BUILDING NEW HOUSES 



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stored in a perfectly dry place and at an even tem- 

 perature it may retain its strength a much longer time. 

 The best brands only should be used, especially for the 

 blocks and trimmings, and if possible its quality and 

 strength should be tested before using. 



The sand used should be clean and sharp. Freedom 

 from organic matter may be tested by putting a small 

 quantity in a pail with clean water, giving it a rapid 



FIG. 1& A Cement Concrete House, made of Hollow Blocks. 



stirring, and pouring off quickly, the organic matter will 

 soon settle on the bottom of the vessel into which it is 

 poured. The sharpness of the sand may be determined 

 by examining its particles with a magnifying glass. 

 The coarser the sand, if of an even grade, the better. 

 Fine broken stone when it can be obtained is better 

 than sand. Very coarse sand, gravel or broken stone 

 should also be used with the fine sand and cement. 



