Squares & Bevels

About Squares & Bevels

Squares and bevels are precision measuring and marking tools essential for accurate carpentry, joinery, metalwork and construction. These instruments enable tradespeople to check right angles, mark perpendicular lines, verify squareness, measure angles and transfer bevels with confidence. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range including try squares for reliable 90-degree accuracy, combination squares offering multiple measuring functions, speed squares for rapid site work, mitre squares for perfect 45-degree angles, and sliding bevels for transferring complex angles.

From traditional wooden-stocked try squares used by cabinetmakers to modern quick squares favoured by framers and roofers, each type serves specific trades and applications. Our selection includes drywall T-squares for plasterboard cutting, roofing squares for calculating rafter angles, and folding squares offering portability without sacrificing precision. Manufactured by trusted brands including Stanley, Bahco, Irwin and Starrett, these tools are engineered from hardened steel to aerospace-grade aluminium for professional durability.

Applications

• Carpenters and Joiners: Checking cabinet squareness, marking mortise and tenon joints, ensuring door frames are true
• Roofers: Calculating rafter angles, hip and valley cuts, and verifying roof pitches
• Plasterers and Drywall Installers: Marking accurate cuts on plasterboard sheets using T-squares
• Metalworkers and Fabricators: Checking welded joints, marking cut lines, verifying right angles on steel fabrications
• Bricklayers and Stonemasons: Ensuring corners are square and checking wall alignment during construction
• Furniture Makers and Cabinetmakers: Precision joinery requiring exact angles and perfectly square assemblies
• Picture Framers: Creating accurate 45-degree mitred corner joints
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects including decking, fencing, shelving and general woodwork

Choosing The Right Squares & Bevels

Type of Square: Try squares offer dedicated 90-degree accuracy for general woodwork. Combination squares provide versatility with removable heads functioning as depth gauges and spirit levels. Speed squares suit framing where rapid angle marking is essential, whilst sliding bevels are indispensable for replicating existing angles.

Size Considerations: Blade length determines versatility. A 150mm try square suits detailed joinery, whilst 300mm versions handle wider boards. Roofing squares typically feature 400-600mm blades for marking full rafter dimensions. Drywall T-squares commonly measure 1200mm to span standard plasterboard widths.

Material and Accuracy: Professional-grade squares feature hardened stainless steel blades maintaining accuracy despite regular site use. Check for DIN or BS standards confirming manufacturing tolerance. Grade A squares offer highest precision for cabinetmaking, whilst Grade B provides adequate accuracy for general construction. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks both entry-level options for occasional DIY use and premium professional tools representing lifetime investments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if my square is actually square?

Place the square against a straight edge and mark a line. Flip the square over and align it to the same reference point—the blade should align perfectly with your marked line. Any deviation indicates the square is out of true. Professional squares maintain accuracy within 0.1mm per 100mm length.

What's the difference between a try square and a combination square?

A try square is a fixed L-shaped tool designed purely for checking and marking 90-degree angles—simple and reliable. A combination square features a removable head sliding along the blade, functioning as a square, depth gauge, mitre square, and often includes a spirit level. Combination squares offer versatility whilst try squares provide dedicated right-angle accuracy.

How do I maintain accuracy in my squares?

Store squares hanging or lying flat—never standing on their blade edge. Avoid dropping them as impacts can distort the critical 90-degree angle. Keep sliding mechanisms clean and lightly oiled. Protect blades from corrosion and check accuracy periodically, particularly after site exposure.