Reference Library

C

Crawl Space
The shallow space below the floor of a house built above the ground. Generally it is surrounded with the foundation wall.
Crawlspace Vent
An opening to allow the passage of air through the unexcavated area under a first floor. Ideally there should be at least two vents per crawlspace.
Cricket
A device used at roof intersections to divert water.
Cripple
A structural member that is cut less than full length, such as a studding piece above a window or door.
Cross Bracing
Boards nailed diagonally across studs or other boards to make framework rigid.
Crown Molding
A decorative molding used at the top of cabinets, at ceiling corners, and under a roof overhang.
Cul-de-sac
A street or court with no outlet, which provides a circular turn around for vehicles.
Cull
Building material (especially boards) that is rejected because of defects or below useable grade.
Cupola
A small, decorative structure built on the roof of a house. It is often placed over an attached garage and may also be used for ventilating purposes.
Current
Term used to describe electrical flow.
Curtain Wall
An exterior or interior wall, which provides no structural support.