DIY Glossary - D to F

Dado

The bottom part of an internal wall that has a different décor to the top. Often a Dado Rail, a strip of decorative wood, divides the top and bottom sections of wall.

Damp-Proof Membrane

A layer of waterproof material used to stop moisture rising through concrete floors.

Door Furniture

The name given to anything attached to a door, e.g. handles, knockers, etc.

Dowel

A small peg of round wood used to add strength to wooden joints.

Eaves

The lowest overhanging edge of a sloping roof.

Elbow

A pipe fitting, used to connect two lengths of pipe at a set angle.

Emulsion (Paint)

Water-based paint for covering walls, etc. Dries with a matt finish.

Escutcheon

Metal plate used to surround or line a keyhole.

Fascia

The boards running along the bottom of the eaves. Guttering is usually attached to the fascia.

File

An abrasive metal tool used to smooth or shape wood or metal.

Flashing

Strips of zinc or lead used to seal roofing joints.

Flex

Short term for flexible wire. Generally refers to the wire connecting electrical appliances to the plug.

Flux

A paste added to solder to increase the effectiveness of joints.

Footing

Concrete foundation, upon which a buildings walls are built.

Formwork

A temporary wooden structure used to create a mould for concrete.

Fuse

A safety device designed to break in the event of an electrical overload or fault.

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