Takeoff and Estimating Glossary

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Barbed Wire

Barbed wire is a kind of fencing material made of sharp metal points along the wire. It is frequently used to secure boundaries and control access to an area.

Plaster

Plaster is a gypsum, lime, or cement-based material applied to walls and ceilings to create smooth, durable, and protective surface finishes in construction projects.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a lightweight material that's made from glass fibers and resin that forms a strong, durable composite resistant to moisture and corrosion.

Cement

Cement is a fine powder of clay, limestone, and other minerals, when mixed with water creates a binding substance that holds materials together.

Abrasive

Abrasive is any hard material that is used for grinding, smoothing, cutting, polishing, or cleaning any surface using friction.

Elastic

If a material is elastic, it has the ability to return to its original shape and size after the deforming force is removed.

Translucent Panel

A translucent panel is made of fiberglass, polycarbonate, acrylic, or glass. It diffuses and scatters light, creating a soft glow and obscuring the view.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polyvinyl chloride, also known as PVC, is a widely used synthetic thermoplastic polymer made from salt and oil/gas and is known for its durability.

ACM (Asbestos-Containing Material)

Asbestos-Containing Material, also known as ACM, refers to any type of material or product that contains more than 1% asbestos by weight.

Solvent

A solvent is a liquid that is used to mix, dissolve, or clean other materials. It commonly finds usage in industries like construction, painting, and finishing.

Aggregate

Aggregate is a mix of materials like sand, gravel, crushed stone, and recycled concrete that are added to concrete and other building materials to make them stronger.

T&G Siding

T&G Siding is a type of wood or aluminum panels to create board surfaces with interlocked edges for a seamless surface.

Yield Point

The yield point is the level of stress at which a material begins to deform permanently and no longer returns to its original shape when the applied force is removed.

Zero Slump Concrete

Zero slump concrete is a very dry concrete mix that has no slump during testing and is often used in precast and machine-formed applications.

MDF

MDF is a smooth, engineered wood board made from compressed wood fibres. It is commonly used in furniture and interior applications.

ABS

ABS is a durable, lightweight thermoplastic commonly used for plumbing in buildings because it is strong, corrosion-resistant, and easy to install.

A36 Steel

A36 Steel is a commonly used structural steel grade known for its strength, weldability, and versatility in construction applications.

Takeoff and Estimating Glossary

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