Xylene A strong aromatic solvent sometimes used as a component of paint remover and lacquer thinner. Also called XYLOL

Tack Cloth A fabric impregnated with a tacky substance that is used to remove dust from a surface after sanding or rubbing down, and prior to further painting. It should be stored in an airtight container to preserve its tackiness. Tacky The stage in the paint’s drying process at which the film is sticky when […]

Re-Coat Time Interval required between the application of successive coats of paint. This time period is usually listed on the label. Reducer Material that lowers a paint’s viscosity but is not necessarily a solvent. (See Diluent.) Reflectance The ratio of the light that radiates onto a surface to the amount that is reflected back. Related […]

Nail Head Rusting The rusting of the exposed heads of iron nails. It can show through and discolor the coating covering it. Can occur if bright nails, rather than galvanized, are used outdoors. Nap The fibers on a paint roller cover. Naphtha A petroleum distillate solvent used mainly by professional painters to thin oil-based coatings […]

Joint The gap or space created when two building materials come together, such as where two pieces of molding join or where the bathtub and bathroom wall meet.

Hardboard A generic term for a smooth or textured grainless panel manufactured primarily from compressed wood fibers. Used as exterior siding. Hardness The degree of pressure a material will withstand without becoming deformed or scratched. Hardwood Trees that have broad leaves (in contrast to conifer or softwoods). The term has no reference to the actual […]

Galvanized A ferrous metal that is covered with zinc to protect it from rusting. Glazing Glass, such as that used in doors and windows. Glazing Compound A caulk, sealant, or putty that is used to seal a glass pane into its frame. Gloss The shininess or reflectiveness of a coating. Flat paints have no gloss; […]

Ease of Application Characteristics of a paint or caulk that facilitate its application, e.g., spatter resistance, lapping properties, and open time. Efflorescence Whitish powder (salt deposits) that sometimes appears on masonry surfaces; it is carried to the surface by moisture.   Eggshell An interior paint that has a low luster, satin-like appearance. Its gloss level […]