Roofing Squares

About Roofing Squares

Roofing squares, also known as framing squares or rafter squares, are precision L-shaped measuring tools essential for carpenters, roofers, and builders working on structural projects. Consisting of two perpendicular arms – a longer blade (typically 600mm) and a shorter tongue (usually 400mm) – these instruments feature graduated measurement scales and specialised angle tables that enable accurate calculation of roof pitches, marking of rafter cuts, and layout of complex roof geometry. Unlike standard set squares, roofing squares incorporate rafter tables and conversion charts that eliminate complex calculations on site, making them indispensable for both professional tradespeople and ambitious DIY enthusiasts.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks roofing squares manufactured from durable carbon steel, black steel, stainless steel, and aluminium, with clearly scribed graduations designed to remain legible through years of demanding site use. Available from trusted brands including Stanley, Faithfull, Draper, Fisher, and BlueSpot, our selection ranges from budget-friendly options suitable for occasional projects to professional-grade squares built for daily trade work, ensuring you'll find the right tool for marking out carpentry and roofing projects with confidence and precision.

Applications

• Roofers: Calculating and marking rafter cuts, determining roof pitches, and laying out hip and valley rafters on new builds and re-roofing projects
• Carpenters and Joiners: Framing work, stair construction, checking right angles in framework, and general layout tasks throughout carpentry projects
• General Builders: Structural phase construction work, ensuring accurate angles and measurements when erecting timber frames and roof structures
• Timber Frame Specialists: Precise layout work when constructing oak frames, garden rooms, and bespoke timber structures
• Shed and Outbuilding Constructors: Smaller-scale building projects requiring accurate roof pitch calculations and framework measurements
• DIY Enthusiasts: Ambitious home projects including garden structures, decking construction, and loft conversions
• Renovation Professionals: Repairing or extending existing roof structures, ensuring new work matches original angles and dimensions accurately

Choosing The Right Roofing Squares

Material and Durability: Carbon steel and black steel squares offer excellent rigidity for professional site use, whilst stainless steel options provide superior corrosion resistance for damp conditions or coastal areas. Consider protective coatings if you frequently work outdoors.

Accuracy and Graduations: Look for clearly scribed or deeply stamped graduations that won't wear off with regular use. Check that the 90-degree angle at the heel is precisely manufactured, as even minor inaccuracies compound into significant errors when marking roof structures.

Size and Proportions: Standard roofing squares with 600mm blades and 400mm tongues strike an ideal balance between functionality and portability, fitting comfortably in tool bags whilst providing adequate reach for marking standard timber dimensions.

Rafter Tables and Markings: If you regularly calculate roof pitches, choose a square with comprehensive rafter tables stamped onto the blade. These pre-calculated references save considerable time on site and reduce mathematical errors.

Brand and Price: MyToolShed.co.uk stocks established brands like Stanley, Faithfull, and Draper with proven track records for accuracy. Entry-level squares suitable for DIY projects typically cost £10-£20, whilst professional-grade tools range from £20-£40, offering improved durability and long-term accuracy for daily trade use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a roofing square and a framing square?

These terms are used interchangeably to describe the same L-shaped measuring tool. "Roofing square" refers to its specialised rafter tables for calculating roof dimensions, whilst "framing square" refers to broader applications in timber frame construction. Both names describe the versatile layout tool used by carpenters and roofers throughout the construction industry.

How do I check if my roofing square is still accurate?

Place the square against a known straight edge and draw a line along the tongue. Flip the square over and align the same edge – the tongue should perfectly match the drawn line. Any gap indicates the square is out of true. For the 90-degree angle, mark lines along both blade and tongue from a corner point, then flip the square to check alignment. Professional squares maintain accuracy indefinitely if not dropped or damaged.

Do I need a roofing square if I already have a speed square?

Whilst there's overlap in functionality, roofing squares and speed squares serve different purposes. Traditional roofing squares provide greater reach for marking long cuts and feature comprehensive rafter tables for complex roof calculations. Speed squares excel at quick angle marking but have limited reach. Professional carpenters typically carry both tools, using each where it offers the greatest advantage for specific tasks.