When putting away old stuff see that it is protected from rain and the atmosphere.
It costs about 15 per cent. extra to work up old material, and this fact should be borne in mind, as I have known several contractors who paid dearly for their “whistle” in estimating on working up second-hand material.
These remarks apply to wood-work only. In using old bricks, stone, slate and other miscellaneous materials, it is as well to add double price for working up.
Workmen do not care to handle old material, and justly so. It is ruinous to tools, painful to handle, and very destructive to clothing.
In my experience I always found it pay to advance the wages of workmen—skilled mechanics—while working up old material. This encouraged the men and spurred them to better efforts.
Sash frames, with sash weights, locks and trim complete, may be taken out of old buildings that are being taken down and preserved just as good as new by screwing slats and braces on them, which not only keeps the frame square, but prevents the glass from being broken.
Doors, frames and trims may also be kept in good order until used, by taking the same precautions as in window frames.
Old scantlings and joists should have all nails drawn or hammered in before piling away.
Counters, shelving, drawers and other store-fittings should be kindly dealt with. They will be wanted sooner or later.
Take care of the locks, hinges, bolts, keys and other hardware. Each individual piece represents money in a greater or lesser sum.