a stool refers to a support used in reinforced concrete to ensure adequate cover for the bottom reinforcement . This is a crucial component in concrete construction as it helps maintain the correct positioning of the reinforcement, thereby adding strength to the structure and controlling cracking of the concrete .

stirrups refer to closed-loop steel reinforcements used in concrete structures, particularly in columns and beams . Their primary function is to resist shear stress in reinforced concrete beams, which can be vertical or inclined

Steel frame construction is a popular method used in Australian commercial construction projects due to its strength, durability, and versatility. This construction technique involves creating a skeletal framework of steel columns and beams to support floors, roofs, and walls of a building.

a splice joint refers to a method used to connect two structural elements end-to-end to form a continuous member. This type of joint is commonly used in steel and timber construction.

"specifications" or "specs" refer to detailed, written descriptions of the materials, workmanship, and standards required to complete a construction project. They serve as a guide for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure that the project is built according to the design intent and meets the required standards.

a "spandrel" typically refers to the space or panel located between two architectural elements. Specifically, in multi-story buildings, a spandrel is the area between the top of a window on one floor and the sill of the window directly above it on the next floor. This space can be filled with various materials, such as glass, metal, or stone, and is often used to conceal structural elements or mechanical systems.

"span" typically refers to the distance between two structural supports, such as columns, walls, or beams. It is a crucial element in structural engineering and design, as it affects the load-bearing capacity and stability of a structure. The span can influence the choice of materials, the design of structural elements, and the overall architectural layout of a building.

solid plaster refers to a type of material applied to walls and ceilings to provide a smooth, even, and durable surface . It is a mixture of materials such as cement, sand, water, or gypsum, depending on the type of plaster used .

a solid core refers to a type of door construction that consists of a dense, engineered wood core, often made from particleboard, timber, flaxboard, or magboard . This core is typically finished with timber sheets and internal or external grade edge strips .

a soil test, also known as a geotechnical investigation or site investigation, involves the assessment of soil conditions on a construction site to determine its suitability for the proposed development.

softwood refers to the wood of a coniferous tree, such as pine, spruce, or cedar . Softwood timber originates from a gymnosperm tree, which is a tree type with seeds that do not have any covering and usually just fall to the ground. Softwoods are widely used in construction due to their versatility and availability. They are often employed for structural framing, flooring, roofing, and interior applications like moldings and paneling. In commercial construction, softwoods are valued for their strength-to-weight ratio, ease of handling, and adaptability to various treatments and finishes.

a soffit refers to the underside or the exposed surface beneath any overhead component of a building. This can include the underside of an arch, a balcony, a beam, a cornice, or the eaves of a roof. In the context of ceilings, the soffit is the visible surface that is often finished or treated for aesthetic purposes. Soffits can be constructed from various materials, including plasterboard, timber, metal, or composite materials, and they may be used to conceal structural elements, ductwork, or electrical wiring, while also contributing to the architectural design and acoustic properties of a space.

A "slip joint" refers to a structural component designed to accommodate movement between two building elements. This movement can be due to thermal expansion and contraction, settlement, seismic activity, or other dynamic forces. Slip joints are crucial in ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of a building by allowing controlled movement and preventing stress buildup that could lead to cracking or structural failure.

a "Slab on Grade" (SOG) refers to a type of foundation that consists of a concrete slab poured directly on the ground. This method is commonly used for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The slab serves as both the foundation and the ground floor of the building. 

a "slab" refers to a flat, horizontal structural element made of concrete that is used to create floors, ceilings, and sometimes roofs. Concrete slabs are a fundamental component in building construction due to their strength, durability, and versatility. They are typically reinforced with steel bars or mesh to enhance their load-bearing capacity and to prevent cracking.