When even a part of a building is subjected to unusual wear, either
from use or exposure to the elements, build it of concrete.
[Illustration]
Porch floors of wood rot quickly when laid near the ground; and, even
if they do not rot, through constant use they become splintered and
faulty.
As concrete is a stone which can be made into any shape without
cutting, it is particularly well adapted for porch floors of any size
and shape. Its lasting qualities under all conditions of wear and
exposure have been so often mentioned, it seems useless to refer to
them again.
[Illustration]
Remove the old wooden floor, first placing props to support the porch
roof, with their lower ends resting outside the line of the porch
floor. The pillars themselves must also be supported if they are not to
be replaced by concrete.
The floor is laid in exactly the same way as a feeding floor described
on page 43. As the size is usually small, however, the floor can be
laid in a single slab without joints. If a smooth surface is wished
for, finish first with a wooden float and then with a steel trowel.
Do not put too much elbow grease into the finishing. If you do, small
cracks are likely to come on the surface and spoil the looks of the
floor.
No material could be more useful than concrete for the porch of a
school house where hundreds of little feet scuff and stamp daily.
A porch of concrete is free from vermin, fireproof, easily scrubbed,
and needs no repairs.