Custom Home Builders in Banner Elk- Lehmann Construction Glossary

Paul Lehmann's Home Building Dictionary

Browse by letter:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Laminate

Surface glued to a wood substrate, typically for countertops.

Laminated Shingles

Shingles that have extra layers or tabs giving them added dimensionality. Also called architectural shingles or three dimensional shingles.

Landing

A platform at the termination of or between flights of stairs. Often used when there is a change of direction within the stairs.

Lath

A narrow material of either wood, metal, gypsum or insulating board that is fastened to the frame of the house and acts as a base for applying plaster, shingles or tiles.

Lattice

An open framework of criss-crossed metal or wood strips that form patterned spaces.

Lien

A legal claim of property that often makes it the security for payment of a debt such as a mortgage.

Light Lift

An electronically operated device that raises and lowers a light fixture for cleaning or maintenance. Most commonly found in high ceiling areas where chandeliers are installed.

Loan to Value Ratio

A percentage calculated by the difference between the loan amount and property valuation. For example, if a borrow is seeking a loan of $300,000 on a property worth $600,000 the LTV ratio would be 50%. The higher the loan to value ratio, the greater the perceived risk is to the lender.

Louver

A vented opening into a home that has a series of horizontal slats. These slats are arranged to allow ventilation but exclude rain, snow, light, insects or other creatures from entering the home.