SimplifyDIY Glossary: H-I
H
Hardcore
Broken bricks or stone which are compacted to form a hard sub-base to support foundations.
Haunching
Shaped concrete slope beside drainage channel within an inspection chamber; also known as "benching". Term also used to describe the support to a drain underground.
Head
The vertical height of a body of water above a water outlet; used to determine water pressure.
Header
The small end face of a brick.
Header tank
Small tank supplying water to a central heating system.
Heave
An upward movement in foundations caused by swelling of a clay sub-soil due to absorption of too much moisture.
Herringbone
An offset, zigzagging pattern often used in brickwork, paving and parquet flooring.
Hip
The external junction between two intersecting roof slopes.
Hip tile
A saddle shaped or angular tile fitting over the intersection of those roofing tiles which meet at a hip.
Hoggin
A fine, clay-based ballast, used for the sub-base of paving.
Horns
Newly manufactured doors and windows have extended stiles, or horns, so that any damaged corners can be cut off prior to installation.
Housing
A long, narrow channel cut across the general direction of wood grain to form part of a joint.
I
In situ
"In position" - applied to work done in the position where it is finally required, e.g. concrete may be precast in sections which are later taken to the position where they are required or it may be cast 'in situ'.
Inspection chamber
Commonly called the "man-hole": access point to a drain comprising a chamber (of brick, concrete or plastic) with the drainage channel at its base and a removable cover at ground level.
Insulation
Material used to reduce the transmission of heat or sound; also a non-conductive material around electrical wires or connections to prevent the passage of electricity.
Isolating valve
A valve used to shut off water from a particular room or appliance, so as not to have to turn off the entire water system.
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