Learning Ahead.
Read the reference materials below to clarify the meaning of technical or specialized terms to take your next DIY adventure beyond expectations. Click on the letters below to jump into that section of the glossary. 👇
A word of caution…
this glossary needs to be more exhaustive. I update the terms in tandem with publishing related content on the website. So, while it’s a valuable companion, you may need to go elsewhere to find an exhaustive list of common terms. But stay tuned as more terminology is added to the list as my curiosity for successful DIY projects continues!
A – D
A carpet tack strip (tack strip or gripper strip) is a narrow strip of wood or metal used to attach and secure carpeting to the subfloor along a room’s edges. Typically featuring small, pointed tacks or nails angled toward the wall, these strips grip the carpet backing and keep the carpet taut and in place. Read about the removal process.
E – H
In the context of removing nails, the fulcrum is where the tool rests against the surface from which the nail is removed. When you use end-cutting pliers, the curved design acts as the fulcrum. The fulcrum point provides the leverage needed to lift the nail out as you apply force to the handle. This principle of leverage allows you to exert a greater force on the nail than you use on the tool’s handle, making nail removal more efficient and requiring less physical strength. Read about removing nails from wood.
I – L
Content will be coming at some point in the future.
M – P
Ope is a colloquial expression often used as an informal and light-hearted way to acknowledge a mistake or an unexpected situation. It is commonly used in the Midwest region of the United States and is accompanied by a slight, surprised exclamation. It’s a versatile term used to express mild surprise, apology, or to draw attention to a minor mishap.
Q – T
Subflooring is a foundational surface onto which finished flooring, such as hardwood, laminate, carpet, or tile, is later installed. The sub-floor also plays a crucial role in distributing the load of the floor covering and any applied loads (furniture, foot traffic, etc.) evenly across the floor joists. Read about carpet removal.
U – X
Content will be coming at some point in the future.
Y + Z
Content will be coming at some point in the future.
If you have any questions, comments, or whatnot…
Let me know! I might pursue a new DIY project because you asked nicely.