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Gap-Filling AdhesiveAn adhesive capable of forming and maintaining a bond between surfaces that are not close fitting.
Gelatinous FibersModified fibers that are associated with tension wood in hardwoods.
General PurposeMost widely used HPL and suitable for horizontal and vertical surface applications. Typical thickness range from 0.028” to 0.048” (0.71 to 1.22 mm).
GeotextilesA variety of fabrics made from recycled materials used in soil containment and stabilization.
GeothermalGeothermal (or Ground Source) heat pump systems rely on the Earth's constant temperature to heat and cool buildings. Through the use of a ground coupling system, a conventional water source heat pump design is transformed to a unique means of utilizing thermodynamic properties of earth and groundwater for efficient operation throughout the year in most climates. In essence, the ground (or groundwater) serves as a heat source during winter operation and a heat sink for summer cooling. They operate very efficiently because the temperature underground stays at about 57¡F (14¡C). Many varieties in design are available, so the technology can be adapted to almost any site.
GirderA large or principal beam used to support concentrated loads at isolated points along its length.
Global WarmingThe process of the Earth's atmosphere warming to temperatures above normal due to high levels of gases, such as carbon dioxide, which trap radiation leaving the earth and prevent the Earth from cooling. See Greenhouse Effect.
Gluability(See Bondability)
GlueOriginally, a hard gelatin obtained from hides, tendons, cartilage, bones, etc., of animals. Also, an adhesive prepared from this substance by heating with water. Through general use the term is now synonymous with the term "adhesive."
Glue Laminating (Glulam)Production of structural or nonstructural wood members by bonding two or more layers of wood together with adhesive.
GradeThe designation of the quality of a manufactured piece of wood or of logs.
GrainThe direction, size, arrangement, appearance, or quality of the fibers in wood or lumber. To have a specific meaning the term must be qualified.
Grassy Swales(See Vegetated Filter Strips)
GreenFreshly sawed or undried wood. Wood that has become completely wet after immersion in water would not be considered green but may be said to be in the "green condition."
Green Building Initiative(GBI), an organization to promote green building approaches for builders, architects and others who want practical and affordable options for creating environmentally friendlier structures. Promoting energy efficient and environmentally sustainable practices in residential and commercial construction. (www.thegbi.org)
Green GlobesThe Green Building Initiative assessment and rating system for the environmental performance of new buildings.
Green PowerThe term "green power" is used to define power generated from renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, geothermal, hydropower and various forms of biomass.
Green Power CertificatesBC Hydro is now selling Green Power Certificates from 100% generated-in-BC green electricity to domestic business customers on a pilot basis. Green power is generated by independent power producers in compliance with strict social and technology specific low environmental impact criteria. more
Green RoofA garden roof engineered to provide a range of benefits including insulation, stormwater management, cooling, etc. There are two types of roof - extensive and intensive - the difference is mainly in the depth of the growing medium and the type of planting.
Green SealGreen Seal is the independent, nonprofit organization that promotes the manufacture and sale of environmentally responsible consumer products through product certification standards.
Green WashingSpurious or false claims to sustainable features and/or performance.
GreenGuardThe GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) is an industry-independent, non-profit organization that oversees the GREENGUARD Certification Program. As an ANSI Authorized Standards Developer, GEI establishes acceptable indoor air standards for indoor products, environments, and buildings. GEI’s mission is to improve public health and quality of life through programs that improve indoor air. A GEI Advisory Board consisting of independent volunteers, who are renowned experts in the areas of indoor air quality, public and environmental health, building design and construction, and public policy, provides guidance and leadership to GEI. (www.greenguard.org)
Greenhouse EffectThe greenhouse effect is the rise in temperature that the Earth experiences because certain gases in the atmosphere trap energy from the sun. (See Greenhouse Gases)
Greenhouse GasesThe six primary greenhouse gases are: Carbon dioxide (CO2), Nitrous Oxide (N2O), Methane (CH4), Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), Perfluorocarbons (PFC), and Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6).
GreywaterWaste water from sinks and baths and/or roof runoff. Greywater sources do not include sewage. Greywater can be captured, treated, and used as a non-potable water source such as for watering, landscaping and other domestic purposes.
Growth RingThe layer of wood growth put on a tree during a single growing season. In the temperate zone, the annual growth rings of many species (for example, oaks and pines) are readily distinguished because of differences in the cells formed during the early and late parts of the season. In some temperate zone species (black gum and sweetgum) and many tropical species, annual growth rings are not easily recognized.
GumA comprehensive term for nonvolatile viscous plant exudates, which either dissolve or swell up in contact with water. Many substances referred to as gums such as pine and spruce gum are actually oleoresins.