STRUCTURAL PURPOSES 



resistant in greater measure than many of the so-called fire- 

 proof roofings. Some of these same materials may be applied 

 to other portions of the structure where it is advisable to give 

 protection to exposed woodwork. 



The same influences which have created a prejudice against 

 the use of structural timber in commercial structures and frame 

 dwellings have attempted to eliminate the shingle roof. The 

 propaganda is based entirely on the fire hazard, since it is well 

 known that good shingles, properly laid with good nails, will 

 give better service than any other form of roofing material, 

 and in case of fire in adjacent buildings can be wet down so 

 as to constitute an excellent fire break. No one denies that 

 a dry shingle roof, particularly an old one, will ignite from 

 brands and large sparks, nor does any sane man, lumberman 

 or otherwise, advocate other than non-combustible roofs in con- 

 gested city districts or wherever there is real danger. But it is 

 equally certain that many other roofing materials are in the 

 same class with shingles as regards inflammability, and where 

 buildings are separated as in small towns and residential dis- 

 tricts, the wooden shingle has qualities of beauty, economy, 

 storm resistance, and long life superior to any other roof 

 covering. 



Wood With the advance in engineering knowledge 



Preservation there have come important developments in the 

 preservative treatment of structural timber 

 against decay. Treating processes have been applied on a 

 commercial scale in Europe for over a century, and in this 

 country for some forty years. The most extensive acceptance 

 of this practice has been by the railroads for treatment of cross- 

 ties and structural timbers, bridges, trestles, docks, etc. It is 

 entirely feasible, however, to apply the same methods to the 

 treatment of structural timbers in many types of buildings, 

 and the possibilities along this line have been largely over- 

 looked. Steel is painted to prevent rust, concrete is coated to 

 prevent abrasion and to add waterproofing qualities, so it is 



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