Shoutout to the crew in Portland that got me off the speed square for roof pitches

For years I only used a speed square to mark rafters, thinking it was the right way. Last fall on a job in Portland, the lead framer saw me doing it and said, 'You're adding three steps for no reason.' He showed me how to just use the framing square and the numbers on the tongue, making the mark in one motion. I switched that day and haven't gone back. What's one old habit you had to break on a jobsite?

2 comments

2 Comments

hernandez.dylan8d ago

Honestly, you used a speed square for years?

lucas_moore8d ago

My first boss on a framing crew in Texas showed me how to use one. That little square can mark a plumb cut, a level cut, and a 45 all in one go. It's not just for speed, it's about having a reliable check right in your pocket. I still keep one on my belt every single day.