Homeowner resources

Contractor & Home Improvement Glossary

Know the words your contractor uses. These plain-English definitions explain the terms you’ll see in quotes, inspections, and repairs across every trade — so you can compare bids and make confident decisions.

126 terms

A Back to top

AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter)Electrical: A breaker (or outlet) that shuts off power when it detects the dangerous sparking, called arcing, that damaged or loose wiring can produce, which is a common cause of house fires. Newer codes require them on most living-area circuits like bedrooms, so an electrician may add them when you update a panel.
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)Heating & Cooling (HVAC): AFUE is the efficiency rating for a gas furnace, shown as a percentage of fuel turned into usable heat — a 90% AFUE furnace delivers 90 cents of heat for every dollar of gas, with the rest lost up the flue. Higher AFUE means lower gas bills, though it matters less in mild Texas winters than in colder climates.
Air HandlerHeating & Cooling (HVAC): The air handler is the indoor unit that houses the blower fan and evaporator coil and pushes conditioned air through your ducts — it's typically paired with a heat pump instead of a furnace. In homes without gas heat, this is the indoor half of the system.
Air SealingSolar & Energy Efficiency: The work of closing gaps and cracks in your home's shell, around ducts, outlets, attic penetrations, and windows, where conditioned air leaks out. It's one of the most cost-effective efficiency upgrades because it directly cuts how hard your AC has to work through a Texas summer, often for a modest cost.
Aluminum WiringElectrical: Branch-circuit wiring made of aluminum instead of copper, used in many homes built in the 1960s and '70s. It can loosen and overheat at connections over time, so an electrician typically corrects it with approved connectors (such as COPALUM or AlumiConn) or rewiring rather than leaving it as-is; it's a common inspection and insurance concern.
Amperage (100A / 200A Service)Electrical: Amperage is the amount of electrical current your home's service can supply at once, rated in amps. Older homes often have 100-amp service while most modern homes have 200-amp; if you're adding central AC, an EV charger, or a large addition, an electrician may recommend upgrading to a higher amperage.
Angle StopPlumbing & Drain: The small shut-off valve found under sinks and behind toilets that turns the water off to just that one fixture, so you can make a repair without shutting off the whole house. If one is corroded, stiff, or won't fully close, plumbers often recommend replacing it during any fixture work.
Appliance HookupRoofing, Gas & Structural: Appliance hookup is the final connection of a gas or high-demand appliance — a range, dryer, water heater, or furnace — to its fuel, water, or dedicated electrical line. For gas appliances this includes a proper shutoff valve and a leak check at the connection, work that in Texas should be done by a licensed plumber or gas fitter.
Arc FaultElectrical: An arc fault is unwanted electrical sparking across a gap in wiring, often caused by frayed cords, loose connections, or a nail through a wire. Because these arcs generate intense heat and can start fires inside walls, AFCI breakers are designed specifically to detect and stop them.
Azimuth and TiltSolar & Energy Efficiency: Azimuth is the compass direction your panels face and tilt is the angle they sit at, both of which determine how much sunlight they capture. In Texas, south-facing panels typically produce the most over a year, while west-facing panels can make more power in the late-afternoon hours when electricity demand and prices peak.

B Back to top

Backflow PreventerPlumbing & Drain: A valve that stops used or contaminated water from flowing backward into your clean drinking-water supply. Many Texas cities require them on irrigation systems and some appliances, and often mandate annual testing by a licensed tester.
BacksplashRemodeling & Renovation: The protective, often decorative surface on the wall behind a countertop, most common between kitchen counters and upper cabinets. It shields the wall from water and grease and is usually priced separately from the countertop, by material and square footage.
Bid vs. Estimate vs. QuoteHiring, Contracts & Permits: An estimate is an educated guess of cost that can change, a quote is usually a firm price the contractor commits to, and a bid is a formal price offered to win the job. Knowing which one you have tells you whether the final bill can move, so ask directly whether a number is fixed or approximate.
Blower-Door TestSolar & Energy Efficiency: A diagnostic test where a technician mounts a calibrated fan in an exterior doorway to measure how leaky your home is and pinpoint where air is escaping. It's the standard way to prove how much air sealing you need and to verify the improvement afterward; many energy audits and efficiency rebates require one.
BondedHiring, Contracts & Permits: Means a contractor has purchased a surety bond, a third-party guarantee that pays out if they fail to finish the job or don't meet obligations like paying suppliers. It gives you a source of recovery beyond just the contractor's promise, though the bond amount is often capped and a claim process is required.
BTU (British Thermal Unit)Heating & Cooling (HVAC): A BTU is a unit of heat — one BTU is roughly the energy to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In HVAC quotes, cooling and heating capacity are given in BTUs per hour, so a bigger BTU number means more heating or cooling output.

C Back to top

CapacitorHeating & Cooling (HVAC): A capacitor is a small cylindrical component that gives the motors and compressor the jolt of energy they need to start and keep running. It's one of the most common AC failures, especially in Texas heat, and a relatively inexpensive fix — a failed capacitor often shows up as a unit that hums but won't start.
Certificate of Insurance (COI)Hiring, Contracts & Permits: A one-page document from an insurer confirming a contractor's active coverage, its limits, and its dates. Ask for it before work begins and, for added assurance, have the insurer send it to you directly so you know the policy is current and not expired.
Change OrderRemodeling & Renovation: A written amendment to your contract that documents any change to the agreed work, price, or timeline after the job has started. Insist that every change be captured in a signed change order before the work is done, so verbal "while we're at it" additions don't turn into surprise charges.
Circuit BreakerElectrical: A switch inside your panel that automatically flips off when a circuit draws too much power or faults, protecting the wiring from overheating. When a breaker 'trips,' you reset it by flipping it fully off and then back on; one that trips repeatedly signals an overload or a problem worth investigating.
CleanoutPlumbing & Drain: A capped, accessible pipe fitting that gives a plumber a direct entry point into your drain or sewer line to clear clogs and run a camera. Knowing where your cleanout is (often near the foundation or in the yard) can save time and money on a service call.
CompressorHeating & Cooling (HVAC): The compressor is the pump inside the outdoor unit that pressurizes and circulates refrigerant — it's the heart of the system and usually its most expensive single part. When a compressor fails on an older unit, replacing the whole system is often more sensible than repairing it.
CondenserHeating & Cooling (HVAC): The condenser is the outdoor unit of your AC or heat pump — the big box with a fan that releases the heat pulled from inside your house. Keeping it clear of leaves, grass clippings, and shrubs helps it run efficiently and last longer.
ContactorHeating & Cooling (HVAC): The contactor is an electrical switch in the outdoor unit that turns the compressor and fan on when the thermostat calls for cooling. It's a common wear item; when it sticks or its contacts burn out, the outdoor unit may not start or may not shut off, and it's usually an affordable repair.
CSST (Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing)Roofing, Gas & Structural: CSST is a flexible, yellow- or black-jacketed stainless steel pipe used to run natural gas or propane through a home, replacing rigid black-iron pipe on many newer jobs. It installs faster and bends around framing, but it must be properly bonded and grounded so a nearby lightning strike can't puncture it, so ask that the electrical bonding be included and inspected.

D Back to top

Dedicated CircuitElectrical: A circuit that runs to a single appliance or outlet with nothing else sharing it, so a power-hungry item has its own breaker. Codes require them for things like refrigerators, microwaves, ovens, HVAC, and EV chargers to prevent nuisance trips and overheating.
DegradationSolar & Energy Efficiency: The gradual, expected decline in how much power solar panels produce as they age, often around a fraction of a percent per year. It's why manufacturers offer a production warranty guaranteeing panels will still make a stated percentage of their original output (commonly 80–90%) after 25 years.
Demand ChargeSolar & Energy Efficiency: A fee on some electric plans based on your single highest moment of power use during the billing period, rather than your total energy used. It's more common on commercial bills but appears on some residential plans, and it's important with solar because a home battery can shave those peaks and reduce the charge.
Draw Schedule (Progress Payments)Hiring, Contracts & Permits: A payment plan that ties portions of the total price to completed stages of work rather than paying everything up front. A fair schedule keeps the amount you've paid roughly in line with work actually finished, so you retain leverage and aren't overexposed if the contractor stops showing up.
Drip EdgeRoofing, Gas & Structural: Drip edge is a metal strip installed along the edges of the roof that directs runoff into the gutters and away from the fascia and decking. It's inexpensive, required by most modern codes, and prevents rot along the roof's perimeter, so confirm it's included in any re-roofing quote.
DrywallRemodeling & Renovation: The panels of gypsum board (sometimes called Sheetrock, a brand name) that form most interior walls and ceilings. Contractors quote it in stages: hanging the boards, then taping, mudding, and sanding the seams to a smooth finish, so ask which of those steps a price includes.
DuctworkHeating & Cooling (HVAC): Ductwork is the network of channels that carries heated and cooled air from the indoor unit to the rooms of your home and back. Leaky, crushed, or poorly insulated ducts — common in Texas attics — can waste a large share of your system's output, so duct condition matters as much as the equipment itself.

E Back to top

EgressRemodeling & Renovation: A code-required exit path for escaping in an emergency, most often referring to a window large enough to climb out of. Any room used or converted into a bedroom typically must have an egress window or door, so factor this in when finishing a basement or converting a room.
ENERGY STARSolar & Energy Efficiency: A government-backed label identifying appliances, HVAC equipment, windows, and whole homes that meet energy-efficiency standards. Choosing ENERGY STAR products lowers your utility bills and can sometimes qualify you for utility rebates or tax incentives, which is especially valuable given Texas cooling costs.
Evaporator CoilHeating & Cooling (HVAC): The evaporator coil is the indoor coil (usually above or inside the furnace or air handler) where refrigerant absorbs heat and moisture from your home's air, making it cold. A dirty or frozen evaporator coil is a common cause of weak airflow and an AC that runs but won't cool.
Expansion TankPlumbing & Drain: A small tank added near your water heater that absorbs the extra pressure created as water heats and expands. It is often required by code on closed systems (those with a PRV or check valve) to protect the water heater and plumbing from pressure damage and to stop the temperature-and-pressure relief valve from leaking.
Expansive (Clay) SoilRoofing, Gas & Structural: Expansive soil is clay-heavy ground that swells when wet and shrinks when dry, and it's extremely common across much of Texas. This constant movement is a major cause of foundation cracks and doors that stick, which is why keeping soil moisture even — through drainage, grading, and sometimes soaker hoses in drought — is central to protecting a slab.

F Back to top

Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC)Solar & Energy Efficiency: The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a federal income-tax credit for a percentage of your solar system's cost, which reduces the taxes you owe rather than paying you cash. You generally must own the system (cash or loan, not a lease or PPA) to claim it, and because tax rules change, confirm the current percentage and your eligibility with a tax professional.
FlashingRoofing, Gas & Structural: Flashing is the thin metal (usually aluminum or galvanized steel) installed where a roof meets something else — chimneys, walls, vents, valleys, and skylights — to channel water away from those seams. Most roof leaks start at failed or improperly installed flashing rather than the shingles themselves, so it's a key thing to inspect and to confirm is being replaced during a re-roof.
FootingRemodeling & Renovation: The wide concrete base below ground that spreads a structure's weight onto stable soil and anchors the foundation. Additions, load-bearing posts, and new porches need footings sized and poured to code, and in Texas the soil's tendency to expand and shrink makes proper footings especially important.
FramingRemodeling & Renovation: The wooden or metal skeleton of walls, floors, and roofs that everything else attaches to. In a remodel, "rough framing" is the stage where the new layout takes physical shape before drywall, wiring, and plumbing go in.
French DrainRoofing, Gas & Structural: A French drain is a gravel-filled trench with a perforated pipe that collects groundwater and routes it away from your home. It's a common fix for a yard that stays soggy or water that pools near the foundation, and it's often recommended alongside regrading to protect a slab from moisture-driven movement.

G Back to top

Gas Leak DetectionRoofing, Gas & Structural: Gas leak detection is the process a contractor uses to find escaping natural gas or propane, typically a pressure (pressurization) test on the lines plus an electronic sniffer or soapy-water bubble test at fittings. If you smell rotten eggs (the odorant added to gas), leave the home and call the gas utility first; any confirmed leak repair should be pressure-tested and often permitted before the gas is turned back on.
General Liability InsuranceHiring, Contracts & Permits: Coverage that pays for property damage or injury a contractor causes while working on your home, such as a burst pipe or a damaged floor. If a contractor lacks it, you could end up personally on the hook for accidents on your project, so ask for a certificate of insurance before work starts.
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)Electrical: A fast-acting outlet or breaker that cuts power in a fraction of a second when it senses electricity leaking to an unintended path, such as through a person. Code requires them near water, so you'll see them in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoors; the outlet has 'Test' and 'Reset' buttons.
Grading and DrainageRoofing, Gas & Structural: Grading refers to how the soil around your home is sloped, and proper drainage means the ground carries rainwater away from the foundation rather than toward it. Poor grading is a leading cause of foundation and moisture problems in Texas, so the soil should slope downward for the first several feet out from the house.
Grounding and BondingElectrical: Grounding gives stray or fault electricity a safe path into the earth, and bonding ties metal parts of your electrical system together so they can't hold a dangerous voltage. Together they reduce shock and fire risk and are what makes the third (round) prong on outlets protective; inspectors check them closely.
Grout vs. CaulkRemodeling & Renovation: Grout is the rigid, cement-based filler between tiles, while caulk is a flexible, waterproof sealant used where two surfaces meet, such as where a tile wall meets the tub or countertop. Using flexible caulk in corners and along edges prevents the cracking you get when rigid grout is used there instead.

H Back to top

Hard WaterPlumbing & Drain: Water with a high level of dissolved minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium, which is very common across much of Texas. Over time it leaves scale buildup that clogs fixtures, shortens water heater life, and causes spotty dishes, which is why many homeowners install water softeners.
HeaderRemodeling & Renovation: A reinforcing beam installed above a door, window, or other opening to carry the weight that the removed wall section can no longer support. Widening a doorway or adding a window in a load-bearing wall means installing a properly sized header, which drives part of the cost.
Heat PumpHeating & Cooling (HVAC): A heat pump is an all-in-one system that both cools and heats your home by moving heat rather than burning fuel — in summer it works like an air conditioner, and in winter it reverses to pull warmth from outside air. They're a popular, energy-efficient choice in most of Texas because winters are mild enough for them to heat effectively.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)Heating & Cooling (HVAC): HVAC is the whole system that heats, cools, and circulates air in your home — the outdoor unit, indoor unit, ductwork, and thermostat working together. When a contractor talks about "your HVAC," they mean all of it, not just the air conditioner.
Hydro JettingPlumbing & Drain: A drain-cleaning method that uses a high-pressure water stream to scour the inside of pipes, clearing grease, sludge, scale, and even tree roots. Plumbers recommend it for stubborn or recurring clogs that a basic snake only pushes through temporarily.

I Back to top

Interconnection AgreementSolar & Energy Efficiency: The contract with your utility that authorizes your solar system to connect to and feed power into the electric grid. You typically can't legally turn the system on until this is approved, so ask your installer who handles the paperwork and how long approval usually takes, since delays are common.
Inverter (String vs Micro)Solar & Energy Efficiency: An inverter converts the direct current (DC) your solar panels make into the alternating current (AC) your home uses. A string inverter is one central unit wired to many panels (cheaper, but shade or a problem on one panel drags down the whole string), while microinverters sit under each panel so they perform independently (more resilient and better for partly shaded roofs, usually at higher cost).

J Back to top

JoistRemodeling & Renovation: One of the repeating horizontal beams that support a floor or ceiling, spaced evenly across a span. Their size and spacing determine how much weight a floor can hold, which is why heavy additions like a stone countertop island or a large tub can require extra reinforcement.

K Back to top

Knob-and-Tube WiringElectrical: An early wiring method, common in homes built before the 1950s, that uses ceramic knobs and tubes to route wires and has no ground conductor. It can still be safe when undisturbed, but it's often brittle, unsafe to bury in insulation, and many insurers won't cover a home with it, so it's frequently recommended for replacement.
kW vs kWhSolar & Energy Efficiency: A kilowatt (kW) is a measure of power (how much electricity your solar system can produce at a given moment), while a kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a measure of energy (how much it actually produces or you use over time). Your system size is quoted in kW, but your electric bill and solar savings are measured in kWh, so both numbers matter when comparing quotes.

L Back to top

Level 2 EV Charger CircuitElectrical: A dedicated 240-volt circuit (similar to what an electric dryer or oven uses) installed so an electric vehicle can charge far faster than a standard wall outlet. Installation typically means running a new heavy-gauge circuit from your panel, and your home may need enough spare capacity or a panel upgrade to support it.
Licensed & InsuredHiring, Contracts & Permits: A contractor who holds the state or local license their trade requires and carries active insurance covering their work and injuries on your property. It's the baseline you should verify before hiring, because it means someone stands behind the job and you're not left paying for their mistakes or accidents.
Lien WaiverHiring, Contracts & Permits: A signed document in which a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier gives up their right to file a lien against your home for work they've been paid for. Collecting waivers as you make each payment protects you from paying twice if your general contractor doesn't pass money down to the people below them.
LoadElectrical: The total amount of power all your devices and appliances draw from a circuit or from the whole home at a given time. Electricians perform a 'load calculation' before adding big equipment to confirm your panel and wiring can handle it safely without overloading.
Load Calculation (Manual J)Heating & Cooling (HVAC): A load calculation (the industry standard is called Manual J) figures out exactly how much heating and cooling your specific home needs, based on its size, insulation, windows, and orientation. A reputable contractor does one before recommending equipment size — sizing by square footage or by matching the old unit often leads to a system that's too big, short cycles, and controls humidity poorly.
Load-Bearing WallRemodeling & Renovation: A wall that holds up the weight of the structure above it, such as the roof or a second floor. It matters because removing or altering one during a remodel requires an engineer, a permit, and a replacement beam to carry the load, so it costs far more than taking out an ordinary partition wall.
LVP FlooringRemodeling & Renovation: LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) is a durable, waterproof synthetic flooring made to look like wood planks. It is popular in remodels for kitchens, baths, and busy households because it resists water and scratches and often clicks together over the existing subfloor without glue or nails.

M Back to top

Mechanic's LienHiring, Contracts & Permits: A legal claim a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier can place against your property if they aren't paid for work or materials, even if you already paid your general contractor. In Texas it can cloud your title and complicate a sale, which is why lien waivers and paying against proof of payment matter.
MERV Rating (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value)Heating & Cooling (HVAC): MERV rates how effectively an air filter captures airborne particles, on a scale from about 1 to 16 — higher numbers trap smaller particles like pollen and dust. Most homes do well with a MERV 8–13 filter; going too high without a system designed for it can restrict airflow and strain the equipment.
Meter BaseElectrical: The weatherproof enclosure on the outside of your home that holds the utility's electric meter and connects the utility's wires to your panel. It's owned partly by you and partly by the utility, so replacing or upgrading it, often part of a service upgrade, usually requires coordination with the power company and a permit.
MonocrystallineSolar & Energy Efficiency: A type of solar panel made from single-crystal silicon cells, recognizable by their uniform black look. They are the most common residential choice because they're generally more efficient and space-saving than older polycrystalline (blue, speckled) panels, which matters when you have limited roof area.
Mud Jacking (Slab Jacking)Roofing, Gas & Structural: Mud jacking is a repair that lifts a sunken concrete slab — a driveway, patio, or section of foundation — by pumping a slurry of mud or cement underneath to raise it back to level. It's usually cheaper than replacing the concrete or installing piers, though for a whole-house foundation the right fix depends on how much and why the slab has settled.

N Back to top

Net Metering / BuybackSolar & Energy Efficiency: A billing arrangement where your utility or retail electricity provider credits you for extra solar power your panels send back to the grid. Texas has no statewide net metering mandate, so credit rates vary a lot by provider and plan; ask exactly what your buyback rate is before signing, because it heavily affects your solar payback.
Neutral and Hot WiresElectrical: In standard home wiring the 'hot' wire (usually black) carries power to a device and the 'neutral' wire (usually white) carries it back to complete the circuit, while the ground wire is a safety-only path. Mixing them up is a shock and fire hazard, which is one reason electrical work should be done or verified by a licensed pro.

P Back to top

P-TrapPlumbing & Drain: The curved, U-shaped pipe section under a sink, tub, or shower drain that holds a small pool of water to block sewer gases and odors from rising into your home. If a drain smells bad or a rarely-used fixture stinks, a dry or clogged P-trap is often the reason.
Payback PeriodSolar & Energy Efficiency: The number of years it takes for your electricity savings to equal what you paid for the solar system, after which the power is essentially free. A shorter payback is better; be cautious of quotes that reach a short payback only by assuming ideal buyback rates, rising utility prices, or credits you may not qualify for.
PermitRemodeling & Renovation: Official approval from your city or county to do specific construction work, followed by inspections to confirm it meets code. Structural changes, electrical, plumbing, and additions typically require one, and pulling it is the contractor's job; unpermitted work can create problems when you later sell or insure the home.
Permit & InspectionHiring, Contracts & Permits: A permit is official permission from your city or county to do certain work, and an inspection is the follow-up check that it meets code. Pulling permits is usually the contractor's job for larger projects like electrical, plumbing, roofing, or structural work; skipping them can create safety hazards and problems when you sell or file an insurance claim.
Permit and InspectionElectrical: Official approval from your city or county to do electrical work, followed by a check from an inspector to confirm it meets safety code. Reputable contractors pull permits for panel changes, new circuits, and rewires; permitted work protects your safety, your insurance coverage, and your ability to sell the home later.
PEX vs. CopperPlumbing & Drain: The two most common materials for water supply lines: PEX is flexible plastic tubing that installs fast and resists freeze-bursting, while copper is a rigid metal that is long-proven and heat-tolerant but costs more and can corrode with certain water. For most Texas repipes PEX is now the budget-friendly default, though some homeowners still prefer copper for exposed or high-heat runs.
Pier and Beam vs. Slab FoundationRoofing, Gas & Structural: A slab foundation is a solid concrete pad poured directly on the ground, while pier-and-beam raises the house on concrete or steel piers with a crawl space underneath. Slabs are common in newer Texas homes and cheaper to build, but pier-and-beam gives easier access to plumbing and can be more forgiving on the shifting clay soils found across much of the state.
PPA vs Cash vs LoanSolar & Energy Efficiency: These are the three main ways to pay for solar: buying outright with cash (highest upfront cost, best long-term savings, and you can claim the tax credit), financing with a loan (little or no money down but you pay interest), or a power purchase agreement or lease (a company owns the panels on your roof and you just buy the power, so you get no tax credit and often smaller savings). Ownership is the key difference to understand before signing.
PRV (Pressure Reducing Valve)Plumbing & Drain: A valve installed where the city water line enters your home that lowers incoming water pressure to a safe level, usually around 50–75 psi. Too-high pressure can damage fixtures, appliances, and pipes, so a failing PRV often shows up as banging, leaks, or running toilets.
Punch ListRemodeling & Renovation: The final list of small items a contractor must fix or finish before the job is considered complete, such as touch-up paint, a sticky door, or missing trim. Walk the project with your contractor to build this list, and consider withholding a final payment until every item is done.

R Back to top

R-ValueRemodeling & Renovation: R-Value is a measure of how well insulation resists heat flow, so a higher number insulates better. In Texas attics, homeowners commonly see recommendations in the R-30 to R-49+ range to keep cooling bills down during long, hot summers.
ReferencesHiring, Contracts & Permits: Contact information for a contractor's past customers, ideally from jobs similar to yours and completed within the last year or two. Actually calling them, and when possible seeing the finished work, tells you far more about reliability and cleanup than a website gallery, so treat a refusal to provide any as a warning sign.
Refrigerant (R-410A / R-22)Heating & Cooling (HVAC): Refrigerant is the chemical that cycles through your AC or heat pump, absorbing heat indoors and releasing it outdoors. Older systems use R-22 ("Freon"), which is phased out and expensive to top off, while newer systems use R-410A or the latest lower-emission blends; if a contractor says your system "needs a recharge" repeatedly, you likely have a leak that should be fixed, not just refilled.
RetainageHiring, Contracts & Permits: A percentage of each payment, often around 5–10 percent, that you hold back until the job is fully complete and passes final inspection. It gives the contractor an incentive to finish punch-list items and correct defects rather than disappearing once the bulk of the money is paid.
Roof Decking (Sheathing)Roofing, Gas & Structural: Decking, or sheathing, is the layer of plywood or OSB boards nailed to the roof rafters that everything else — underlayment and shingles — attaches to. If it's rotted or soft, it must be replaced during a re-roof; contracts often price this per sheet as an add-on because the damage isn't visible until the old roof comes off.
Roofing UnderlaymentRoofing, Gas & Structural: Underlayment is the water-resistant layer rolled over the roof deck before shingles go on, acting as a second line of defense if water gets past the shingles. It comes as traditional felt or newer synthetic sheets, and a peel-and-stick "ice and water" membrane is often added in valleys and along eaves; a quote should say which type is being used.
RooterPlumbing & Drain: A drain-cleaning tool, often a motorized cable with a cutting head (also called a snake or auger), used to break up and pull out clogs like tree roots and grease inside pipes. "Rooter service" generally means mechanical clearing of a blocked drain, as opposed to high-pressure hydro jetting.

S Back to top

Sacrificial Anode RodRoofing, Gas & Structural: A sacrificial anode is a metal rod inside a tank water heater that corrodes on purpose so the steel tank doesn't, greatly extending the heater's life. Replacing a worn anode every few years is cheap insurance against a rusted-out tank; in areas with hard or softened water it wears faster, so it's worth checking during service.
Scope of WorkRemodeling & Renovation: The section of your contract that spells out exactly what the contractor will and will not do, including materials, brands, and who handles cleanup and permits. A detailed scope is your best protection against disputes, because anything not written here is generally not included in the price.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)Solar & Energy Efficiency: A rating of how efficiently an air conditioner or heat pump cools over a season, with higher numbers meaning lower running costs; modern units often range from 14 to 20+. Because cooling dominates Texas energy bills, SEER (and the newer SEER2 standard) is a key spec to compare when replacing an HVAC system, since a more efficient unit can meaningfully cut what you spend to cool your home.
SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2)Heating & Cooling (HVAC): SEER2 measures how efficiently an air conditioner or heat pump cools over a season — the higher the number, the less electricity it uses for the same cooling. It's the current federal rating (replacing the older SEER) tested under tougher conditions, and new units in the South are often rated around 14–20+; a higher SEER2 usually costs more upfront but lowers your summer electric bills.
Service Panel (Breaker Box)Electrical: The metal box, usually in a garage, closet, or utility area, that receives power from the utility and splits it into the individual circuits that feed your home, each protected by its own breaker. It's the main on/off point for your home's electricity and the heart of most electrical upgrades.
Sewer Camera InspectionPlumbing & Drain: A service where the plumber feeds a waterproof video camera down your sewer or drain line to see the exact condition and location of a problem, such as roots, cracks, bellies, or blockages. It is worth requesting before buying a home or before authorizing expensive digging, so you pay to fix the real issue.
Short CyclingHeating & Cooling (HVAC): Short cycling is when your AC or furnace turns on and off in quick bursts instead of running steady cycles. It signals a problem — an oversized system, low refrigerant, a dirty filter, or a failing part — and it wastes energy while wearing out the equipment, so it's worth having diagnosed.
Shut-Off ValvePlumbing & Drain: A valve that stops water flow to a single fixture (like a toilet or sink) or to the whole house. Knowing where your main shut-off is lets you quickly stop a leak or burst pipe before it floods, which matters during Texas freezes.
Slab LeakPlumbing & Drain: A water leak in a pipe running beneath your home's concrete foundation slab, common in Texas where many homes are built slab-on-grade. Warning signs include an unexplained high water bill, warm spots on the floor, the sound of running water, or cracks in the slab, and it usually needs prompt professional attention.
SoffitRemodeling & Renovation: The finished underside of an overhang, most often the boxed-in area under the roof's edge at the eaves, and sometimes the lowered box above kitchen cabinets. Roof soffits usually contain vents that let the attic breathe, so damaged soffits can lead to moisture, heat, and pest problems in Texas attics.
Soffit and FasciaRoofing, Gas & Structural: The fascia is the vertical board running along the roof's edge (where gutters mount), and the soffit is the panel tucking underneath the overhang. Together they close off and ventilate the roof edge; vented soffits let the attic breathe, and rotted or damaged fascia is a common repair that also invites pests and water if ignored.
Solar Battery / BackupSolar & Energy Efficiency: A battery stores solar energy so you can use it at night, during peak-price hours, or when the grid goes down. Note that most grid-tied solar without a battery shuts off in an outage for safety, so if keeping the lights on during Texas storms is your goal, you specifically need battery backup, not just panels.
Solar Panel WattageSolar & Energy Efficiency: The power rating stamped on each individual panel (for example 400W), which tells you how much electricity that panel produces under standard test conditions. Multiplying wattage by the number of panels gives your system's total size, so it's useful for sanity-checking that a quoted system actually fits your roof and your energy needs.
Square (Roofing)Roofing, Gas & Structural: A square is the roofing industry's unit of area equal to 100 square feet, used to measure and price a roof. A typical Texas house might be 20–35 squares, so knowing your roof's square count helps you compare material and labor quotes on an apples-to-apples basis.
Static PressureHeating & Cooling (HVAC): Static pressure is the resistance to airflow inside your ductwork, similar to blood pressure for your HVAC system. High static pressure — from undersized ducts, a clogged filter, or closed vents — strains the blower, weakens airflow, and shortens equipment life, so a technician may measure it when diagnosing comfort or efficiency problems.
SubcontractorHiring, Contracts & Permits: A specialized worker or crew that your main contractor hires to handle part of the job, such as electrical or tile work. Your general contractor is responsible for managing and paying them, but unpaid subs can still lien your home, so it's smart to confirm they've been paid before making final payment.
SubfloorRemodeling & Renovation: The structural layer of plywood or OSB that sits on the floor joists and supports your finished flooring above it. If a quote mentions replacing the subfloor, it usually means water damage or rot was found underneath, which is a legitimate added cost rather than an upsell.
SubpanelElectrical: A smaller secondary breaker box fed from the main panel, used to conveniently distribute circuits to a specific area like a garage, workshop, addition, or detached building. It doesn't add capacity on its own; it organizes and extends the power your main service already provides.
Sump PumpPlumbing & Drain: A pump set in a pit (sump basin), usually in a basement or crawl space, that automatically pumps out water that collects there to prevent flooding. They are less common in slab-on-grade Texas homes but valuable where crawl spaces or low areas take on water during heavy rain.

T Back to top

Tankless vs. Tank Water HeaterPlumbing & Drain: A tank water heater stores and constantly keeps 40–75 gallons of hot water ready, while a tankless (on-demand) unit heats water instantly as it flows, only when you need it. Tankless models save space and can lower energy bills and never "run out," but cost more upfront and may need larger gas lines or electrical upgrades.
TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)Hiring, Contracts & Permits: The state agency that licenses and regulates many Texas trades, including electricians, HVAC and air conditioning contractors, and others. You can look up a contractor's license status and any complaints on the TDLR website, a quick free check before you hire.
TDLR Electrical LicenseElectrical: In Texas, electricians are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), which issues credentials such as Master Electrician, Journeyman, and licensed Electrical Contractor. Hiring a TDLR-licensed contractor means the work is done by someone the state has vetted and who can legally pull the required permits; you can verify a license number on the TDLR website.
TDLR License (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)Heating & Cooling (HVAC): In Texas, HVAC contractors must hold a state ACR (Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) license issued through the TDLR to legally install or repair systems. Asking for a license number lets you verify a contractor is properly credentialed and insured before hiring — you can check it on the TDLR website.
Thermostat TypesHeating & Cooling (HVAC): Thermostats range from basic manual dials to programmable models (schedules by time of day) to smart Wi-Fi thermostats you control by phone and that learn your habits. Smart thermostats can trim energy use and some Texas utilities offer rebates, but the bigger factor is matching the thermostat to your system — single-stage, two-stage, or heat pump equipment each need compatible controls.
TonnageHeating & Cooling (HVAC): Tonnage is the cooling capacity of an air conditioner or heat pump, measured in "tons" — one ton removes about 12,000 BTUs of heat per hour (the term dates back to blocks of ice, not weight). Most Texas homes use systems in the 2- to 5-ton range, and the right size comes from a proper load calculation, not a rule of thumb.
TPR Valve (Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve)Plumbing & Drain: A safety valve on a water heater that automatically releases water if temperature or pressure inside the tank climbs too high, preventing a dangerous rupture. If it drips or discharges, it should never be capped or plugged; have a plumber diagnose the underlying pressure or temperature problem.
Trenchless RepairPlumbing & Drain: A way to fix or replace underground sewer and water lines with little or no digging, using methods like pipe bursting (pulling a new pipe through the old one) or cured-in-place lining (forming a new pipe inside the old one). It typically spares your yard, driveway, and landscaping compared with traditional trench excavation, though not every pipe qualifies.

V Back to top

VanityRemodeling & Renovation: The bathroom cabinet that holds the sink, usually combined with a countertop and storage underneath. Cost swings widely based on size, material, and whether the top and faucet are included, so confirm exactly what a vanity quote covers.
Vapor BarrierRoofing, Gas & Structural: A vapor barrier is a plastic or foil sheet that blocks moisture from moving through walls, floors, or crawl spaces, helping prevent mold, rot, and musty air. In Texas it's commonly used in crawl spaces and behind exterior walls; correct placement matters, because a barrier installed on the wrong side can trap moisture instead of stopping it.
Voltage DropElectrical: The loss of electrical 'pressure' that happens as power travels a long distance through a wire, which can leave far-off circuits underpowered. Electricians account for it by using thicker wire on long runs, such as to a detached garage or a well pump, so lights don't dim and motors run properly.

W Back to top

Warranty vs. GuaranteeHiring, Contracts & Permits: A warranty is typically a written, specific promise to repair or replace defects for a set period, while a guarantee is often a broader, sometimes verbal assurance of satisfaction. Because only written terms are reliably enforceable, get the coverage period, what's included, and who honors it (contractor or manufacturer) in writing.
Water HammerPlumbing & Drain: The banging or knocking noise in pipes when you shut off a faucet or an appliance valve closes suddenly, caused by fast-moving water slamming to a stop. Beyond the noise it can stress pipes and joints over time; it is usually fixed with air chambers or small shock-absorbing devices called water hammer arrestors.
Water SoftenerPlumbing & Drain: A whole-home system that removes hardness minerals from your water, usually by exchanging them for sodium or potassium, to reduce scale buildup and improve soap performance. In Texas's hard-water regions it can extend the life of water heaters, faucets, and appliances, though it needs periodic salt refills and maintenance.
Weep HolesRoofing, Gas & Structural: Weep holes are the small gaps left open in the bottom course of a brick wall that let water drain out and air circulate behind the brick. They are supposed to be there — don't let anyone seal them — but they should be screened or protected so insects and rodents can't use them as an entry point.
Wet RoomRemodeling & Renovation: A fully waterproofed bathroom where the shower area is open to the rest of the room with no curb or enclosure, and the whole floor drains. It offers a sleek, accessible design but costs more because the entire room, not just the shower, must be sealed and sloped correctly.
Whole-Home Surge ProtectorElectrical: A device installed at your main panel that blocks or diverts voltage spikes, such as those from lightning or utility switching, before they reach your circuits. It protects hard-wired electronics and appliances throughout the house and is now required on new panels under recent codes; Texas thunderstorms make it especially worthwhile.
Workers' Compensation (Workers' Comp)Hiring, Contracts & Permits: Insurance that pays for a worker's medical bills and lost wages if they're hurt on your job. Texas does not require most private employers to carry it, so confirm your contractor has it or a valid injury plan; without it, an injured worker could try to make a claim against you as the homeowner.

Ready to start your project?

Post your job on Contractor in Texas and compare free quotes from local pros — no phone calls, no obligation.

Post your project