Jargon Buster - Letter B

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Back-Siphonage
The backflow of water within a plumbing system caused by the failure of mains water pressure. This can lead to pollution of the water tank.
 
Balanced Flue
A system that allows a heating appliance, for example a boiler, to draw fresh air from, and discharge gases to, the outside of a building.

Ballast
A sand-and-gravel mix sometimes used as aggregate for making concrete.

Baluster
A vertical post that supports a stair handrail.

Balustrade
The safety barrier which runs alongside a staircase or landing.

Banister
The handrail on a staircase.

Barge Board
A timber board that covers the ends of roof timbers, protecting them from rain. They follow the lines of the apex on the gable-end. Also known as Verge Boards or Gable Boards.

Batten
A narrow strip of wood, normally used to fix slates or other sheet materials in place.

Bead
Small moulding with a convex cross-section - normally made of wood.

Beetle Infestation
Often referred to as 'woodworm', this is the larvae of beetles which tunnel into structural timber and wooden furniture, causing damage.

Benching
Smooth concrete slope within an inspection chamber, next to a drainage channel. Also known as Haunching.

Bib Tap
Tap with a horizontal supply e.g. a wall-mounting garden tap.

Bitumen
Black, sticky material, related to asphalt and used in sealants, mineral felts and damp-proof courses.

Blown or Live
Plaster or cement that has become detached from a wall.

Bond
Arrangement of bricks to ensure stable brickwork.

Bore
To drill a hole; the diameter of a pipe or tube.

Breeze Block
Various types of concrete and cement building blocks.

Brick
There are two types of brick: facing bricks are used for any visible exterior wall, common bricks are cheaper and used underground, behind plaster or in the middle of large walls.

British Standards Institute (BSI)
The National Standards body of the UK that works with Government, business and consumers to develop private, national and international standards and to ensure that products and services meet laws and regulations.

Building Line
A length of cord stretched between two points which acts as a marker for building works.

Building Regulations
Under the Building Act 1984, these are the laws that control layout and materials used in building. They aim to ensure strength, durability, health and safety.

Burr
A rough raised edge which may be left on an object after cutting or filing.

Buttercoat
The finishing layer of cement renders.

Buttress or Pier
A vertical projection which thickens a wall to strengthen it.