Dictionary of Terms

Floors in a building that are above ground level. The first above-ground floor is the ground floor.

A substance that firmly bonds two materials together. Adhesives can be categorized as solvent-based (polymers + organic solvents), dispersion-based (water-soluble), reactive (curing through a chemical reaction), or thermoplastic (heated and applied).

An apparatus that artificially cools the air and regulates the temperature and humidity inside buildings. It can be central or unitary and consists of an evaporator, compressor, temperature regulator, and fan.

A designated living space within a building - a set of rooms intended for habitation. An apartment has lockable entrance doors, and it includes all built-in elements such as installations, doors, toilets, and heating systems.

An open space in the center of a building that serves as a resting area and provides ample light for the entire structure. Atriums may feature fountains, trees, plants, and often include shops, cafes, and restaurants.

A projecting structure that extends beyond the supporting wall. There are several types: suspended, supported, cantilevered, and combined, depending on their structural design.

Shading elements that can be exterior or interior. They provide protection against sunlight, noise, heat, and offer privacy. Exterior blinds are installed directly on the facade or on windows and doors. Interior blinds are mounted on the ceiling, wall, or window. They can be manually operated or automated.

The most well-known building element that has been in use for over 10,000 years. Bricks are made from molded clay in various shapes. Types of bricks include fired bricks (baked in a kiln), aerated concrete bricks, concrete bricks (including lightweight versions), lime-sand bricks, and construction bricks. Brick properties include excellent heat retention, good sound insulation, pleasing aesthetic appearance, modular format, and good material strength.

Remediation is carried out when a building has been damaged by natural factors or human influence. It involves cases such as flooding, damage caused by floods, or a burst pipe in a dishwasher.

A low, single-story building that often has a square floor plan and a roof with a slight pitch. Classic features of a bungalow include a wooden structure and a veranda.

A device used to measure the amount of heat released or consumed during a physical or chemical reaction.

Cement is a binding agent that has the ability to harden. It typically contains calcium oxide and silica. Cement is commonly used as an ingredient in concrete and mortar.

A vacuum cleaner system that is centrally located, usually in a utility room, and connected throughout the building via a network of hoses. It undoubtedly offers higher efficiency compared to regular vacuum cleaners, making cleaning more convenient as there is no need to carry the vacuum cleaner itself, only the hose needs to be connected.

Devices that protect electrical circuits from excessive current and potential short circuits. They are important for the safe operation of electrical systems. Types of circuit breakers include conventional, residual-current, semiconductor, and modular.

Materials used for cladding bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms. The most common types are ceramic, glass, or plastic tiles. They are available in various colors, shapes, and designs.

A building material that contains binder, aggregate, water, and other additives. Concrete is highly moldable and very durable. The most commonly used types are cement concrete and asphalt concrete. Cement concrete's main component is cement, while asphalt concrete contains asphalt and aggregate.

Liquid vapor or pure liquid formed by the condensation of water in pipes.

An expert who oversees the construction process to ensure safety and quality. They are knowledgeable about building regulations and have experience in the construction industry.

A natural material obtained from the bark of the cork oak tree. It is a lightweight and flexible material that is environmentally friendly, as it decomposes quickly. It is suitable as an insulating layer under floor coverings or as the flooring itself. It is also used as insulation for facades or foundations.

A recreational and leisure property. It can be made of wood, brick, or stone and typically has a rustic and rural appearance.

A metal building strip used for installing plasterboard partitions, forming the basic framework for board installation. It resembles the letter "C" and is made of steel or aluminum.

A specialist in the construction industry who designs project documentation. They create designs that are safe, functional, and comply with the standards and requirements of the client and the state authorities.

The designer of a new construction project, primarily the investor.

A device for distributing electrical power to the electrical network. It is usually located in a distribution cabinet, where devices for measurement, protection, and control of the electrical installation are housed.

The process of diverting water from the foundations of a building to prevent moisture penetration in the masonry. A drainage system directs water to a sump, which needs to be pumped out, or to an open channel where it drains naturally.

A casing for sliding or pocket doors. It is installed in the wall, and the doors are subsequently mounted on it.

An electronic device that can be analog or digital, used to measure the consumed electrical energy for a specific property. Based on the energy consumed, the electricity supplier issues a bill.

The practical application of electrical energy and the solution of technical problems. Electrical engineering encompasses various fields, including control and automation, circuit theory, signal processing, electromagnetics, and more.

Entrance gates can be mechanical or traditional manual gates. We have covered mechanical entrance gates in one of our articles, where you can find inspiration.

External Thermal Insulation Composite System. A method of insulation where the thermal insulation material is adhered to the underlying masonry using special anchors. Then a base layer of plaster or primer is applied. It is highly effective in preventing heat loss.

A structural modification in buildings to prevent defects caused by temperature or chemical changes in materials. It prevents the formation of cracks and other potential issues. Expansion joints accommodate volume changes due to material expansion and contraction.

This refers to a type of masonry where the building material (brick, stone, etc.) is left exposed without plaster.

Fence panels provide more privacy and are used for houses and properties. They can be made of wood, rattan, reed, bamboo, or in the form of artificial hedges.

A flat roof has a slope for water drainage of no more than 5°. This design is commonly used in modern residential and commercial buildings.

A floor made of strips or panels that are interconnected using special locks and adhesives. It is available in various materials such as wood, cork, laminate, or vinyl.

A thin layer of material applied to the substrate before laying the flooring.

A type of flooring made of wooden planks that interlock with each other using tongue-and-groove joints. Solid wood parquet flooring is a typical example. Oak, pine, or maple wood is commonly used.

Temporary supporting structure into which concrete is poured. An essential element for ensuring the quality of poured concrete. It also serves as protection for concrete against weather conditions, temperature changes, and more.

The area where the foundation meets the soil. It must be at least 80 cm below ground level, in non-freezing soil. The weight of the entire structure is then transferred to the trench, so precise processing is necessary.

Gabion walls or fences. They are wire structures shaped like a cube or rectangular prism and are typically filled with stones or other materials.

The most commonly used roof type in the Czech Republic, where the roof is formed by two sloping planes connected at the ridge. The lower part of the planes is bordered by eaves, and the roof ends with gables on the sides of the house. The ideal slope of the roof is between 35° and 45°.

An enclosed space for storing motor vehicles, bicycles, and other necessities. Garages are usually located near residential buildings and can be constructed from various materials such as metal, brick, wood, or concrete. They can have either manual or electronic opening mechanisms.

A measuring device that measures the flow of gas. Based on the consumption reading, the supply company prepares the billing.

An entrance point to a building or a designated area, such as a field, garden, or house. The most common materials used for gates are wood and metal. Gate openings can be manual or electronic.

A structure of smaller dimensions, often in a decorative style. Gazebos are placed in gardens, terraces, and ornamental parks for relaxation and leisure. There are two types of gazebos: wooden and brick.

A construction material composed of concrete, glass fibers, inorganic fillers, and other additives that vary according to the desired quality of the final material.

A partition made of transparent or semi-transparent material. It is used in both exterior and interior spaces. It is commonly made of glass or plastic and serves to separate areas, such as in offices, shops, and households.

Financial support provided by a state or public institution. Grants are given for home insulation, photovoltaic panels, rainwater utilization, new boilers, and many other purposes.

A green roof is partially or completely covered with soil and vegetation. A sufficient thickness of grassy cover provides thermal insulation properties, prevents roof overheating, and reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling. Proper installation of a waterproofing layer is essential.

Electrical elements and connections that protect people and animals from electric shock. By means of grounding metal rods and connections, excess electrical current is directed to the ground. These systems are regulated by regulations and standards.

A device that utilizes the natural heat stored in the surrounding environment, such as water, air, ground, or groundwater. There are several types of heat pumps: ground/water - extracts energy from the ground, water/water - extracts energy from groundwater, and air/water - extracts energy from the air.

The exchange of air in a building with minimal heat loss. The air is preheated, reducing the heating energy consumption. It is used in buildings where hygiene standards need to be maintained, such as pools, apartments, houses, or industrial structures.

A house constructed on uneven or sloping terrain. The building site must be prepared and leveled before construction can take place. Hillside houses typically consist of multiple levels and are interconnected by stairs or terraces.

A residential building used by people. It consists of multiple rooms and includes doors, windows, partitions, walls, and basic amenities. Houses can be row houses, detached houses, or apartment buildings and can serve various purposes, such as office space or accommodation services.

Used to treat the substrate surface and provide waterproofing. It can be used on floors, ceilings, balconies, and walls. Precise application and a smooth surface are important for achieving waterproofing properties.

The protection of a building from weather conditions, heat, sound, and moisture. There are various types of insulation, such as sound insulation, thermal insulation, moisture insulation, and chemical insulation.

Prevents heat loss from a building. There is internal and external insulation. External insulation consists of insulation panels attached to the building's facade. The insulation material can be polystyrene, polyurethane foam, or mineral wool. Internal insulation is applied inside the building and is usually cheaper.

HWS - water and sanitation installations, including sewage, water supply, sanitary fixtures
Electrical Installations
EL - low-voltage electrical installations
SLB - low-power systems
SIL - high-power systems
HVAC - ventilation and air conditioning systems

Widely used in construction after combining it with carbon and other elements, resulting in an alloy - steel. It is mainly used for structural purposes, where it has its unmistakable place. It is characterized by low weight and cost. It is easily recyclable and can be dismantled.

An artificially created watering system consisting of a network of irrigation nozzles and sprayers. It is used in parks, ornamental gardens, and lawns near adjacent houses.

A device used to safely conduct a lightning strike to the ground, protecting buildings and people from lightning strikes. It consists of metal rods, conductors, and connections that are installed from the highest point of a building to the ground. Lightning rods are mandatory for all buildings.

A natural floor covering made from wood and cork powder, linseed fiber, pigments, and zinc oxide. It is available in various patterns, colors, and sizes. It has excellent abrasion resistance and is suitable for high-traffic areas such as shopping centers and offices.

Coarsely grained material made of calcite, used for cladding, stairs and sills, countertops, and tombstones or monuments. It is easily workable and durable.

Masonry is a building construction created by laying natural or artificial building materials, which are joined by mortar or dry-laid. Masonry is used to create vertical load-bearing, non-load-bearing, and other structures.

A more challenging tiling technique where tiles, paving, or stone slabs are cut at a 45-degree angle. By joining two mitered tiles together, a corner with a right angle is formed.

The roof consists of a single sloping roof plane typically inclined between 15° and 45°. This design is often seen in passive houses, garages, pergolas, and extensions.

A building material composed of sand, cement, and water. It is mixed either manually or using machines.

Used for interior and exterior cladding. It comes in strips connected by a mesh and is then adhered to the wall and grouted.

A material made by pressing wood chips into multiple layers. Available on the market with a sanded or unsanded surface.

Building material that serves as an alternative to bricks, wood, and concrete. They come in the form of large boards made of materials such as MDF, plastic, wood, or metal.

A type of material used for laying floor coverings, both in exterior and interior spaces. There is a wide range of materials to choose from, including stone, bricks, ceramics, and concrete, available in various shapes and designs.

A horizontal platform located between two levels of a staircase. It can be made of metal, wood, or stone.

An open outdoor structure used for shading and protection from rain and sun. Often found in gardens and used for relaxation and leisure. Common materials used are concrete, wood, or metal.

Reinforcing fabric (in the form of a mesh) that strengthens plaster coatings.

A device that converts solar radiation into electrical energy. It is composed of multiple photovoltaic cells, which are connected within a network and protected by a glass cover.

Components of building structures that are classified as deep foundations. They are used in areas where stable underlying layers are typically absent.

Base Coat, Gypsum, Remedial. Base Coat - dry plaster used for wall repairs and old plaster renovations Gypsum - used for smoothing surfaces in interiors, with a creamy consistency Remedial - draws moisture from the walls to the surface and has a more porous structure.

Electrical components designed to supply power to electrical devices. The plug connector transfers electric current to the connected device. Power sockets need to be installed according to applicable standards and regulations.

A special type of coating used to strengthen surfaces.

A construction project is an essential document prior to commencing the actual construction. It is governed by Building Act No. 183/2006 Coll. It includes an accompanying and technical report, drawings, and documentation of the structure.

A company or firm engaged in the preparation and management of projects. It designs building plans and infrastructure, coordinates construction work, and ensures their quality. It plans exteriors and interiors, including materials. It collaborates with managers and experts involved in the project.

A synthetic plastic - a thermoplastic polymer that is highly resistant to fire, UV radiation, and chemicals. It is popular in the construction industry due to its durability, ease of maintenance, and low procurement costs. PVC is used to manufacture films, pipes, flooring, and many other products.

A metal structure that serves as a protective element on terraces, balconies, and staircases. The main materials used are wood, metal, glass, and concrete. Its installation, height, and strength are regulated by standards and building codes to ensure safety during its use.

The drainage or absorption of rainwater into the ground. Infiltration devices can be underground or aboveground. Rainwater infiltration devices include tunnels, blocks, pits, and wells.

Heat exchanger A device that heats the air in a room. Inside the radiator, there is a fluid that heats up and subsequently warms the air. Types of radiators include panel radiators, convectors, and panel heating systems.

Metal reinforcing elements that help maintain the strength of concrete structures. They are used in foundations, bridges, columns, etc. Rebars are commonly made of steel, either in the form of bars or wires.

Reinforcing of concrete structures. Steel bars are embedded in concrete to improve its strength and durability.

A construction material consisting of concrete and iron or steel reinforcement. The reinforcement is embedded in the concrete during production. The combination of these materials creates a very durable and popular material in construction.

A reinforced concrete skeleton is a solid load-bearing structure of buildings made of reinforced concrete. It can be prefabricated or monolithic. It finds widest application in multi-story buildings of commercial nature.

Modernization or reconstruction of an existing building, apartment, or house. The goal is usually to make modifications, renovate, or increase the value of the property.

A network of plastic and metal pipes used for water drainage from the water supply and sewerage system.

One of the fundamental building elements of a house that protects the structure from weather conditions. The roof includes a framework, usually made of wood, on which the roofing material is placed. The roofing material can be in the form of tiles, shingles, corrugated sheets, and other forms.

A relaxation room where the air is heated with dry heat at around 70-100°C, causing sweating and muscle relaxation. It is used to improve immunity and overall fitness. Saunas can be designed for individuals, couples, or groups. Wood is the predominant material used.

Screed A material used to create a flat and smooth surface on which flooring can be laid.

A building intended for family living. It is usually freestanding, often with a garden and terrace. It consists of several rooms, including a living room, bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, dining area, and utility rooms. However, the room layout varies in each house.

Used to convert solar radiation into electrical energy. It consists of photovoltaic cells attached to a grid. These cells are mounted on a metal frame and protected by glass.

A natural material found in the form of minerals or rocks. Building stone is used for constructing bridges, structures, and as flooring, exterior, and interior cladding. Common types of stone used include marble, sandstone, granite, and limestone.

Natural stone cladding offers excellent functionality for both interior and exterior applications. Commonly used options include slate, quartzite, granite, split-faced stone, or chiseled sandstone.

The use is diverse, and stone can be used to clad facades, terraces, fireplaces and chimneys, bathrooms, living room walls, and staircases.

Also known as a land surveyor, a surveyor is a person who conducts land surveying and mapping for necessary construction documentation, transportation network planning, and construction projects. They use specialized equipment such as GPS receivers, theodolites, and distance meters for measurements.

An artificially created reservoir suitable for relaxation and leisure. Swimming pools can be heated and equipped with various recreational features. They can be indoor or outdoor and are used for sports, recreation, and therapeutic purposes.

An electrical device consisting of a switch and contacts. It is part of the electrical installation. There are countless types of switches: single-pole, two-way, three-way, and others. Smart switches, which have remote access and timers, are also increasingly used today.

An outdoor space used for relaxation and leisure. It can be open or covered and can be attached to a house or stand alone. Commonly used materials include wood, metal, concrete, tiles, and stone.

A ceramic material commonly used for making tiles, roof tiles, and cladding. In translation, terracotta means "fired clay."

A heating device typically installed in bathrooms. It is available in various colors and sizes. Types of towel radiators include electric, dual fuel (connected to a hot water system and can be switched to electric power outside the heating season), and central heating towel rail (connected to the central heating system).

Used to cover irregularities or joints. In construction, various types of trims are used, such as floor trims, window trims, construction trims, and door trims, depending on the application.

A type of laminate flooring composed of several layers of paperboard. The boards are then covered with a decorative layer and a protective layer. It is now practically unused. Previously, it was mainly used in panel buildings and formed the core of Umakart.

A heating system that is installed beneath the floor covering. A network of pipes is embedded in the floor and connected to an electric or water-based system, distributing heat throughout the floor. One of its significant advantages is the even heat distribution in the room.

A heating device installed beneath the flooring material. It is commonly used in residential spaces and bathrooms. It is easy to install and provides cost-effective operation.

Decorative plaster made from a mixture of lime plaster powder, pigments, and water. Once dried, it is polished to achieve a glossy finish. It is used in luxury interiors to create the impression of marble.

An area in front of a house entrance that is usually open on the sides but has a floor and roof. It provides protection from rain and sunlight. A veranda is always connected to the house.

A type of flooring made from synthetic materials. It is easy to maintain and highly durable due to multiple layers and a strong core. Vinyl comes in various designs, such as wood, stone, or concrete, and a wide range of shapes and patterns.

A device used to measure the amount of consumed water. Based on these readings, the utility company issues a billing statement.

Window protection with horizontal or vertical slats used for shading and privacy. It is operated using a chain or cord. Blinds are available in various sizes, colors, and materials.

A part of a building, usually glazed, used to extend the house with bright spaces that are often used for plant cultivation or relaxation. It is made of wood, aluminum, and other materials and can be connected to ventilation or heating.

A construction where wood is the primary material. The most commonly used types of wood in wooden construction are spruce, followed by fir, pine, and larch.