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Summary: Building dicitonary to explain building jargon and terminology from A - Z.
Net price
The lowest price, after all deductions, discounts, etc.
Net weight
The weight of an article, cargo, or other load minus the transporting vehicle.
Network
In CPM (Critical Path Method) terminology, a graphic representation of activities showing their interrelationships.
Neurotoxin
A substance that adversely affects the nervous system or brain.
Neutral
(1) An electrical conductor used as the primary return path for current during normal operation of an electrical device. (2) The centre tap of a three- or four-wire transformer. Neutral cable will carry current when there is an unbalanced load between wires.
Neutral axis
In structural design, an imaginary line in a structural member where no tension, compression, or deformation exist. If holes are to be drilled through a structural member for conduits or pipes, they should be drilled at the neutral axis.
Neutralize
To reduce the pH of an alkali, or to raise the pH of an acid, to approximately 7.0.
Neutralizing
The treatment of concrete, plaster, or masonry surfaces with an acid solution in order to neutralize the lime before application of paint.
Newel
The post supporting a handrail at the top and bottom of a flight of stairs. Also, the centre post of a spiral staircase.
Newel cap
The often decorative top or cap of a newel.
Newel drop
A decorative downward projection of a newel through a soffit.
Newel post
See newel
Nib
Any particle or piece projecting from a surface, particularly used to describe a defect on a painted or varnished surface.
Niche
A recess in a wall, usually intended for statuary. Often a base and a canopy project out from the wall around the recess.
Nickel
A silver-colored, hard ductile metal used in alloys, batteries, and electroplating. Nickel is used extensively on plumbing fixtures, where its anti-corrosive properties are important.
Night latch
A door lock with a spring bolt that cannot be operated from the outside except by a key.
Nippers
A hand tool for cutting wire and small rods.
Nipple
A piece of pipe less than 300mm long and threaded on both ends. Pipe over 300mm long is regarded as a cut measure.
Node
(1) In CPM (Critical Path Method) scheduling, a junction of arrows containing the i-j number, early start, and late finish. (2) In electrical wiring, a junction of several conductors.
Nogging
A horizontal timber member fitted between vertical studs or beams to give lateral support.
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