Plain-English dictionary
Glossary
16 everyday terms explained simply, no jargon.
A
- Anchor
- A device inserted into a wall to hold a screw firmly when there is no stud behind the surface to grip.
C
- Caulk
- A flexible paste squeezed into gaps and seams to seal out water and air, commonly around sinks, tubs, and windows.
- Countersink
- A cone-shaped hole drilled so a screw head can sit flush with or below the surface instead of sticking out.
F
- Flathead vs Phillips
- The two most common screwdriver types, where a flathead fits a single straight slot and a Phillips fits a cross-shaped slot.
G
- Grout
- The paste-like filler pressed between tiles that hardens to hold them in place and keep water out of the gaps.
L
- Level
- A tool with a bubble floating in liquid that shows whether a surface is perfectly horizontal or vertical.
- Load-bearing
- Describes a wall or beam that supports the weight of the structure above it, so it cannot be removed without added support.
M
- Miter
- An angled cut, usually 45 degrees, made so two pieces join neatly into a corner such as a picture frame.
P
- Pilot hole
- A small hole drilled first to guide a screw or nail and keep the wood from splitting.
- Primer
- A base coat applied before paint that helps the paint stick evenly and hides the surface underneath.
S
- Sander
- A power or hand tool that smooths a surface by rubbing it with abrasive sandpaper.
- Sealant
- A liquid or paste that fills gaps and coats surfaces to block moisture, air, or dust.
- Shim
- A thin wedge or strip slipped into a gap to level or steady something like a door frame or cabinet.
- Spackle
- A quick-drying paste used to fill small holes and dents in walls before painting.
- Stud
- A vertical wooden or metal frame piece inside a wall that supports the structure and holds screws securely.
T
- Torque
- The twisting force applied when tightening a bolt or screw, which must be enough to hold but not so much that it strips.
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