The Best Speed Squares for Home Improvement Projects

Every building or home improvement project requires you to possess all the right tools ahead of time. Every professional carpenter owns or has access to a speed square—a tool used to measure and mark precise angles in pieces of wood for guiding saw cuts. Most speed square tools are multipurpose and are very useful when it comes to checking the accuracy of your cut. They also come in various sizes and feature a simple layout for easy use. Here are some we recommend.

What to Look for in Speed Squares

Here’s what you’ll want to know before making a purchase:

• Features: Speed squares usually include a ruler, T-edge, diamond-shaped hole, and lines that mark out varying degrees of angles. Each feature plays a role in how you use and manipulate the tool so that you can make precise and accurate cuts using a saw. You can measure angles by lining up the speed square with the edge of the board and then pivoting the tool until it aligns with a specific angle.
• Ease of Use: Look for clearly marked measurements so that the speed square is actually speedy and straightforward to use.

Best Overall: Mr. Pen Metal 7 Inches Rafter Square

This particular speed square comes in a set of two made from an aluminum alloy that is weather-resistant and rustproof. It is a multipurpose tool that allows you to mark out squares and 45-degree lines in pieces of plywood. It comes in handy for precise linear graduation, which makes it the perfect tool for roofers, builders, carpenters, and anyone undergoing DIY projects.

Best Value: Swanson Composite Speedlite Square Layout Tool

This is an 8-inch speed square, and it’s one of the best options available for marking lines in delicate building materials. The tool is incredibly lightweight, so it is easy to carry around and transport, but it’s also made from high-impact polystyrene—a practically indestructible type of plastic. The Swanson speed square is perfect for making cuts in 8-inch siding.

Best for Carpentry: Fladess Carpenters Precision Speed Square

This particular speed square makes carpentry a lot easier with a wide measuring range that is ideal for framing, roofing, angling, and more. You can use it as a protractor, miter, or framing square, and it serves as the perfect reference tool for making 90-degree and 45-degree cuts. This reliable speed square by Fladless is also incredibly lightweight and made of aluminum.

Most Durable: Mr. Yan 7-Inch Aluminum Speed Square

This particular speed square by Mr Yan is made of a thick aluminum alloy that is incredibly durable, so you likely won’t ever need to replace it. It is also multi-use and offers ideal readability. The markings on the tool will never fade or peel off, which also ensures long-lasting usage. No matter if you are a contractor or DIYer, this particular tool is ideal for simple and complex woodworking projects.

Also Consider: WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool

WORKPRO offers a unique speed square tool made of an incredibly durable material with plenty of user-friendly features. The markings and multiple graduation possibilities make it a versatile and innovative tool. The rafter square also comes in handy as a guide for crosscutting lumber, and the performing cuts at 90-degree and 45-degree angles will also become a lot easier.