Odor work uses words from several trades: cleaning, building science, heating and air, electrical and mold assessment. They are easy to mix up. This glossary gives short everyday definitions for terms in this site's guides and tools. Definitions are general and may vary by trade, so ask any professional to explain what they mean in your building.
A good habit is to write down each unfamiliar word and ask for a plain description before agreeing to a scope. If a term is used to justify a large item, such as replacing a duct or removing a wall, ask what evidence supports the recommendation and whether another approach could work.
Terms about the smell
- Terpene
- An aromatic plant compound responsible for much of cannabis's piney, citrus or skunky smell.
- Resin film
- A sticky, often clear residue left on surfaces after smoke or vapor cools.
- Off-gassing
- The slow release of stored odor compounds from materials as they warm.
- Masking
- Covering a smell with fragrance without removing the source.
- Odor source
- The material or location from which smell is actually coming.
Terms about grow spaces
- Carbon filter
- A canister filled with activated carbon used to clean air leaving a grow area.
- Ballast
- A device that regulates power to certain grow lights.
- Hygrometer
- A meter that measures the humidity of the air.
- Moisture meter
- A tool that estimates moisture in wood, drywall or other building materials.
- Transpiration
- Water vapor given off by plant leaves, a major source of grow-room humidity.
Terms about cleanup and services
- Remediation
- Work meant to correct a problem such as mold, rather than simply clean the surface.
- Sealing primer
- A coating intended to block stains or odor from coming through paint.
- Ozone generator
- A machine that produces ozone gas; occupants must be kept out during use.
- Scope of work
- A written list of what will be done, where and to what standard.
- Clearance
- Verification, often by a separate party, that an area meets an agreed condition after work.
If you hear a term you do not know
- IfIt sounds like a product nameAsk for the safety data sheet and read directions before use.
- IfIt describes a test or readingAsk what was measured, where and what the result is compared with.
- IfIt justifies replacing a materialAsk what evidence supports replacement and whether cleaning is a reasonable alternative.
Common questions
- Is every term used the same way by every professional?
- No. Trades overlap and words shift. Ask for the meaning in context.
General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.