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Construction Terminology

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What Does That Mean?

At Jacor Construction, we understand that not everyone speaks “construction.” Whether you’re starting your first commercial project or have years of experience in the industry, our goal is to make the building process clear, collaborative, and easy to understand. Below are a few common construction terms you may hear throughout a project and what they mean in simple terms.

Tenant Improvement (TI)

Improvements made to an interior commercial space to prepare it for a tenant’s specific business needs.

Cold Shell

A commercial space delivered with minimal interior improvements, typically requiring full build-out work before occupancy.

Build-Out

The process of transforming an empty or unfinished space into a completed, functional environment.

MEP

Short for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems within a building.

Punch List

A final checklist of small items or touch-ups that need to be completed before a project is officially finished.

Demising Wall

A wall used to separate tenant spaces within a commercial building.

ADA Compliant

Designed to meet accessibility standards established by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

HVAC

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems used to control indoor climate and airflow.

Framing

The structural framework that forms the layout and support system of walls, ceilings, and openings.

Millwork

Custom-built woodwork such as cabinetry, shelving, trim, or reception desks.

Subcontractor

A specialized trade professional hired to complete specific portions of a project, such as electrical, plumbing, or flooring work.

Ground-Up Construction

A project built entirely from the ground up, starting with site work and foundation construction.

Permit

Official approval from a local jurisdiction allowing construction work to begin.

Change Order

A written agreement documenting modifications to the original project scope, pricing, or schedule.

Commercial Tenant Improvement

Renovation or construction work completed within an existing commercial building to accommodate a new tenant or updated use.

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