PILE BENT—Two or more piles driven in a row
transverse to the long dimension of the structure
and fastened together by capping and (sometimes)
bracing.
PILE BUTT—The larger end of a tapered pile; usually
the upper end as driven.
PILE CAPS—A structural member placed on top of a
pile to distribute loads from the structure to the pile.
PURLIN—Horizontal members of a roof supporting
common railers. Also, members between trusses
supporting sheathing.
Q
QUAY—A margin wharf adjacent to the shore and
generally of solid filled construction.
R
RAFTER—A sloping roof member supporting the roof
covering and extending from the ridge or the hip of
the roof to the eaves.
RAKE—The inclined position of a cornice; also the
angle of slope of a roof rafter.
RIDGE—The long joining members placed at the
angle where two slopes of a roof meet at the peak.
RISE—In a roof, the vertical distance between the plate
and the ridge. In a stair, the total height of the stair.
S
SASH—The movable part of a window.
SILLS—The first members of a frame set in place.
SOFFIT—The underside of a subordinate member of
a building.
SPAN—The shortest distance between a pair of rafter
seats.
SPECIFICATIONS—Written instructions containing
information about the materials, style,
workmanship, and finish for the job.
STUD—The vertical members of wooden forms or
frames.
T
TRUSS—A combination of members, such as beams,
bars, and ties; usually arranged in triangular units
to forma rigid framework for supporting loads over
a span.
W
WAINSCOT—A wall covering for the lower part of an
interior wall; can be wood, glass, or tile.
AI-3
