In order to control the collection of material it is essential that all be stacked to gauge, or in boxes, and that the stacks be of equal size, thus facilitating measurements.
Consolidation of Metal.
Consolidation of metal must invariably be done as soon after the rainy season sets in as possible, and especially so for kunkar. Any heavy rainfall in a water-bound road after the metal is once laid is invaluable in helping consolidation, as it fills up all the interstices which may be left after rolling or ramming; kunkar should be consolidated by ramming with heavy wooden rammers, although on a new road a roller will be of use in forcing the kunkar in between the joints of the soling bricks, and jamming them into the earth, thus making a solid foundation. A plentiful supply of water should be used in the process of consolidation; this is most essential. Stone and brick metalling should be consolidated by heavy rollers, a minimum quantity of surfacing material being used. It is of great importance to keep the berms well made up against the metalled portion of a road, otherwise the metal will rapidly spread out under traffic.
In all cases it is of the greatest importance that the natural aid afforded by climatic conditions be utilised in making roads; this is a subject the importance of which is frequently overlooked. When the consolidation of metal is seen to be going on after the end of the rains, unless there are exceptional circumstances to justify this, the official in charge may be condemned at sight as being ignorant or incompetent.
Long lengths of road should not be taken up for repairs at a time, as this causes much inconvenience to traffic. A furlong is the uttermost limit admissible.
CHAPTER IV.
Building Construction.
Materials.
Kunkar Lime.
Kunkar lime should be burnt near the site of works from clean kunkar with coal or charcoal. When the burnt kunkar is taken out of the kiln it must not be slaked, but after any clinker has been removed, should be ground fine enough to pass through a screen of 400 meshes to the square inch, and must be used freshly ground. It should contain over 40 per cent. of Oxide of Calcium.
Stone Lime.