GLOSSARY

Some construction terms to help you understand your project.

Sometimes construction jargon can get confusing, but it’s important for customers to be familiar with some of the lingo. That’s why we’ve put together this handy glossary of terms to help you better understand your project. If you have any questions about these terms or others, feel free to reach out and ask us. We love educating our customers about the business we love so much!

 


 

Scissor trusses

Definition: Scissor trusses are primarily used when pitching a roof, and they offer the benefit of vaulted ceilings without having to deal with rafter detail. The name “scissor truss” comes from how the chords on the walls cross each other and meet at the top chords. 

Example: https://quarryviewbuildinggroup.com/trucking-company-gets-a-new-shop-and-office-in-mount-joy-pa/

 

Timber frame home

Definition: Timber frame homes are constructed with timber beams and posts held together with wood pegs, mechanical fasteners, and mortise and tenon frame joints. Most of the timber beams are exposed, which is part of the appeal.

More information: Timber Frame House FAQs

 

Sustainable building materials

Definition: Sustainable building materials include glass wood, recycled content, roofs with reflective finishes, translucent panels, and low-VOC paints, sealants, and stains. They’re typically much better for the environment than traditional materials. 

Example: https://quarryviewbuildinggroup.com/how-to-plan-an-eco-friendly-barn-that-benefits-the-earth-and-your-bottom-line/

 

Dutch door

Definition: A Dutch door is a type of barn door that is divided horizontally, allowing the top portion to open independently. This hinged feature helps you control critter traffic and/or keep animals contained without completely closing off an area.

More information: https://quarryviewbuildinggroup.com/two-types-doors-horse-stalls/

 

Perma-column foundation

Definition: Perma-column foundations are five-foot pre-cast concrete columns that keep wood out of the ground so that the foundation doesn’t rot over time. 

Example: https://quarryviewbuildinggroup.com/amish-built-barn-equestrian-center-impacts-community/

 

Cladding Boards

Definition: Boards layered over a building’s main outer structure to provide thermal insulation, improve appearance, and protect the structure against the elements.

 

Gabled Roof

Definition: A roof with two sloping sides connected at the top ridge line. The most customary of all roofs, gabled roofs provide a classic triangular shape and are most often accompanied by gutters and eaves.

Dormers

Definition: Dormers are windows that have their own roofs and project vertically from a sloping roof. 

Example: https://quarryviewbuildinggroup.com/timber-frame-home-of-their-dreams/

 

Mortise and tenon joint

Definition: This type of joint connects two pieces of wood or other material. Mortise and tenon joints have been used for thousands of years in woodworking.

Example: https://quarryviewbuildinggroup.com/amish-built-barn-project-case-study-pa/

 

Mezzanine

Definition: A mezzanine is an intermediate floor between the main floors of a building.

Example: https://quarryviewbuildinggroup.com/pennsylvania-excavating-company-moves-into-a-new-custom-warehouse/

 

Post-frame building

Definition: Post-frame buildings feature large posts or laminated columns instead of wood studs, steel framing, or concrete masonry. They’re quickly erected because of the larger posts, interlocking frame, fewer structural materials, and because the posts are farther apart than studs.

Example: https://quarryviewbuildinggroup.com/custom-post-frame-barn-rec-space-loft/

 

Cupola

Definition: A relatively small, dome-like structure on top of a building. Usually on top of a roof to provide a lookout, light, and air. They often feature a weather vane. 

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