MAINTENANCE 



167 



such purposes. When it is desired to construct wider gates to allow 

 a two-horse team to pass through, it is better to have them con- 

 structed in two parts, opening in the centre and swinging each way. 

 Double strap hinges should be used; T-hinges are apt to pull 

 out. Strap hinges will allow of some latitude in lining up the gate 

 to make it swing true. The gate should be hung so that when it 

 is allowed to swing free it will spring shut. All gates should be 

 provided with some method of fastening, such as hooks, latches, 

 or springs. Gates should be hung high enough above the ground 



FIG. 112. Types of gate construction. A, Best type, 1x6 inch white pine is used; 

 B, same material with different bracing; C, corners mortised and bolted, 2x3 inch material 

 used. 



to give ample allowance for swinging. It is sometimes well to 

 place a 6-inch or 8-inch base board between the ground and the 

 bottom of the gate, allowing the gate to hang when shut just clear 

 of this board. If wheelbarrows or wagons are to pass through, 

 the base board is omitted. 



Maintenance. Poultry fences constitute a heavy first cost, 

 and the depreciation is great. They are a constant item of expense, 

 and should be looked after constantly. Any broken hinges or 

 hooks, torn wire, rotting posts, or other defects should be imme- 

 diately repaired. Torn places in the fence can be easily mended 

 by weaving new wire over the opening. In making such repairs 

 or when building the fence, care should be used to allow no long 



