Meaning of lag in the construction industry
In the construction industry, the term ‘lag’ can mean:
- ‘…the minimum necessary lapse of time between the finish of one activity and the finish of another overlapping activity.' Ref The Society of Construction Law Delay and Disruption Protocol, 2nd edition, published in February 2017 by the Society of Construction Law (UK).
- ‘…the amount of time required between the start or finish of a predecessor task and the start or finish of a successor task.’ Ref The Society of Construction Law Delay and Disruption Protocol.
- The delay in the transmission of thermal conditions between one side of the fabric of a building and the other.
- The process of installing insulation, in particular around water pipes to prevent freezing, or to prevent heat loss from hot water pipes. This is sometimes referred to as ‘lagging’.
- A type of screw or bolt: A heavy-duty fastener that creates its own mating thread in timber and other soft materials when tightened.
- A time delay between the action of a control system and its effect on the controlled parameter
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Cut electricity bills to power growth
Coalition sends joint letter to the Chancellor.
Gasholders: a history in pictures. Book review.
Recognition, influence and growth
SocEnv identifies three strategic pillars in new strategy to 2045.
Discover the future of roofing, cladding and insulation.
New guidance for professional practice, cultural change and regulation in social housing.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.