Chalk layout lines are invariably erased by brooms, rain and shoes — especially on concrete. If you like to do your layout well in advance of the work it will guide, spray the lines with polyurethane varnish or some other clear finish. The lines will stay put until you need them.
—Dennis Lamonica, Panama, NY
Edited and illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #44
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Sledge Hammer
Used to tap walls or sheathing into position, we all this the “persuader” on the job site. This is a demo model, so it can survive the job site and the back of the truck — a true must-have.
Magoog Tall Stair Gauges
These are a must-have when laying out stairs with a framing square. They attach easily and save time, especially on long or multiple stringers.
Stabila Extendable Plate to Plate Level
This level raises the bar for accuracy and quality. The extensions are designed to contact and plumb from bottom to top plates, avoiding studs that may be bowed.
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I use hairspray on interior blue chalk lines to keep them for tile layout etc. Same idea.