• You're one step from joining Concrete Work Forum – Mixing, Formwork & Professional Techniques.
    Create a free account to post, follow threads, and never miss an update.  Sign up free →

Techniques in basic geometry?

Joined
Mar 31, 2025
Messages
8
I was trying to install a fence perpendicular to my driveway and used some basic geometry to get a straight line. I measured 6ft and 8ft along the driveway, then used the Pythagorean theorem to create a 10ft diagonal. After marking points and intersecting them, I got a right angle. Anyone have other tricks or tools for setting a perfect perpendicular line for fence installation?
 
I was trying to install a fence perpendicular to my driveway and used some basic geometry to get a straight line. I measured 6ft and 8ft along the driveway, then used the Pythagorean theorem to create a 10ft diagonal. After marking points and intersecting them, I got a right angle. Anyone have other tricks or tools for setting a perfect perpendicular line for fence installation?
I used the old way my dad taught me: a string line, stakes, a measuring tape, and the 3 4 5 method
 
I was trying to install a fence perpendicular to my driveway and used some basic geometry to get a straight line. I measured 6ft and 8ft along the driveway, then used the Pythagorean theorem to create a 10ft diagonal. After marking points and intersecting them, I got a right angle. Anyone have other tricks or tools for setting a perfect perpendicular line for fence installation?
I agree with @JustJhon80 you could do that, or you could also do framing or large speed square for short spans. Then you can also try if it's easy for you the surveying method like there are 2 points with the same distance from a center line like in this case the driveway, then use a string for the perpendicular reference points. Or if you want plain and simple just use chalk. I don't do that as I'm allergic.
 
I was trying to install a fence perpendicular to my driveway and used some basic geometry to get a straight line. I measured 6ft and 8ft along the driveway, then used the Pythagorean theorem to create a 10ft diagonal. After marking points and intersecting them, I got a right angle. Anyone have other tricks or tools for setting a perfect perpendicular line for fence installation?
Your 6-8-10 method is excellent! If you're looking to speed things up, consider using a Speed Square for quick measuremnts or a laser level to ensure a straight line over longer distances. I also really reccommend using a string line with batter boards for added consistency. If you need extra precision, the 3-4-5 method is a fantastic technique to verify your angles
 
Back
Top