1. Materials:
- Wood: Wood was the most common building material for residential construction. Timber framing was widely used, where vertical posts and horizontal beams formed a structural framework. Wood was also used for wall construction, flooring, and exterior siding.
- Brick: Brick was another popular material, particularly in urban areas. Bricks were laid together with mortar to create sturdy and durable walls.
- Stone: Stone was often used for foundations or exterior cladding, especially in regions with abundant natural stone resources.
2. Construction Methods:
- Timber Framing: This technique involved assembling heavy wooden posts and beams to form the basic framework of the house. The joints were secured using mortise and tenon joints or wooden pegs.
- Balloon Framing: Balloon framing, introduced around the late 1800s, used long studs that ran from the foundation to the roof, allowing for quicker and more efficient construction.
- Masonry: Brick or stone walls were built by laying individual units with mortar. Walls were often thick to provide insulation and structural stability.
3. Insulation:
- Natural Insulation: Natural materials like straw, sawdust, or animal hair were commonly used as insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors to provide some thermal comfort.
4. Roofing:
- Shingles: Wood shingles or slates were commonly used for roofing. These were installed in overlapping rows to create a water-resistant layer.
5. Windows:
- Single-Pane Windows: Most houses had single-pane windows, which provided less energy efficiency compared to modern double-glazed windows.
6. Finishing:
- Plaster: Walls and ceilings were often finished with plaster, a mixture of lime, sand, and water, which provided a smooth surface that could be painted or decorated.
- Wallpaper: Wallpaper was widely used to add color, patterns, and texture to interior walls.
7. Plumbing and Electricity:
- Plumbing: Plumbing systems were relatively basic, with copper or iron pipes used for water supply and cast iron for drainage. Bathrooms were typically located inside the house, but some homes still had outhouses.
- Electricity: Electricity was becoming more common in urban areas, but many homes, particularly in rural areas, relied on oil or gas lamps for lighting.
It's important to note that building practices and materials could vary based on regional preferences, climate conditions, and socioeconomic factors. The descriptions above provide a general overview of how houses were typically constructed 100 years ago.