296 THE FARMERS HANDBOOK. 



The stack is built 14 feet to the eaves. A light, but strongly constructed 

 platform, which can be readily moved by two men to any required position, 

 is sometimes used for reaching the higher levels. 



The second last tier is laid so that the sheaves overhang the sides about 

 3 inches (Fig. 7). The ends are flush with the other end sheaves. There is 

 no hip to the roof of our stacks — it is a straight gable. The heads of the 



Fig. 7. — Building the roof. 



corner sheaves are bound in so as to support the corner of the roof. The last 

 tier is laid level on the edges with the second last one, binding the corners 

 as explained above. This forms a good eave. 



Now we come to the top and roof of the stack. The construction requires 

 a little explanation, but it is hoped that the sketches will enable the reader 

 to grasp the method. The aim is to build a gable roof in such a manner 

 that butts only will be exposed, except at the cap, and the whole made firm 

 and strong. 



All the top sneaves are laid lengthways on the stack, butts outwards at 

 the ends. You can bind in the centre by laying them either way. Stai't 

 from the edge and work along the stack. It will take about twenty sheaves 

 to run the length of the stack. 



Commence the first row about 1 foot in from the eaves. Build all the rows 

 of this layer right across, and then commence the second layer a little 

 farther in. Judgment must be used to give the roof the correct pitch. 

 When about three layers have been built in this way, place the first row of 

 roofing or thatching sheaves in position. They are placed butts downwards 

 on the eaves, the heads resting over the top of the portion of roof already 

 built. If the sheaves are long, four layers of roof may be required before 

 placing on the first thatching sheaves. Lay these thatching sheaves right 

 along the stack on both sides. 



