Finding right 'square' for the job

"Square." It's a term you hear often in construction, and it simply means to have two adjacent surfaces that are at an exact 90-degree angle to one another. Sounds simple, but having something square is crucial for everything from wall framing and door installation to cabinets and tile.

Checking that something is square is done with a tool called, not surprisingly, a square. There are all types of squares available, some with a dedicated purpose and some that will do more than one task around the home or shop. So when shopping for a new square, it pays to have some understanding of the function of some of the more common types.

First though, a word about shopping for any type of square. To check a square for accuracy, take any object with at least one straight edge. This could be a piece of plywood, or even a sheet of heavy cardboard. Place one leg of the square against the straight edge of the plywood. Using the other leg of the square as a guide, draw a line on the plywood. Flip the square over so that the same leg is against the same edge of the plywood, but now facing the other direction. Align the other leg of the square against your pencil line, and draw a second line on top of the first. Examine the two lines -- they should be exactly on top of one another. If they aren't, the square is not reading an accurate 90 degrees.

As with just about all tools, a higher purchase price is typically reflected in a better-quality tool that is easier to use and will maintain its accuracy for a much longer time. With any type of square, avoid the temptation to save a couple of dollars by buying a plastic version -- metal is much more durable and accurate.

TYPES OF SQUARES

Here's a look at some of the most common types of squares and their uses:

Framing square: Also called a rafter or carpenter's square, this is the basic square for use in rough carpentry. Framing squares have one 16-inch edge called the tongue and one 24-inch-long edge called the body, so it is large enough to check framing layouts. It is also stamped with ruler measurements and a number of tables that are used in the layout of rafter lengths and angles, as well as for such tasks as stair stringer layouts. Framing squares are available in steel, aluminum and brass.

Speed Square: This is the trade name for a 12-inch-by-12-inch triangular-shaped aluminum square that is extremely useful for framing and roof-cutting layouts, measuring angles, and marking and checking 90- and 45-degree angles. It also makes a great cutting guide for your circular saw and comes with a comprehensive booklet on roof framing. ...CONTINUED

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