Remodeling Terminology & Definitions · W

The following is a list of industry related terminology which we at The Remod Squad® thought might be helpful to both homeowners and professionals alike. Definitions will be continually added to this list.

wainscoting

A type of old style wood paneling that doesn't cover the entire height of the wall. It can be individual tongue and groove boards or raised panels. It is trimmed out at the foot with baseboard and the top with chair rail or cap molding. It is usually 36" or 48" high but in some historic installations was 6 or 8 feet high.

wane

Bark, or lack of wood from any cause, on edge or corner of a piece of wood.

water intrusion

A breach in the outer shell of the home allowing for water to intrude without the ability of a drying force to prevent deterioration. Drying capabilities must exceed the rate of saturating—or decay is inevitable.

water-repellent preservative

A liquid designed to penetrate into wood and impart water repellency and a moderate preservative protection. It is used for millwork, such as sash and frames, and is usually applied by dipping.

weatherstrip

Narrow or jamb-width sections of thin metal or other material to prevent infiltration of air and moisture around windows and doors. Compression weather stripping prevents air infiltration, provides tension, and acts as a counter balance.

wood rays

Strips of cells extending radially within a tree and varying in height from a few cells in some species to 4 inches or more in oak. The rays serve primarily to store food and to transport it horizontally in the tree.