Regular upkeep is essential to restore your home’s aesthetics and functional value. Do you always consult renovation contractors for the project? However, most homeowners feel confused when they come across different terms. Without basic vocabulary, it is hard to make an informed decision on renovation.
To manage DIY fixes or communicate with experts, you must have a strong vocabulary. This blog makes you familiar with common terms related to home renovation and maintenance.
Terminology used by professionals in every industry is not identical. For instance, what does R&R mean in auto repair? It stands for ‘remove and replace’. In case of home improvement, R&R indicates the idea of replacing the damaged parts.
You can now check the terminology related to property maintenance services:
Foundation
The lowest substructure component, transferring the weight of the building, is the foundation. The base sustains individual steel pillars or columns of your house.
A cracked foundation can result in several structural issues. Wall cracks and uneven floors are a few signs of a damaged foundation. So, hire the best contractors to repair them and restore the structural integrity.
Insulation
An insulated roof of a house minimizes the heat flow between outdoors and indoors. It is a thermal barrier that maintains a favorable temperature in every season. A few types of insulation materials are:
- Blanket – Mineral wool or fiberglass for ceiling and floor
- Rigid foam boards – Best for exterior walls
- Spray foam – Seal your leaks and insulate your house simultaneously.
Drywall
A gypsum board or drywall is a building material for creating ceilings and interior walls. It is easily repairable, but you need professional help to restore the material. Remember that damage from impact or moisture needs a quick fix.
Before hiring contractors for home maintenance, select the type of drywall:
- Standard – For general applications
- Fire-resistant – Glass fibers for better safety
- Moisture-resistant – Perfect for high-moisture areas
- Soundproof – Intended to control noise transfer
Plumbing Vent
This is a vent stack with a vertical pipe extending from your drainage system through your roof. By releasing sewer gases, it can improve airflow. During your consultation, the contractor will determine the type of plumbing vent needed.
- True vent – A vertical pipe connecting to the drain
- Wet vent – A single pipe acting as a drain
- Air admittance valve – A mechanical valve used in your kitchen island
Gutter Systems
Rain gutters are channels that direct rainwater from your roof to protect your foundation. But, clogged gutters may lead to water damage to your property.
You need to hire contractors to check the condition of your gutter system.
Summary
These basic home maintenance terms will help you make decisions more confidently. Some contractors explain the details of their projects. However, you must refine your knowledge about renovation terms for better communication. Your familiarity with technical-sounding terms will also help you understand the home improvement project!