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Glossary

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Glossaries

Term Definition
Sash

In Australian commercial construction projects, a "sash" typically refers to the movable part of a window that holds the glass panes and allows for opening and closing. It is the frame that holds the glass and is often made of wood, aluminum, or vinyl. The sash can be single-hung (where only the bottom part moves) or double-hung (where both the top and bottom parts move). In commercial construction, sashes are designed for durability, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance. They may also include features such as weatherstripping, locking mechanisms, and insect screens to enhance their performance and functionality.

Sarking

Sarking, in the context of Australian commercial construction projects, refers to a strong and pliable membrane installed under tiled and metal roofs . It acts as a protective second skin under the roof, providing an additional layer of defense against various environmental factors

Sapwood

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "sapwood" refers to the younger, outermost wood found just beneath the bark of a tree. It is typically lighter in color compared to the inner heartwood and is responsible for the transport of water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves.

S-trap

an "S-trap" refers to a specific type of plumbing trap used in drainage systems. An S-trap is designed to prevent sewer gases from entering buildings through the plumbing fixtures. It is named for its shape, which resembles the letter "S."

Rough Sawn

"rough sawn" refers to timber that has been cut from a log using a sawmill but has not undergone any further processing to smooth or plane the surface. This type of timber retains a coarse texture and visible saw marks, giving it a more rustic and natural appearance. Rough sawn timber is often used for structural purposes, where the appearance is not a primary concern, or in applications where a rugged aesthetic is desired. It is typically less expensive than dressed or finished timber, as it requires less processing. However, because it is not planed or sanded, rough sawn timber may require additional work if a smoother finish is needed for specific applications.

Root barrier

root barrier is a versatile solution designed to control and manage the growth of tree and plant roots in Australian commercial construction projects . It is a physical barrier installed in the soil to prevent tree roots from spreading into areas that can cause damage to structures, such as foundations, walls, pipes, and other underground infrastructure

Roof Truss

See "truss"

Synonyms - truss, trusses
Roof Pitch

See "pitch"

Synonyms - Pitch
Ridge

the term "ridge" refers to the highest point or the top edge of a roof where two sloping roof planes meet. It is the horizontal line that runs along the top of the roof, forming the peak or apex. The ridge is an essential component of a roof's structure, as it provides stability and support to the roof framing.

Retaining wall

a retaining wall is a structure designed to hold or retain soil behind it. These walls are essential for managing changes in ground elevation and are commonly used to prevent soil erosion, manage water drainage, and create usable flat areas on sloped terrain. Retaining walls can be constructed from various materials, including concrete, stone, brick, timber, or steel, depending on the specific requirements of the project and aesthetic considerations.

Render

In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "render" refers to the application of a mixture, typically composed of cement, sand, lime, and water, to the exterior or interior walls of a building.

Reinforcing Steel

Reinforcing steel, commonly referred to as rebar and mesh , is a type of steel material used in Australian commercial construction projects to provide additional strength to concrete structures . It is made from a raw material called iron ore and is designed to improve the innate tension and structural strength of concrete

Reinforced Concrete Construction

Reinforced concrete construction in Australian commercial construction projects refers to the use of concrete that is strengthened with embedded steel reinforcement, such as bars, mesh, or fibers, to enhance its tensile strength and overall structural integrity. This method is widely used in commercial buildings due to its durability, versatility, and ability to withstand various loads and stresses.

Reinforced

"reinforced" typically refers to the use of reinforcement materials to enhance the strength and durability of construction elements, particularly concrete. This is most commonly achieved through the incorporation of steel reinforcement bars, also known as rebar, or mesh within concrete structures. The reinforcement helps the concrete withstand tensile stresses, which concrete alone is not particularly strong at resisting.

Regulations

regulations refer to the set of rules and standards that govern the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings and other structures . These regulations are established by the government to ensure that construction projects are carried out in a safe, sustainable, and environmentally responsible manner.

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