Prehistoric India to 1000 B.C. c12.92

c12.92

Fireplaces were practically non-existent, and such artificial heating as was needed was presumably obtained from charcoal braziers. Stairways, implying upper storeys or at least flat roofs, were common, and in some instances beam-holes for definite upper floors were found. Charred pine rafters were found at Harappā, and sissoo is also attested from Mohenjo-daro, where putlog-holes for squared beams up to 14 feet in span were found. Wood was also used for door-lintels, and, as we have seen, for the treads of the steps into the Great Bath. Wooden pillars may have been used, though rarely; a few possible limestone capitals and bases have been found. The flat roofs of houses were covered with bamboo and rush matting coated with mud and earth to form a solid waterproof layer.