Prior to the era of indoor plumbing, an outhouse or latrine, was standard at most homes. An outhouse is typically a small structure that is detached from a home and contains some type of rudimentary toilet system. The most common outhouse styles are open pits and pail closets. The open pit outhouse is simply built over a hole dug in the ground. A pail closet does not have a hole dug, but rather
. uses a seat with an attached pail or bucket underneath. This type of outhouse is often used where waste collection is available.Outhouses are typically built for decoration, but may be built for their original use in areas that permit outdoor toilets. Plans for an outdoor latrine are typically very basic, but can be altered to suit the user's personal needs and design taste. Basic plans for building an outdoor latrine are readily available online. A simple four foot square design can be built from the plans and instructions available at http://www.i4at.org/lib2/hmnwaste.htm. This style of outhouse is essentially a box built with a shelf in it. A oval hole is cut out of the shelf and a standard toilet seat is attached for the user's comfort. Latrines can also include other features, such as a box or shelf for toilet paper or small windows. Traditionally, outhouses were painted the same color as the house or barn, but there are limitless paint color options for contemporary outhouses.When functioning properly, a pit outhouse essentially becomes a compost pile. The waste and liquids are broken down by the bacteria and microbes in the pit, as well as by worms and insects that live in the vicinity. As long as a functional outhouse is placed at least 100 feet away from the house, there are rarely any odor related problems. Also, keeping a safe distance of 50 feet from a well or other water source will ensure there is no contamination of drinking water. Decorative outhouses have no limitations on their placement, and are useful for storing gardening tools or other outdoor equipment. Outhouses can be a simple building project as well as a useful addition to the home. More reference links: http://www.woodworkersworkshop.com/resources/index.php?cat=725 http://www.motherearthnews.com/Do-It-Yourself/1983-03-01/Build-An-Outhouse-Inside.aspx
