Framing Square

How to Cut a Rafter

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Expectations

• Remain on-camera and muted.

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• Actively participate in discussions and paired activities.

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• Type questions into the chat.

Overview

• Today we will discuss the tool: framing square.

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• It’s important to know how to use a framing square, in order to cut roof rafters.

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• See the terms listed on the handout for this module.

Outcomes

By the end of this lesson,

you will be able to:

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• Define the term ‘framing square.’

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• Identify the main parts of a framing square.

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• List the steps of using a framing square to cut a rafter.

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Topic 1: Framing Squares - Definition

Definition

Usage: (noun) a large carpenter’s square graduated with scales typically for use in cutting off and notching (as rafters or stair joists).

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Its most common use is for laying out and marking patterns in framing and roofing.

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*Also known as:

“Carpenter’s Square” and “Steel Square”

but can be made out of aluminum.

Topic 1: Framing Squares - Terms

Terms

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Arm: Each end of the Framing Square (i.e. “Legs”).

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Tongue: The shorter, narrower arm.

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Blade: The longer, wider arm (i.e. “Body).

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Heel: The corner = 90 degree angle.

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Rise: The vertical distance.

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Run: The horizontal distance.

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Scale: Measurement used to read pitch of roof angles.

Topic 1: Framing Squares - Activity 2

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Activity

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• You will be assigned into pairs in a breakout room.

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• Use the listed materials to create your own Framing Square (cardstock paper, scissors, ruler, pencil).

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• Collaborate with your partner.

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• Include these labeled parts, with correct measurements (Tongue, Blade, Heel, Rise, Run)

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Summary

Compare your created Framing Square to the teacher’s tool:

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• What is the same?

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• What is different?

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• How might you make improvements?

Questions

….about something related to the topic - experiences, preferences, etc.

Topic 2: Using a Framing Square

Topic 2: Using a Framing Square: Steps

1. Determine the pitch of the roof
1. Use units of rise per foot of run.
2. Determine the total run
• Which is the horizontal distance that the rafter covers
3. Lay out the rafter

Topic 2: Using a Framing Square: Steps

Measure a Cut:

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1. Place the Framing Square with the Tongue side on the right.

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• Line up the top edge with the measurement needed on the outside of the Tongue.

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• Mark a line along the edge of the other arm.

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• Mark out a cut line.

Topic 3: Cutting Rafters: Steps

1. Determine the pitch of the roof
1. Use units of rise per foot of run.
2. Determine the total run
• Which is the horizontal distance that the rafter covers
3. Lay out the rafter

Measure a Cut:

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• Place the Framing Square with the Tongue side on the right.

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• Line up the top edge with the measurement needed on the outside of the Tongue.

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• Mark a line along the edge of the other arm.

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• Mark out a cut line.

Topic 3: Cutting Rafters - Activity 2

Activity

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• Break into the same pairs as Activity 1.
• Use the created paper Framing Square from Activity 1.
• Use the given material (wood piece, pencil).
• Measure out to cut roof rafters, with the given parameters:
• 2.5” length, with 45 degree angles.

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Using a Framing Square takes precision, wth following the correct steps for your specific outcomes.

Questions

….about something related to the topic - experiences, preferences, etc.

Lesson Summary

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At the end of this lesson,

you are able to:

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• Define the term ‘framing square.’

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• Identify the main parts of a framing square.

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• List the steps of using a framing square to cut a rafter.

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You will apply this knowledge in Shop Time tomorrow!

Ticket

out the

door

• Direct-chat to the producer:
• A photo including your created paper framing square and your marked piece of wood.

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• Next class’s topic will be Roof Framing, including assembly, connections, types of joints, and birdsmouth.