Jargon Buster - Letter E

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Earth
An electrical connection to the earth (ground) or a terminal to which the connection is made.

Eaves
Overhang of a roof beyond the wall below.

Efflorescence
A white powdery deposit caused by soluble salts moving to the surface of a wall or ceiling.

Elbow
A right-angled joint used in pipework and ducting.

End Grain
The surface of wood exposed after cutting across the fibres. (See also Grain and Short Grain).

Engineering Brick
Dense, frost resistant brick used in high exposure or underground conditions.

Estimate
A builder's calculation of the cost of a job. Only a formal quote is legally binding and only then if accepted by both parties.

Extension
A room or rooms added to an existing building.

Extension Lead
A length of electrical cable which connects the short permanent flex of an appliance to a wall socket.