Ensure Your Next Project Measures Up with the Right Marking & Layout Tools

Whether you’re mounting a shelf or building a deck, you need to get the measurements right. Otherwise you’ll end up having to undo and redo the work you’ve already done, which costs time and money. A good tape measure or laser measuring tape is indispensable for any home project. Make sure to mark out your dimensions first! For this you’ll need marking chalk and a plumb bob or chalk line tool. Walking measuring wheels are also available to mark out larger areas.

A beam level or laser level will help ensure your vertical and horizontal planes are true. If your project involves framing, use a rafter square or combination square to ensure perfect corners and angles. Indoor renos, or even décor work like hanging a painting, will require you to know where your wall studs are located. For this you’ll need a stud finder or stud sensor. A construction calculator is also a handy tool. These have construction-specific functions and is safer and easier to use in a work area than your mobile device.