What is a Carpenter's Square?

One of the most easily recognized of all carpentry tools, the carpenter’s square is an L-shaped set square that is used for plotting right angles during the construction process. Sometimes referred to as a builder’s square, the carpenter’s square is a flat square that is often made with steel or aluminum, and is relatively lightweight. Carpenter’s squares are often employed in the construction of walls, in the installation of roofing, and with a number of furniture construction projects. The carpenter’s square of today usually measures twenty-four inches by sixteen inches, which is the largest dimensions ever associated with the tool. Typical rafter square and roofing square models in the 19th century tended to measure eighteen inches by twelve inches. Smaller squares are also available, and may be ideal for smaller jobs. There are several different ways to effectively use the carpenter’s square. The main function of the device is to lay out and mark patterns that are ...  more

One of the most easily recognized of all carpentry tools, the carpenter’s square is an L-shaped set square that is used for plotting right angles during the construction process. Sometimes referred to as a builder’s square, the carpenter’s square is a flat square that is often made with steel or aluminum, and is relatively lightweight. Carpenter’s squares are often employed in the construction of walls, in the installation of roofing, and with a number of furniture construction projects. The carpenter’s square of today usually measures twenty-four inches by sixteen inches, which is the largest dimensions ever associated with the tool. Typical rafter square and roofing square models in the 19th century tended to measure eighteen inches by twelve inches. Smaller squares are also available, and may be ideal for smaller jobs. There are several different ways to effectively use the carpenter’s square. The main function of the device is to lay out and mark patterns that are related to ...  more