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USING THE 3, 4, 5 METHOD TO SQUARE YOUR PROJECTS
Most smaller projects can be squared using a framing square or other small squares. When you are building a much larger project, such as a deck, addition, or even fencing, you need a technique to make sure everything is square to the starting point.
In comes the infamous right triangle. This is the no fault way to get a perfect right angle Measure 3' along the wall from your starting point (point A to point B ) and mark that point. Then measure 4' away from the wall ( point A to point C ) and mark that point on string or a piece of lumber. The distance between the two points you marked ( point B to point C ) should be exactly 5'. If you have one side or wall that is fixed then simply adjust the string or piece of lumber until you get exactly 5' between point B and point C.
The beauty of this method is that you can use inches, feet, yards, or any unit of measurement. This accommodates vary large and small projects very nicely.
TIP: You can also
modify the measurements by doubling or tripling each one. example: 3 4 5 , 6 8 10, 9 12
15. Get the idea. This is helpful if you are squaring something large like a 12'
joist on a deck.You would modify the points to 9, 12, and 15. This way the 12' run
is the same as my lumber, so I am measuring to the end of the board and not into the
middle where it might be bowed.
When you have the box set, check the square again by measuring between opposite corners (
see figure #2 ), both measurements should be equal. This allows you to fine tune the
square and end up with a much nicer finished product. If you are building a deck, tack a
piece of strapping at an angle on the bottom of the joists to hold it square while the
decking is installed.
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