PRACTICAL HINTS TO
                                 BUILDERS
                    AND THOSE CONTEMPLATING BUILDING.

                       =Fourth Edition.= (145,000)

                         Facts Worth Considering
                               RELATING TO
   _Foundation, Cellar, Kitchen, Chimney, Cistern, Brick-work, Mortar,
              Heating, Ventilation, The Roof, and many items
                        of interest to Builders._

       _Copyrighted 1890, by_ THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.

                   The National Sheet Metal Roofing Co.
                          SOLE MANUFACTURERS OF
        =Walter’s Patent Standard, and Cooper’s Patent Queen Anne
                   Metallic Shingles and Siding Plates,=
             510 TO 520 EAST TWENTIETH STREET, NEW YORK CITY.

              Press of W. J. Pell, 92 John Street, New York.
                                  1890.




INDEX.


                                                             PAGE

    Architect, The,                                             4

    Architects and Builders,                                   16

    Brick-work,                                                34

    Building.—Selecting a Site,                                 5

    Buildings covered with Metal Shingles,                     80

    Buildings.—Old Materials,                                  42

    Building.—Our Specialties,                                 95

    Buildings, Sheet Metal Work for,                           85

    Building Paper,                                            47

    Colors,                                            10, 48, 66

    Chimneys,                                                  17

    Cellar, The,                                               22

    Cistern, The,                                              46

    Conductor or Leader Pipe, Cooper’s,                        56

    Construction, Inside,                                      83

    Design for Cottages,            8, 12, 18, 24, 31, 38, 51, 58

    Deadening and Fire-Proofing Floors,                        60

    Elbows, Cooper’s Curved,                                   76

    Floors, Fire-Proofing,                                     60

    Finials and How to Set Them,                           73, 74

    Foundation, The,                                            6

    Guarantee, Our,                                            51

    Gold Medal Award,                                           7

    Heating,                                                   44

    Kitchen, The,                                              29

    Metal Shingles, compared with Wood,                        26

      “      “         “       “  Slate,                       36

      “      “         “       “  Ordinary Tin Roofing,        37

      “      “    Samples of,                              30, 71

      “      “    Queen Anne,                                  40

      “      “    Directions for Laying,                       61

      “      “    How Made,                                    78

    Measure, Surface,                                          41

    Mortar? What is Good,                                      14

    Roof Paint,                                            21, 39

      “  Valleys or Gutters,                           13, 23, 85

    Roof, The,                                                 28

      “   Comparative Pitch of,                                50

    Roofing, Broad-Rib,                                        72

    Ridge Coping,                                              54

    Sheathing, The Best,                                       45

    Testimonials,                                              87

    Ventilation,                                           55, 73

    What Our Goods Are,                        20, 35, 68, 70, 77

    Walter’s Patent and What It Is,                            20




[Illustration]




Preface.


The object of this little book is to give to builders a few practical
hints that can be used in their endeavors to erect a home that is
proposed to be durable, comfortable and healthy. They are susceptible
of being improved to an extent that will meet the wishes of the most
extravagant builder, or simplified to suit purse and requirements of a
builder with moderate means.

We have left out generalities, and offer the reader solid facts that are
valuable to every one engaged in the ever pleasant task of constructing a
home.

                  THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.,
                      510 TO 520 EAST TWENTIETH ST.,
                              New York City.




Practical Hints to Builders.




THE ARCHITECT.


Shall we employ one? Yes, if the work is sufficiently important to
justify it, and it is a very modest house indeed that is not.

As the professional architect is generally a graduate of one of the
building trades, and has gravitated to that position because of his
peculiar fitness for it, it stands to reason, some will think, that from
among the many builders one can be selected who is capable of taking the
contract and presiding as architect. To such persons we would say: You
are not familiar with the functions of an architect, when considered
separate from the builder. The architect can save you money. He discovers
your wants, your likes, and your dislikes; he reduces them to a tangible
form; he draws up the specifications so minutely that every variety of
material and labor is distinctly set forth as to its quality and kind.

When completed, plans and specifications are presented to a builder for
an estimate; he knows exactly what is expected of him. There is no chance
for controversy or quibble; all has been settled by the owner through
his architect. In consequence, if several contractors estimate upon the
building, it is known that their figures are all upon the same basis.

We will say in general he can save you from five to twenty per cent. in
cost; will give you better construction and proportions, and add a value
to your house, apart from its first cost, that if it does not sell for
more, it will sell more readily than if built without his service.




SELECTING A BUILDING SITE.


There are but few persons who are in a position to locate their proposed
home just where they would most desire it. But, fortunately, most any
building site is capable of being made to look well, it the style of
architecture selected harmonizes with the surroundings.

It is of the first importance that the location be a healthy one. Better
rent all your life than ignore that. Avoid the neighborhood of swamps and
stagnant water, or where the cellar, (if you have one) to your house,
from the nature of the location, will be damp. Large bodies of water,
or running water is never unhealthy; but on the contrary, it is in many
ways conducive to health. Some very uninviting, rugged and neglected
spots, can, with but little expense and an appropriate building, be made
exceedingly beautiful.

One of the prettiest school-houses I ever saw was built on a lot given
by a farmer for a district school. It did look as if the piece of ground
was worthless for any purpose; it was rocky, overgrown with briers and
bushes, and a tiny stream ran across the lot, jumping from rock to
rock, alongside of which, on a level spot but little larger than room
for a building, a house with steep roof and turret was built, and the
adjacent hillside made a splendid study and playground for the scholars.
When completed the building and grounds was a model of what a country
school-house should be.

While an elevation is at all times desirable, a hill is not. The exposure
to the storms in winter, and the tiresome walk in summer, is to be
avoided. A few native trees, if on the ground to furnish shade, are
desirable. The water supply, too, is to be considered. Most architects
say a Southern exposure is the best, but this depends on your location.
For Southern homes the East is preferable.




FOUNDATION.


[Illustration]

Just how deep to excavate to start the foundation of a house depends on
the climate and soil. Always dig trenches below the frost line in any
soil. This is sufficient if the subsoil is solid; if the subsoil is not
solid, go deep enough to reach solid earth.

In saying this, we are supposing you are not building in a swamp,
where it is often necessary to drive piles upon which to start a solid
foundation. Stone is generally used for foundation walls where it is
convenient, and it makes the best. Hard pressed brick, laid with mortar
composed of one part of hydraulic lime and two parts sharp sand, makes
a foundation not inferior to stone for all practical purposes. By using
the above mortar, dampness will not ascend from the ground to injure the
floor joists.

Mortar made from common lime or sand, though commonly used, is
objectionable for foundations, because dampness will ascend even above
the floor joists, if the floor is not several feet above the ground. It
is often the case that hydraulic lime cannot be conveniently had. In that
case a layer of slate or coarse paper, well saturated with pitch, laid
between the brick seams below the line of joists, will answer the same
purpose, and is less expensive.

See that the space between the joists is filled with brick, flush with
the under-side of floor boards. This prevents Mr. Rat, or other members
of his interesting family, from sitting in these little corners and
gnawing into the room above, or climbing between the siding to the
upper floors. If this little matter is attended to right, neither rats
or mice can enter the house, except through the doors. To keep them from
burrowing underneath the foundation walls, let the thickness of one brick
project outward at the bottom of the foundation. On burrowing downward,
a rat soon reaches this shelf, and following it around till he arrives
at the place he started from, becomes disgusted, or is supposed to, as
he is not seen about the house again. It is always better to have the
foundation broader at the bottom than the thickness of wall intended to
be used. This is necessary in all brick houses, unless on a rock bottom.

See that the space under the ground floor is left clear of rubbish
before the floor is laid, and grating built in the wall for ventilation.
This opening can be closed in winter to secure additional warmth. The
cellar is closely related to the foundation; we give some hints on its
construction on page 22.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: Fac-simile of Gold Medal awarded to WALTER’S PATENT
METALLIC SHINGLES. These shingles have received twenty-eight other awards
for merit in the United States.]

       *       *       *       *       *

The plans and elevations of cottages presented in this book have each
been specially prepared for some individual by an eminent architect, and
the proportions and details can be relied upon.

[Illustration: _Design_ I.—_Front Elevation_.

TEN-ROOM, TWO-STORY HOUSE.

Estimated Cost, with Bath and Furnace, $5,000 to $6,000.

Roof to be covered with 10 × 14 Galvanized Tin Shingles; porches with
same; tower with 7 × 10, same quality; use attic vents on main roof, and
No. 1 Six-foot Finial on apex of tower.]

[Illustration: _First Floor._

_Second Floor._

_Design_ I.—(_Elevation, page 8._)]




COLORS.—For Exterior and Interior.


As your house nears completion, it is well to decide upon colors. That
is a distinctive feature which is to give tone and beauty, and make
your house in some respects different from all others. The question of
painting is often a mere matter of preserving the structure, and not a
question of beauty or harmony of colors, or what would be best suited
to the surroundings; it is too often the case that but little regard is
paid to those nice perceptions that make one man’s work many times more
valuable than another. Strong contrasts of color should be avoided. Light
tints are preferable to strong colors. Think of a house painted black,
red, yellow, or green.

Let the surroundings suggest what the exterior colors should be. A house
surrounded by trees and shrubbery will admit of white, with white tinted
trimmings, such as cornices, corner-boards, window and door frames; but
for half the year the green foliage of the trees is turned to brown,
which but partially relieves the glaring white. This is why that color
is not a favorite for exteriors. As a rule, select a light color for the
body of the house, and darken that for the trimmings.

For interior wood-work select light wood colors; let none be darker
than walnut. Oak, chestnut, ash, white walnut, maple and cherry make
a beautiful finish by simply oiling, and varnishing if a gloss is
preferred. Very light shades of ochre make beautiful ceilings which
can be ornamented with suitable designs, using darker but delicate
shades of other light colors. Here is where the taste and skill of the
painter comes in, and unless you are an adept, don’t fail to consult an
experienced decorator for your inside walls.

For houses of moderate cost we think nothing is equal to solid colors
for inside walls. Let the colors be light and cheerful, and the rooms of
different shades. (See page 48).

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration]

If you are interested in _Roofing_, send for our Price List and Discount
Sheet, which is special to the trade. We are pioneers in the introduction
of practical metal shingles, and no imitator has yet produced their
equal. Our goods are largely used throughout the United States and
Canadas; are used by the Government and Railroads; approved by the Fire
Insurance Companies, and many leading Architects and Builders. They are
lighter than slate, and will last longer without repairs; and the low
rate of insurance on our roofing will, in a short time, more than balance
the difference in price where wood shingles are cheaper.

As seen by the cut, our shingles are the same to-day as when first
introduced. Remember, no cleats or springs are necessary in using our
shingles. The lock is simple and perfect, with corrugations across the
top, and bracing corrugations across the exposed end of the shingles,
which stiffen and hold the shingles firmly to the underlying courses.
They are easily applied, and any one who can lay a wood shingle can lay
these. We furnish them in four sizes, made from charcoal roofing tin,
painted both sides and unpainted, galvanized tin plate, which is superior
to galvanized iron, cold rolled copper, and steel plates. We keep on hand
a full line of roofing sundries.

[Illustration: Fac-simile of beginning of first two courses.]

Our Shingles received the highest and only award for metal shingles at
the American Institute, held in this city, October, 1886, and New Orleans
Exposition, 1885.

WHOLESALE AGENTS.

_RICHARD KNISELY & SON, 184 South Jefferson St., Chicago, Ills._

_W. W. MONTAGUE & CO., San Francisco, Cal., Pacific Coast._

_J. J. WALTERS, Denver, Col._

_PHILLIPS & BUTTORFF MFG. Co., Nashville, Tenn._

_CANADA GALVANIZING AND STEEL ROOFING CO., Montreal, Canada._

_MACHWIRTH BROS., Buffalo, N.Y._

_JEROME TWICHELL & CO., Kansas City, Mo._

_F. H. LAWSON & CO., Cincinnati, Ohio._

The National Sheet Metal Roofing Company, 510, 512, 514, 516, 518, 520
EAST 20TH ST., NEW YORK, U. S. A.

[Illustration]

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ C.—_Front and Side Elevation._

SEVEN-ROOM, TWO-STORY HOUSE.

Estimated Cost, with Bath and Furnace, $1,800 to $2,000.]




ROOF VALLEYS OR GUTTERS.


It is generally known to builders and roofers that the greatest amount
of wear upon all kinds of roofs is in the valleys or gutters. Therefore,
that part of the roof, whether covered with slate, tin or wood shingles,
should be of the best material, and free from the annoying possibility of
cracking.

This trouble is always caused by expansion and contraction of the metal.
The usual method is to make the valley of the desired length, and, after
shaping to the roof-boards, to nail each side firmly. The result is,
with the summer heat, a buckle is often formed at some point between
the two ends. In cold weather the buckle draws out, and in course of
time, if the joints in the middle do not give way, a leak will appear,
caused by the metal cracking. This will not occur with our roof valleys,
because we amply provide for the expansion and contraction of the same.
We particularly call the attention of dealers in building material to
our Queen Anne Valley. It is salable, durable and cheap, always ready to
apply; can be used by any workman capable of laying slate, tin or wood
shingles. (See page 23).

THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _First Floor._

_Second Floor._

_Design_ C.—(_Elevations, page 12._)]

[Illustration]




WHAT IS GOOD MORTAR?


To a casual observer mortar is mud, but to a builder who understands the
chemistry of mortar it is a compound of water, lime and sand, and when
properly prepared forms an indestructible cement. Fresh slacked lime,
when brought in contact with clean, sharp sand, adheres strongly to the
surface of each grain, and forms the silicate of lime.

At the same time the drying mortar absorbs carbonic acid from the
atmosphere, forming with it lime-stone, which in time becomes a rock in
solidity. Now, all mortar is good or bad in proportion to the purity of
the ingredients and their relative affinity for each other. The adhesive
properties of mortar are nullified by loam or clay in sand, or the stale
condition of lime used.

Loam mortar adheres freely to the surface of walls or ceilings. So does
mud if thrown against an upright surface; but water dissolves it. It
dries quickly, but does not harden with age. The foundation of many
frame, and the entire walls of many brick houses are built with poor
mortar, when the materials for good could be had at the same price.

Water, lime, sand and hair are the ingredients for plasterers’ mortar
in about the following proportions: One bushel unslacked lime and four
bushels sharp sand; (to this add twenty-four pounds of dry hair for every
one hundred yards, when used for “scratch” or first coat,) and water
sufficient to make it of proper consistency. After being properly mixed,
the mortar should stand from three to ten days before using. However,
the time it should stand depends upon the susceptibility of the lime to
slack. Some lime requires a month, while good lime slacks immediately.
Age improves mortar, provided it is kept wet, and makes it work easier
under the workman’s trowel. As it is the keys formed by pressing the
mortar against the lathing on the ceiling that holds it to its place,
there should be a relative width of lath and key space to insure strength
sufficient to prevent its falling. Ignorance of this, and poor mortar,
is the cause of falling ceilings. Lath one inch wide, 7/16 inches thick,
placed 7/16 inches apart will insure good strong work.

The second coat needs but a very small quantity of hair. Fifty bushels
sand, and twelve and one-half bushels unslacked lime, will make mortar
enough to cover one hundred square yards. If mortar freezes before it is
dry it loses its cementing properties and becomes in common phase rotten,
but if the sand used is clean, and it remains frozen without thawing
until it is dry, it is not injured. The best way to treat a house in
which the plastering is not dry, and cannot be kept from freezing before
it dries, is to throw the house open, and let it freeze for eight or ten
days, or until the plastering freezes dry.

Cisterns should be plastered inside with mortar made of equal parts of
hydraulic lime and clean sand. For brick work above foundations use one
part unslacked lime to four parts sand.

       *       *       *       *       *

      “THE INDEPENDENT,” 251 BROADWAY, NEW YORK, October 28th, 1889.

    Gentlemen:—The shingles from your respected concern used on my
    new house look splendidly, and give entire satisfaction. They
    are far better than any metal shingles I have previously used
    on other buildings, which I have had torn off and thrown away
    as worthless. At times we were flooded by the water under their
    (want of) protection, and we could not stop the leaks. Noah in
    the ark I am sure was, fortunately, not troubled with leaks
    such as we endured for years; if he had been all would have
    been drowned. Now, under your protection, we are all right and
    still alive.

                              Faithfully,

                                                     HENRY C. BOWEN,
                                                     CHANDLER.




TO ARCHITECTS AND BUILDERS.


There is no detail of house building more important than the roof. Upon
it depends to a great degree the durability and preservation of the
whole structure. The number of good houses with mottled ceilings and
cracked plastering, to be seen all over the country, are reminders of the
necessity of securing the best material and faultless construction for
this important part of your dwelling.

The advantages we claim for our Tin Shingle, over the ordinary mode of
applying sheet metal for roofing purposes, consists in its =Superior
Strength, Freedom from Wrinkles and Cracking=, (which cannot at all
times be prevented where sheet metal is put on in continuous sheets);
and in being the =Most Ornamental and Durable= of all sheet metal roof
coverings. Now, in answer to this last assertion you may say, How can
this be? Is not the same quality of tin as durable when applied in one
form as another? We answer, By no means. The writer—and we presume the
reader—has seen tin roofs worked, and walked over in the necessary
finishing up, to such an extent as to seriously damage the roof. The Tin
Roofers’ mallets, seamers, tongs, and sliding over the roof, do more real
damage to the surface of tin plate than several years’ wear. We entirely
overcome this difficulty, as no part of the exposed surface of our Tin
Shingles are struck with a mallet or hammer in applying them. Again,
where metal plates are put together in continuous sheets, moisture,
which condenses underneath for want of ventilation, settles in the
cross-seams and causes decay, and the ordinary metal roof when removed
invariably shows this to be the case, while the other part of the plate
shows no perceptible wear. Our form of metal roofing has no cross-seams,
and has sufficient ventilation to prevent the condensation of moisture
underneath, making it by many years the most durable form of metal
roofing ever offered to the American people.

Our object is to furnish the building public with a better form of
roofing material, attractive in appearance, without the objections of the
heavy slate, the clumsy shingle, or the plain ribbed metal roof; and at a
price that claims the attention of Architects and Builders of the whole
country.

                  THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.,
                      510 TO 520 EAST TWENTIETH ST.,
                              New York City.




CHIMNEYS.


[Illustration]

We will not moralize on the evils of smoky chimneys, but just tell you
in plain language how to construct them so they will not smoke. Make
the throat of the fire-place not more than half the size of the flue;
carefully smooth the inside of the flue, and have it of the same area
all the way to near the top of the chimney, when it should be gradually
tapered inward to about half the area of the flue. At the extreme top,
the cap stone should slant from the opening in all directions downward
at an angle of about twenty degrees. This will insure a good draught and
prevent the smoke blowing downward. No two fire-places should enter the
same flue; neither should a stove-pipe enter a flue unless the fire-place
is closed. Each stove and fire-place should have its own flue. The size
necessary for a flue depends on the fuel to be used.

Soft or Bituminous coal requires a flue nearly double the size of one
where Anthracite is to be used; an open fire-place for wood, larger flues
than either. For instance, an 8 × 8 inch flue answers for Anthracite,
because it makes but little soot, while if Bituminous coal is used, 8 ×
12 is none too large.

You will find in houses all over the country flues smaller than the
above, and a corresponding number of smoky chimneys, which it is
impossible to remedy without re-building from the bottom up.

The carelessness displayed in chimney construction is astonishing. As
the work is hid from view on completion, be watchful during the process
of construction from the ground up. All chimneys should, if possible,
extend above the apex or comb of roof, and should be built of good hard
burnt brick, and no woodwork should be allowed to enter within five
inches of inside of flue, and not within twelve inches anywhere near the
fire-place.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ H.—_Front Elevation._

EIGHT-ROOM, TWO-STORY HOUSE.

Estimated Cost, with Bath and Furnace, $3,500 to $4,000.

Roof covered with 10 × 14 No. 1 Standard Tin Shingles; gables with Queen
Anne; second story, sides, with 7 × 10 Standard Tin Shingles; and porches
with Broad Rib Tin Roofing; use No. 2 Five-foot Finial on tower.]

[Illustration: _First Floor._ _Second Floor._

_Design_ H.—(_Elevation, page 18._)]

       *       *       *       *       *

A retired plumber thus gives a point for the gratuitous relief of
householders: “Just before retiring at night pour into the clogged pipe
enough liquid soda lye to fill the ‘trap’ or bent part of the pipe. Be
sure that no water runs in it until the next morning. During the night
the lye will convert all the offal into soft soap, and the first current
of water in the morning will wash it away and clear the pipe clean as
new.”




THE WALTER’S PATENT, AND WHAT IT IS.


Previous to the granting of a patent to John Walter, in 1882, there were
no tin shingles manufactured for the trade in the United States, with the
exception of those which covered more than two-thirds of their surface
to get one-third exposed to the weather; the same is commonly done with
wood shingles. This made them too expensive for general use. The Walter’s
patent made it practical to expose five-sixths of the surface and only
conceal one-sixth of the shingle. This great saving at once reduced the
cost of metal shingles over one-half, and enabled the National Sheet
Metal Roofing Co., which controls this patent, to put on the market the
best metal roofing in the world, at prices that compete with ordinary
wood shingles. (See “Comparative Cost,” pages 26 and 27.)

How this was done is best expressed in the claim granted the patentee,
copied from the United States Official Gazette:

    “A metal roofing plate having a gutter formed by corrugations
    at one side, and a perforated flange at the side of the gutter,
    whereby it shall be nailed to the roof of a house; a broad
    corrugation at the other side adapted to form a seam with the
    adjoining edge of a corresponding plate, substantially as shown
    and described.”

[Illustration]

The advantage of this lock is that it makes a water-tight seam without
soldering or hammering down. The plates are joined as easy as crossing
two sticks, with ample provision for expansion and contraction. This lock
is the perfection of simplicity; there is no exposed seam where water is
liable to lodge and cause rust; no cleats are used, and no tin springs
are necessary to hold the side edges of connecting plates to prevent
water seeping through.




PAINTING SHEET-METAL ROOFS.


The subject of painting sheet-metal roofs is one of great importance,
says the _Builder, Decorator and Wood-Worker_, not only on account of the
protection afforded, but because the material, when properly colored, can
be made pleasant to the eye when placed in exposed positions. While many
kinds of paint have been discovered and patented, composed of a great
variety of materials, it is a question if there is a substance used that
is an effective substitute for linseed oil, regarding the effectiveness
of which an authority on the subject says: “By consulting experienced
and unbiased painters you will learn the fact that there is no vehicle
pigments at all approaching linseed oil in effectiveness and durability,
especially for exposure to the weather. A good paint must be both hard
and elastic. It requires hardness to prevent abrasion and wear, and
elasticity to prevent cracking from expansion and contraction. Nothing
but linseed oil will give these qualities, for, strange as it may seem to
many in these days of novelties, the pigments really add but very little
to the effectiveness of paints. Mark, we say the best of pigments, for
many pigments are the reverse of protective, and are really destructive
to both the vehicles and the material which they are supposed to protect.
For example, coal tar and all its products, whether called dead oil,
asphalt, rubber, etc., are of the class just described, and their use at
any price, especially for covering sheet-metals, is a wanton waste of
money. Extended experiments have demonstrated that there is no better
pigment for metal than a good iron ore ground to an impalpable powder. To
be most thoroughly effective the pigment must be intimately incorporated
with the vehicle, which can best be done only by grinding them together
in a stone mill by steam power.” It is of the greatest importance that
sheet-metal roofs, especially those made of iron, should be protected
from the action of the elements, as when so protected there is hardly
any limit to the time they will last. In order that the paint should be
effective, it should be applied before the iron has had an opportunity
to rust, and the first coat should be of the best quality and applied
in the best manner; or if it is defective it is plain that it will not
only require repainting far sooner than it should, but no matter how
good the subsequent coatings of paint are, they cannot be effective if
founded on an original coating which has commenced to crack or peel, as
it certainly will if not prepared with the best methods and materials.
Another important point to be observed in the painting of sheet-metal is
that the paint should not be too thick, as it is the linseed oil that is
to be depended on to furnish protection, and as the action of the air on
the surface of the exposed oil gives it a particularly hard surface, two
thin coats of paint are much more durable than one thick one.

Remember, it is the =rust-preventing= qualities of linseed oil, combined
with the oxide of iron, that makes steel or iron sheets resist the
corrosive action of oxygen, which is ever present in the atmosphere. (See
page 101.)




THE CELLAR.


The cellar under a dwelling house has many advocates. It is a convenient,
cool place, and nineteen times out of twenty is a damp, dark, musty,
foul-smelling place. It cannot well be otherwise and be a cellar. It is a
store-room for all sorts of vegetables; odds and ends of most everything
are laid away in that dark retreat. It is the favorite resort of spiders,
toads and other creeping things; it is the unrelenting enemy (?) of the
family physician, the breeding-place of malaria, which unceasingly sends
its poisonous vapors into every part of the dwelling above it. It would
be suicide for one to make it their sleeping room.

But if you insist upon having a cellar under your house, and will not
put it under the corn-crib or carriage-house, see that it is properly
constructed. This is more important than most of the other parts of the
house, for upon it in a great measure depends the health of your entire
family.

The floor of the cellar should be hard and dry, with no woodwork in
its construction. To obtain this result, cover the floor about three
inches deep with coarse gravel, or broken stone, well pounded to a level
surface. Fill this with a thin mortar, composed of one part hydraulic
cement and two parts sharp sand, smoothing it off with a trowel or
plasterer’s level. When we mention sharp sand, we mean coarse, clean sand.

Build a flue, say 8 × 12 inches (with an opening next to the floor of the
cellar fully that size), from the bottom of cellar foundation alongside
of and extending to top of kitchen chimney, the heat of which will create
a constant, upward current of air from the cellar. On the opposite side
of cellar from this ventilating flue make an air inlet near the ceiling
for the purpose of supplying fresh air to the cellar. This will keep
the cellar dry and the atmosphere healthy. Put a wire netting over the
opening to prevent the entrance of rats and mice. If from the nature of
the location, or other causes, a cellar is damp, dig a trench all around
a little below and outside of the foundation wall; this trench should be
covered with flat stones and earth filled in a little above the surface
line, so that surface water will flow from, and not settle next to, the
foundation walls. When the cellar is completed whitewash the walls and
ceiling.




OUR “QUEEN ANNE” VALLEY, FOR SLATE, TIN OR WOOD SHINGLES.


[Illustration]

Patented October 30th, 1883.

This cut fairly illustrates our improvement. The corrugations at the
side keep the edges rigid, and prevent the edges from _dipping_ into any
space that may be between the roof boards where they are not laid close.
Besides this, they dispense with the necessity of chalk lines, and hold
the shingle or slate from lying close upon the metal, preventing decay
both of wood and metal. A convenience and benefit to every builder.

_To be used where the pitch of the roof is equal to that necessary in
using the ordinary shingle._

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ G.—_Front Elevation._

EIGHT-ROOM, TWO-STORY HOUSE.

Estimated Cost, with Bath and Furnace, $3,000 to $3,500.

Roof to be covered with 10 × 14 No. 1 Standard Tin Shingles; gables with
7 × 10, same quality; and porches with Broad-Rib Tin Plate Roofing.]

       *       *       *       *       *

                       SMITHTOWN BRANCH, L. I., November 27th, 1886.

    Dear Sirs:—During the recent very heavy storms—wind and
    rain—the roof on my house, put on with Walter’s Patent Tin
    Shingles, _stood the test_; not a single leak has ever been
    discovered, not even around the chimneys, valleys, nor where
    the roof of the wing butts up against the main building. The
    work was done in April last, and never leaked, and I think
    _never will_, as long as the material lasts.

    You will remember how reluctant I was to try the shingles,
    but I am now glad that I did so, for I not only have a good
    first-class roof—fire-proof—but I also have the _handsomest_
    roof in our town. I promised you I would come in and see you,
    and tell you how I liked the shingles, but not having done so,
    I write you this.

                           Yours very truly,

                                                       COE D. SMITH.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _First Floor._ _Second Floor._

_Design_ G.—(_Elevation, page 24._)]

       *       *       *       *       *

                                NEW BEDFORD, MASS., June 24th, 1887.

    Gentlemen:—The Metallic Shingles, which were put on by you on
    the roof of the New Bristol County Jail and House of Correction
    at this place, are entirely satisfactory in every respect, the
    manner in which the plates are rolled overcoming all objections
    to the expansion and contraction of the metal. Those that were
    put on here were of hard rolled copper, and have now turned a
    beautiful bronze color, and is very much admired by all who
    have seen it. The roof cannot but be an extremely desirable
    roof, and I do not see that it can need repairs of any kind for
    years to come.

                           Yours very truly,

                                         ROBERT H. SLACK, Architect.




WOOD AND METAL SHINGLES.


COMPARATIVE COST.

[Illustration]

We are often asked if our metal shingles are as cheap as wood shingles.
While we cannot consistently say they are not; still, if we say they are,
they refer to our price list, which necessitates an explanation something
like this:

We will suppose a dwelling is to be built to cost, say $2,500. Such a
house will usually require about 20 squares of roof covering, which,
if done with wood shingles, fixes the cost of fire insurance about
one-quarter of one per cent. higher than a metal roof during its
existence. This extends not only to the house, but all contained in such
roofed houses. And this is the case, no matter how good the wood shingles
are.

In making this comparison, we will consider such shingles as are
generally used in the older settled portions of the country. We are aware
that shingles made from well-matured timber, straight-grained, free from
sap and wind-shakes, full length, hand drawn to five-eighths of an inch
at the butt, four inches wide, and carefully put on make a good, durable
roof. But shingles of that kind are only to be had in the thinly settled
portions of the country.

It is the broad, thin, split or sawed shingles, found in all markets,
which we contend are more expensive than our metal shingles. These do
not last, on an average, more than fifteen years, and after ten years
the repairs are a continual expense until removed and replaced with new
material, which is not often done until some of the woodwork is badly
damaged, and ceiling cracked and stained from frequent leakages. On the
other hand, _tin shingles will last for any length of time, if painted
once in every five or six years, and show no perceptible wear_.

Cost of a TIN SHINGLE Roof for a period of Fifteen Years.

    Twenty squares of Tin Shingles, at $6.75 per square    $135 00
    Labor of putting on same                                 10 00
    One coat of paint after roof is laid                      8 00
                                                          --------
         Total cost of same                                $153 00

    One coat of paint at expiration of five years            10 00
    One coat of paint at expiration of ten years             10 00
    One coat of paint at expiration of fifteen years         10 00
    Insurance on $2,500 for fifteen years, at one-half of
      one per cent. per annum                               187 50
                                                           -------
         Total cost at expiration of fifteen years         $370 50

Cost of a WOOD SHINGLE Roof for a Period of Fifteen Years.

    Twenty squares of Wood Shingles, at $3.75 per square    $65 00
    Putting on same                                          20 00
    Expense of five years’ repairs, after expiration of
      ten years; damage to roof and ceiling caused by
      leakage not counted                                    15 00
    Insurance on $2,500 for fifteen years, at three-quarters
      of one percent. per annum                             281 25
    Expense of covering at expiration of fifteen years       85 00
                                                           -------
         Total                                             $466 25

    =Making a difference in favor of Tin Shingles in a
      period of fifteen years of=                         =$95.75=




THE ROOF.


[Illustration: (For Finials, see page 74.)]

A roof for your house is indispensable, and because it is so, let it
be a good one. No part of your house is subject to the same amount of
exposure, and there is no part independent of its protection. If you have
built for the personal comfort of yourself and family, do not slight
the roof because cheap, plain material is the most convenient. There is
really no economy in doing so. It is outside, to be sure, but, like the
chimney, it is a necessity. As we cannot ignore it, we must try to make
it, as a part of the house, attractive. No money spent on the house will
add more to its selling value than that expended in taste and material
for the roof.

[Illustration]

The difference expended in favor of good material adds to every part
of the structure. The roof is about the first thing the prospective
purchaser sees. He cannot help it; it is right before his eyes. His first
impressions are the hardest to overcome.

A good roof must be, first, rain-proof; second, fire-proof; third, light
in weight; fourth, durable; fifth, ornamental; sixth, not liable to get
out of order. You can have your house covered with such a roof, and not
pass the limited boundaries of economy.

Read carefully the pages of this little book devoted to roofing materials
and sundries.




THE KITCHEN.


Somehow, our architects and builders habitually neglect to study the
requirements of the kitchen, but persist in constructing for this use a
plainly constructed room, generally cramped in size, with no means of
escaping the great heat generated by the range or stove, which in the
hot months of summer is almost unbearable. If men were often obliged to
remain in such a place, a large part of the day during the hot season,
they would be quick to seize upon any plan which would mitigate the heat.
But as their wives, daughters or “help” preside in that department, they
offer no amendment to the long-established mode of kitchen construction.

Now, a kitchen can be so constructed that even with the largest size
family-stove or range in use, it will be as comfortable as any other room
in the house, and at an expense not to exceed the cost of the stove or
range used. To do this, build of brick a large open fire-place, say from
three to twelve inches broader than the length of the stove or range
to be used, and from front to rear deep enough to receive the same.
It is best to set an ordinary cook-stove with the side to the front,
so that the oven door can be convenient. The oven door, of course, on
the opposite side is permanently closed. The range being differently
constructed can readily be set in the brick enclosure or open fire-place,
the walls of which should be built perpendicular to the floor, and about
five feet high. The back wall should be sufficiently thick to commence
at this point a smoke-flue 8 × 12 inches, with an opening to receive the
smoke-pipe from the range or stove, and continue it out through the roof
of house (see “Chimneys”); resting on the walls of this open fire-place
build, either with wood or brick, a tapering flue, so that after emerging
from the roof it will expose an opening of not less than four square
feet. A cap should be put over this to prevent an entrance of rain, but
not to contract the draught space.

You will see by this arrangement you have a large chimney with a
fire-place at the bottom large enough to receive the stove or range.
Now construct a sliding sash with double strength glass, and balanced
with weights, with the upper end of sash inside the draught flue, and the
lower end to reach within a foot of the floor, and about four inches from
the side of stove. You will readily perceive that the heat from the stove
inside the flue will constantly cause a strong draught between the bottom
of the sash and the floor, which will prevent heat from escaping into the
kitchen, keeping it as cool as any room in the house. Even with the sash
up, the draught will take nearly all the heat through the flue over the
stove, carrying with it the steam and odor during the process of cooking.
A coat of whitewash inside the brick-work will add to the appearance and
give light, which is shadowed by the flue.

The kitchen should be large and light, and, if possible, be joined by a
broad covered porch, upon which much of the kitchen work can be done in
warm weather.

As this little book is merely hints to builders, we cannot go into the
details of hot and cold water, stationary wash-tubs and such matters. But
we will say, more important than all this is a well-constructed drain
pipe, not less than three inches in diameter, leading from the kitchen
sink to a point some distance (according to the nature of the ground)
from the house. This pipe inside the kitchen, should have a trap to
prevent offensive odors escaping into the room.




SAMPLE SHINGLES.


We will send free, and charges paid, samples of our WALTER’S PATENT
SHINGLES (three pieces) to any address in the United States on receipt
of five two-cent stamps; this does not pay us one-half the expense, but
we propose to make the cost as light as possible to those interested in
building.

                  THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.,
                       510 to 520 East 20th Street,
                              New York City.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ F.—_Front Elevation._

SEVEN-ROOM, TWO-STORY HOUSE.

Estimated Cost, with Bath and Furnace, $2,300 to $2,600.]

       *       *       *       *       *

BRONZE METAL SHINGLES.—We believe we are the first to offer Bronze Metal
Shingles to the World; certainly the first to manufacture them in the
United States. No other metal known for house covering is their equal,
not excepting copper, which in its pure state is rather soft and pliable,
unless of a weight to practically exclude its use.

Bronze Metal is hard, rigid and sufficiently ductile to make the most
serviceable roofing material for public and first-class private buildings
in the world. Any house designed to exist as a memorial of man’s sagacity
and thrift should be covered with these shingles. They are as enduring as
marble; they will wear for any length of time.

We make them in three sizes—7 by 10, 10 by 14, and Queen Anne style.
Prices furnished upon application.

                  THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.,
           Office, 510 to 520 East 20th Street, New York City.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ F.—_Side Elevation._

Roof to be covered with 10 × 14 No. 1 Standard Tin Shingles; gables with
7 × 10, same quality; and porches with Broad-Rib Tin Roofing. Use attic
ventilators and lights (see page 73) on main roof.]

       *       *       *       *       *

                                   LITITZ, PA., February 27th, 1885.

    Dear Sirs:—I was the first man in this town to cover my new
    house, built last summer, with Walter’s Patent Charcoal Tin
    Shingles, and will say that they have given, thus far, entire
    satisfaction. They are not only ornamental but durable, and
    since my roof has introduced them in our town, a great many
    have been put on, all giving satisfaction. I am sure that this
    is the material for roofing houses in the future. They are
    better than any other roof now in use, and will take the place
    of wood shingles, which are getting scarce, and also of slate
    roofs, which are broken by storms. Mine has stood the test
    of the severest storms, during the summer and winter, known
    here for many years, and has proven itself what you claim it
    is—absolutely wind, rain and storm-proof.

                                          JOHNSON MILLER, Secretary.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _First Floor._ _Second Floor._

_Design_ F.—(_Elevations, pages 31 and 32._)]

       *       *       *       *       *

                             CEDAR BLUFF, ALA., February 20th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—Enclosed find exchange for one hundred and forty and
    50/100 dollars to cover bill roofing.

    I am delighted with the Walter’s shingle, and the universal
    verdict of all who have seen my roof is that it is a perfect
    beauty. You will hear from me again, and you may expect other
    orders from this place.

                              Yours truly,

                                                        R. LAWRENCE.




BRICK-WORK.


“Brick from the run of the kiln” will answer for most houses; those of
even color, well-burnt and regular shape, should be selected for the
outside walls and chimneys. Those of irregular shape, too hard or too
soft for outside walls, can be used for filling in, or partition walls.
No soft burnt brick should be allowed where exposed to the weather.
Supposing the foundation is finished, and first-floor joists are laid,
commence by filling between joists, flush with the top of joists and even
with the inside of foundation walls, so no shelves are left between the
joists for the purpose shown in hints under the head of “Foundation,”
page 6.

If the inside of outside walls are to be furred, be prepared to insert
strips about the thickness of common lath between brick joints at points
where base boards are to be put, and to fasten long strips or grounds as
called by plasterers. No mortar should be put between the lath strip and
the brick, but let the lath be pressed by the surface of the upper and
lower brick; the natural settling of the wall will hold the lath tight
enough to bear any amount of nailing.

For doors and windows, insert pieces same thickness, but large enough to
receive the casings. These thin pieces inserted in the mortar joints are
better and cheaper than plugs or wooden brick, which are apt to shrink
and become loose when the brick-work dries. It is very important that
flues for ventilation and chimneys be properly started (see “Chimneys”)
and carried through the roof to a height, if possible, above the apex
of the roof. Ventilating flues should run alongside the chimney flues
where the construction favors them. Too much care cannot be taken in
building these flues. They should be carefully and smoothly plastered on
the inside, and no wood-work be allowed nearer than five inches from the
inside of flue. It is customary to use headers (cross bricks) every five
courses, to bind the walls together. Many people object to headers, and
prefer to expose only the edge surface of the brick. This can be done by
clipping the inside courses of outside brick so as to allow the middle
course to lay angular across the wall, with opposite courses resting half
way between and on the outside courses, or by using square brick. The
latter is a saving of labor if they can be had at a reasonable price.
The thickness of walls depends entirely upon the size of structure to be
built. For ordinary dwelling-houses, twelve inches is thick enough for
outside walls and nine inches for partition walls. Mortar for brick-work
above foundation should be made of one part of good lime, slacked at
time of mixing the mortar, and four parts of screened sharp sand. The
cementing qualities of sand and fresh lime depend on the purity of the
sand. By pure sand we mean that which is free from loam or clay.




STANDARD CHARCOAL ROOFING TIN SHINGLES.


Our Standard Charcoal Roofing Tin Shingles are made of such brands as
“Mansel,” “Dean,” “Worcester,” “P. T. L.” &c., and guaranteed to be
first-class, well-coated plates, perfect in finish. Next comes our
Galvanized (re-dipped) shingle; this is our Standard Tin Shingle, taken
after it is made and dipped into melted zinc, adding a second coat
of fully twenty pounds on each square, giving with the tin, a more
durable coating than that used on galvanized iron, making it absolutely
rust-proof and saving painting. Next is what we call “Old Process” or “M.
F.” This is what is known as “Old Style,” “Double-Dipped,” “Old Method,”
and other names, but what is really a very superior article of roofing
plate, having a much heavier coating than “Standard,” but, like it, has
to be painted. There are many brands of practically one quality in the
market, and, having no choice ourselves, we supply the brand preferred;
but if the best is asked for, we send “Old Process,” believing it to be
equal to any.

                   THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.




THINGS ARE ONLY GOOD OR BAD BY COMPARISON.


WALTER’S PATENT METALLIC SHINGLES COMPARED WITH SLATE.

Our shingles are not one-sixth the weight of slate, which greatly reduces
the cost of the frame-work of roof. They readily conform to the shape of
a roof, which slate will not do. Slate is not thoroughly fire-proof, as
heat from an adjoining building on fire will cause the slate to crack,
which would destroy the best roof in a few minutes, leaving the sheeting
exposed. Especially is this the case if water is thrown on them while hot.

Our shingles are free from the many accidents to which slate roofs are
liable, such as cracking from shrinkage of wood-work to which they
are attached; breaking, caused by necessary repairs to the valleys or
chimneys; and the effect of frost on defective slate. Such defects cannot
always be avoided by ordinary observation. All builders of experience are
aware of the expensive repairs necessary to keep a slate roof in good
order, but perhaps the most inconsistent thing connected with the whole
roofing business is the fact that nineteen-twentieths of all the houses
covered with slate =have gutters lined with the same material of which
our shingles are made=, while slate was used for covering because of its
supposed durability.

Should anything fall on our shingles it would probably dent them
without causing a break; but should it perforate them, the shingles can
be replaced by another, or a leak can be soldered, and fire from an
adjoining roof cannot more than injure the paint. They will cool off
rapidly, retaining their shape.


WALTER’S PATENT TIN SHINGLES COMPARED WITH ORDINARY TIN ROOFING.

Of this we speak with the advantage of many years’ experience as
practical roofers. The great difficulty metal roofers have to contend
with is contraction and expansion of the metal under the changes of
temperature. This cause alone calls for continued repairs in all flat
lock or standing seam roofs, and the seams underneath are receptacles for
any moisture which may condense on the underside of the metal. All such
roofs first show decay in the cross seams, and this, while the body of
the plates shows no sign of decay. Our shingles have no cross seam, and
are sufficiently ventilated to prevent condensation of moisture; while
a glance at their construction shows at once that the difficulty caused
by contraction and expansion is successfully overcome. Our shingles do
not require the skilled labor which is necessary to lay the flat lock or
standing groove metal roofing, while the time required to lay a given
surface is much less.

In estimating the difference of cost between the ordinary tin roofing and
our shingle, a steep roof house alone must be taken in consideration, as
our shingle is not proposed for a flat roof. (See “Comparative Cost,”
pages 26 and 27.)




ROOFING SUNDRIES.


We were the first to manufacture a full line of Valley, Hip and Ridge
Coping, Gable, &c., to enable the builder or roofer to use them at
a reasonable price, and are the only factory in America prepared to
furnish such trimming in any quantity; and while they are not absolutely
necessary, they greatly lessen the amount of labor and cost of laying,
besides adding a finish to the roof not otherwise obtained, so that the
saving in labor will pay the additional cost.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ E.—_Front and Side Elevation._

SIX-ROOM COTTAGE.

Estimated Cost, with Bath and Furnace, $2,000 to $2,300.

Use Broad-Rib Steel Plate with attic vents (see page 73) for roof, and 10
× 14 No. 2 Metal Shingles for gables.]

[Illustration: _First Floor._ _Second Floor._

_Design_ E.—_Elevations, page 38._]

       *       *       *       *       *

ROOF PAINT.—We use the best Brown Mineral Oxide of Iron, roasted and
double-ground, mixed with boiled linseed oil, grinding them together, and
adding only enough turpentine to dry in the air in seventy-two hours.
We first dip the shingles, and after they have stood a short time, and
before the paint has set, they are carefully gone over with a brush,
insuring an even, perfect coat, not obtainable in any ordinary way of
painting.

       *       *       *       *       *

All tin roofers, who have experience, know the importance of putting on
a second coat. In spite of the best care in laying, more or less paint
is scratched off, and without a second coat the roof is not finished.
Architects and builders always require it, and if a heavy single coat
of paint is given the roof every five or six years, there will be no
perceptible wear on the tin, insuring many years’ service.




OUR NEW PATENT.


[Illustration: Patented April 4th, 1882. Patented Nov. 8th, 1887.]

Our Queen Anne Shingles are designed expressly to meet a want often
expressed for an attractive and artistic roof covering and outside
decorating. They are not intended to take the place of our Standard
Walter’s Patent, which for general use are incomparable, but less
ornamental than the Queen Anne Shingles. They have bold clean cut lines,
producing, from the effects of light and shade, the most striking and
artistic roof yet produced by metallic shingles or tiles.

For church spires, belt coursing, towers or mansard roofing, they cannot
be excelled. The cut illustrates the kind of finish used at the eaves and
verge board. The same ridge coping used for our Standard Shingles can be
used for this. This shingle must be seen to be appreciated.

We recommend the Bronze Metal, or the Galvanized Shingles for use on
public or first-class private buildings, because such buildings should be
covered with the best roofing material to be had.

       *       *       *       *       *

Each superficial foot of brick wall,

     4 inches thick requires  7 brick.
     8    “    “       “     15   “
    12    “    “       “     22   “
    16    “    “       “     29   “
    20    “    “       “     37   “
    24    “    “       “     45   “

       *       *       *       *       *

SURFACE MEASURE.—All roofers compute roofing jobs by squares, which
means 100 square feet, or 10 feet square. If you go to your architect or
roofer and ask him how much it will take or cost to cover your roof, he
will first ascertain how many square feet there are to be covered; and
if, for example, there are 2,500 square feet he will tell you there are
twenty-five squares to be covered; and in order to intelligently supply
what is wanted, we put up our shingles in boxes of one square each; that
is to say, each box of one square will cover one hundred square feet
after they have been put on.




OLD MATERIALS.


In tearing down old work be as careful as in putting up new.

Old material should never be destroyed simply because it is old.

When putting away old stuff see that it is protected from rain and the
atmosphere.

It costs about 15 per cent. extra to work up old material, and this
fact should be borne in mind, as I have known several contractors who
paid dearly for their “whistle” in estimating on working up second-hand
material.

These remarks apply to wood-work only. In using old bricks, stone, slate
and other miscellaneous materials, it is as well to add double price for
working up.

Workmen do not care to handle old material, and justly so. It is ruinous
to tools, painful to handle, and very destructive to clothing.

In my experience I always found it pay to advance the wages of
workmen—skilled mechanics—while working up old material. This encouraged
the men and spurred them to better efforts.

Sash frames, with sash weights, locks and trim complete, may be taken out
of old buildings that are being taken down and preserved just as good as
new by screwing slats and braces on them, which not only keeps the frame
square, but prevents the glass from being broken.

Doors, frames and trims may also be kept in good order until used, by
taking the same precautions as in window frames.

Old scantlings and joists should have all nails drawn or hammered in
before piling away.

Counters, shelving, drawers and other store-fittings should be kindly
dealt with. They will be wanted sooner or later.

Take care of the locks, hinges, bolts, keys and other hardware. Each
individual piece represents money in a greater or lesser sum.

Old flooring can seldom be utilized, though I have seen it used for
temporary purposes, such as fencing, covering of veranda floors while
finishing work on plastering, etc. As a rule, however, it does not pay to
take it up carefully and preserve it. Conductor pipes, metallic cornices,
and sheet metal work generally, can seldom be made available a second
time though all is worth caring for, as some parties may use it for
repairs.

Sinks, wash-basins, bath-tubs, traps, heating appliances, grates, mantels
and hearth-stones should be moved with care. They are always worth money
and may be used in many places as substitutes for more inferior fixings.

Marble mantels require the most careful handling.

Perhaps the most difficult fixings about a house to adapt a second time
are the stairs. Yet I have known where a man has so managed to put up new
buildings that the old stairs taken from another building just suited.
This may have been a “favorable accident,” but the initiated reader will
understand him. Seldom such accidents can occur.

Rails, balusters and newels may be utilized much readier than stairs, as
the rail may be lengthened or shortened to suit variable conditions.

Gas fixtures should be cared for and stowed away in some dry place. They
can often be made available, and are not easily renovated if soiled or
tarnished.

It is not wise to employ men who have nothing but their strength to
recommend them. As a rule they are like bears—have more strength than
knowledge, and lack of the latter is often an expensive desideratum.
Employ for taking down the work good careful mechanics, and do not have
the work “rushed through.” Rushers of this sort are expensive.

Never send old material to a mill to be sawed or planed, no matter how
carefully nails, pebbles and sand have been hunted for, the saw or planer
knives will most assuredly find some you have overlooked, then there will
be trouble at the mill.

Have some mercy for the workman’s tools. If it can be avoided do not work
up old stuff into fine work. If not avoidable pay the workman something
extra because of injury to tools.

Don’t grumble if you do not get as good results from the use of old
material as from new. The workman has much to contend with while working
up old nail-speckled, sand-covered material.

                                                 _Builder and Woodworker._




HEATING.


[Illustration: STEAM AND WARM AIR COMBINED.]

I once knew a church building committee who planned and built quite
a large church, and when I was called in to arrange for heating the
building with a large furnace, the furnace committee were astonished when
told that the building committee had forgotten the fact that the hot-air
furnace required a chimney.

The construction of many houses suggests that houses built in the hot
months of summer needed no special provision for heating. This is an
important subject, and should be carefully considered in the construction
of the plainest house. Always take climate, location and fuel into
consideration. The open fire place, with fire on the hearth, is without
doubt the most cheerful and healthful. This is the favorite and best mode
for plain country homes. But in all instances, for churches and public
halls, the open fire-place is not to be depended upon. There is a variety
of good steam-heaters and hot-air furnaces to choose from. Consult
the parties from whom you buy as to the size of heater required; its
location, size of cold-air duct, register, pipe, etc.

For small rural churches that have no basement, construct a small room
under the front entrance or vestibule; eight feet square, inside measure,
is sufficient. Near its floor have a cold-air entrance leading to the
furnace. Cover the opening with wire netting to prevent the entrance of
mice. Use brick for the room, building the walls eight inches thick;
leave openings 2½ × 4 inches, about one foot apart all around the bottom
next to the floor. Carry the wall close to the ceiling, and make it tight
by plastering carefully inside and out where it joins the ceiling.
Cover the ceiling, by nailing to joists, with bright sheets of tin, and
white-wash the brick-work inside. For entrance make a door 6 × 3 feet.
A plain wooden one will answer. In the aisle of the church, immediately
over this room, put a large grating, such as your furnace-men will
suggest. In this room place your furnace, and have it _large enough_
to heat the room above during the coldest weather _without excessive
firing_. With a larger capacity than necessary, the furnace will last
longer, burn less coal, and give better results in every respect. As the
furnace will radiate considerable heat, this can be utilized by running
a pipe of proper size from the room to the vestibule or some other room.
The objection to using this heat in the church is the noise of firing
up, which would be annoying during church service. However, a furnace
properly attended will not need firing during church service. Remember, a
large volume of _warm_ air is what you want, and _not_ a small volume of
_hot_ air. Never cover the grating or close the cold-air duct to cool off
while there is fire in the furnace, but open the doors or windows of the
church and check the fire. The closing of the grating or cold-air duct
will injure the castings of the furnace by overheating them.




CLOSE SHEATHING THE BEST.


While a rain-proof roof can be made with our shingles, our system, as
well as all metal or slate roofing should not be put upon open sheathing.
If walked upon the metal will not support the weight, and bends out of
shape, and the roof is blamed. In high latitudes where we have driving
storms of fine snow or “blizzards,” _we specify close sheathing covered
by paper_ (_using same rules as for laying slate_). We will then
guarantee a perfect roof.

                  THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.,
               510 to 520 East 20th Street, New York City.




THE CISTERN.


Three things are all that are necessary to supply any family with the
purest and best water in the world for drinking, cooking and washing
purposes: a well-constructed cistern, a clean roof and a rain-fall.

[Illustration: CUT-OFF ATTACHMENT.

    _A._ To connect with down pipe.
    _B._ Outlet for waste water.
    _C._ Leads to filter or cistern.
    _D._ Is adjustable to fit box _C_.
    _E._ Fastenings to wall of house.
    _F._ Side view of _D_.
    _G._ Handle to adjust _D_.

(Not patented; can be made by any tinsmith.)]

These are within the reach of every one able to own a home. By a cistern
we mean an excavation in the earth from twelve to twenty-five feet deep.
Dig deep if you want cold water all the year round. From eighteen to
twenty-five feet will produce it. If your cistern is dug in a clayey
soil, there is no use of brick lining; but if in gravel, sandy or rocky
soil, line the inside with hard, well burnt brick, and do the work well;
using for mortar equal parts of hydraulic lime and clean, sharp sand.
When completed, plaster the inside carefully with the same mortar. If
the walls are clay plaster immediately on the sides and bottom, without
lining with brick.

No roofing material is better for collecting chemically pure water than
tin, and none so bad as wood shingles. They hold dirt which no ordinary
shower will wash off, and furnish organic matter which is disagreeable
to the taste and smell; the porous nature of wood makes it the home of
myriads of insects, the remains of which are eventually deposited in the
cistern and poison its waters.

No such objections can be urged against tin roofing. A short shower
cleanses it thoroughly. Water-pipes leading into the cistern in every
case should have a cut-off attachment within easy reach.

There are several on the market, but those having no inside arrangement
to get out of order, or obstruct the direct passage of water into
either the cistern or waste-pipe, are the best. The water should be
strained before entering the cistern. This can be built of brick and be
underground, or a cask can be used above ground. A strong, iron-bound
linseed oil barrel answers the purpose. Its construction is very simple.
Take out one end of the cask and perforate it with a sufficient number
of one-inch auger holes; lay four brick on edge in the bottom of the
cask, and let the perforated cask head rest upon them. Then fill the cask
three-quarters full of charcoal, pounding it down on top pretty hard. Put
on top of the charcoal clean, coarse gravel to within three inches of the
top of cask; make a covering with an opening to receive the water which
flows from the roof, and convey the water from the bottom of cask to the
cistern. At least once a year this filter should be emptied and cleansed,
putting in new charcoal and washing the gravel carefully. Let no summer
months’ water run into the cistern. See that the first rain of a shower
is used to wash the dust and soot from your roof before it is turned into
the cistern, and you will have an abundance of water not equaled by any
well or spring.




BUILDING PAPERS.


[Illustration]

NEPONSET PAPER is absolutely water-proof and air-tight, is clean to
handle, not tarred felt, but far more durable. Its resistance to air and
dampness renders it unsurpassed under clapboards, iron roofing and wood
or tin shingles.

CLIMAX is a light, clean, pink, colored paper; useful for any purpose
where building paper is required; is much cheaper than Neponset, but not
water-proof. The use of building paper under roofing or clapboards adds
greatly to the ease of warming a building. By its use you save fuel and
your house is more comfortable. Its cost is nominal compared with its
advantages. We keep a large stock and fill orders promptly.




COLORS AND HOW TO MAKE THEM.


    Blue and yellow makes green.
    White and yellow makes buff.
    White, yellow and black makes drab.
    White and black makes lead.
    White and black makes gray.
    White, black and blue makes pearl.
    White and lake makes pink.
    White, blue and black makes slate.
    Red, black and blue makes brown.
    Red, black and yellow makes maroon.
    Red and yellow makes orange.
    Blue and lake makes purple.

       *       *       *       *       *

                 U. S. MARINE BARRACKS, NAVY YARD, PENSACOLA, FLA.,
                                                 October 22d, 1887.

    SIRS:—In compliance with your request, I have to say that about
    a year ago I was called upon to decide which of several kinds
    of roofing material to select for two barrack buildings, which
    I was constructing for the Government at this place. Owing to
    the heat and moisture of the climate, very destructive to wood,
    and the proximity of the Gulf of Mexico, which makes what is
    known as a salt atmosphere, very injurious to iron roofing, I
    was induced to try your system, and ordered the 14 × 20 size,
    I. C. Standard, some painted and some galvanized. As it was
    previously almost unknown to me, I had to assume the risk of
    its success, and have since watched it very closely; the more
    so, as it was laid by soldiers entirely unfamiliar with it.

    After the first rain a close inspection failed to reveal a
    single leak. I have had it inspected after every heavy rain
    since then with the same result. On the 20th inst. we had the
    severest gale for many years, and the roofs not only resisted
    it in every way, but there was no rattle, which could not be
    said of our other tin roofs (old system).

    You can refer any one to me for commendation of these points
    which are established; also of its architectural beauty, and
    I have little doubt as to the rest, for we painted it very
    carefully on both sides.

                  I am, Sirs, very respectfully yours,

                        HENRY CLAY COCHRANE,
                        Captain U. S. Marine Corps, Commanding Post.

       *       *       *       *       *

The combination of cherry and light oak proves an excellent one for
over-mantels, for, in addition to contrast of grain, and figure, and
hue, is that of the high polish of which cherry is susceptible with the
somewhat ridgy surface of the oak.

       *       *       *       *       *

One coat of paint takes 20 lbs. of lead and 4 gals. of oil per 100 square
yards. The second coat, 40 lbs. lead, 4 gals. oil; the third, the same
as the second—say 100 lbs. lead, 12 gals. oil per 100 square yards, for
three coats.

       *       *       *       *       *

    One gallon priming colors covers 50 square yards.
       “       white zinc       “    50       “
       “       white lead       “    44       “
       “       lead color       “    50       “
       “       black paint      “    50       “
       “       stone color      “    44       “
       “       yellow paint     “    44       “
       “       blue color       “    45       “
       “       green paint      “    45       “
       “       bright emerald   “    25       “
       “       bronze green     “    75       “

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: COMPARATIVE PITCH OF ROOFS.]

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ J.—_Front Elevation._

EIGHT-ROOM, TWO-STORY HOUSE.]

       *       *       *       *       *

OUR GUARANTEE.

We guarantee our shingles as follows: If you will use them, and _they are
properly put on in accordance with our instructions_, and if they do not
then give satisfaction, we agree to replace your roof, free of expense to
you, with equally expensive material, any time within two years from the
time you put them on. In addition to this, we may be able to give you a
local reference, as our goods are in use in every State and Territory. We
call your attention to the price list, and we will be pleased to make you
discounts on application.

                  THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.,
                 510 to 520 East 20th St., New York City.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ J.—_Side Elevation._]

Cover roof with No. 1 Standard 10 × 14 Tin Shingles; use attic vents (see
page 73) on main roof, and cover belt courses with 7 × 10 Tin Shingles,
same quality as those for main roof.

The plans and elevations of cottages presented in this book have each
been specially prepared for some individual by an eminent architect, and
the proportions and details can be relied upon.

[Illustration: _Second Floor._

_First Floor._

_Design_ J.—(_Elevations, pages 51 and 52._)]




SHOWING APPLICATION OF OUR RIDGE OR HIP COPING.


[Illustration: Plain Ridge.]

[Illustration: Manner of Fastening Climax Ridge to Roof Boards.]

[Illustration: Showing Climax Ridge and Gable Finish.]

These cuts are good illustrations of our Ridge Finish, which is also used
as Hip Coping. It is secured to the roof comb by nailing through the
flange, which rests on each side of the comb. It makes a durable and neat
finish; is of great assistance to workmen not skilled in metal roofing,
and its cost is no more than the labor and material necessary in making
the regular standing seam used by roofers in finishing the comb of sheet
metal roofs.

FOR RE-COVERING.—Use our Roofing; no other has the conveniences for rapid
laying.




VENTILATION.


[Illustration: The “Attic” Sky-light and Ventilator. (See page 78.)]

As you value health, study well this important subject, which is oftener
neglected in constructing dwellings than any other detail. An experienced
and observant man can pick from those whom he meets on the street men or
women who habitually sleep in badly ventilated rooms. The florist will
study and practice the best means to ventilate his propagating house,
and ignore the necessity of the same principle for himself and family.
Everything that breathes—and what living thing does not?—needs a change
of air to remain in a healthy condition. Leaves are the lungs of plants,
and, deprived of this change, soon assume a delicate, sickly hue.

Why should the human family, in full possession of reasoning powers,
ignore the lesson that is every day before them? By ventilation we mean
a system that will constantly supply the dwelling with fresh air; at the
same time it draws the vitiated atmosphere from each hall and room in
the house. This can be done during the process of erection in a simple,
effectual and inexpensive manner. Even if it should cost more than you
feel inclined to pay, the result will justify the expense.

There is no better way of creating upward draught than the open
fire-place, or a flue built with an opening near the floor. Such flues
should not be less than 8 × 8 inches for an ordinary size bedroom, and
should, if possible, be built alongside of the chimney flue, and extend
through the house-top without openings, except the one nearest the floor
in the room it starts from.

As vitiated air is heavier than pure air, and is always nearest the
floor, the artificial draught caused by a long, upright flue is
constantly at work carrying the lower atmosphere from each room in which
these upward and outward draught flues are built. To supply the rooms
with fresh air, corresponding flues must be built similar in size and
construction to the above. Commence them with outside openings about
on a level with the first floor joists, extending upward, and end with
openings inward near the ceiling. Each of these openings outside and
inside the house should be covered with coarse wire cloth. That made
from tinned or galvanized No. 16 wire, with one-half in. meshes, is the
best. Care should be taken in building these flues to have them smoothly
plastered on the inside. An ornamental finish can be used at each end if
desired. By this arrangement a steady flow of fresh air, both night and
day, is secured without the ill effects of strong draughts.

Do not try to economize by using one flue for two or more rooms. Good
results are only secured by using a set of flues for each room or hall.
I have seen ventilating flues built to open through the cornice. That
is a bad plan, for even a slight wind will check the draught while
blowing against that side. If the flues are properly finished after
passing through the roof the wind will increase the draught. The above
suggestions answer equally as well for frame houses. It is easy to
construct wood flues between the weatherboarding and lath.




COOPER’S CONDUCTOR OR LEADER PIPE.


The object of this invention is to supply the builder with a
conductor-pipe that will not burst after freezing, which all pipes
without provision for expansion are liable when water is frozen solid
in them. The peculiarity of the joint lies in the wedge principle,
applied in a manner which forces the rim of the inside lap hard against
the overlapping end with strength sufficient to do without soldering
the joints. Besides this, each joint is provided with a fastening which
prevents the pipe from settling. This fastening may or may not be used,
but if used in connection with the ordinary pipe hook (which does not
prevent the pipe from settling) makes a very superior fastening.

The V-shaped corrugation prevents bursting, as it allows the pipe to
expand when frozen, thus preventing its bursting. We make two sizes,
three and four inches in diameter, twenty-eight inches long, using tin
plate, which we galvanize with zinc after it is formed, making a pipe
superior to any galvanized iron pipe of equal weight. We make the same
not galvanized, but painted one coat inside and out with linseed oil and
oxide of iron paint.

[Illustration: COOPER’S CONDUCTOR OR LEADER PIPE.

AMPLE PROVISION FOR EXPANSION.]

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: _Design_ B.—_Front and Side Elevation._

SEVEN-ROOM, TWO-STORY HOUSE.

Estimated Cost, $1,200 to $1,500.

Cover main roof with No. 2 14 × 20 Metal Shingles; gables with same, and
porches with 7 × 10, same quality. Attic ventilators will improve the
appearance and give additional light to the rooms under roof (see page
73).]

[Illustration: _First Floor._ _Second Floor._

_Design_ B.—(_Elevations, page 58._)]




NAILS.


[Illustration]

STEEL WIRE BARBED NAILS are superior to any cut nail made. Are lighter,
stronger and easier to drive. Holding firmer in the wood, and having a
larger flat head, they hold the tin to the roof boards much better, are
nearly double the quantity to the pound, and therefore fully as cheap.




DEADENING AND FIRE-PROOFING FLOORS.


[Illustration]

This can be accomplished in a simple and inexpensive manner by nailing
strips 1 × 1½ inches along the side of each joist, the top edge of each
strip to be two inches below the top surface of the joist. On top of
these strips lay a floor of rough boards. Second-hand material answers
every purpose for the floor, as the boards need not be matched or of even
thickness.

On the top of this rough floor spread a covering of coarse mortar gauged
level with the top edge of the joist. When the mortar is dry lay the
floor in the usual manner. It takes a long time for fire to burn through
a floor laid in this manner, and sound is deadened completely by the
mass of non-conducting mortar and the double floors. For fire-proofing
and deadening partitions in an effective way, build a four-inch brick
wall between the studding. A nail driven every ten or twelve inches in
the side of the studding, on the line of the mortar joint, will hold the
wall firmly between the studding. Where brick is scarce or expensive,
sun dried brick made from stiff clay is a good substitute. They can be
made 12 × 12 inches, and thick enough to come within ⅜ of an inch of the
lathing. The mortar keys impinging against the wall make the plastering
firmer and consequently stronger.

The expense of fire-proofing and deadening in this manner is so small,
it is surprising it is not more generally adopted. If the flooring is
laid before the mortar used between the joists is dry, it will cause the
boards to swell and may bulge them; and when they finally become dry will
leave ugly looking cracks where they join. Remember, you cannot have a
well built house without giving Nature time to do her work.




DIRECTIONS FOR LAYING WALTER’S PATENT METALLIC SHINGLES.


[Illustration: Cut I.

Shows manner of finishing with Climax Ridge Stop Block and Gable End
Finish.]

Commence at the lower left-hand corner. In starting be particular to see
that you start straight with the eaves of the building. To do this it
is best to draw a chalk line about twelve inches from the eaves; this
distance leaves two inches to project from the eaves, which in many cases
is more than sufficient. If you use our Gable End Finish (Cut I) it saves
the trouble of fitting the shingles to the verge board, and adds to the
appearance of the roof. After nailing the Gable End Finish to its place,
press the left-hand edge of the first shingle well under the fold of
the Gable End Finish, and before nailing it hook two or three shingles
with the top edge on a line with your chalk line; then remove the loose
shingles, and nail the first one which is held to its proper place by the
Gable End Finish. By doing this in starting each course you are sure of a
straight line if you follow correctly the gauge lines at the top of each
shingle.

[Illustration: Cut A.

Shows commencement of first two courses.]

If your roof has a =pitch of six inches to the foot, or steeper, let the
bottom edge of the shingle rest just above the lower gauge line on the
top of the underlying shingle, as shown in Cut A=. But if the pitch of
the roof is less than six inches to the foot, let the shingle entirely
cover the lower gauge line, as shown in Cut B.

[Illustration: Cut B.]

We advise against the use of our shingles on roofs of less pitch than
five inches to the foot, unless the lap is increased. As a rule, we think
any roof that can be walked over with safety is too flat for shingles of
either wood or metal.

[Illustration: Cut F.]

Should there be a gutter formed at the eave, let the shingle rest on it
as you would in using the ordinary wood shingle. (Remember every other
course =commences with a half shingle, as shown in Cuts A and B=.) The
same rules that govern the laying of slate or the common wood shingle
along valleys, or about chimneys and dormer windows, are applicable to
ours, except the tin shingles are bent up against the sides of chimneys,
which cannot be done with wood or slate. When our shingles turn up
against the sides of chimneys or brick walls, insert flashing by sawing
out the mortar joint above the line of tin work; where the upper edge of
our shingles butts against the brick wall, as they do on the lower side
of chimneys, cut them off on the line where the chimney comes to the
roof, and use a strip of tin bent in this manner. (See Cut F.) The upper
end at A is to fit in mortar joint. The lower edge, B, is nailed to the
sheathing before the shingles are put on. The upper ends of shingles are
then to be pressed up under the fold, C. Great care should be used in
finishing about chimneys and dormers, the details of which cannot well be
explained to suit each case; but a workman of ordinary skill can suggest
the proper manner in which the work should be done to secure thoroughly
tight work.

It is much easier to secure this result with the use of our shingles than
it is with either wood or slate.

Where the upper end of shingle butts against the side of a frame house,
use the same means as on the lower side of chimneys, only let there be
no bend at the point A, as shown in Cut F; but let it extend an inch or
so up under the weather boarding. Where the weather boarding is vertical
there is no way of making tight work but to put the tin work, as before
described, back of the vertical weather board.

In laying the valley, cut the tin so it extends to about one-half inch
over the lock, and bend it under, as shown in Cut D. We furnish to each
customer a small pair of hand-tongs, which is handy to turn this edge
over and pinch it together after the shingle is laid.

[Illustration: Cut D.]

The Cut D represents the shingles laid to and from the valley. In
starting from the valley it is best to hold several shingles together, or
tack them at the top, then with a straight-edge mark and cut where they
overlap the valley; and with the hand-tongs edge and lock them to the
valley, as shown in cut D.

Use the Hip Coping by nailing the edges to the roof boards, and press the
shingle up under the folds on each side after they are cut to suit the
angle of the hip. (See Cut E.)

[Illustration: Cut E.]

As plain as this appears, we have known men to nail the Hip Coping
through the folds and on the top of the shingles. We are, therefore,
particular to say wherever this Hip, or our Plain Ridge Coping (which is
the same thing) is used it should be nailed to the roof boards before the
shingles are put on. The fold is made expressly to receive the edge of
the shingles. Cut E shows this coping and the manner of applying it.

We desire to impress upon our customers, who live in the Northern States,
where blizzards and severe snow storms are frequent, the necessity of
using close sheathing, and if the sheathing is not close, =the use of
sheathing paper, to be laid underneath the shingles=; it adds greatly to
the warmth of the house in winter, and prevents small particles of snow
from entering, it costs but little, and should always be used under wood,
slate or tin shingles where the best protection is desired.

DO NOT HAMMER DOWN THE JOINTS OR LOCK.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: PAINTING DEPARTMENT]




PAINTING.


After the mason, bricklayer, carpenter, tinsmith and plasterer comes the
painter. At this stage of progress in the work, the owner usually thinks
of moving in; in fact, he thinks he should have been living in his new
house several weeks ago.

If weather conditions have been good, the representatives of other
branches of house building have got along smoothly excepting a little
shaking up now and then, caused mostly by the men occasionally yielding
to the seductive influences of Old John Barleycorn or his rival King
Growler. The owner, having previously engaged or contracted for inside
painting, now calls on the painter. The man of colors and brushes is
always ready to promise quick work (and we are free to say the mysteries
of his trade are equal to any reasonable emergency), and is apt to humor
his employer’s impatience, and meekly submits to his wishes knowing that
his employer’s hurry is his gain. House-builder, did it ever occur to you
that first-class inside painting is a slow process? Think of this; after
the first coat is laid, it should stand long enough to become thoroughly
dry, dry enough to be sand-papered. The second coat should be a little
heavier than the first or priming coat. It does not dry as fast as the
first. (We are speaking of good materials properly proportioned.) Each
coat must be thoroughly dry before it is sand-papered. Any kind of good
work requires three coats. Extra good work—four, besides varnishing.

If you succeed in doing this work inside of four weeks you are fortunate.
Thus you see it requires time to do good work. Time for the men to do
theirs, and time for Nature to do hers. Sometimes Nature frowns and
lowers a curtain of humidity for days at a time, which prevents the
oils from drying. It is possible for your painter to finish all four
coats in as many days; but if he is honest and you have not hurried him
unreasonably, his conscience will suffer. Good painting, like other good
things, is durable, looks well, and is the cheapest in the end.

Good painters pride themselves on doing good work. So if you desire
first-class work, you should give the painter a reasonable price, and
sufficient time in which to do the work properly.

There is doubtless more adulteration in paint than in any materials
used in house-finishing. So general is this the case that it is often
difficult to get pure materials. This is caused by the low price of the
products of petroleum, the earth materials used to adulterate mineral
paints, and the demand for cheap work.

       *       *       *       *       *

ATTENTION, ROOFERS!

Our BROAD RIB ROOFING and STEEL PLATE SHINGLES are not protected with
a coat of richer metal like those made of tin or terne plate, and
consequently their _durability depends upon the paint_ with which they
should be covered.

For this purpose nothing, so far as we know, is equal to a mixture of
_pure unboiled linseed oil_ and the _oxide of iron_. The Shingles should
have two coats, one before they are put on, on both sides (this we do),
the other immediately _after they are laid_. This last coat should be
repeated _every four or five years_.

Remember, it is the _rust-preventing_ qualities of linseed oil, combined
with the oxide of iron, that makes steel or iron sheets resist the
corrosive action of oxygen, which is ever present in the atmosphere. (See
page 101.)




A PERFECT ROOF.


The best can only be obtained by using good materials, worked into the
best form that theory and experience can suggest.

WALTER’S PATENT “STANDARD” AND COOPER’S PATENT “QUEEN ANNE” METALLIC
SHINGLES AND SIDING,

made from Tin Plate, Steel Plate, Galvanized Tin Plate, Bronze Metal, and
Copper, are unrivaled for roof covering.

BECAUSE they have a perfect lock, using no cleats, springs or exposed
seams.

BECAUSE they have no exposed fastenings; all nail heads are covered as
perfectly as those used for wood shingles.

BECAUSE they can be applied without the necessity of soldering, and with
no other tools than a hammer, a small pair of hand-tongs and tin shears.

BECAUSE they break joints by starting each alternate course with a half
shingle, thus bringing the centre of the bottom of each shingle astraddle
of the locked shingle below, securely binding the same and preventing
rattling.

BECAUSE they are easily and rapidly put on, requiring no odd pieces at
the eaves, gables or comb.

BECAUSE they lessen the expense of insurance, which extends not only to
the building but to furniture and goods contained therein.

BECAUSE they do not crack, split, warp, fall off, rust or burn.

BECAUSE there are no cross seams or joints where rain or moisture can
settle and cause decay.

BECAUSE we furnish with our shingles, at moderate cost, Valleys, Gable
Strips, Ridge and Hip Coping, that not only improves the finish of
exterior, but assists the workman to an extent that lessens the cost of
applying.

                             Manufactured by
                  THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.,
               510 to 520 East 20th Street, New York City,

and for sale by Dealers in all the principal cities of the United States
and Canada.

       *       *       *       *       *

                      From BARTLETT HARDWARE CO.,

                                 Freeport, Ill., January 10th, 1888.

    THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO., New York City.

    Dear Sirs:—I send you photo. of my house that you may see how
    handsome a Roof the 7 × 10 Shingles make. You thought the 10 ×
    14 would have been better, but this is the finest roof in this
    country, and we expect to sell some the present year. Everybody
    admires it. Please quote for the coming season’s trade.

                           Very respectfully,

                                             F. BARTLETT, President.




WHAT OUR GOODS ARE.


In offering our goods to the public, we desire to say, briefly, that
the _Walter’s Patent Metallic Shingles and Siding Plates_ have now been
before this country for nearly eight years, upwards of twelve thousand
buildings have been covered with them in the United States and Canada,
and we feel warranted in referring to the owners of every building so
covered.

Our shingles have a concealed nailing flange the entire length of the
shingle on one side, and a perfect lock with a concealed gutter at the
side of the nailing flange that provides for _expansion and contraction_,
with sufficient ventilation to prevent sweating on the under-side,
(causing rust,) so common in the cross seams of flat lock and standing
seam, now in use.

Our Galvanized (Re-dipped) Shingle is our Standard Tin Shingle
galvanized; and, as every square has twenty pounds of zinc coating, in
addition to the first coat of tin, it will be seen why it is superior to
any galvanized iron made.

Our “Old Process” prices are designed to cover such grades of
double-coated plates as “Old Style,” “M.F.,” “Phelp’s Triple Plate,”
“Gilbertson’s Old Method,” and “Tregoning Old Process,” all superior to
the Standard Grades, and higher in price. We quote all but Galvanized,
painted both sides. If any size or kind is ordered unpainted, the price
will be 25 cents per square less.

Our Steel Plate Shingles are made from sheets of Bessemer steel rolled as
smooth as tin plate, they are painted the same as the Standard Shingles,
and when laid on a roof cannot be distinguished from them. They should be
painted every five years with pure linseed oil and oxide of iron (brown
mineral). They will not bear neglect; in this respect they differ from
shingles made from tin plate. The price is somewhat less, but the greater
durability of the Tin Shingles is worth more than the difference in
price.

We make our shingles in four sizes: The smallest, 7 × 10, (showing an
exposed surface, after laid, of 5½ × 9 inches,) is designed for Mansards,
Spires, Siding, and other upright work. The 10 × 14, (exposed surface,
8¼ × 11½ inches,) is the popular size; and while it works to the best
advantage on complicated roofs, it is equally good for plain ones. The 14
× 20, (exposed surface, 12 × 17½ inches,) is used largely on the plainer
roofs, where a saving in price and labor of putting on is an item. The 20
× 28, (exposed surface, 17½ × 25½ inches,) is made from heavier metal,
and is designed for warehouses, and other large surfaces; and any of the
larger shingles can be used for siding equally as well.

We are prepared to make any of the above sizes from any special brand of
tin plate in the market, but for our Standard goods, which we carry in
stock, we use a first-class grade of roofing tin plate, warranted perfect.


SAMPLES.

We will send free, and charges paid, samples of our WALTER’S PATENT
SHINGLES (three pieces) to any address in the United States on receipt
of five two-cent stamps; this does not pay us one-half the expense, but
we propose to make the cost as light as possible to those interested in
building.

                  THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.,
                       510 to 520 East 20th Street,
                              New York City.




BROAD RIB ROOFING,


[Illustration]

=Like Our Shingles=, has a nailing flange the entire length of each
sheet. =It forms a Continuous Rib= when applied from eaves to comb
with cross seams twenty-five inches apart, which gives it strength and
rigidity not found in roofing where longer sheets are used. =It has no
protruding= anchors, cleats or rivets; all nail heads are covered as
perfectly as those used for wood shingles. =There is no waste= in using,
either at comb or eaves. =The Side Nailing Flange= admits of the roof
being fastened to roof boards with any required degree of strength. =The
Cross Seams= are formed with a folded lock which allows for contraction
and expansion. =Material.=—Each sheet of this roofing is made from Best
Roofing Tin, or Imported Siemen’s Sheet Steel, which is hard rolled,
tough, durable and =thoroughly coated= on both sides with the best
Oxide of Iron and Linseed Oil Paint. The size of sheets are 20 × 28
inches. =Tools.=—We send with each order one pair of _Metal Shears_, one
_Mallet_, and a _Draw Tool_, for which we make a charge of two dollars.
These tools can be returned to us by express at our expense, and the
purchaser credited, or the money paid for them returned. =Important
Improvements= in the manufacture of Steel Sheets enable us to put this
on the market at the same price as Sheet Iron Roofing, to which it is
greatly superior. =The Rib is formed= of the Walter’s Patent Lock, and is
the same we have used on our shingles for the last seven years. This Lock
has been thoroughly tested, and it is significant that over 25,000,000
square feet of shingles constructed upon this plan are already in use
in the United States and Canada. The application of this Lock does away
with a very large proportion of the work necessary in laying standing
seam roofs as ordinarily applied, such as tonging up the seams, double
seaming, capping or riveting the ribs, and making and using cleats or
other fastenings. This roofing costs no more than wood shingles in
sections where good timber is scarce. Each sheet is made from plates 20 ×
28 inches. =WRITE FOR PRICES.=

[Illustration]

The National Sheet Metal Roofing Co., 510-520 E. 20th St., N. Y. City.




THE “ATTIC” SKY-LIGHT AND VENTILATOR.


[Illustration]

This is a novelty in roof ventilation, and possesses the advantage of
admitting light as well as ventilating rooms in the garret or immediately
under the roof.

It can be used on any kind of a slope roof having a pitch of three inches
or more to the foot. The front is of double strength glass which is held
to its place by a single catch. When used as a ventilator the glass is
drawn back to the slant of the roof, and sheds what water would enter the
opening during a rain storm. All the carpenter work necessary in setting
the “Attic” is to saw a square hole through the roof boards at the time
of putting on the roof-covering. We make them to form one plate of our
Broad Rib Roofing with which it interlocks. As shown on page 55, they
can be used equally as well on roofs to be covered with slate or wood
shingles as with our Tin Shingles.




HOW TO SET A FINIAL.


[Illustration]

Bore a hole in the upper end of the centre-staff and insert in it the
lower end of finial rod; when the centre-staff is put to its place, plumb
the finial rod by moving the lower end of the centre-staff before it is
nailed to the floor or cross timbers. (See page 74.)

[Illustration: No. 1. No. 2. No. 3.

NET PRICES: 5 Foot $12.00. 6 Foot $14.40. 7 Foot $16.80.

For either Round, Square or Octagon. No. 1 includes all above the
Shingles. (See page 73.)]

=There is no shoddy work about these Finials. They are heavy,
substantially made and zinc coated.=

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: SHIPPING DEPARTMENT]

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: COOPERS CROOKS.]

(Patented August 20th, 1889.)

Complete and in Sections. Fixed and Adjustable.

_The most Perfect Machine-made Elbow ever manufactured._

=First-class Finish.=—Each piece is a perfect section of a curved tube.

=A Convenience.=—The sections can be put together to form any angle.

=Durable and Strong.=—The finished elbows are redipped after being locked
and riveted.

=Quality.=—Both Retinned and Galvanized.

Perfect in fitting, uniform in size and quality. Just what the practical
tinsmith should use for conductors and vent pipes.

          ADJUSTABLE.       |          FIXED.          |   IN SECTIONS.
     Size.    Tin.   Galv’d.|  Size.    Tin.   Galv’d. |  Size.     Tin.
    3 inch   $1.55   $2.00  | 3 inch   $2.00   $2.00   | 3 inch    $1.45
    4 inch    2.80    3.90  | 4 inch    3.90    3.90   | 4 inch     2.50

                 _Discount_..........................

                           MANUFACTURED ONLY BY
                   THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.
                  510 to 520 East 20th Street, New York.




WEIGHTS.


Our goods weigh, when boxed ready for shipment, as follows:

    14 × 20, No. 1, Standard                   84 lbs.
    10 × 14,   “       “                       92  “
     7 × 10,   “       “                       89  “
    14 × 20, No. 2, Steel                      83  “
    10 × 14,   “       “                       89  “
    14 × 20, No. 3, M. F.                     100  “
    10 × 14,   “       “                      108  “
     7 × 10,   “       “                      108  “
    14 × 20, No. 4, Galvanized                104½ “
    10 × 14,   “       “                      109½ “
     7 × 10,   “       “                      109½ “
    Queen Anne, No. 6, Standard               121½ “
      “     “      “   Galvanized             144  “
    Broad Rib, No. 8, Standard                 88  “
      “    “      “   Steel                    87  “
    50 ft. Climax Ridge Coping, Tin            56½ “
    50 ft.    “     “     “     Galvanized     71  “
    50 ft. Hip, Tin                            38  “
    50 ft.  “   Galvanized                     43  “
    50 ft. Valley, Tin                         45½ “
    50 ft.    “    Galvanized                  53  “
    50 ft. Gable, Tin                          12½ “
    50 ft.   “    Galvanized                   15½ “




HOW METAL SHINGLES ARE MADE.


Shingles made from wood have been common all over the world for ages.
Their particular form has remained unchanged because many years’
experience has proven it to be the most durable and surest safe-guard
against storms. What is true of wood for roof covering is equally true of
metal for the same purpose. The first metal roofing made in America was
tin sheets, laid shingle fashion, the overlapped edges of which covered
the nail heads which were used to fasten them to the roof boards. Many
of these old-fashioned metal (tin plate) roofs are yet in existence that
were covered over one hundred years ago. The writer covered several
houses in 1849 in this manner, which are in good condition now. The
reason why this style of metal roofing was not common was its expense. On
page 16 we give reasons why it would be more durable than the ordinary
mode of laying tin roofing.

The use of Walter’s and Cooper’s patent in constructing metal shingles
does away with the expense, which was a great drawback to their use, and
leaves no excuse for the use of cheap, combustible material.

The National Sheet Metal Roofing Co., of New York City, have for the past
eight years been manufacturing these shingles, and their use on a vast
number of public and private buildings in all parts of the United States
and Canada attest their superiority. Thinking that our readers would
be pleased to see the process of making these shingles, we illustrate
on pages 65 and 75 views taken from photographs of their paint and
store room. The process requires two press operations for each shingle,
and each press averages a turn out of 4,000 square feet (which is 40
squares) per day. The dies which give shape and form the corrugations of
the shingles are faced with polished steel, which leaves no abrasions
where they come in contact with the metal. During the past year they
have added four new presses to this department to meet the requirements
of the increased demand for their goods. They spare no pains to make
their shingles as perfect as the best machinery can make them. All their
shingles are carefully inspected before they are boxed and sent to the
store room, from which they are shipped to all parts of the country. The
machinery room in which the presses are located is 37 feet wide by 80
feet long, the painting department is 80 × 55 feet, and the store room
the same size. We give these figures that you may form an opinion of the
space required to manufacture and handle their goods.

The process of painting is first dipping the shingles in a vat of pure
linseed oil and oxide of iron paint with just enough turpentine to assist
in drying. They are then set on edge and left to drain, after which
they are gone over with a brush and set in racks to dry, which requires
several days, according to the humidity of the atmosphere. They are all
air dried, no artificial heat being used. Their customers are cordially
invited to call at any time and see the process of manufacturing.

       *       *       *       *       *

    “Why don’t you mend your roof my man?”
      He drew him closer to the wall,
      And answered with a lazy drawl:
    “When ’t rains so hard I never can.”

    “Why don’t you mend it when it’s fair?”
    “Oh, then it doesn’t need repair!”
      He blandly said
      As he turned his head
    And shook the raindrops from his hair.

                   From _The Metal Worker_.




[Illustration: WALTER’S PATENT STANDARD SHINGLES.]

[Illustration: COOPER’S PATENT QUEEN ANNE METALLIC SHINGLES.]




PUBLIC BUILDINGS ON WHICH THE ABOVE METAL SHINGLES ARE USED.


RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS.

    Independent Pres. Church, Savannah, Ga.
    South-West Pres. Church, Omaha, Neb.
    Methodist Church, Stony Point, N. Y.
    Methodist Church, Graniteville, Conn.
    Methodist Church, Broad River, Conn.
    Asbury Methodist Church, Providence, R. I.
    Second Methodist Church, Kingston, N. Y.
    Pisgah Methodist Church, Pisgah, Md.
    Methodist Church, Thomasville, Ga.
    Elm St. Methodist Church, Nashville, Tenn.
    East Nashville Methodist Church, Nashville, Tenn.
    Methodist Church, Manheim, Pa.
    Roman Catholic Church, Trinidad, Col.
    Roman Catholic Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
    German Evangelical Church, New Harmony, Ind.
    Holy Apostles’ P. E. Church, St. Clair, Pa.
    R. C. Church of St. Cecelia, N. Y. City.
    R. C. Apostolic Church, Toronto, Ont.
    St. Patrick’s R. C. Cathedral, Ottawa, Canada.
    Baptist Church, Tura, India.
    Winthrop St. Baptist Church, Taunton, Mass.
    Second Baptist Church, Lawrence, Mass.
    Berkeley Ave. Bap. Church, Berkeley, Va.
    Baptist Church, Danbury, Conn.
    Colored Baptist Church, Augusta, Ga.
    Christ Episcopal Church, Richmond, Va.
    St. John’s Epis. Church, Richmond, Va.
    Christ Episcopal Church, Port Tobacco, Md.
    St. Clement’s Episcopal Church, Chicago, Ill.
    Mission Church, Aintab, Turkey.
    Mission Church, Kiota, Japan.
    Bethany Chapel, Troy, N. Y.
    Colonial Beach Chapel, Va.
    Plymouth Church, Charleston, S. C.
    M. E. Church, McMinville, Tenn.
    First M. E. Church, Jackson, Mich.
    Christian Church, Little Rock, Ark.
    Second Baptist Church, Little Rock, Ark.
    First Pres. Church, Gainesville, Fla.
    M. E. Church, Beatrice, Neb.
    Round Hill Church, Va.
    St. Paul Lutheran Church, Lititz, Pa.
    Salvation Army Barracks, South Norwalk, Conn.
    Methodist Church, Salt Lake City.
    Christian Church, Belton, Texas.
    Salvation Army Barracks, Matteawan, N. Y.
    First Cong. Church, Daytona, Fla.
    Jewish Synagogue, Brunswick, Ga.


RAILROADS.

    Savannah, Florida and Western R. R.
    North-Eastern R. R. of South Carolina.
    Western and North Carolina R. R.
    New York, Susquehanna and Western R. R.
    Chesapeake and Ohio R. R.
    Florida Railway & Navigation Company.
    South Florida Railway.
    Virginia Midland Railway.
    Richmond and Danville R. R.
    Newport News and Mississippi Valley R. R.
    Chicago and Evanston R. R.
    Jacksonville, Tampa and Key West R. R.
    Interstate Rapid Transit Co., Kansas City, Mo.
    Kansas City Cable Railway, Kansas City, Mo.
    Union Passenger Railroad Co., Richmond, Va.
    Franklin Avenue Line, St. Louis, Mo.
    West Nashville Railroad Depot, West Nashville, Tenn.
    St. Johns and Halifax R. R.
    Maryland Central R. R.
    Cornwall and Lebanon R. R. Co.


EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS.

    DePaw College, Greencastle, Ind.
    Mississippi Industrial Institute and College, Columbus, Miss.
    St. John’s College, Tremont, N. Y.
    Las Vegas College, Las Vegas, New Mexico.
    Loyola College, Collington, Md.
    Woodstock College, Woodstock, Md.
    Medical College, Nashville, Tenn.
    Dayel College, Sparta, Tenn.
    Dakota University, Mitchell, Dakota.
    Public School, Richfield Springs, N. Y.
    Public School, Greenville, Ky.
    Public School, McCook, Neb.
    Public School, Dodge City, Kansas.
    Public School, Marion, Ill.
    Public School, Elizabeth, Pa.
    Public School, Freeport, Ill.
    Public School, Paw Paw, Ill.
    Public School, Hutchinson, Minn.
    Thirteenth District School, Nashville, Tenn.
    Tenth District School, Nashville, Tenn.
    Thirteenth Ward Grammar School, Nashville, Tenn.
    Fogg High School, Nashville, Tenn.
    Caldwell High School, Nashville, Tenn.
    Tampa High School, Tampa, Fla.
    Public School, Forward Township, Allegheny Co., Pa.
    Tarbox School, Nashville, Tenn.
    Searight School, Nashville, Tenn.
    Niagara Falls Museum, Niag. Falls, N. Y.


Hotels and State and County Buildings.

    Florida State Capitol, Tallahassee, Fla.
    Washtenaw County Jail, Ann Arbor, Mich.
    Bristol County House of Correction, New Bedford, Mass.
    Government Penitentiary, Kingston, Ont.
    Main Street Central Police Station, Charleston, S. C.
    United States Soldiers’ Home, Leavenworth, Kansas.
    Wm. Houston Home, Charleston, S. C.
    Deaf and Dumb Institute, Jacksonville, Ill.
    Insane Asylum, Fort Steilacoom, Wash. Terr.
    United States Marine Barracks, Pensacola, Fla.
    Colorado State Insane Asylum, Pueblo, Col.
    Asylum for Feeble Minded, Beatrice, Neb.
    Tenn. Insane Asylum, Nashville, Tenn.
    County Asylum, Sparta, Tenn.
    City Hospital, Charleston, S. C.
    Towers of Minneapolis Exhibition Building, Minneapolis, Minn.
    Horticultural Hall, World’s Exposition, New Orleans, La.
    Plymount County Agricultural Society Building, Brockton, Mass.
    Public Library, Coldwater, Mich.
    Fair Association Buildings, St. Louis, Mo.
    Grand Army of the Republic Hall, Janesville, Iowa.
    Caledonian Rink, Ottawa, Canada.
    Park Building, West Nashville, Tenn.
    Concordia Association Building, Little Rock, Ark.
    U. S. Commissioners’ Building, Salt Lake City, Utah.
    Board of Trade Bldg., Little Rock, Ark.
    Exchange Building, West Nashville, Tenn.
    Lyons Water Works Buildings, Lyons, N. Y.
    Water Works Buildings, Battle Creek, Mich.
    City Water Works Buildings, Ottawa, Canada.
    Barclay St. Ferry House, New York City.
    Oakland Mills, Taunton, Mass.
    I. O. O. F. Building, Port Clinton, Ohio.
    I. O. O. F. Building, Savannah, Ga.
    Masonic Temple, Savannah, Ga.
    Masonic Temple, Daytona, Fla.
    Union County Court House, Union, S. C.
    Ford County Court House, Dodge City, Kansas.
    Ontonogan County Building, Houghton, Mich.
    Court House, Jonesborough, Ark.
    Hamilton County Court House, Texas.
    Menard County Court House, Texas.
    H. I. Kimball Hotel, Atlanta, Ga.
    Burlington Hotel, Burlington, Vermont.
    Fayetteville Hotel, Fayetteville, N. C.
    Mitchell Hotel, Thomasville, Ga.
    Arlington Hotel, Augusta, Ga.
    Summerville Hotel, Augusta, Ga.
    Cottage Hotel, Nunda, N. Y.
    City Hotel, Beatrice, Neb.
    Opera House, Junction City, Kansas.
    Grand Opera House, St. Louis, Mo.
    Overland Casino, Nashville, Tenn.
    Opera House, Tavares, Fla.
    North River Steamboat Co., Haverstraw, N. Y.
    New Central Station, Charleston, S. C.
    Lower Station House Stables, Charleston, S. C.
    Mechanics’ Union Hall, No. 1, Charleston, S. C.
    Oneida County Asylum, Rome, N. Y.
    Wheeler Elevator, Buffalo, N. Y.
    Ontario Elevator, Buffalo, N. Y.
    A. W. Stevens & Son, Auburn, N. Y.
    City Buildings, Taunton, Mass.
    I. O. U. W. Hall, New Harmony, Ind.
    Opera House, New Harmony, Ind.




INSIDE CONSTRUCTION.


By this we do not mean the arrangement or size of rooms, they may be
large or very small, and in either instance lack the conveniences which
may always be provided for by good construction. Even a small house
can have transoms over all the doors which open into a hall, proper
ventilating flues for all rooms, and a kitchen that will be comfortable
in all seasons, (see articles under the head of “Ventilation” and “The
Kitchen.”) These are essential; all dwellings, large or small, should
have them. The windows and doors should be arranged to suit the furniture
to be used. You have doubtless seen rooms with windows on two sides, a
door and fire-place on the other. This arrangement makes it impossible
for the room to contain an ordinary size bedstead, without placing it
before a window or some other opening. Study these things when getting up
plans for your house.

The dining room should be light and roomy, fronting the East if
possible, as the morning sun is always desirable, and adds much to the
cheerfulness of the family. The kitchen should not connect directly with
the dining-room. Construct a passage-way, well ventilated, between the
two rooms; this will prevent unsavory odors entering the dining-room. The
space at each end of the passage can be utilized for the kitchen closets.
Arrange your rooms so that you will not be compelled to pass through one
room to get to another. Do not disfigure the walls by driving nails or
hooks into the plastering for the purpose of hanging pictures, but fasten
a neat gilt moulding to the side walls all around the room, about one
foot from the ceiling. The moulding should be about one and one-half or
two inches wide, with a groove on its upper side. Hooks shaped as an S
can be placed at any point on this moulding, and the pictures are to be
hung to these hooks. This arrangement is somewhat expensive, but it is
the only proper way in which pictures can be hung.

Closets.—No house is complete without ample closets. Every lady knows
that clothing and wraps cannot be stored away in drawers, and look well
when wanted for use. As closets are expensive we suggest for small
houses, that a room be constructed from four to six feet wide, and from
ten to fifteen feet long, with a window at one end. Make shelves on one
side, and place suitable clothes hooks on the other. In such a room the
entire wardrobe and family linen can be properly stored. If you desire
a moth-proof room, the ceiling, walls and shelves should be made of
red cedar. We suggest this clothes room because of its cheapness. Each
bedroom of large houses should be provided with a clothes closet, which
should be lined with red cedar for the reasons above stated.

Don’t forget to have windows and all outside doors fitted up with light
sash and frames covered with woven wire cloth. This material is very
cheap, and can be purchased at any house-furnishing goods store. Its
use prevents mosquitoes and flies from entering the house. Freedom from
these summer pests will amply repay you for the expense. During the late
fall, winter and spring months, the sash and frames can be removed; they
should be stored in some perfectly dry place, such as a garret, never
in a cellar. Speaking of pests reminds us of another kind that breed in
cracks and crevices found in most kitchens, which might lead a thoughtful
man to suppose that the builder, in his kindness of heart, provided these
little hiding places for just such creatures. If you don’t want them, see
that there are no cracks left between the wood-work and plastering, or in
any part of the floor or walls of the kitchen. Fill with cement (Plaster
of Paris is good) all cracks caused by shrinkage of wood-work after the
walls are completed and are thoroughly dry.




SHEET METAL WORK FOR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE BUILDINGS.


GUTTERS, VALLEYS AND DOWN PIPES.

These things are very closely related to the roof, and like it should be
of the best material.

A tin gutter hung at the eaves has the advantage of being cheap; if made
of good material and put up with good fastenings is durable, and suitable
for cheap houses and some portions of expensive ones.

In all cases where the fastenings are to hang from the roof, the gutter
should be put up before the roof covering is put on, so the fastenings
can be secured to the roof boards instead of on top of the tin, slate or
wood shingles. If the fastenings are nailed on top of the roof covering,
the nails soon become loose, and the gutter sags. The tinsmith will
charge no more for doing his work before the roofers commence, but it
may delay you a day. Paint the gutter inside as well as out, and see
that it has sufficient fall to clear itself of water. If you prefer the
gutter on the roof near the eaves, let the sheets of which it is made
be of sufficient width to extend far enough up under the roof covering
to prevent water (when the gutter is full) from overflowing at the back
instead of over at the front; this is a common error. In every instance
let this top gutter be outside the wall line, so in case of leakage the
“drip” is outside the walls. Gutters of this kind, and all gutters that
are soldered and firmly fastened to roof boards (not hanging gutters),
are liable to crack by expansion and contraction of the metal; we
therefore say, never put a gutter inside the wall lines if they can be
put outside. Valleys formed by the joining of two roofs at an angle are
usually steep enough to allow the metal sheets to lap on each other and
shed water without soldering. Such sheets are usually made twenty-eight
inches long. Their shortness prevents cracking from expansion and
contraction even if nailed to roof boards. Remember that all trash or
dirt that settles on the roof eventually finds its way into the valleys,
gutters and down pipes, and in a manner scours their surface; for this
reason they receive several fold more wear than the same amount of
exposed surface of the roof, consequently, should be of better material.
Few people are aware of the amount of dirt and sand which is carried by
the wind and deposited on their house-tops; for this reason, if the water
is used for drinking or cooking purposes, the first water that flows
from the roof during a rain storm should not be allowed to flow into the
cistern.

It is always best to have good sized down pipes. As a rule, for down
pipes from hanging gutters, let the circumference of the pipe equal the
girt of the gutter, and the gutter should be large enough to convey
the water which falls on the roof during the heaviest storms. Use only
curved elbows where a turn in the pipe is to be made, and at the foot
or discharge end. Curved elbows are now made by machinery; they are
stronger, more durable and cost no more than the common hand-made acute
kind.

We have spoken of good material; but what is good material when Tin
Plate is spoken of? The quality of Tin Plate depends on its toughness,
and the weight of Tin or Terne coating on its surface. The first is
easily determined by bending back and forth with the hand, the latter is
not, unless handled by an expert. The following test will determine the
difference, provided you have different qualities. If the qualities are
the same, or nearly so, the difference will not be distinguishable.

Take two pieces of different quality of Tin or Terne plates, say two
inches square, grease one side with any kind of animal fat; then with a
pair of plyers, hold them separately over a gas or candle jet with one
corner obliquely downward, and the amount of fusible metal which flows
from them will determine the difference between good and common.




TESTIMONIALS.


                                   ST. LOUIS, MO., April 26th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—We have used your Walter’s Metal Shingles on the
    most prominent buildings of our city, all of which have given
    universal satisfaction both in appearance and durability. As
    for us, we can say we give them the preference above all others
    knowing that when once up there is none its equal.

                              Yours truly,

                                                        MESKER BROS.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                     AUGUSTA, GA., April 30th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—I have in the past six years used and carefully
    compared all the leading makes of Patent Metallic Shingles,
    and I unhesitatingly pronounce your Walter’s Patent the best
    shingle on the market. They are simple, and easy to put on,
    and for a handsome, light and durable roof they are without a
    parallel. I have used them on many public as well as private
    buildings in this city, and they have in all instances given
    the highest possible satisfaction, which _has won me the esteem
    and confidence of the public_.

                              Yours truly,

                                                       DAVID SLUSKY.

       *       *       *       *       *

              LAS VEGAS COLLEGE, LAS VEGAS, N. M., April 29th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—I am glad to inform you that we are very well
    satisfied with the Walter’s Metal Shingles with which the new
    stone addition of our college is covered. It is about three
    years since the roof was laid, and your shingles are keeping
    yet a very neat and nice appearance, defying bravely the eating
    and inclemency of the weather.

                              Yours truly,

                                             C. M. CAPILUPI, _S. J._

       *       *       *       *       *

                        OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT, DEPAW UNIVERSITY,
                              GREEN CASTLE, IND., April 30th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—We beg to say that your Walter’s Shingles with which
    our college buildings are covered are very satisfactory.

                                               E. T. CHAFFEE, Sup’t.

       *       *       *       *       *

       COLORADO STATE INSANE ASYLUM, PUEBLO, COL., April 27th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—I wish to say that the Walter’s Patent Metallic
    Shingles, with which our buildings are covered, we believe to
    be superior to anything heretofore introduced in the West in
    that line.

                              Yours truly,

                                                P. R. THOMBS, Sup’t.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                    DAYTONA, FLA., April 27th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—We have used your Metallic Shingles on the First
    Congregational Church at this place. As to durability, the roof
    has been on now about three years, and seems as good as the
    day it was put on. Its appearance is beautiful, and its rain
    shedding qualities are perfect. We like the roof first rate,
    and can conscientiously recommend them to others.

                           Yours very truly,

                                           CHAS. M. BINGHAM, Pastor.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                    ITHACA, N. Y., April 28th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—We have put the Walter’s Metallic Shingles upon many
    buildings in Ithaca, and in each instance our customers have
    been perfectly satisfied. In our opinion they are the most
    durable roof we have handled. The writer has his house covered
    with the Galvanized Tin Shingles, and believes he has the most
    durable roof in Ithaca, because they need no painting, or care
    of any kind whatever. While costing more at the start, in the
    end the matter of economy is with the Walter’s Shingles.

                              Yours truly,

                                                  C. J. RUMSEY & CO.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                   TAUNTON, MASS., April 25th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—We have used in less than two years about 800
    squares of your Metallic Shingles, and they have given the best
    of satisfaction in every case, and in our opinion are far ahead
    in durability and appearance of either slate or wooden shingles.

                              Yours truly,

                                                     N. CRAPO & BRO.

       *       *       *       *       *

         WINTHROP ST. BAPTIST CHURCH, TAUNTON, MASS., May 5th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—We are in every way fully satisfied with the
    Walter’s Metal Shingles which you put on the roof of our church
    two years ago. It would be difficult to desire a superior
    roofing.

                           Yours very truly,

                                               J. K. WILSON, Pastor.

       *       *       *       *       *

             CENTENARIAN M. E. CHURCH, BEATRICE, NEB., May 2d, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—I consider the Walter’s Metal Shingle an improvement
    over anything of the past; superior to slate in appearance; of
    less weight and cost, and just as durable. When properly put in
    place it can but give the best of satisfaction. Can heartily
    recommend it.

                             Respectfully,

                                              A. C. CALKINS, Pastor.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                 MATTEAWAN, N. Y., April 25th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—I take great pleasure in giving my unprejudiced
    opinion of Walter’s Metallic Shingles. I have been using them
    for the last three years, and have never had any fault found
    with them of all the roofs that I have put on, and I have had
    good practical tinners proclaim to me that they consider it
    the best tin roofing they have ever seen. It is _the_ roof for
    me when I am building myself. Any person adopting this roof,
    by giving it a coat of metallic paint every five years, I will
    warrant them to have a tight roof for two generations.

                              Yours truly,

                                                        SAM’L McKEE.

       *       *       *       *       *

                               MINNEAPOLIS, MINN., April 27th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—I have put on in the Northwest large amounts of your
    Metallic Shingles for others, and also covered my own residence
    some five years ago, and can heartily recommend your goods to
    any one desiring a substantial and absolutely tight roof of
    fine appearance, which gives a roof much better than slate and
    a lower price.

                        Most respectfully yours,

                                                   M. H. CRITTENDEN.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                    ANN ARBOR, MICH., May 4th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—My roof was the first one in this city on which
    your tin shingles were used, and they have given entire
    satisfaction. I would not exchange it for any other roof that I
    know of.

                              Yours truly,

                                                      GEO. W. MOORE.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                  MILFORD, DELAWARE, May 10th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—Would say that the Walter’s Patent Metallic
    Shingles, put on the Electric Light Station in this town, by W.
    P. Cullen, are giving entire satisfaction, making a handsome
    and durable roof, much preferable in our judgment to the
    regular tin roofs usually put on such buildings.

                           Very truly yours,

                                                      W. T. JOHNSON.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                  NEW MILFORD, DEL., May 15th, 1888.

    Perhaps it may be of interest to you to know my views of the
    Tin Shingle Roofing purchased of W. P. Cullen, of Milford,
    Del. I can recommend in the highest degree their use, as
    they possess many advantages over any other material used
    for that purpose. They require no skilled labor, and are as
    durable as any tin roof can possibly be. I have watched it
    during every rainstorm since it was laid, and not one drop
    has passed through it to my gratification, and to the credit
    of the inventor. I invite the inspection of any one who may
    contemplate putting on a roof upon any building.

                             Respectfully,

                                                        P. H. STORM.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                  BROCKTON, MASS., April 27th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—Two years ago the Brockton Agricultural Society
    covered the roof of their main building with your tin shingles,
    and I am pleased to inform you that they have given perfect
    satisfaction.

                              Yours truly,

                                          H. W. ROBINSON, President.

       *       *       *       *       *

                       CHURCH OF THE HOLY APOSTLES, ST. CLAIR, PA.,
                                                  April 25th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—The Walter’s Patent Metallic Shingles have been
    the covering to the Rectory of this church since September,
    1885. They were put on by novices under disadvantageous
    circumstances, and have withstood every test that a
    Pennsylvania mountainous district changeable weather could
    give. I talk tin shingles to all my friends.

                              Yours truly,

                                             CHAS. A. MARKS, Rector.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                NATCHEZ, MISS., February 16th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—I have been in the tin roofing business for the past
    20 years, and I believe that the Walter’s Patent Tin Shingles
    make the best tin roofing of any of the other patents that
    are now on the market. I have put on hundreds of squares of
    them, and they have given me and the property owners entire
    satisfaction. I will further say that each box of shingles
    I have bought from them has covered one hundred square feet
    of roof, which will be understood by tinners to be a great
    satisfaction in ordering roofing, as the rule is that patent
    roofing falls short after being laid. I have often been asked
    by different manufacturing companies for my opinion of the
    roofing that they manufacture, but this is the first time that
    I have ever given my opinion, and I would not give my opinion
    now if the Walter’s Patent Tin Shingles did not deserve it.

                           I am, yours truly,

                                                    P. W. MULVIHILL.

       *       *       *       *       *

                              BATON ROUGE, LA., February 24th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—I beg to say that I have used the Walter’s Patent
    Tin Shingles for some time, and they have given satisfaction.
    I think they make the best roofing that can be put on for the
    money.

                              Yours truly,

                                                     M. J. WILLIAMS.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                       MILFORD, DEL., May 4th, 1888.

    Dear Sirs:—This is to say that I have used several thousand
    shingles of Walter’s Patent on our roof at the Phosphate
    Factory, put on by W. P. Cullen, and up to this time not a
    single drop of water or a weight of snow has drifted through
    it, and if kept properly painted, I believe the roof will last
    as long as any person could wish it to.

                                                      W. I. SIMPSON.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                 CANAJOHARIE, N. Y., May 10th, 1888.

    Gentlemen:—Having Walter’s Metal Shingles on two of my
    buildings, put on by F. H. Hodge, the new _Courier_ building
    being sided with them, I feel that I am competent to speak of
    the merits of the shingles. My experience has been entirely
    satisfactory, and I regard the Metallic Shingles as the best
    roofing and siding extant. If I were to build a hundred houses,
    and it were possible to use these shingles, I would not
    hesitate one moment, as I regard them as cheaper and better
    than any other covering in the market.

                              Yours, &c.,

                                                     WILLET F. COOK.

       *       *       *       *       *

                   HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE IN WASHINGTON TERRITORY,
                              FORT STEILACOOM, W. T., May 2d, 1888.

    Dear Sirs:—This institution has passed two winters under cover
    of Walter’s Metal Shingles. Our Winters are very wet, rain
    falling most of the time, but there has been no leak. The
    shingles are, therefore, entirely satisfactory.

                           Yours very truly,

                                        JOHN W. WAUGHOP, M. D.
                                        Sup’t Hospital Insane, W. T.

       *       *       *       *       *

             WOODSTOCK COLLEGE, HOWARD CO., MD., December 8th, 1886.

    Gentlemen:—It affords me much pleasure to indorse favorably
    the Walter’s Patent Metallic Shingles. I have used them on our
    church buildings in Trinidad, Colo., Albuquerque, N. M., and
    Woodstock, Md. In the first named place they have been in use
    over two years, and have withstood, without detriment, the very
    high winds and occasional driving storms of rain and snow for
    which that State is so remarkable. In the other places they are
    also giving satisfaction in every respect.

    I consider a roof of this material far superior to the
    ordinary tin or iron, both in beauty of design and solidity of
    construction, and see no reason why it should not supersede
    slate, as it is far less costly, requires a lighter frame, is
    just as much fire or storm-proof, and equally durable if kept
    painted.

    Hoping your goods may elicit the patronage they justly deserve,
    I beg to remain, gentlemen,

                           Yours very truly,

                                               EDWARD BARRY, _S. J._

       *       *       *       *       *

                                 AUBURN, N. Y., November 26th, 1889.

    Gentlemen:—Your esteemed favor of the 16th duly to hand; by
    reason of Mr. Stevens’ absence from town, has not had earlier
    reply. We take great pleasure in speaking a good word for the
    new roofing we purchased of your house; we find it all it
    was recommended to be. The condition in which it came to us
    rendered it very easy to place upon the roof. It makes a tight
    and substantial roof, one which we believe will be as durable
    as anything we have ever seen. We remain, with respect,

                           Yours very truly,

                                                A. W. STEVENS & SON.

       *       *       *       *       *

                         PENFIELD CENTER, N. Y., October 17th, 1889.

    Gentlemen:—I have used about sixty squares of your metal
    shingles this year, and can say they excel any roof I
    have used. They are light, tight and cannot help being a
    life-lasting roof, if they are taken care of.

                              Yours truly,

                                                        G. H. BACON.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                 SHERMAN, TEXAS, October 28th, 1889.

    Gentlemen:—I have been contracting and building fifty years,
    34 years in North Texas. I recommend your metal roofing as the
    best I have ever used, and that it gives perfect satisfaction,
    and if painted every five years it will last a century.

                              Yours truly,

                                              GEO. MELTON,
                                              Architect and Builder.

       *       *       *       *       *

                         COLLEGE OF THE HOLY CROSS, WORCESTER, MASS.

    Mr. W. F. WALLACE, Sec’y and Treas’r, Nat. Sheet Metal Roofing
    Co.

    Dear Sir:—Having used your Galvanized Tin Shingles largely in
    Maryland, Connecticut and here, and recommended their use in
    other sections, I have no hesitation in stating that everywhere
    the results have been completely satisfactory. I shall continue
    to use the roofing in preference to any that I know.

                          Yours respectfully,

                                                T. W. HAYES, _S. J._

       *       *       *       *       *

                                    ROME, N. Y., November 4th, 1889.

    Dear Sirs:—Nearly two years ago I had the steeples of my
    church covered with your Galvanized Metal Shingles. I have now
    no hesitation in stating that in my judgment it is the best
    roofing material in the market. It is very ornamental, and time
    seems to have no effect on it, as it still retains the same
    color. So pleased were the citizens of this place with the work
    done on my church, that many of them are now using the same
    material in roofing their houses.

                                                  A. MURPHY, Pastor.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                 WEBSTER, N. Y., October 17th, 1889.

    Gentlemen:—I have used your patent shingles on my grist mill
    and think there is nothing better for fire, wind or weather.
    They are all right.

                              Yours truly,

                                                          B. SPERRY.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                     ROME, N. Y., December 2d, 1889.

    Gentlemen:—The Walter’s Metallic Shingles put on the roof of
    our new church in this city, about four months ago, by Mr.
    James Conley, are in every way satisfactory to our people, and
    the roof is admired by all who see it. I take great pleasure in
    recommending your shingles to the public as the best material
    for roofing that I have seen.

                                E. W. BRUCE,
                                Pastor and Chairman of Building Com.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                    ROME, N. Y., November 5th, 1889.

    Gentlemen:—We have used your Metallic Shingles on the steeples
    of the Welsh Congregational Church, at this place, last summer,
    and it seems as good as the day it was put on. Its appearance
    is beautiful and its rain-shedding qualities are perfect. We
    like the steeple first rate and can conscientiously recommend
    them to others. They need no painting or care of any kind
    whatever. These were put on by Mr. James Conley, of Rome, N. Y.

                              Yours truly,

                                             D. E. PRICHARD, Pastor.

    JAMES THOMAS, Sec’y.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                    ROME, N. Y., December 6th, 1889.

    Gentlemen:—The Walter’s Metallic Shingles were first brought
    to my notice by Mr. James Conley, of this city, some two years
    ago, and I made a personal examination and test of same, and
    have since specified and had them used in preference on several
    buildings. They make a light, handsome and durable roof, and I
    have yet to hear the first complaint.

                             Respectfully,

                                           WM. H. DAVIES, Architect.

       *       *       *       *       *

                          COUNCIL GROVE, KANSAS, November 5th, 1889.

    Messrs. JEROME TWICHELL & CO., Kansas City, Mo.

    Gents:—Yours of the 25th at hand regarding the Walter’s
    Shingles. I purchased in the spring the Walter’s Shingles and
    used them on my dwelling house. I must say they make the best
    looking roof and the tightest roof I ever saw, and they are
    easily laid. I am much pleased with them and can recommend them
    very highly.

                              Yours truly,

                                         THOS. J. HIGGINS,
                                         Breeder of Hereford Cattle.

       *       *       *       *       *

                          JUNCTION CITY, KANSAS, October 29th, 1889.

    Messrs. JEROME TWICHELL & CO., Kansas City, Mo.

    Gentlemen:—Replying to yours, 25th inst., we have used the
    Walter’s Metallic Shingles on the large three-story building
    we occupy. This roof was put on nearly two years ago: the roof
    has not shown any defects up to this time, and if kept properly
    painted will last many years.

                        Very respectfully yours,

                                                ZIEGLER HARDWARE CO.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                    KANSAS CITY, October 26th, 1889.

    Messrs. JEROME TWICHELL & CO., Kansas City, Mo.

    Dear Sirs:—In reply to yours I have no hesitation in
    pronouncing the Walter’s Metallic Shingles a good roof. It has
    been on my two-story frame house two years, and I have found it
    to be perfectly tight, keeps clean (an advantage where cistern
    water is used) and adds greatly to the appearance of the house.

                              Yours truly,

                                                   M. J. REILLY,
                                                   1308 Park Avenue.

       *       *       *       *       *

                                    WESTON, MO., October 31st, 1889.

    Messrs. JEROME TWICHELL & CO., Kansas City, Mo.

    Gentlemen:—Walter’s Metallic Shingles bought of you last May
    were put on our school-house, and I am glad to state that they
    make a tight, handsome and substantial roof. Everybody is
    pleased with it. I can recommend them to all who want a tight
    and substantial roof.

                              Yours truly,

                                          REV. CHAS. SCHAAF,
                                          Pastor of Catholic Church.

       *       *       *       *       *

                             HUTCHINSON, KANSAS, October 26th, 1889.

    Messrs. JEROME TWICHELL & CO., Kansas City, Mo.

    Gents:—We have used almost all kinds of Metallic Shingles
    manufactured, but find the Walter’s Shingle makes the best roof
    of any we have found. They make a tight, ornamental and durable
    roof, and have never given us a particle of trouble, and we
    are glad to recommend them to any one wanting a first-class
    metallic roof.

                             Respectfully,

                                           SWIFT, MANKOFF & CONGDON.

       *       *       *       *       *

                               TRINIDAD, COLO., November 16th, 1889.

    Messrs. JEROME TWICHELL & CO., Kansas City, Mo.

    Dear Sirs:—We have used the Walter’s Patent Shingles to the
    satisfaction of all concerned on the following buildings:
    Southern Hotel, South Side Public School, Jewish Synagogue and
    several minor buildings. They undoubtedly make a good roof.

                              Yours truly,

                                                       SCHMIDT BROS.

       *       *       *       *       *

    Mr. JAMES CONLEY, _Agent_, Walter’s Patent Tin Shingles, Rome,
    N. Y.

    Dear Sir:—I take pleasure in commending the Walter’s Tin
    Shingles, as applied to my house by you. As you will remember,
    the roof was not completed in all its details when the winter
    set in last year, and, at my request, the scaffolding was left
    on the different roofs, more for a test from banking of snow
    and back-water, feeling assured that if the shingles survived
    the test, I would never experience any trouble from that
    source, in the future, when the scaffolding was removed. I was
    more than satisfied with the test, as we experienced no trouble
    from leakage or from any other source. Therefore, I take great
    pleasure in recommending the Walter’s Patent Tin Shingles
    to whoever contemplates using a metallic shingle for their
    buildings.

                         I remain, yours truly,

                                  CHAS. WIGHAM,
                                  House, 418 Floyd Ave., Rome, N. Y.

       *       *       *       *       *

OUR SPECIALTIES.

THE BEST OF THEIR KIND.

=METAL SHINGLES=, under the Walter’s and Cooper’s Patents, made from Tin
Plates, Tin Plate Galvanized, Steel Plates and Copper, have no equal in
the world for roof covering.

=CURVED ELBOWS.=—Fixed, adjustable and in sections. The most perfect
machine-made Elbow ever invented. Made from Tin Plate, Tin Plate
Re-tinned, and Tin Plate Galvanized. Perfect in form and fitting. The
best in the world.

=CONDUCTOR PIPE.=—Crimp expanding. Will not burst by freezing. In
sections twenty-eight inches long, which interlock with each other. Two
sizes, three and four inches diameter.

=WIRE NAILS.=—Made from Steel Wire. All sizes, both barbed and plain, in
kegs, at manufacturers’ prices.

=DRY PAINT.= (=Devils’ Red.=)—The very best Oxide of Iron. This is NOT a
Ready-Mixed Paint. It is Iron Ore, burnt until all deleterious substances
are destroyed, then pulverized and bolted. In a word it is IRON RUST, it

    MIXES readily with Linseed Oil,
    FLOWS freely under the brush,
    ADHERES tenaciously wherever applied.

Samples Mailed Free.

               WRITE FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE AND PRICES.

                THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING COMPANY,
                    510 to 520 EAST TWENTIETH STREET,
                              NEW YORK CITY.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: WIRE NAILS]

STEEL WIRE NAILS

AT MANUFACTURERS’ PRICES.

All Kinds of Wire Nails, Plain or Barbed,

FOR

Tin and Iron Roofing, Tin and Wooden Shingles, Slate and Composition
Roofing, Carpenters and Box Makers, Trunk and Casket Makers, Builders and
Contractors.

                   THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.
               510 TO 520 EAST 20TH STREET, NEW YORK CITY.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: FRANK L. SMITH, Architect,]

_22 SCHOOL STREET, (Room 10,) BOSTON, MASS._

=Plans for Specifications Prepared for Buildings of every description.
Low Cost Suburban Dwellings a Specialty.=

_Distance is no obstacle to my serving parties in all parts of the
country. Correspondence Solicited._

PUBLISHER OF

A COSY HOME: How It was Built.

A DISCUSSION OF THE VARIOUS METHODS AND MATERIALS EMPLOYED IN ITS
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The book contains ninety-six pages, and is handsomely printed on heavy,
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It contains many valuable and practical suggestions for those who would
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If you are interested in house planning and building, it will pay you to
send for this book. Sent post-paid, on receipt of price, =25c.=

HOMES OF TO-DAY, OR, Modern Examples of Moderate Cost Houses.

Published in four parts, quarterly. First and second parts now ready.
Volume will contain 240 pages, quarto size, showing designs of buildings
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plans, model specification, colored frontispiece, and valuable
information for those about to build. Four parts, post-paid, as issued,
=$1.00=. Address,

F. L. SMITH, Architect, 22 School St., Boston, Mass.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: BRUCE & COOK

Nos. 248 & 250 PEARL ST

186. 188. & 190. WATER ST. N.Y.

For Extra Roofing specify KILLEY EXTRA or LPL EXTRA.

Each Sheet stamped with Brand.

For Best Roofing specify TREGONING OLD PROCESS.

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       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: =NEPONSET WATERPROOF PAPER.=

(Patented Dec. 28, 1885.)]

=No. 1 Neponset Rope Roofing.=

For a first-class covering use our No. 1 and No. 2 NEPONSET ROPE ROOFING.
This will make a permanent covering at a low cost.

=Black Neponset Building.=

This is without exception the best building paper in the market. Cheaper
and better than tarred paper. Will save fuel.

                         For Sale by all Dealers.

                          Manufactured solely by
                  F. W. BIRD & SON, East Walpole, Mass.

       *       *       *       *       *

[Illustration: STEAM AND WARM AIR COMBINED]

THE ECONOMY COMBINATION

Steam and Warm Air Heater.

=A Low Pressure Apparatus.= Radiates Steam Heat with from ½ to 3 pounds
pressure. =One fire generates both Warm Air and Steam, Increasing its
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_Our Systems of Warming Buildings with Steam Radiation and Warm Air
insure_

Perfect Ventilation,

_And guarantee a uniform and healthful temperature throughout the house_.

THE “ECONOMY”

[Illustration: The Double Radiator Economy Warm-Air Furnace.]

Warm-Air Furnaces

Have a reputation that is neither excelled nor equalled for =Durability,
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SEND FOR CATALOGUE

giving full particulars, descriptions and illustrations of 31 different
styles and sizes of Heaters.

Manufactured solely by the

                         J. F. PEASE FURNACE CO.
                     SYRACUSE, N. Y., TORONTO, ONT.,
                         75 UNION STREET, BOSTON,
                    177 EAST RANDOLPH STREET, CHICAGO.

                           EARL B. CHACE & CO.
                         GENERAL N. Y. MANAGERS,
                        _206 Water St., New York_.

Estimates for Warming Buildings Promptly Furnished.

       *       *       *       *       *

_PAINT! PAINT!! PAINT!!!_

[Illustration]

YOUR HOUSE-TOPS, BARNS, and OUTHOUSES,

Paint! Paint!! Paint!!!

WITH

=DEVILS’ RED=

THE BEST OXIDE OF IRON,

    =GROUND= to an Impalpable Powder
    =READY= to mix with Linseed Oil
    =WITHOUT= any other ingredient.

If you want the very best results from =OXIDE OF IRON, mix only with
Linseed Oil=.

If you want a cheap, vile compound often sold for Paint, mix Oxide of
Iron, Benzine, and a “LEETLE” Oil.

=DEVILS’ RED= IS NOT a Ready-Mixed Paint. It is Iron Ore burnt until all
deleterious substances are destroyed, then pulverized and bolted.

    In a word it is =Iron Rust=, it =MIXES= readily with Linseed Oil,
                                    =FLOWS= freely under the brush,
                                    =ADHERES= tenaciously wherever applied.

                 =DEVILS’ RED= is For Sale to the Trade,
                                 ONLY BY
                   THE NATIONAL SHEET METAL ROOFING CO.
               510 to 520 East 20th Street, New York City,

      In Packages of 25 lbs., 60c.; 50 lbs., $1.00; 100 lbs., $1.75.

            Special Prices by the Barrel. Samples Mailed Free.