SimplifyDIY Glossary: D
Dado rail
A wooden moulding fixed to the wall or capping panelling and forming the top most part of a dado. Originally designed to avoid damage to the wall where people or furniture brushed against it.
Damp proof course
Layer of impervious material (mineral felt, pvc etc) incorporated into a wall and designed to prevent dampness rising up the wall or lateral dampness around windows, doors etc. Various proprietary methods are available for damp-proofing existing walls including "Electro-osmosis" and chemical injection.
Damp proof membrane
A layer of impervious material (mineral felt, pvc etc) incorporated into a wall and designed to prevent dampness rising up the wall or lateral dampness around windows, doors etc.
Deal
Name for softwood that has been sawn square.
Deathwatch beetle (Xestobiunz rufovllosum)
Extremely serious insect pest which attacks structural timbers. Usually effects old hardwoods with fungal decay already present.
Defects period
The period of time during which any defect in building works remains the responsibilty of the contractor to correct, usually free of charge. This is usually 6 months and must be written into the contract to apply.
Distemper
Traditional paint made from water, glue and pigments; it is powdery to the touch and can be wiped off with a damp cloth. To redecorate, the distemper must be removed by washing or scraping or sealed with a stabilising solution to allow the new paint to adhere to the surface.
Double glazing
A method of thermal insulation usually either;
Sealed unit: Two panes of glass fixed and hermetically sealed together
Secondary: In effect a second "window" positioned inside the original window.
Double hung sash window
A window in which the opening lights slide vertically within a cased frame, counter balanced by weights supported on sash cords which pass over pulleys in the frame.
Dowel
A cylindrical wooden peg that secures butt joints in timber by penetrating half way into each wooden member.
Downpipe
A vertical drainage pipe carrying rainwater from guttering to a drain or soakaway.
Drip groove
A groove cut into the underside of an exterior windowsill which prevents rainwater running back to the wall.
Dry rot (Serpula lacrymans)
A very serious form of fungus which attacks structural and joinery timbers, often with devastating results. Can flourish in moist, unventilated areas.
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