32 THE SMALL COUNTRY PLACE 



the posts and plates being large enough for sills of 

 modern buildings, while rafters are large enough for 

 posts and plates. It is thoroughly seasoned and when 

 fitted in place will be less liable to warp than new 

 lumber. 



First Make Buildings and Surroundings Healthful. 



As when deciding about the location and surroundings 

 of the house, the healthfulness in and about old build- 

 ings is by far more important than any other considera- 

 tion. Search should be made from cellar to attic, through 

 and about every building, for anything that would pos- 

 sibly produce unhealthful conditions. Begin with the 

 cellars. See that surface water or that from springs does 

 not run in through the walls, making it damp and 

 malarial. See that the water supply for the house and 

 stable has not become contaminated by drainage from 

 the cesspool, sink or stable. 



Examine the Sills. 



About the first thing to need renewing, especially 

 when the buildings are set low, are the sills, and these 

 are often the most costly to repair. As soon as the foun- 

 dation begins to settle or the sills become soft, there is a 

 settling of the frame above, the windows and doors be- 

 come tight, the walls crack and soon extensive repairs 

 may have to be made. At the first indication of this, 

 jack-screws should be put under, these parts raised into 

 place and substantially supported. All foundation walls, 

 piers, or other supports should be laid below frost line, 

 which will vary in different sections from two to four 

 feet. A "stitch in time" will often save much loss and 

 sometimes prevent serious accidents. The best mate- 

 rial for sills where exposed to much wet or in poorly ven- 

 tilated places is chestnut or cypress. Should the build- 



