Fig. 14 shows a sharp-pointed wedge suitable for the type of
sill shown in Fig. 15. Fig. 16 shows a broad-ended wedge suitable for use as shown in Fig. 17.
Windows where the sill is either very slight or even non-existent
are a little more difficult. Ideally, the window-box would be
built-in during the construction of the house similar to the design
shown in Fig. 18, and I would like to suggest that architects
might make a notable contribution towards beautifying our
towns by incorporating built-in window-boxes on public buildings and blocks of flats, etc.
The ordinary solution, however, is to attach a prefabricated
trough to the wall by strong angle brackets as in Fig. 19. It is a
notable advantage if the back of the trough can be inset into a
wall recess, however slight, but in any case, part of the metal
bracket should be imbedded into the wall as indicated in the
diagram at C, and the front end of the bracket should have a
slight lip as at A. Additional side arms can be included between
A and B if deemed advisable. Window-boxes of this nature
should preferably be considered as permanent affairs and it will
probably be found more convenient if insert garden containers
(fitted with handles) are used inside them. Do not forget to make
provision for drainage.
ANCHORING THE WINDOW-BOX
It is important that window-boxes and all the fittings entailed
are thoroughly secured and particularly important if the window
is above ground-floor level or overhanging a public right-of-way.
Under normal conditions the weight of the garden will be sufficient to hold it in position, but every precaution should be taken
to counteract unusual stresses and avoid accidents.
The actual method of anchoring the box to the sill can be
adapted according to circumstances. Where an outside box is
used (i.e., one which is to have an inside container) the fastenings
can be of a permanent nature; otherwise it should be one that,
while secure, can be removed without difficulty by the right
person. Fig. 15 shows an angle bracket fastened to the back as a
permanent fitting. In Fig. 17 strong eye-hooks have been set in
the side of the concrete trough and in the window frame and are
joined with strong wire or a metal hook. In Fig. 20 a bolt has
been set through the concrete and taken through the window-sill;
a plate set at the back of the trough gives the necessary reinforcement and can be screwed firmly to the wall.
|
|
