1.1 This terminology consists of terms and definitions pertaining to the subject field of buildings and building construction, and in particular, terms related to the standards generated by ASTM Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings.

1.2 The purpose of this terminology is to provide preferred and admitted designations along with the meanings and explanations of technical concepts applied in the subject field of buildings and construction, written for both the non-expert and the expert user.

1.3 This comprehensive terminology standard contains all ASTM standardized definitions generated in ASTM Committee E06 that are considered general in nature. Beyond this comprehensive terminology, there are also separate terminology standards that have been developed within Committee E06 by a number of technical subcommittees.

1.4 Terms are listed in alphabetical sequence. Compound terms appear in the natural spoken order. To show the relationships in certain families of concepts, groups of narrower terms and their definitions are grouped under the definition of the broader term. Each such sub-entry is listed also (in italics) with a cross-reference to the special class.

1.5 Certain standard definitions herein are adopted from other sources. Each is an exact copy. The source is identified at the right margin following the definition, and is listed in Section 2.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.