Technology has transformed many traditional building materials and new building materials have been introduced by innovative manufacturers, for example, light-weight bricks, double-glazing, light-alloy framings, special concrete compounds, etc. Totally new items have appeared on the market, many of them with new insulating and weather-resistant qualities. These new materials have required new fixing and fastening techniques, such as glues and bolts, which in turn has led to the development of specially designed tools. The aim of this dictionary is to facilitate communication between those contributing, directly or indirectly, to building activities on whatever scale - architects, designers, engineers, technical site supervisors, civil servants in charge of public works, manufacturers of materials, tools and site equipment, translators and interpreters. Special attention is devoted to such areas as: tools, site equipment; materials, such as natural stone, ceramic products, mortar, cement, concrete, metals, glass, wood plastics, plasters, glues and paints; elements used for the building of floors, roofs, stairs, doors, windows, shutters, chimneys; heating and lighting; fastening and fixing accessories; prefabricated elements.