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Aerator: An apparatus that mixes air into flowing water. It is screwed onto the end of a faucet spout to help
reduce splashing.
Aggregate: Crushed stone, slag or water-worn gravel that comes in a wide range of sizes which is used to
surface built-up roofs.
Air Chamber: A vertical, air-filled pipe that prevents water hammer by absorbing pressure when water is shut
off at a faucet or valve.
Air Duct: Ducts, usually made of sheet metal, that carry cooled or heated air to all rooms.
Air Filters: Adhesive filters made of metal or various fibers that are coated with an adhesive liquid to which
particles of lint and dust adhere. These filters will remove as much as 90% of the dirt if they do not become
clogged. The more common filters are of the throwaway or disposable type.
Air Infiltration: The amount of air leaking in and out of a building through cracks in walls, windows and doors.
Air Intake: An opening in a building's envelope whose purpose is to allow outside air to be drawn in to replace
inside air.
Air Space: The area between insulation facing and interior of exterior wall coverings. Normally a 1" air gap.
Air-Dried Lumber: Lumber that has been piled in yards or sheds for any length of time. For the United States
as a whole, the minimum moisture content of thoroughly air dried lumber is 12 to 15 percent and the average
is somewhat higher. In the South, air dried lumber may be no lower than 19 percent.
Airway: A space between roof insulation and roof boards provided for movement of air.
Aisle: An exit access component that provides a path of egress travel.
Alarm Signal: A signal indicating an emergency, such as a fire, requiring immediate action.
Alarm System: Warning devices, installed or free-standing, including but not limited to: carbon monoxide
detectors, flue gas and other spillage detectors, security equipment, ejector pumps and smoke alarms.
Algae: Microorganisms that may grow to colonies in damp environments, including certain rooftops. They can
discolor shingles. Often described as "fungus."
Alligatoring: A condition of paint or aged asphalt brought about by the loss of volatile oils and the oxidation
caused by solar radiation. Causes a coarse checking pattern characterized by a slipping of the new paint
coating over the old coating to the extent that the old coating can be seen through the fissures. "Alligatoring"
produces a pattern of cracks resembling an alligator hide and is ultimately the result of the limited tolerance of
paint or asphalt to thermal expansion or contraction.
Allowable Span: The distance between two supporting points for load bearing lumber such as joists, rafters
or a girder.
Allowance(s): A sum of money set aside in the construction contract for items which have not been selected
and specified in the construction contract. Best kept to a minimum number and used for items whose choice
will not impact earlier stages of the construction. For example, selection of tile because flooring may require
an alternative framing or underlayment material. (Also, money that your parents give you as a child.)
Alteration: Any construction or renovation to an existing structure other than a repair or addition. Also, a
change in a mechanical system.
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