DIY & Building Basics DIY Glossary

Date Published:

25/06/2008

Decorating

Acrylic glaze
A water-based milky liquid that remains wet long enough to create a desired decorative effect. It can be coloured and is often applied over a base colour.

Acrylic paint

Suitable for use on wood, these are water based, therefore non-flammable, odourless and less of a risk to health and the environment. Quick drying, unless the day is damp or humid.

Ambient lighting

Low-key background lighting to create a relaxed mood, rather than direct task lighting required for specific functions. Use of shadow is considered as well as the areas that are illuminated.

Artex

A surface coating usually found on ceilings that can be textured in a variety of patterns and then painted. It can be difficult to remove, and care should be taken as Artex from before the mid-1980s may contain lead. For a guide to removing Artex, see Restoring wood, Removing Artex.

Distemper

A traditional finish comprising powdered chalk or whiting, glue size and water. Most paints and wallpapers won’t adhere to it, so brush off loose particles and apply a coat of stablising primer to secure any remaining flakes.

Knotting solution

Applied to knots in wood to seal in the resin and stop it bleeding through and discolouring the finish.

Primer

The first coat applied. A metal primer prevents corrosion, while priming wood reduces the absorption of subsequent layers of paint.

Silicone sealant

Forms a flexible join, for example around the edge of the bath, where regular grout or mortar would crack. Sold in plastic cartridges that slot into applicator guns.

Size

A water-based solution used to seal newly plastered surfaces before hanging wallpaper.

Exteriors

Arris rails
The triangular supports that run horizontally between fenceposts in a closeboard fence. Featherboards are then tacked onto the arris rails.

Barge boards

A part of the roof, they protect the end of the rafters along the gable from the elements.

Damp proof course (DPC)

A layer of impervious material, laid between a course of bricks, to stop moisture rising into the walls of a building, causing damp.

Damp proof membrane (DPM)

A layer of impervious material, laid beneath the floor screed, to stop moisture rising through a concrete floor.

Fascia boards

Part of the roof, these attach to the end of the rafters and hold the guttering.

Finding A Tradesman

Need Expert Help? Find a trusted tradesman in your area using MyBuilder.