Certain activities must take place before you begin framing. The dimensions and level of the foundation and slab need to be checked. If they are not perfectly level (which is not unusual), you must determine how far from correct they are, whether they are within tolerances, and what types of adjustments you must make. It is important that the dimensions are accurate, and the building is square before you start. Note, too, that the cabinets, floor covering, drywall, roof trusses or rafters, and much more depend on the measurements being accurate and square.
The four steps to getting started, covered in this chapter, are:
1. Checking the exterior wall dimensions
2. Checking the reference lines for square
3. Adjusting the reference lines to correct dimensions and square
4. Checking the building for level
Checking Exterior Wall Dimensions
If you have the concrete-work reference points handy, getting started will be easier for you. If you don’t, establish reference lines of your own. Be sure to mark these lines well, since you will be using them throughout the job. Using clear marking paint in inverted cans makes it easy to protect your lines on the concrete.
You will want to use the reference lines to find any deviations from plan measurements or any out-ofsquare parts of the foundation. Start by stringing dry lines that will allow you to measure. The more of the building you can measure from these lines,
the more likely you are to find any mistakes. Look at the plans, and string two dry lines perpendicular to each other and covering as long a distance of the building as possible. If you can add two more dry lines, one on each side and opposite to the first two, that will help. (See the “Start-Up" example.) Once you have established your lines, take measurements between the lines and to the major exterior walls in the building. Make a quick footprint of your building, and as you measure the distances, write them down on the footprint. (See “Footprint Sketch Dimensions" example later in this chapter.)
A laser can also be used to establish square lines.
The laser will give you dots that you just need to connect. Set the laser up at a convenient position so you will be able to chalk reference lines. Once you have established the lines, use your tape and a 3-4-5 triangle to check for accuracy.
Laser Dots. Note: a fifth laser dot would be visible under the back of the laser.
