Architectural and Engineering Glossary
P
A transformer suitable for mounting on a pole or similar structure.
A type of wall constructed of a series of vertical wood poles.
A pole foundation structure in which the tops of the poles extend above the surface of the ground and support a platform;this platform acts as the base for a building superstructure.
In plastering,to give a sheen or gloss to the finish coat.
In stonework,a finish so smooth that it forms a reflecting surface;usually obtained by chemical treatment and prolonged mechanical buffing of a stone surface on which there are no voids.
Plate glass that has been ground and polished on both sides.
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Stonework that has been polished to a mirror like finish with an abrasive.
The broad end or striking face of a hammer.
A polymer;the most widely known in this group is nylon.
The practice of decorating architectural elements,sculpture,etc.in a variety of colors.
A thermoplastic material often used in electrical insulation or in sheet form for dampproofing.
Same as multifoil.
Masonry which is constructed of stones having smooth polygonal faces.
Concrete in which an organic polymer is used as the binder.
A chemical reaction in which the molecular weight of the molecules formed is a multiple of that of the original substances.
A plastic polymer of propylene;a tough material having good resistance to heat and chemical action.
Composed of many columns.
See foamed polystyrene.
A synthetic resin which is formed by the polymerization of styrene upon heating;uses include paint for concrete.
A synthetic polymer that is resistant to light,oils,and solvents;particularly useful as a sealant.
Same as polyethylene.
A rounded finial.
Same as dwarf wall.
See swimming pool.
Lime containing a significant proportion of material that is insoluble in acids;not a pure lime.
A metal rod on a washbasin which controls the raising and lowering of the drain stopper.
On drawings,abbr.for “porcelain.”
A glazed or unglazed vitreous ceramic whiteware used for electrical,chemical,mechanical,structural,or thermal components.
Abbr.for “pounds per square inch.
Abbr.for “pounds per square inch absolute.”
A self recording psychrometer,providing simultaneous readings of dry bulb and wet bulb thermometers.
An instrument used to measure humidity in the atmosphere from two thermometers which are similar except that the bulb of one is kept wet,the bulb of the other being dry.
A chart showing the relationship between dewpoint temperature,drybulb temperature,wet bulb temperature,humidity ratio,and relative humidity.
The study of moist air.
1.On drawings,abbr.for “part.”2.On drawings,abbr.for “point.”
In Classical architecture,the enclosed space of a portico,peristyle,or stoa,generally behind a screen of columns.
1.In a Classical temple,the passage way between the walls of the cella and the columns of the peristyle.2.The side of a Classical temple or the row of columns along one side of the temple.
On drawings,abbr.for partition.
Any area which is free and open to the general public at all times.
Facilities for public use,such as drinking fountains,restrooms,telephones,and internet connections.
A corridor or enclosed passageway connecting a room or suite with a stairway,fire tower,or other designated exit,but intended to serve only the occupants of the floor on which it is located.
Garage for temporary parking or storage of motor vehicles.Usually excludes repair and maintenance of such vehicles.
A hall,corridor,or passageway within a building but outside all apartments or suites of private rooms.
Same as tavern.
Low cost housing,owned,sponsored,or administered by a municipal or other governmental agency.
Insurance covering liability of the insured for negligent acts resulting in bodily injury,disease,or death of others than employees of the insured,and/or property damage.
See nuisance.
A common sewer directly controlled by the public authority.
1.An area within a building to which there is free access by the public,such as a foyer or lobby.2.In some codes,an area or piece of land legally designated for public use.
A water or sewerage system which is owned and operated by a local governmental authority or by a local utility company controlled by a governmental authority.
