This document discusses layout tools and procedures used in construction. It describes common measuring tools like tapes, rules, calipers, and squares used to measure length, width, and other dimensions. These tools can be made of materials like steel, wood, plastic or cloth. Both the U.S. customary and metric systems of measurement are used. The document also outlines tools like levels, which ensure objects are at the same height, as well as patterns, lines, and computers used in layout and design.

1. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Unit 8
Layout Tools and Procedures

2. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Construction of Layout Tools
• Made of steel, aluminum, wood, plastic, or
cloth depending on durability required
• Often marked with gradations to ensure
durability and accuracy of the scale
• System of measurement based on the U.S.
customary system and/or the metric system

3. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Measurement
• Metric System
– Linear measurements based on the meter
– Units of measure relate to each other in multiples of ten
• Customary System
– Linear measurements based on the inch, foot, yard, rod, and
mile
– The inch is the traditional unit of measurement for
woodworking and metalworking

4. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Measuring Tools
• Used to measure length, width, height, depth,
thickness, spacing, and clearances
• Examples
– tapes
– rules
– calipers
– gauges

5. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Tapes
• Flexible measuring devices
• Roll into a case
• Range in length
• Made of steel, cloth, or fiber materials
• Easily broken

6. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Rules
• Folding rule—rigid rule 2 to 8 feet in length;
folds for handling and storage
• Originally the carpenter’s standard measuring
device
• Made of wood, plastic, or metal

7. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Calipers
• Measure the diameter or thickness of an object
• Can take inside and outside measurements
• Examples
– dial calipers
– digital calipers

8. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Squares
• Usually measure 90 degrees, but can draw other
angles
• Mark and check cuts for accuracy
• Used to square boards before making additional
cuts and measurements

9. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Types of Squares
• Framing square—flat square with a body
and tongue
• Try square—used to test accuracy of cuts
and mark lines on lumber
• Combination square—combines several
tools in one (the most used square)
• Sliding T bevel—used to lay out angles

10. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Levels
• Determine whether an object has the same height
at two or more points
– Spirit level—most common kind; alcohol in a sealed tube with a
small air bubble; mounted in wood or aluminum
– Laser level—newer technology; very accurate; uses a laser beam
to determine level

11. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Lines
• Any thin material stretched tightly between two or
more points
• Useful for
– laying block or flooring
– cutting rafters
– applying ceiling tiles
– building greenhouses, sheds, and barns

12. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Patterns
• A model or guide used to make an object
• Techniques
– tracing
– carbon paper
– drawing

13. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Computers
• Most modern layout tool/technology
• CAD
– Design a project without having to manufacture it
– Develop detailed drawing of the project
– Determine optimum use of space
– Calculate bill of materials/total cost

14. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Important Terms
• Gradations: numbers and lines stamped into tools
• Scale: numbers and gradations
• Craftsperson: skilled worker
• Linear: in a line
• Layout: to prepare a pattern
• Gauge: used to determine thickness, gap,
diameter, or pressure of flow
• Plumb: vertical to the axis of the earth
• Miter: angle

15. Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Important Terms (continued)
• Bevel: sloping edge
• Right triangle: three-sided figure with one 90 degree
angle
• Dividers: two steel legs used to make circles and curved
lines
• Scribers: one steel leg and one pencil leg; used to make
circles and curved lines
• Plumb line: string with a pointed metal weight attached
• Plumb bob: the pointed metal weight on a plumb line