Measuring inside corners accurately is essential for various projects like installing countertops, cabinets, or flooring. While a simple tape measure can be used, a common and often more accurate method involves using a combination of tools to bridge the gap effectively.
Using a framing square and a tape measure is a precise way to determine the dimension between two inside corners. This technique is particularly useful when the corner is not a perfect 90 degrees or when you need to get a measurement that accounts for potential irregularities near the corner itself.
Method Using a Framing Square and Tape Measure
This method leverages the fixed, known length of a tool like a framing square to make the measurement more straightforward and less prone to error near the corner's tight radius or imperfections.
Here's a breakdown of the steps:
- Place the Framing Square: Position one leg of a framing square (or a similar tool with a known, straight edge) flush against one surface leading into the corner. Ensure the corner of the square is nestled firmly into the inside corner you are measuring.
- Measure the Remaining Distance: Use a tape measure to measure the distance from the end of the framing square's leg (the end opposite the corner) straight across to the opposite inside corner surface.
- Calculate the Total Dimension: Add the measured distance from the tape measure to the known length of the framing square's leg that was used in the corner.
As highlighted in the reference provided: "And simply add the tape measurement to the 24 in of the framing. Square for a very accurate. Inside dimension." This indicates using a 24-inch framing square, adding the tape measurement to the 24 inches to get the final inside dimension.
Why This Method Works
- Bridges the Gap: The rigid square leg extends the measurement point away from the tight corner where bending a tape measure can be difficult or inaccurate.
- Known Reference Point: Using a tool with a precise, fixed length (like the 24 inches of the framing square mentioned) provides a reliable starting point for your measurement.
- Accounts for Irregularities: By placing the square firmly into the corner, you establish a consistent point of reference that can help account for slight imperfections right at the corner point.
Example Measurement
Let's assume you are using a 24-inch framing square as suggested by the reference.
| Tool | Measurement/Length |
|---|---|
| Framing Square Leg | 24 inches |
| Tape Measure | 15.5 inches |
Calculation: 24 inches (Framing Square) + 15.5 inches (Tape Measure) = 39.5 inches
The total inside corner dimension is 39.5 inches.
Alternative Methods
While the framing square method is effective, especially as described in the reference, other common methods for measuring inside corners include:
- Bending the Tape Measure: Carefully bend the metal end of the tape measure into the corner and read the measurement where the tape meets the opposite surface. This can be less accurate due to the bend radius.
- Using a Laser Distance Measurer: Some laser measures have functions for measuring between two points, even into corners, though getting the laser spot perfectly into a tight corner can sometimes be tricky.
- Stiff Rule or Yardstick: A stiff ruler or yardstick can sometimes be placed into a corner, but getting it tight and reading the measurement precisely can be difficult compared to a tape measure combined with a square.
Choosing the best method depends on the required accuracy, the specific tools available, and the nature of the corner itself. However, combining a square or similar straight edge with a tape measure, as outlined in the reference, offers a practical approach for obtaining accurate inside dimensions.
