Glossary 327
Nonferrous Metal They are metals such as copper or brass, that contain no iron.
Nosing The rounded front edge of a tread that extends past the riser.
Notes An additional instruction or general comment added to a blueprint. Notes contain information
about the material, finish, tooling, tolerances,
Oblique Drawing A type of pictorial drawing in which one view is an orthographic projection and
the views of the sides have receding lines at an angle.
Oblique Projection A view produced when the projectors are at an angle to the plane the object il-
lustrated. Vertical lines in the view may not have the same scale as horizontal lines.
Occupiable A room or enclosed space designed for human occupancy in which individuals con-
gregate for amusement, educational or similar purposes, or in which occupants are engaged at labor, and
which is equipped with means of egress, light, and ventilation.
Offset Section A section view of two or more planes in an object to show features that do not lie in
the same plane.
On Center A measurement taken from the center of one member to the center of another member.
Opinions of Probable Costs Determination of probable costs, a preliminary budget, for a sug-
gested remedy.
Orthographic Projection A view produced when projectors are perpendicular to the plane of the
object. It gives the effect of looking straight at one side.
Outlet An electrical receptacle that allows for current to be drawn from the system.
Pad Term used for isolated concrete piers.
Parapet A portion of wall extending above the roof level.
Parging A thin coat of plaster used to smooth a masonry surface.
Parquet Flooring Wood flooring laid to form patterns.
Partial Occupancy The occupancy by the owner of a portion of a projection prior to final comple-
tion. See Final Completion.
Partial Section A sectional view consisting of less than a half section. Used to show the internal
structure of a small portion of an object. Also known as a broken section.
Partition An interior wall.
Party Wall A wall dividing two adjoining spaces such as apartments or offices
Patent Defect A defect in materials, equipment of completed work which reasonably careful obser-
vation could have discovered; distinguished from a latent defect, which could not be discovered by reason-
able observation.
Penny (d) The unit of measure of the nails used by carpenters.
Performance Specifications The written material containing the minimum acceptable standards
and actions, as may be necessary to complete a project.
Perpendicular Vertical lines extending through the outlines of the hull ends and the designer’s wa-
terline.
Perspective The visual impression that, as parallel lines project to a greater distance, the lines move
closer together.
Phantom View A view showing the alternate position of a movable object, using a broken line con-
vention.
Phase An impulse of alternating current. The number of phases depends on the generator windings.
Most large generators produce a three-phase current that must be carried on at least three wires.
Physical Deficiency Conspicuous defects or significant deferred maintenance of a subject prop-