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home building resource

Glossary terms for letter 't'

Tanking The processes of applying a waterproofing membrane on the outside surface of a wall to stop water entering the building.

Temporary Benchmark A temporary mark or datum from which a reduced level can be conveniently attained. Building Surveyors

Temporary Crossing The temporary installation of boards and other material to allow pedestrian crossing, usually at the front of a building site.

Temporary Services The temporary installation of utility services such as electrical and water required for construction.

Tender An offer made in writing to provide labour goods or services.

Termite Cap (Ant Capping) A metal shield which is placed on top of a pier to retard the egress of termites. Pest Control Contractors, Carpenters & Joiners

Tie Wire A wire for fixing reinforcing steel. Concreters

Tile Batten A light timer fixed to rafters or trusses, which the roofing materials are fixed to. Roof Construction & Restoration

Tongue & Groove Joint A projecting strip along a board, “tongue”, for the fitting of a board with a matching “groove”.

Top Plate The timber member across the top end of studs and carries the ceiling joist. Carpenters & Joiners

Top Soil The upper layer of usually dark soil, which supports vegetation. Landscape Architects & Designers, Gardeners, Garden Nurseries

Topping A mixture of cement, sand placed over a concrete floor to create the finished surface.

Touch Up The repairs of damaged or defective paint. Painters, Paint Stores

Trap (Drainage) A fixture that intercepts silt, grease, oils etc.

Trap (Sanitary Plumbing) Any fitting used to retain a water seal to prevent gases or foul air into the building. Plumbers & Gasfitters

Tread The horizontal surface of a step. Carpenters & Joiners

Trench Mesh Steel mesh in long lengths, used for concrete reinforcement in footings. Concreters

Truss A prefabricated structural roof frame which distributes loads through it members to its supports. Carpenters & Joiners