Home Renovation Glossary: Bathroom, Laundry, Kitchen
Dive into our detailed Renovation Glossary tailored for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. This resource covers essential terms related to Bathroom, Laundry, and Kitchen renovations. From understanding the different types of tiles and countertops to familiarizing yourself with various fixtures and appliances, our glossary demystifies complex renovation jargon. Ideal for those planning a remodel or seeking to understand the intricacies of home improvement, our glossary is an invaluable guide. Enhance your renovation knowledge today with our expertly curated terms!
A
Accent Tiles
Decorative tiles used to add visual interest to a bathroom, often featuring different colours, shapes, or designs from the main tiles.
Acrylic
A type of plastic material used in the manufacturing of bathtubs and shower enclosures, known for its durability and ease of maintenance.
ADA Compliance
Refers to the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring that bathroom fixtures and layouts meet standards for accessibility by individuals with disabilities.
Aerator
A device attached to the tip of a faucet to control the flow of water, helping to reduce water use and prevent splashing.
Alcove
A recessed section of a bathroom, commonly used for installing bathtubs or showers.
Ambient Lighting
General lighting that provides overall illumination in a bathroom, as opposed to task or accent lighting.
Apron
The part of a bathtub that covers the front and sometimes sides, hiding the plumbing and providing a finished look.
Asbestos
A hazardous material that was used in older buildings for insulation and other purposes. It’s crucial to test for and safely remove asbestos during renovations.
B
Backsplash
A vertical extension to a counter, typically made of tile, stone, or other materials, designed to protect the wall from water damage.
Bidet
A bathroom fixture used for washing the genital and anal areas.
Built-In
Refers to fixtures or elements that are built into the structure of the bathroom, like cabinets or bathtubs.
Butterfly Sink
A type of double sink that has a shape resembling a butterfly, often used in modern bathroom designs.
Bathtub
A large, often rectangular vessel used for bathing, typically installed in bathrooms.
Butcher Block
A type of countertop made from wood strips bonded together, commonly used in kitchens for its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Base Cabinets
Lower cabinets in kitchens or bathrooms that provide storage space beneath countertops.
Bullnose
Rounded edge trim used for a smooth transition and protection, often seen on countertops and tiles.
C
Closet
A small storage space enclosed by doors, commonly found in bedrooms and laundry rooms for storing clothes and cleaning supplies.
Countertop
A flat surface that is installed in kitchens and bathrooms for food preparation or other tasks.
Caulk
A waterproof filler and sealant used to seal joints and seams around fixtures, countertops, and tiles to prevent water damage.
Cabinetry
Storage units, typically made of wood or laminate, installed in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms for organizing and storing items.
Ceramic Tiles
Tiles made from clay and other minerals, commonly used for flooring, walls, and backsplashes in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
D
Drainage
The system of pipes and fixtures designed to carry wastewater away from sinks, showers, bathtubs, and washing machines.
Drawer Pulls
Handles or knobs attached to drawers in cabinets and vanities for opening and closing them.
Demolition
The process of removing existing structures, fixtures, or finishes in preparation for renovation work.
Double Vanity
A bathroom vanity with two sinks, providing separate washing areas for multiple users.
Dual-flush Toilet
A toilet with two flush options, typically a low-volume flush for liquid waste and a higher-volume flush for solid waste, designed to conserve water.
E
Ensuite
A bathroom that is directly connected to and usually accessible only from a bedroom, often found in master bedrooms.
Edge Profile
The shape or design of the outer edge of a countertop or other surface, which can vary in style and functionality.
Expansion Joint
Enamel Paint
A type of paint with a hard, glossy finish, commonly used on cabinets, trim, and fixtures in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for durability and moisture resistance.
Epoxy Grout
A type of grout used in tile installations that is more durable and resistant to stains and moisture compared to traditional cement-based grout.
Efficient Water Fixtures
Water-saving fixtures such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads designed to reduce water consumption in bathrooms and kitchens.
F
Faucet
A device used to control the flow of water from plumbing fixtures such as sinks, bathtubs, and showers.
Fixtures
Permanent items such as sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Floating Vanity
A bathroom vanity that is mounted to the wall, giving the appearance of floating above the floor, often used to create a modern and spacious look.
Flush Mount Lighting
Ceiling-mounted light fixtures that are installed flush with the ceiling surface, providing overhead illumination in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Floating Shelves
Shelves that are attached to the wall without visible brackets, giving the appearance of floating, often used for storage and display in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Flexible Hose
A hose made of flexible materials such as rubber or plastic, commonly used in plumbing applications to connect fixtures and appliances to water supply lines.
Flooring
The material used to cover the floor surface, such as tile, hardwood, laminate, or vinyl, in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
G
GFCI Outlet
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets, designed to quickly shut off power to prevent electric shock in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Granite Countertop
A natural stone countertop made of granite, known for its durability, heat resistance, and aesthetic appeal, commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms.
Glass Shower Enclosure
A shower enclosure made of glass panels, providing a sleek and modern look while containing water within the shower area.
Garment Steamer
A device used to remove wrinkles and freshen clothing by emitting steam, commonly found in laundry rooms for garment care.
Grid Drain
A type of drain assembly with a grid-like cover, allowing water to flow while catching debris, commonly used in sinks and showers.
Grease Trap
A plumbing device installed in kitchen drains to capture and prevent grease, fats, and oils from entering the wastewater system, reducing the risk of clogs and blockages.
Griddle
A flat cooking surface, often made of metal, installed on stovetops or ranges for cooking foods like pancakes, bacon, or grilled sandwiches in kitchens.
H
Hardware
Various accessories such as handles, knobs, hinges, and drawer pulls used to open, close, and secure cabinets, drawers, and doors in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Hanging Rail
A metal or wooden rail installed on walls or ceilings to hang items such as towels, utensils, or clothing, commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for storage and organization.
Herringbone Pattern
A distinctive pattern created by arranging tiles or flooring material in a zigzag design, commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms to add visual interest and texture.
Handheld Showerhead
A showerhead that is attached to a flexible hose, allowing users to direct the water spray as needed, commonly used in bathrooms for added versatility during showering.
High-Efficiency Washer
A washing machine designed to use less water and energy compared to traditional models, commonly found in laundry rooms to reduce water and utility costs.
Hood Vent
A ventilation system installed above cooking appliances such as stoves or ranges to remove smoke, grease, and cooking odors from the air, commonly found in kitchens.
Hinge
A mechanical device that allows doors and cabinets to pivot or swing open and closed, commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for cabinetry and doors.
I
Inset Cabinet
A cabinet style where the door is set into the frame of the cabinet, creating a flush surface, commonly used in kitchen and bathroom cabinetry for a classic and tailored look.
Integrated Sink
A sink that is seamlessly incorporated into the countertop material, creating a smooth and continuous surface, commonly found in modern kitchen and bathroom designs for a sleek appearance.
In-wall Storage
Storage compartments or shelves built directly into the walls, often concealed behind mirrors or cabinetry, providing additional storage space in bathrooms and sometimes kitchens.
Interlocking Tiles
Tiles designed with edges that fit together like puzzle pieces, allowing for easy installation without the need for adhesive or grout, commonly used in bathroom and laundry room renovations for DIY-friendly flooring options.
Insulation
Material used to prevent the transfer of heat or sound between interior and exterior spaces, commonly installed in walls, ceilings, and floors during bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room renovations to improve energy efficiency and soundproofing.
In-floor Heating
A heating system installed beneath the flooring surface to provide warmth and comfort, commonly used in bathrooms and sometimes kitchens for added luxury and comfort, especially in colder climates.
Island
A freestanding cabinet or countertop unit positioned in the center of a kitchen, providing additional workspace, storage, and seating options, commonly used in kitchen renovations to enhance functionality and aesthetics.
Inset Lighting
Lighting fixtures installed into the ceiling or wall cavity, providing subtle and even illumination, commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for ambient or task lighting purposes.
Instant Hot Water Dispenser
A small faucet installed near the main kitchen sink that delivers hot water on demand, commonly used for quickly preparing hot beverages or instant foods in kitchen renovations.
J
Jetted Tub
A bathtub equipped with built-in jets that propel water to provide a massaging or therapeutic effect, commonly found in luxury bathroom renovations for relaxation and spa-like experiences.
Jamb
The vertical portion of a door or window frame that supports the door or window, commonly installed in bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room renovations for structural support and proper installation of doors and windows.
Junction Box
A container for electrical connections, used to protect and conceal wiring in walls, ceilings, and floors of bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, ensuring safety and compliance with electrical codes.
Joist
A horizontal structural member used to support floors, ceilings, or roofs, commonly found in bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room renovations to provide structural support and stability to the building.
Joint Compound
A plaster-like material used to fill and smooth joints between drywall panels, commonly used in bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room renovations to create seamless and uniform surfaces before painting or tiling.
J-trap
A plumbing fixture used to prevent sewer gases from entering a building while allowing wastewater to flow out, commonly found beneath sinks, showers, and bathtubs in bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room renovations for plumbing installations.
K
Kickboard
A horizontal panel installed at the base of cabinets and vanities in kitchens and bathrooms to conceal the cabinet legs and provide a finished look, also known as a toe kick.
Kerf Cut
A shallow cut made in wood or other materials to create a groove or slot, commonly used in cabinetry and trim work during bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room renovations for various installation purposes.
Knee Wall
A short wall typically found beneath countertops or along staircases, providing support and structure, commonly used in bathroom and kitchen renovations to define spaces and support cabinetry or fixtures.
Knee Space
The open area beneath countertops and vanities that allows for comfortable seating or standing, commonly used in bathroom and kitchen renovations to provide ergonomic workspace and storage options.
Knurled Hardware
Hardware with a textured surface featuring small, raised ridges or bumps, providing improved grip and tactile feedback, commonly used on knobs, handles, and faucets in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for added functionality and style.
Kiln-Dried Wood
Wood that has been dried in a kiln to reduce its moisture content and improve its stability, commonly used in cabinetry, trim, and flooring during bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room renovations for durability and resistance to warping.
L
Laminate
A synthetic material made from layers of paper or plastic bonded together, commonly used for countertops, cabinets, and flooring in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for its durability and affordability.
LED Lighting
Light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures and bulbs that are energy-efficient and long-lasting, commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for ambient, task, and accent lighting.
Laundry Sink
A deep basin sink installed in laundry rooms for handwashing clothes, soaking items, and other laundry-related tasks, often equipped with a faucet and sometimes a built-in washboard.
Linen Closet
A storage space typically found in bathrooms or hallways, used for storing towels, linens, and other bathroom essentials, commonly included in bathroom renovations for added storage and organization.
Low-flow Faucet
A water-saving faucet that reduces water consumption by limiting flow rates without sacrificing performance, commonly installed in bathrooms and kitchens during renovations to conserve water and reduce utility costs.
Lazy Susan
A rotating circular shelf or tray installed in corner cabinets, allowing for easy access to stored items, commonly used in kitchen renovations to maximize storage space and improve accessibility.
Laundry Hamper
A container used to collect dirty laundry, commonly found in bathrooms or laundry rooms during renovations for organizing and containing clothing and linens until they are ready for washing.
L-shaped Layout
A kitchen or bathroom design featuring cabinets and fixtures arranged in the shape of the letter “L,” maximizing space efficiency and providing ample storage and workspace.
M
Mosaic Tile
Small tiles (often less than 2 inches) arranged in patterns or designs, commonly used for backsplashes, shower walls, and flooring in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for decorative purposes.
Mirror Cabinet
A wall-mounted cabinet with a mirrored front door, providing storage space and a reflective surface, commonly installed in bathrooms and sometimes in laundry rooms for convenience and functionality.
Mixer Tap
A faucet that blends hot and cold water streams to achieve the desired temperature, commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens for sinks, bathtubs, and showers during renovations.
Magnetic Latch
A type of latch that uses magnets to keep cabinet doors or drawers closed, commonly used in kitchen and bathroom cabinetry for a sleek and modern appearance.
Mudroom
A transitional space between the outdoors and the interior of a home, often located near the entryway or laundry room, used for storing coats, shoes, and other outdoor gear during renovations.
Multi-function Showerhead
A showerhead equipped with multiple spray settings or features such as massage jets, rainfall, and handheld options, providing versatility and customization during bathroom renovations.
Microfiber Cloth
A soft and absorbent cloth made of synthetic fibers, commonly used for cleaning surfaces and appliances in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms during renovations for streak-free results.
N
Non-slip Flooring
Flooring material treated or designed to provide traction and prevent slips and falls, commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for safety and stability, especially in wet environments.
Nook
A small recessed area in a room, often used for seating, storage, or display purposes, commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms for added functionality and visual interest.
No-touch Faucet
A faucet equipped with sensors that detect motion or proximity, allowing users to turn the water on and off without touching the fixture, commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens for hygiene and convenience.
Niche Lighting
Lighting fixtures installed in recessed niches or alcoves to highlight artwork, decorative elements, or architectural features, commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms for accent and ambiance.
Niche
A recessed shelf or compartment in a wall, often used in showers or above bathtubs to hold toiletries or decorative items, commonly incorporated into bathroom renovations for added storage and functionality.