Glossary of Architecture and Construction Terms

Below you will find a glossary of common and not so common terms used in architecture and construction industry. We hope you will find this glossary resource helpful when viewing our home plans and browseing through our web site.

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Rake - Refers to the slope of the roof at the end of a gable, where the outside part of the overhang forms an upside down V.

Ranch House Plan - The ranch house plan features single-story living with a variety of exterior facades. The ranch home is a uniquely American house design. Designed to sprawl out across a wide-open lot, the one-story ranch floor plan first appeared in the 1930s and by the early post-WWII years, ranch-style homes and ranch floor plans filled the suburbs, adding the open feel of the country to the city. We offer a wide range of ranch floor plans to suit every preference.

Retirement House plan - Retirement house plans typically are 1 story homes, but many commonly feature a finished basement or finished daylight/walk-out basement. Retirement house plans will usually boast a master suite as well as either a second master or guest suite.

Risers - Height of the step, which varies per house (vertical surface)