1. _The use of the girt_, because it permits the location of the
second-floor windows at any point irrespective of the first floor
windows. This cannot be done when a ribbon-board is used, for this
requires studs which extend continuously from sill to plate, and if
any windows are to be located on the second floor, they must be placed
directly over those on the first floor. The ribbon-board does not
act as a stop for either vermin or fire, as does the girt. However,
fire-stops can be introduced in connection with the ribbon-board, if
the extra expense is no hindrance.
2. _The use of the sill_, because it serves as a firm foundation for
the outside studs and first tier of floor-joists. The balloon-frame has
no sill, for the floor-joists are set directly upon the top of the
foundation-wall, and the exterior studs are built on top of them.