A Comprehensive Guide on Measuring Angles Between Walls

Embarking on the task of measuring angles between walls in older homes demands finesse. Plaster swelling at the corners and pillars are the most challenging problems to solve when you need an angle between walls. We present you the available methods that will help you get the correct angle between walls.

1. Digital Angle Gauge:

Considerations:

• Irregularities: Mind swelling plaster near corners. Larger brackets on the gauge are preferred. Consider using long beams as spacers to extend the brackets and compensate for irregularities.
• Multiple Measurements: Elevate your precision by taking readings at different points along the walls to account for variations.
• Corner Pillars: If present, use spacers larger than the pillar’s width and depth.

Pros:

• Fast and easy
• Low-cost equipment
• No complex calculations

Cons:

• Requires a long-bracketed gauge or spacers
• Two people needed for higher measurements
• Challenging with corner pillars

2. Measuring a Diagonal:

Considerations:

• Traditional method, less accurate
• Corner pillars make this method unusable.
• Precise diagonal measurement is challenging. Use a long ruler (>100cm) to mark points on the walls, then measure the distance between the marks for accurate diagonal length.

Pros:

• Fast and easy
• No expensive equipment needed

Cons:

• Inaccurate and dependent on user experience
• Unusable with corner pillars
• Ignores plaster swelling
• Requires trigonometry calculations for the angle

3. Using a Vertical Cross Laser Beam:

Steps:

1. Place the laser near the corner with one beam parallel to each wall.
2. Use a meter to measure the laser beam’s distance from the wall at different points.

Considerations:

• Requires careful measurements and experience.
• Prone to mistakes.
• Medium-cost equipment needed.

Pros:

• Accurate
• One person can perform it
• Can be used with corner pillars and measures pillar swelling

Cons:

• Complex and error-prone
• Limited to angles near 90 degrees
• Large distances for non-90-degree angles can be unsafe to measure

4. Using a Rectangular Surface:

Steps:

1. Use a large, stable panel (like a table) instead of a laser beam.
2. Place the panel near the corner.
3. Measure distances from the panel’s corners and use calculations to derive the angle.

Pros:

• Accurate
• One person can perform it
• Works with corner pillars and measures pillar swelling

Cons:

• Requires a large panel or table
• Complex calculations involving CAD software

5. Making a Pattern:

Considerations:

• Traditional method involving various techniques.
• Common method involves attaching two wooden beams to the walls and nailing them together, capturing the angle physically. You’ll need an angle gauge to convert it to degrees.
• Corner pillars and plaster swelling pose challenges for this method.

6. Hand-Rotated Laser Equipment Providing 3D Points:

Steps:

1. Place the handheld laser equipment near the corner.
2. Rotate the laser manually to sweep both walls, capturing 3D points.
3. Collect the 3D point data for subsequent angle calculations.

Considerations:

• Requires precision and control during the rotation.
• Manual operation can be time-consuming for larger areas.

Pros:

• Provides 3D points for a more detailed representation.
• Suitable for smaller-scale measurements.

Cons:

• Manual rotation can be less efficient for larger areas.
• May not capture as much detail as automated laser scanning equipment.
• Considerable cost of equipment.

7. Automatic Laser Scan Equipment:

Steps:

1. Set up the automatic laser scanning equipment near the corner.
2. Initiate the automated scanning process to capture a detailed point cloud.
3. Utilize the software to extract relevant points defining the desired angle.
4. Calculate the angle using the software’s built-in functions or geometry formulas based on the extracted points.

Considerations:

• Higher upfront cost for automated equipment.
• Efficient and time-saving for larger areas.

Pros:

• Highly accurate and detailed results.
• Captures irregularities and complex geometries.
• Non-destructive and efficient for large areas.

Cons:

• Significant cost investment in equipment and software.
• Requires training and practice for proficient use.
• Data analysis can be complex, requiring specific software skills.

Choosing the Right Method:

The best method depends on your accuracy requirements, available tools, budget, and the presence of corner pillars. For quick estimates, consider the digital gauge or diagonal methods. For higher accuracy and pillar compatibility, laser beams, panels, or pattern-making might be better options. Automated laser scan equipment offers the highest accuracy and detail but requires significant investment and expertise.

Introducing the 2dscanner:

Developed to address the challenges posed by traditional laser scanning equipment, the 2dscanner provides a cost-effective solution, measuring the right angle under any conditions. It offers a safe way to perform your task, allowing you to view the right angle during the scan on your mobile device and export the point cloud for further analysis if needed. Curved walls, corner pillars, and plaster swelling are no longer obstacles with the 2dscanner. Transform your measuring experience with this innovative tool.

Check 2dscanner Youtube channel and the help documentation for more information. If you have any questions they are probably already answered at the FAQ section.