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Glossary

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Glossaries

Term Definition
Circuit Breaker
a device designed to shut off the power to portions (or all) of the house; and to limit the amount of power flowing through a circuit (measured in amps). 110-volt household circuits require a fuse or circuit breaker with a rating of 15 or a maximum of 20 amps.
Circuit

the path of electrical flow from a power source through an outlet and back to ground.

Chase

In the context of commercial construction in Australia, a "chase" refers to a groove or channel cut into a wall, floor, or ceiling to accommodate services such as electrical conduits, plumbing pipes, or other utilities. Chases are essential for concealing and protecting these services within the structure of a building.

Centring

Centring in commercial construction refers to the temporary support structures used to hold up the formwork for arches, vaults, and other curved structures until the concrete or masonry sets and becomes self-supporting. This is a critical aspect of construction, ensuring that the desired shapes and structural integrity are achieved during the building process.

Cement (Portland)

Cement, specifically Portland cement, is a fundamental material used in commercial construction in Australia. It serves as a key ingredient in concrete, which is widely used for building foundations, structural frameworks, pavements, and various other construction elements. Here’s a detailed look at the definition, relevant Australian standards, and Building Code of Australia (BCA) requirements for Portland cement in commercial construction:

Ceiling

In commercial construction in Australia, the term "ceiling" refers to the overhead interior surface that covers the upper limits of a room. Ceilings are an essential component of building design and construction, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. They can conceal structural elements, provide acoustic insulation, and house lighting and HVAC systems.

Cca

Copper Chrome Arsenic (CCA) is a wood preservative that has been widely used to protect timber from decay, insects, and other wood-destroying organisms. It is composed of copper, which acts as a fungicide; chromium, which helps bind the preservative to the wood; and arsenic, which acts as an insecticide.

Cavity Wall

A cavity wall in commercial construction in Australia refers to a type of wall construction that consists of two separate walls (or "leaves") with a gap (or "cavity") between them. This design is commonly used for its thermal insulation, moisture control, and sound insulation properties. The cavity can be filled with insulation material or left as an air gap, depending on the specific requirements of the building.

Synonyms - partition wall, internal wall
Cavity Sliding Door (CSD)

A cavity sliding door (CSD) is a type of door that slides into a cavity or pocket in the wall, rather than swinging on hinges . This design allows for maximum use of floor space, making it an ideal solution for areas with limited room, such as smaller rooms or corridors .

Cast In-Situ

In the context of Australian commercial construction, cast in-situ refers to a process of casting concrete in position, as opposed to precasting concrete elements in a factory or off-site location . This method is commonly used for foundations, walls, and floors in commercial buildings.

Synonyms - cast
Cast

In commercial construction in Australia, the term "cast" typically refers to the process of forming concrete elements by pouring liquid concrete into molds or formwork, where it hardens and gains strength. This process is integral to creating structural components such as slabs, beams, columns, and walls.

Carpentry

Carpentry in commercial construction in Australia involves the skilled trade of cutting, shaping, and installing building materials during the construction of buildings, infrastructure, and other structures. Carpenters work with wood, steel, and other materials to create frameworks, partitions, flooring, and other structural elements. In commercial construction, carpentry can include tasks such as constructing formwork for concrete, installing doors and windows, building staircases, and creating custom cabinetry and joinery.

Capping Brick
Bricks which are specially shaped for capping the exposed top of a wall.
Cap (capping)

In the context of commercial construction in Australia, a cap (capping) refers to a covering or a barrier installed to prevent or restrict the entry of unwanted elements, such as water, termites, or other pests, into a building or structure. Capping products are used to maintain roof sight lines while providing added protection 2.

Cantilever

In commercial construction in Australia, a cantilever refers to a structural element that extends horizontally and is supported at only one end. The other end is free and projects beyond its support, creating an overhanging structure. Cantilevers are commonly used in various applications, including balconies, bridges, and overhanging roofs.

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