When it comes time to frame a house, I like to do the layout by myself. The solitude affords me time to work out the kinks in the plan without being barraged by questions from the crew. The problem is, it’s tough to pop chalklines on a concrete slab (the typical foundation in my area) when you’re working alone.
I solved the problem by getting a heavy piece of steel at a local scrapyard and welding a handle to it so I can lug it around more easily. This brick-size hunk of metal weighs about 20 lb., and it has no trouble anchoring the dumb end of a string line or steel tape. As shown in the drawing, I affixed a bar magnet to one end of the anchor to secure the hook on a steel tape. Also, I filed notches along the edges of the anchor, 3-1/2 in. from the ends. When the end of the anchor is flush with the edge of the slab, either notch can be used to anchor my chalkline for a 2×4 layout.
Because of its mass and sharp angles, the anchor sometimes gets used as a job-site anvil. It is also useful for tying up the dog when necessary.
Don Huebner, Austin, TX
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