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Tools & Materials

Speed Square for Masons

This versatile mason's square includes brick sizing and layout for both commercial and residential projects.

By Mark Petersen Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
Photo by Rodney Diaz.

Like any speed square or rafter square, the Kapro speed square (447) will help determine degrees and create perfect 90° and 45° cutlines—but this tool differs in that it is specifically designed for the commercial and residential mason.

One side of the square has commercial information that includes modular brick conversions to help determine sizing and layout for concrete masonry units (CMU), modular brick, and mortar. The commercial side also has modular and standard brick-spacing scales to assist layout in tight spaces.

The opposite side is set up for the residential mason with oversized brick (more common in residential masonry) conversions and spacing rules. The residential side also has information on how much scaffold will be needed, and the notched lines are offset 1⁄8 in. to accommodate the larger pencils used by masons. You can buy the Kapro 447 8-1⁄2-in. Anodized Mason’s Square for $25 at shopkapro.com.

— Mark Petersen; tech editor

From Fine Homebuilding 328

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