Title: Trade terms guides | Cercha

Description: Look up residential trade terms with practical work context. Connect each definition to scope, materials and handoffs before discussing the job.

Canonical: https://cercha.pages.dev/guides/topics/trade-terms/

# Trade terms guides

Guides: Trade terms.

- [AFCI vs GFCI: two different protections](</guides/afci-vs-gfci/>)

  AFCI addresses dangerous arcing and GFCI addresses ground-fault shock hazards. Confirm the required protection for each circuit with the electrician.
- [Blower door test: what builders need to know](</guides/blower-door-test/>)

  Plan enclosure testing early enough to locate and repair leaks, then keep the final result with the house and HVAC documentation.
- [Coped vs mitered inside corners](</guides/coped-vs-mitered-corners/>)

  For profiled interior trim, coping accommodates an imperfect inside corner. Choose the joint with the material, finish, and approved sample in view.
- [Countertop templating: what has to be ready](</guides/countertop-templating/>)

  Book the template when the installed cabinet layout and required fixtures are ready. Put a decision-maker on site and control every change afterward.
- [Drywall finish levels: what Level 5 means](</guides/drywall-finish-levels/>)

  Specify the finish level with the final paint and lighting, then approve a representative sample before the crew finishes the whole house.
- [Kick-out flashing: small part, big callback](</guides/kick-out-flashing/>)

  Kick-out flashing sends roof runoff away from the wall. Assign the roofer, WRB installer, and siding crew before anyone closes the junction.
- [Manual J: why HVAC sizing starts on paper](</guides/manual-j/>)

  Request a load calculation for the actual house, then coordinate equipment selection and duct design before the HVAC package is ordered.
- [PEX vs CPVC for water lines](</guides/pex-vs-cpvc/>)

  Choose a complete water-piping system with the plumber, then specify its connections, installation instructions, and inspection requirements.
- [RESNET insulation grades I, II, and III](</guides/resnet-insulation-grades/>)

  RESNET grades describe installation quality. Agree the required standard and inspection visit before covering the insulation.
- [Structured wiring and low-voltage pre-wire](</guides/structured-wiring/>)

  Structured wiring needs a room-by-room plan, labeled cable runs, and an agreed test standard. Separate installed wiring from internet activation.
- [Water-resistive barrier behind siding](</guides/water-resistive-barrier/>)

  A water-resistive barrier manages rain that gets behind siding. Check the complete drainage path, including openings and penetrations, before covering it.
- [Window sill pans and flashing order](</guides/window-sill-pan-flashing/>)

  A sill pan collects water at the bottom of a window opening and routes it outside. The window, pan, flashing, and wall barrier need one compatible detail.

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