Outdoor-space glossary
Plain-language definitions for common planning and construction terms.
Attached deck
A deck structurally connected to a building, commonly through a ledger or other designed connection.
Base course
Compacted material beneath a patio surface that distributes load and supports drainage.
Beam
A structural member supporting joists or other loads.
Cantilever
A portion extending beyond its support within approved limits.
Control joint
A planned line intended to manage where concrete cracking occurs.
Flashing
Material arranged to direct water away from vulnerable joints and assemblies.
Guard
A barrier intended to reduce falls at an elevated edge.
Handrail
A graspable rail intended to support users on stairs or ramps.
Ledger
A structural board used to connect an attached deck to building framing.
Permeable paving
A surface system designed to let water pass through openings into a prepared base.
Subgrade
The prepared soil supporting a pavement or slab system.
Wet-service condition
A structural design condition accounting for wood exposed to elevated moisture.