in the same plane . This type of joint is commonly used in concrete pipes, particularly in stormwater drainage systems.

Flashing

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "flashing" refers to thin pieces of impervious material installed to prevent water penetration and to direct the flow of moisture in buildings. Flashing is typically used around areas that are vulnerable to water ingress, such as roof valleys, chimneys, skylights, windows, doors, and wall intersections. The materials commonly used for flashing include metal (such as aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel), rubber, plastic, or a combination of these. Proper installation of flashing is crucial to ensure the longevity and integrity of the building by protecting it from water damage and leaks.

Fixed price contract

A fixed price contract is a type of contract used in commercial construction projects in Australia where the contractor agrees to complete the project for a predetermined price, regardless of any changes in costs or circumstances during the project. This means that the contractor assumes the risk of any cost overruns or delays, and the client is protected from unexpected increases in the project cost.

Fittings

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "fittings" refer to items that are installed in a building to make it functional and usable but are not considered part of the structural framework. These items are typically attached to the building in a way that allows them to be removed or replaced without significant alteration to the structure itself.

First Floor

In Australian commercial construction projects, the term "First Floor" refers to the first level above the ground floor . This means that the ground floor is considered the level at which the building meets the ground, while the first floor is the level immediately above it. This definition is consistent with the National Construction Code (NCC), which sets out the minimum technical requirements for new buildings and new building work in existing buildings in Australia . The NCC provides a framework for the design and construction of buildings, including commercial buildings, and is widely adopted across the country.

Fire wall

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, a firewall is a specific type of wall designed to prevent the spread of fire between different sections of a building. These walls are crucial for ensuring the safety of occupants and minimizing property damage in the event of a fire.

Finishes

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "finishes" refer to the final elements or treatments applied to the surfaces of a building's interior and exterior to achieve the desired aesthetic and functional outcomes. These elements are crucial as they contribute to the overall look, feel, and usability of the space.

Finial

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, a finial is a decorative or ornamental feature typically used to crown a roof or similar architectural feature . It is usually a small, termination piece found at the top of gables, pinnacles, newel posts, and gate posts .

In commercial construction, finials serve as a decorative fitting used at the junction of ridges and hips, and at the top of conical, pyramid, or domed roofs . They can be made of various materials, including stone, metal, or wood .

The term "finial" originates from the Latin word "finis," meaning "end," and is used to mark the top or end of an object, often formed to be a decorative feature . In Australian commercial construction projects, finials are used to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the building's design.

Fillet

In Australian commercial construction projects, the term "fillet" has multiple meanings depending on the context.  

  •  In welding, a fillet refers to a type of weld joint used to connect two pieces of steel, creating a strong and rigid connection .  
  •  In formwork, a fillet mould is used to create a 45-degree chamfer in concrete, typically nailed onto formwork to create a chamfer edge .
  •  In design and architecture, filleting the corners of a mould can streamline the path of molten plastic, reducing cycle time and costs .

In general, the term "fillet" in Australian commercial construction projects refers to a technique or feature used to create a smooth, rounded, or angled connection between two surfaces or materials.

Fill

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "fill" refers to material used to raise the level of the ground or to fill in depressions or voids on a construction site. This material can include soil, gravel, sand, crushed rock, or other aggregates. The purpose of fill is to create a stable base for construction, ensure proper drainage, and achieve the desired elevation and contour of the site.

Field measure

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, a "field measure" refers to the process of taking precise measurements on-site to verify or determine the actual dimensions and conditions of a construction project. This process is crucial for ensuring that the design plans align with the physical realities of the site and that all components fit together as intended.

Fibre Cement

Fibre cement is a versatile and durable building material commonly used in Australian commercial construction projects. It is composed of a mixture of cellulose fibers, cement, sand, and water, which are combined to form a composite material. This combination results in a product that is strong, lightweight, and resistant to various environmental factors. It is a popular choice for building facades due to its durability and aesthetic appeal . The material is composed of cellulose fibre, fillers, Portland cement, and water .

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