How To Layout like a PRO with String and Batter Boards

Summary

This video provides a step-by-step guide on laying out a building, particularly for a post-frame structure. The presenter explains how to mark out the dimensions of the building using nails, tape measures, and the Pythagorean theorem to ensure accuracy. The video also covers using tools like the Construction Master Pro app and a rotary laser for grading. Key tips include setting batter boards, keeping string lines taut, and adjusting for potential errors in measurement due to site conditions. The video emphasizes accuracy and efficiency in setting up the foundation for construction.

Takeaways

• 🔨 The video demonstrates how to lay out a building, specifically for a post-frame structure, but the techniques can apply to other projects.
• 📏 The structure's dimensions are 40 by 56 feet, but the layout is marked with 39'9" by 55'9" due to the wall Gertz being subtracted by 1.5 inches.
• 📐 The Pythagorean theorem is used to find the diagonal measurement of 68 feet 5 5/8 inches for precise corner placement.
• 📱 The creator uses a Construction Master Pro app to calculate the diagonal dimension, avoiding manual math.
• 🎛️ The use of fiberglass tapes is cautioned as they can stretch, affecting accuracy over larger distances.
• 🚧 Batter boards are set up for string lines, and a rotary laser is used to ensure level and consistent placement across the uneven site.
• 🪓 Extra support is added to batter boards in uneven ground to prevent movement and ensure tight string lines.
• 📏 Once the string lines are set, all dimensions are rechecked to ensure the building layout is square and accurate before proceeding with post locations.
• 🏗️ The creator uses a simple knot technique to secure string lines, allowing easy adjustments if necessary.
• 🔧 The final step is marking the post locations every 8 feet for the post-frame structure, adjusted for the 1.5-inch offset.

Q & A

What is the size of the building being laid out in this video?

The building being laid out is 40 feet wide by 56 feet long.

Why do they lay out the building an inch and a half less around the perimeter?

They lay out the building an inch and a half less around the perimeter because they are marking for the columns, not the entire outside structure. The extra inch and a half accounts for the thickness of the wall Gerts (2x4 or 2x6) that will be installed on the outside.

How do they ensure that the layout of the building is square?

They use the Pythagorean theorem to find the diagonal measurement and ensure the layout is square. In this case, the diagonal measurement is 68 feet, 5 and 5/8 inches.

Why is it important to use a steel tape measure instead of a fiberglass tape for long distances?

Fiberglass tapes can stretch over long distances, which can lead to inaccurate measurements. Steel tapes do not stretch, ensuring more accurate dimensions.

What tool do they use to check the grade and find the highest point on the pad?

They use a Stabila 350 rotary laser to check the grade and find the highest point on the pad.

Why do they set the batter boards at the same elevation?

The batter boards are set at the same elevation to ensure that the string lines are level across the entire site. If the batter boards are at different elevations, the string lines could slope and affect the accuracy of the layout.

What is the purpose of the string lines in the layout process?

The string lines are used to define the exact outside dimensions of the columns and to ensure that the layout is square and properly aligned.

What does the term 'burning a foot' mean in the context of this layout?

'Burning a foot' means starting measurements from the 1-foot mark on the tape measure instead of the end. This technique is used to improve accuracy in some situations.

How do they verify that the layout is accurate after setting the string lines?

They double-check all the wall dimensions and the diagonal measurement (68 feet, 5 and 5/8 inches) to ensure that everything is perfectly square.

What is the next step after confirming the layout with string lines?

After confirming the layout, they mark the post locations for the building, which are set every eight feet for the columns and door jams.