Measuring Tools

Experienced builders have finely honed estimation skills, but a single

bad measurement is still one of the quickest ways to ruin a project, or
.at least a part of one
A big part of measuring things well is using the right tool for the job.
Length, depth, angle, weight, level, diameter and circumference all
have different tools designed to get it right. The precision of the
measuring tool is also important. That is, how sloppy will the
measurement be? The length of floor joists can safely vary by a
quarter inch, but a hundredth of an inch variance will ruin the
.threads on a small bolt
And finally consider whether you need an absolute or relative
measurement. Rulers measure absolute length. Inches, millimeters,
furlongs, etc. But framing squares are relative, in that they only show
how close to 90 an angle is, not the angle itself. If you need to know
.the degrees (or radians) use a protractor
While you rarely need to spend a lot for a measuring tool, spending a
few extra dollars can pay off. Cheap measuring equipment can be
surprisingly inaccurate. If you do choose the cheapest model check its
.accuracy against a verified source before trusting what it tells you
It's also important to treat them with care. Some are more durable
than others, but dents, dings, and dirt will harm the accuracy of even
.the hardiest device
Here are some of the most common and useful measuring devices to
:keep around a workbench

Level
Sprit or bubble levels don't measure specific units like a ruler, they
.compare the orientation of an object to the pull of gravity
Levels have two parts: The frame has broad, precisely machined flat
edges. Into the frame are set transparent tubes filled with dyed

alcohol and a small bit of air. When the tube is exactly perpendicular
to gravity the air bubble will float in the exact center of the tube,
.marked with a pair of fine lines
Typically levels have at least two bubble tubes, aligned at 90 to the
other, making it easy to gauge horizontal and vertical. Some models
have tubes set at 45 or other convenient angles. Using one is as
simple as laying it across what you need to level and wait for the
bubble to stop moving. If the bubble is offset to the left, adjust your
work clockwise until the bubble is centered. To the right, the make
adjustments counterclockwise. Make sure the surface and the level
.are both clean and free of debris or you'll get bad results
They're available in lengths from 2 inches to 8 feet. Longer usually
means more accurate, but it's also more expensive and it might not fit
where you need it. If you need to gauge level over a long distance (say
the width of a driveway) drive a stake on each side, tie a taut string
between them, and measure the levelness of the string, adjusting the
.string or stakes as necessary
Be careful handling levels. The flat sides are precisely machined and
small dings, dents, twists or bends will ruin them, and the
transparent tubes can be crushed. If you suspect your level is giving a
bad reading rotate it 180 (in any direction) and measure again. A
properly calibrated level will give the same measurement both ways.
Quality levels have screws near the spirit tubes that can be adjusted
.to fine tune the angle of the tube
:Pros
Easy to use. If kept in good repair they are very accurate and last
.forever
:Cons
Doesn't give an absolute measure of angles. (Though there are
combination protractor/levels that do). More fragile than many other
.construction tools
Use for: Small ones are handy for leveling paintings. Longer ones for
installing doors, windows, cabinets, and countertops. Also handy for
landscaping and pouring concrete so you can tell which direction
.water will drain

1.

Williams MS, Bechtold MA, LaBau VJ (1994). "Five instruments for measuring tree
heights: an evaluation". Southern Journal of Applied Forestry. 18: 7682.