Cortona Design Remodeling Glossary (A–Z)
Welcome to our comprehensive remodeling glossary. Whether you’re planning a kitchen renovation, bathroom remodel, or full-home upgrade, these terms will help you navigate your project with confidence.
J
- Joist
- Horizontal structural elements that support floors or ceilings, essential in framing and load distribution.
K
- Kickplate
- The recessed space beneath base cabinets, allowing room for your feet when working at the counter.
- Knob & Pull
- Decorative hardware attached to cabinetry doors and drawers for function and aesthetic appeal.
L
- Laminate
- A synthetic material used in countertops or cabinetry that mimics stone or wood finishes.
- Lintel
- A horizontal support across an opening, such as a door or window, often made of wood or steel.
M
- MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
- An engineered wood product used in cabinetry and trim due to its smooth surface and affordability.
- Mortar
- A bonding agent used to adhere tile or brick surfaces, commonly in backsplashes or masonry work.
N
- Newel Post
- A structural post found at the bottom or top of a staircase that anchors the railing system.
O
- Overhang
- The extension of a countertop beyond the edge of cabinetry, often used to create seating areas.
- Outlet
- An electrical receptacle used for plugging in appliances or devices. GFCI outlets are standard in wet zones.
P
- Plumb
- Perfectly vertical alignment used in walls, framing, and fixture installation.
- Permit
- Official authorization required from local municipalities before beginning construction or remodeling.
Q
- Quartz
- Engineered stone surface used in countertops, known for its durability and wide variety of colors and styles.
R
- Recessed Lighting
- Light fixtures installed into a ceiling cavity, offering a sleek and modern look in kitchens and baths.
- Rough-In
- Initial stage of plumbing or electrical work completed before walls and ceilings are closed.
S
- Soffit
- The area between the top of wall cabinets and the ceiling, often used to conceal ductwork or wiring.
- Subfloor
- The structural layer beneath finished flooring that supports weight and surface material.
T
- Tile Backer Board
- A moisture-resistant board used as a substrate for tile installations in wet areas like bathrooms.
- Trim
- Woodwork that frames doors, windows, and walls, providing finished edges and aesthetic value.
U
- Underlayment
- A layer installed beneath flooring to provide stability, moisture protection, and sound reduction.
- Utility Sink
- A large, durable sink used in laundry rooms or workshops for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
V
- Vanity
- A bathroom cabinet that includes a countertop and sink, often custom-designed in our remodels.
- Vapor Barrier
- Material that prevents moisture from penetrating walls or floors, especially in bathrooms and basements.
W
- Walk-In Shower
- A barrier-free shower area, often used for accessibility and modern aesthetics.
- Work Triangle
- Kitchen layout concept connecting the stove, refrigerator, and sink to optimize workflow.
X
- X-Bracing
- A structural reinforcement technique using crossed supports to stabilize framing and cabinetry.
Y
- Yield
- In material use, refers to the amount of usable product after waste is accounted for—important in flooring and tile planning.
Z
- Z-Flashing
- Metal flashing used to direct water away from building joints, commonly in siding and window installations.
