Layout & Marking

A square is a measuring device consisting of two straightedges set at right angles to each other. The “square” refers to the tool’s primary use of measuring the accuracy of a right angle (90°). Although serving the same purpose, many square variations can be found on the market.

A large carpenter’s square, also known as a steel square is graduated with scales typically for use in cutting off and notching and some might say it holds the answers to common roof framing problems. There are two main parts to the square; the body and the tongue, and they intersect at the heel on the outside edge of the square. A framing square will often include rafter tables and a brace measurement table.

This square is also known as a speed square, rafter angle square and triangle square. Basically, the rafter square is a triangular tool that combines functions of the try square, combination square and the framing square. Rafter squares can be made of metal or ABS. Degree gradations embedded on the tool eliminate complex trigonometry calculations, helping to speed up measurements at the job site. Beyond making basic measurements or marking lines on dimensional lumber, it’s also used as a saw guide for short 45° and 90° cuts and other perpendicular cut marks, angles for roofs, stairways and decks.

A T-square is a technical drawing instrument used by draftsmen primarily as a guide for drawing horizontal lines on a drafting table, drafting board, drywall or wooden surfaces. It may also guide a set square to draw vertical or diagonal lines. The T-square has two components: the long shaft called the blade, and the short shaft called the stock or head. A drywall T-square is designed to cut drywall or other plasterboards.

A combination square is a multi-purpose measuring instrument primarily used for: • Ensuring the integrity of a 90° angle • Measuring a 45° angle • Measuring the center of a circular object • Finding the depth • Simple distance measurements It is composed of a ruler and one or more interchangeable heads that may be affixed to it. The most common head is the standard or square head which is used to lay out or check right and 45° angles. The combination square is one of the favorite tools for woodworkers, stonemasons, and metalworkers.

Try & Mitre squares consist of two straight pieces: the stock and the blade which intersect one another at either 45° or 90°. A try square is both a woodworking and a metalworking measuring tool.

A sliding T bevel, also known as a bevel gauge or false square is an adjustable gauge for setting and transferring angles. The handle is usually made of wood, metal or plastic and is connected to a metal blade with a thumbscrew or wing nut. The blade pivots and can be locked at any angle by loosening or tightening the thumbscrew. The bevel can be used to duplicate an existing angle or set to a desired angle by using it with any number of other measuring tools. An absolute must tool in any construction, renovation, or non-standard angle projects.

The primary difference between a ruler and a straightedge is that a ruler is a measurement device whereas a straightedge is a tool for drawing a straight line or checking the flatness of a surface. Nowadays that distinction is generally invalid, and each tool can be used for various purposes, depending on the application.

Usually made of aluminum. Comes in various lengths to accommodate different needs. Some rulers are equipped with a telescopic mechanism that allows them to extend or with a cutting edge and handle.

These types of rulers are identical to the regular rulers but have at least one unique feature that differentiate it from the rest. Some examples can be the addition of compartments for storage of instruments, cutting knife guides and integrated vials.

A chalk line, chalk reel or chalk box is a simple hand tool consisting of a box with a reel of string inside it. The box is filled with chalk powder and the string, once coated with it is reeled out and used to mark straight lines. On the end of the string is a metal hook which can be attached to an object. Once the string is positioned it can be “plucked” at the center and the tension forces it to snap back down leaving a chalk line on the surface, sometimes known as “snapping the line”. Generally used for marking long, straight lines on relatively flat surfaces much farther than is practical by hand or with a straightedge.

A tape measure or measuring tape is a flexible ruler and is used to measure distance. It consists of a ribbon of either cloth, plastic, fiberglass, or metal strip; all are equipped with linear-measurement markings. The measuring tapes come in different lengths, sizes, and types. Choosing the correct measuring tool depends on the job at hand and what needs to be measured.

A flexible ruler with an end hook generally used for measuring and marking. Used by all professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Measuring wheels, sometimes called surveyor’s wheel, click-wheel, odometer, way-wiser, or trundle wheel is a construction distance measuring tool. Usually more practical at long distance measurement, when compared to tape, the measuring wheel is more accurate on flatter surfaces.

A reel tape measure is a flexible ruler used to measure distance. It consists of a ribbon of cloth, plastic, fiberglass, or metal strip with linear measurement markings.