How deep should the lead be in the hub of a four-inch soil pipe?

About one inch.

What is the result of too great depth of lead in caulking a joint?

If there is too great depth, caulking will not expand the lower part of the lead. It is a waste of material as well.

Describe the process of caulking a joint?

A good sized ring of oakum is first forced into the hub (not dropped in), and set with a caulking tool until it is hard. The melted lead is then poured, and after cooling, firmly set down with the iron, care being taken to caulk the inner and outer circle of lead.

How is a horizontal joint made?

After the oakum is firmly caulked, an asbestos rope is usually put around the joint, leaving a small opening at the top for pouring the melted lead. If no asbestos rope is handy, a cloth and ring of putty can be used, or even a cloth.

In what way does the matter of climate enter into the question of the size of pipe through the roof?

In the warmer parts of the country it is safe to carry small sizes of pipe through the roof, but in the colder sections it is necessary to increase them to at least four inches, to prevent closing up with frost.

What are the principal tests that are applied to the plumbing system, for the detection of leaks and faulty joints? ,

The water, smoke, and peppermint tests.

Describe the water test.

After the rough work is completed, which includes the caulking in of all ferrules, solder up the ends of all lead pipes, and close all openings in soil and vent pipes by means of expansion plugs, known as test plugs, then through one of the plugs attach the water, usually by means of hose. The entire system is then filled with water until it flows over the roof end of the pipe. Each joint should then be carefully examined for leaks, any defects remedied, cracked fittings replaced, etc.

Describe the peppermint test.

After the work is complete, to test the several fixtures and their connections, seal all traps and stop all openings, then pour the liquid into the top of the stack, which will penetrate through the smallest opening and show leaks if any exist. The common mixture is about two ounces of oil of peppermint to one gallon of hot water.

Describe the smoke test.

After closing all openings as described above, smoke is forced through the system by means of special apparatus, the escape of smoke showing where defects exist.

Under what conditions can water be used as a final test?

When the plumbing fixtures are all on one floor, all joints can be covered with water without overflowing, which is far better than the peppermint or smoke test besides being more easily done.

What precaution should be taken where the soil pipe goes through the cellar wall?

A place should be left in the wall when the wall is laid, with a cap stone covering the hole so that no unnecessary weight may come on the pipe.