A measure of a material's resistance to heat loss, usually applied to insulation products. The higher the R-value, the slower the rate of heat loss. …
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R
R-Value
Radiant Heating
A form of home heating delivered by electric-resistance elements--either wall registers or cables or foils beneath the flooring or above the ceiling--or via hot water circulated through in-the-floor tubing or room radiators. …
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Radon
A ground-generated radioactive gas that seeps into some homes through sump pumps, cracks in the foundation and other inlets. A serious health hazard. …
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Rafter
One of a series of beams that form the slope of a pitched roof and are analogous to floor joists. …
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Rails
The horizontal structural members of a door. Most doors have a top rail, a bottom rail, and a center rail connected at both ends to vertical stiles. …
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Rammed-Earth Construction
An alternative building process in which dirt is compacted into large structural frames to create walls. …
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Ranch Style
A modern style of home popularized in the 1950s and championed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, among others. …
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Rate Cap
The maximum interest rate charge allowed on the monthly payment of an adjustable rate mortgage during an adjustment period. …
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Rate Commitment
A lenders commitment to offer to hold a specific rate for a certain length of time. Rate commitments can vary from 30 to 180 days. …
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Rate Lock
A lender's commitment to a borrower to guarantee (or "lock in") a specific interest rate for a limited amount of time. …
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