36. Plastering on plain surfaces, such as walls and ceilings, is always measured by the square yard; but there are considerable variations in detail in the methods of measurement in different sections of the country. The following rules, however, probably represent the average practice, and are equitable to both parties concerned.

On walls and ceilings, measure, the surface actually plastered, making no deduction for grounds, or for openings of less extent than 7 superficial yards.

Returns of chimney breasts, pilasters, and all strips of plastering less than 12 inches in width, measure as 12 inches wide.

In closets, add one-half to the actual measurement; if shelves are put up before plastering, charge double measurement.

For raking ceilings or soffit of stairs, add one-half to measurement for circular or elliptical work, charge two prices; for surfaces of domes or groined ceilings, three prices.

Round corners and arrises (other than chimney breasts) should be measured by the lineal foot.

On interior work, increase the price 5 per cent. for each 12 feet above the ground after the first. For outside work, add 1 per cent. for each foot above the lower 20 feet.

All repairing and patching should be done at agreed prices.

37. Stucco Work

Stucco Work. Cornices composed of plain members and panel work are measured by the square foot. Enriched cornices with carved moldings are measured by the lineal foot. When moldings are less than 12 inches in girth, measurement is taken by the lineal foot; when over 12 inches, superficial measurement is used. For internal angles or miters, add 1 foot to length of cornice, and for exterior angles add 2 feet to length. Sections of cornice less than 12 inches measure as 12 inches. Add one-half for raking cornices.

For cornices or moldings abutted against wall or plain surface, add 1 foot to length of cornice; if against soffit of stairs or other inclined or covered surface, add 2 feet to length of cornice. Octagonal, hexagonal, and similar cornices, less than 10 feet in single stretches, take one and one-half times the length.

For circular or elliptical work charge double price; for domes and groins, three prices. Enrichments of all kinds should be estimated at an agreed price.

38. The quantity of plastering which can be done in a day varies considerably with the class of work, but for ordinary good 3-coat work, two plasterers, with one laborer to assist, should average from GO to 70 square yards per day. The cost of the labor on 3-coat work, at about 25 cents per square yard, will be about 12 cents. For 2-coat work, at about 20 cents per square yard, the cost of the labor will be about 8 cents. Both of these figures on labor are exclusive of the cost of lathing. Where extremely fine work is demanded, these prices will be greatly increased.

The analyses of cost of 2 and 3 coat plastering, given in the complete example on estimating, are very carefully made, and may be relied on as bases for estimates.