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Home Building Terms and Construction Definitions
Paul Lehmann's Home Building Dictionary
Hardware
A term used to describe all the metal fittings that go into a home when it is near completion. Hardware can include towel bards, closet rods, handrail brackets, door knobs, house numbers, etc.
Hazard Insurance
Insurance that protects the home from damage caused by fire, wind, or other common hazards. Many lenders will require this type of insurance be carried by owners in an amount at least equal to that of the mortgage.
Hearth
The outer, fireproof area directly in front of the fireplace, usually made of brick, tile or stone.
Heat Recovery Units
These systems use the heat generated by the air conditioning system to heat domestic hot water.
Heat Rough
Installation of the ducts and flue pipes, sometimes the furnace and fireplace, done after the stairs and interior walls are built. This work is often done by a heating contractor.
Heat Trim
Work completed by the heat contractor to prepare the house for municipal final heat inspection. Includes installing all vent grills, registers, thermostats, air conditioning services and venting the hot water heater, ranges and hoods.
Heating Load
The amount of heat required to maintain a home at a specific temperature regardless of the temperature outside.
Home Automation System
A professionally installed program that integrates control of lighting systems, HVAC and security to enhance comfort, convenience and safety.
Home Run (electrical)
An electrical cable that transfers power from the main circuit breaker panel to the first plug or switch in the circuit.
Home Theater System
Audio and video components installed by a professional that often include a minimum 5 speaker surround sound set up and video display measuring 40 or more inches.
Hot Wire
Electrical wire that carries energy to a device or receptacle. Unlike a neutral wire which carries the electricity away. Hot wires are typically the black wires.
