When you start to construct your wooden garage using an interlocking log style kit, there are two means to ensure your building starts square and remains that way.

  • First, select one of the long sides and fix it to the concrete base using an appropriate fixing. It is advisable to run a string line along its length to ensure this side is as close to straight as is possible.
  • We now want to position the first log of the rear wall at right angles to the first log we have just fixed in place.
  • Using the 3-4-5 method to achieve a perfect right angle.
    • Measure along log 1 from the join intersect, a multiple of 4. This could be 1x4m or 8x1ft for example - remember the multiple.
    • Next, measure along the first log of the back wall, again from the intersect a multiple of 3. So if you used the multiple of 1m for the first side log, this measurement will be 1x3m = 3m or if you used 8x1ft, for the first log of the back wall use 6x1ft=6ft
    • Now measure the distance from both marks to form a triangle. If you were using the 1m option, this distance should be 5m when the angle in the corner is a perfect 90° or if using the ft measurement, it will be 10ft.

      3-4-5 Method to achieve Square

    • So now you have the first two sides set up. Fix the rear wall log in place to prevent it from moving whilst you set up the remainder of the garage.
    • Using the same method as above, set up the opposite long wall log shown here in BLUE

      Another 3-4-5 Square Set Up

    • Now add the 2 short returns that form the door opening.
  • Check the Diagonals for Square
    • Now, if the previous work has gone to plan, the next bit is purely for double checking !
    • Measure across the diagonals in both directions. If everything is in order and perfectly square, the distance across both diagonals will be exactly the same. Adjust as necessary !

      Square Across Diagonals

By using the above methods, you should ensure construction of your timber garage starts in good shape, nice and square !

BACK