1868.] Gilbert's Patent Iron Ceiling. 61 reissue Nov. 5th, 1867. It has been thoroughly examined by the principal architects and engineers of this and other cities, who are satisfied that it ex- ceeds in every respect any thing of the kind heretofore produced, and that it is a valuable invention, which, combining durability, economy, strength and light- ness, recommends itself to the attention of all architects and builders. The Committee of Science and Arts of the Franklin Institute of Pennsylvania, ap- pointed a special committee, consisting of some of our leading scientific men, to examine into its merits ; their report will be found below. The following advantages of the Iron Ceiling must be taken into considera- tion: It takes one-half the weight from the walls of the building. It takes one-half the weight from the iron beams, there- fore the beams can be of less weight, or there may be a greater space between them. It costs less on the average than the brick arches, and saves the tie-rods and the plastering. There is no lateral pressure. The ceilings are higher with the same amount of brick work. The iron ceiling is more ornamental than the plain brick arches. By placing the iron ceiling in at the same time the iron beams are placed on the walls, the building is strengthened. The iron ceiling gives a scaffolding over each story, which will enable the builder to finish any work in the basement. Can be shipped to any point desired.
