Speed Square Roof Angles

What is a speed square.

Speed square roof angles.

Swanson was a carpenter in a small town outside of chicago. For example for a 7 12 roof pitch. Because of its compact size it is frequently used as a saw guide when cutting framing members as well as a layout tool for quick 45 and 90 degree cuts. Locate the desired angle on the hypotenuse side of the square.

The speed square also called a rafter angle or triangle square is an extremely versatile tool originally intended to help carpenters quickly and accurately mark roof rafters it is a triangle shaped measuring tool that s invaluable for the diyer s tool box. The triangle shaped square was invented in 1925 by albert swanson to provide a quick accurate method for marking rafters. This video is very basic and for beginners. Before miter saws and even since professional carpenters used speed squares as a quick saw guide for cutting 45 and 90 degree angles.

Lay the lipped fence flat on the shoe and take note if it s not even with the speed square. In this video i show how to find angles using a speed square. A quick way to check the angles is by using a speed square. Finding the pitch of a roof is simple with a speed square.

The speed square was invented in 1925 by albert swanson. Made from plastic aluminum or steel this multi measuring tool combines a protractor a try square a ruler a. Set the level on the edge of the speed square as shown below then place the heel of the speed square on a rafter or gable edge of the roof. As a protractor for easily finding and marking various common angles especially roof rafter pitches and angles for stair stringers the vertical supports on a stairway.

A speed square and level can be used to easily find the pitch of a roof. Finding angles with a speed square whether you want to make a nice pitched roof on your kids treehouse or you need a utility ramp for your shed entrance getting the right angle on every side. Check out some tips on working with a circular saw. The rafter square or speed square does more than mark perpendicular lines.