PLUMBING

The bathroom is the heart of the plumbing problem, and it is not
necessary to declare that the plumbing is the most important feature of
the house, so far as health is concerned. Did we examine an old house
(one of even ten years ago) with a view to purchasing or renting, the
condition of the plumbing would be a first consideration. If it were
not safe and in good order, we should have to make it so, for of course
no one who is mentally competent would take any chances on such a
menace to the family welfare. And to repair antiquated plumbing is an
ungrateful task, while to replace it entirely requires both courage and
a willingness to let go of one's money in large wads.

Now, we want to remember that we shall wish to have our plumbing
satisfactory, not only when the house is new, but ten years later, when
it is not new. To make sure of this, we need first of all to know
something of modern methods and equipment. Then we should employ a
capable plumber, though he may cost us more than the merely passable
sort. Finally, we should supplement good workmanship with the best
materials. It may be noted that after the supply houses have evolved
the best materials, in the sense that the materials are convenient,
good to look at, and perfectly sanitary, they add frills and
decorations that bring up the cost to any amount we insist upon
spending. But we can get what we really require without paying for the
frills, if we exhibit tolerable ability in the selection of essentials.

Open plumbing is, of course, the only sort that any self-respecting