302 DAIRY CATTLE AND MILK PRODUCTION 



cement or wood, and extending this forward far enough to 

 catch the urine. The space under the cows is then filled with 

 clay packed solidly. When sufficient bedding is used, such a 

 floor will answer in a cheap barn, but under no circumstances 

 could such a barn be called sanitary. 



Wood for Floors. A tight wooden floor is comfortable 

 for the animals, and may be kept in good condition regarding 

 cleanliness, although it can hardly be considered first class from 

 a sanitary standpoint. The first cost is also excessive, con- 

 sidered in connection with the short time it remains in serv- 

 ice. Wooden floors last the longest either laid in contact 

 with earth so moisture is retained constantly, or laid with 

 sufficient air space below to admit of free circulation of air. 

 Under the most favorable conditions a wooden floor may 

 last as long as from six to ten years. The most rapid decay 

 occurs when the floor is laid far enough above the soil and with 

 no circulation of air underneath, so only a small amount of 

 moisture is present. Under such conditions the floor may not 

 last over three to five years. 



Wooden floors are made water-tight by using coal tar 

 between the planks. The most serious objection to the 

 wooden floor is its short period of service. Another objec- 

 tion of considerable weight in many cases is the sanitary 

 question. On account of the difficulty of cleaning a wooden 

 floor, it is not used where the greatest attention is paid to 

 sanitation. 



Brick for Floors. If good vitrified brick can be bought 

 cheaper than cement, this material may be used with advan- 

 tage. A brick floor has the same advantages and objections 

 as discussed in connection with cement. The bricks must be 

 put on on a good foundation, and are set in cement. 



