2. Introduction to Hand Tools There are many common tools used in the building trades. Right from the laying of a foundation to the final finishing of a building, these tools are used in each step of the building process. The following slides will describe many of the tools that you will be using and need to become familiar with in the Residential Building Maintenance 12 course. 1. Measurement and layout tools 2. Cutting tools 3. Planning, smoothing and shaping tools 4. Gripping and clamping tools 5. Portable power tools 6. Shop tools
3. 1. Measurement and Layout Tools:Ruler A ruler is sometimes used in the construction industry to measure distances and/or to draw straight lines. Typically, the rulerwill be 12 inches (1 foot), 36 inches (3 feet) or 48 inches (4 feet) long.
4. Measurement and Layout Tools:Tape Measure A measuring tape is one of the most commonly used tools. This retractable ruler can be found in both Metric and Imperial units of measurement. This measurement tool is typically available in 12, 16 and 25 foot lengths.
5. Measurement and Layout Tools:Framing Square The framing square is a tool that many carpenters use. There are two arms on the framing square. The wider arm, two inches wide, is called the blade. The narrower arm, one and a half inches wide, is called the tongue. The square has many uses, including laying out common rafters and stairs as well as being a handy tool for ensuring your work is “square”.
6. Measurement and Layout Tools:Combination Square A combination square is a multiple purpose layout tool. It consists of a ruled blade (a steel ruler) and a sliding head.This tool is often used to lay out or check 90° and 45° angles.
7. Measurement and Layout Tools:Speed Square The speed square, or rafter angle square, is a triangular-measuring tool used to draw straight lines on lumber, or to lay out angles for roofs, stairways, decks and other general construction.
8. Measurement and Layout Tools:Bevel Gauge (Sliding T-Square) A bevel gaugeis an adjustable gauge for setting and transferring angles. The blade pivots and can be locked at any angle by loosening or tightening the thumbscrew.
9. Measurement and Layout Tools:Compass A compass is a technical drawing tool that can be used for inscribing circles or arcs.
10. Measurement and Layout Tools:Level A bubblelevel is a tool designed to indicate whether a surface is horizontal (level) or vertical (plumb). Embedded in the middle of the level is a small window where the bubble and the tube are mounted. Two notches (or rings) show where the bubble should be if the surface was level.
11. Measurement and Layout Tools:Chalk Line A chalk lineis a tool for marking long, straight lines on relatively flat surfaces. The string, coated with a loose dye such as chalk, is laid across the surface to be marked and pulled tight. The string is then plucked or snapped sharply to cause the string to strike the surface, leaving a straight line.
