Chapter 6  Building Layout
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In practice, you will find that it is difficult to
locate a stake in a single operation. This is espe-
cially true when using a builder’s level, where
the line of sight must be “dropped” to ground
level with a plumbed rod or straightedge.
Usually, it is best to set a temporary stake, as
in Figure 6-16. Mark it with a line sighted from
the instrument. Then, with the measuring tape
pulled taut and aligned with the mark, drive the
permanent stake and locate the exact point as
shown.
All major rectangles and squares of a building
line can be laid out using leveling instruments in
the manner just described. After batter boards
are set and lines attached, the carpenter’s level
and square can be used to locate stakes for small
projections and irregular shapes.
Distance
measured
with tape
Alignment sighted
from stake A
Mark line
of sight
Temporary
stake
Stake at
position C
Figure 6-16. A temporary stake may be used to estab-
lish an exact point. First, set the temporary stake and
mark the line of sight on it. Drive a second stake and
transfer the mark from stake A.
Nail
B
B
A
A
C
C
D
2 × 2
stake
Plumb bob
Measuring
tape
Figure 6-15. Steps for laying out building lines. Left—Locate the instrument over a stake marking a corner. Line
up 0 on the instrument circle with the building line AB. Swing the instrument 90° to establish line AC. Right—Move
the instrument to point C to establish point D. Rod must be used when the instrument is a builder’s level. Rod must
be held plumb using a plumb line or carpenter’s level. A transit is a much better instrument in this operation since
it is not necessary to use the rod. Simply swivel the transit telescope and sight on the corner stake.