METAL-LATH PLASTERED SILOS. 91 



The Hy-Rib Concrete Silo differs from the metal-lath silo in 

 that the latter requires a temporary framework of 2x4 studding 

 on which to tack the lath, whereas in the steel-rib silo, the sheets 

 of steel are thoroughly locked tog-ether at both sides and ends, 

 forming- a firm, self -sustained framework or foundation of itself. 

 To this the concrete is applied in the form of a 1:2% waterproof 

 cement plaster to a total thickness of from 3 to 3% inches, as 

 shown in the illustration, Fig. 33. Indeed, the manufacturer! 

 claim that they have silos of this construction in use 20x58 feet 

 in size with the walls at the thickest point not more than 2% 

 inches. 



The Metal Lath Plastered Cement Silo also stands well to the 

 front, from the standpoint of strength, economy and practicabil- 

 ity. It is put up without forms except for the door posts and 

 studding, the cement being applied in the form of plaster to both 

 the inside and outside of the metal lath. This is accomplished by 

 tacking the lath to the inside of the temporary frame work of 

 2x4 studding and applying several coats of cement or plaster, the 

 studding then being removed and the outside plastered. Where 

 materials used in construction are excessively high in price, it 

 will prove cheaper to erect than the monolithic structure because 

 the walls are only about three inches thick. Skilled labor is re- 

 quired for this type of silo. Care must be taken to prevent the 

 various coats of cement from drying out rapidly, otherwise the 

 next coat will not form a perfect union and the strength of the 

 wall will be reduced. When properly constructed this silo will 

 be found amply strong for the work required. 



After the good solid concrete foundation is finished, a four-or- 

 five-platform scaffold must be erected inside, before any other work 

 is done. The form for the continuous door frame should then be 

 built on the ground, complete with all reinforcing, and raised to po- 

 sition. 2x4 studding, with plates on top, are then placed in position 

 and fastened. The 24-gauge expanded metal or metal-lath is then 

 tacked to the inside with double-pointed tacks, beginning at the 

 top and at the door post. Each strip of lath should be tacked first 

 in the middle and should conform to the circular shape of the silo 

 before the ends are tacked. After the several layers of cement 

 or plaster have been applied and are dry, the studding may be 

 removed and additional horizontal reinforcement in the form of 

 strands of heavy wire should be placed around the silo, care being 



