Terms
U
UL (Underwriters'
Laboratories)- An independent
testing agency that checks electrical devices and other components for
possible safety hazards.
Undercoat- A coating
applied prior to the finishing or top coats of a paint job. It may be
the first of two or the second of three coats. Sometimes called the
Prime coat.
Underground plumbing-
The plumbing drain and waste lines that are installed beneath a basement
floor.
Underlayment- A ¼"
material placed over the subfloor plywood sheeting and under finish
coverings, such as vinyl flooring, to provide a smooth, even surface.
Also a secondary roofing layer that is waterproof or water-resistant,
installed on the roof deck and beneath shingles or other roof-finishing
layer.
Union- A plumbing
fitting that joins pipes end-to-end so they can be dismantled.
Utility easement- The
area of the earth that has electric, gas, or telephone lines. These
areas may be owned by the homeowner, but the utility company has the
legal right to enter the area as necessary to repair or service the
lines.
Some information courtesy
of www.HomeBuildingManual.com