Abstract

A multipurpose rectangular layout Ultra-square which incorporates attributes of a triangular shaped-square, Carpenter-square and is designed for use in conjunction with a conventional tape measure. The tape measure is attached in such a way that it forms a right angle to the layout square for measuring distances for a framing layout, enabling a user to mark multiple parallel lines in a perpendicular direction at specified distances measured from the end of the tape. The square has indicia in calibrated scales for rafter, angle and linear measurements. The squares base extends elongated. A guide is attached at a right angle and perpendicular to the base. The base and guide have edges and notches for dimensional marking and indicia placement. Some of these edges are used to significantly reduce the steps required for rafter layout. The square is dimensioned to compliment the size of standard material used in construction. These dimensions enable the user to mark both top and bottom plates and the like with multiple parallel lines, to delineate exact location for placement of standard, stringer and sill (three adjacent) studs without relocating the square. Also, it very quickly locates the reference measuring point and final cut lines for all types of rafter cuts. This square may be used from either the left or right directions.