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Wall thickness caliper

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(@totalsurv)
Posts: 802
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Topic starter
 

I am looking for a tool to measure wall thickness on the inside and outside of buildings around window and door openings. I was thinking of some sort of caliper that can measure around door frames etc. I currently use a tape but was looking for something for measuring around architraves and the like and giving a direct thickness of wall without deducting frame sizes etc. Any recommendations?

 
Posted : February 5, 2016 1:25 pm
norm-larson
(@norm-larson)
Posts: 986
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I am aware of the thickness gauges that machinist's use and Googled them and came up with this http://www.carbatec.co.nz/digital-thickness-gauge_c21153 . It goes to 150mm so on a thick wall it might not be possible to get past the trim

 
Posted : February 5, 2016 1:31 pm
 vern
(@vern)
Posts: 1520
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Make your own.
A matched pair of [ shaped pieces with a carefully placed pivot point so that both ends measure the same. You could flip them for inside measurements if needed.

 
Posted : February 5, 2016 2:16 pm
jhframe
(@jim-frame)
Posts: 7308
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It'd be easy enough to fab a scissor-like device out of aluminum flat bar. Make it symmetrical around the pivot so you don't have to deal with multipliers, add a spring to keep it snug against the wall and you can tape the thickness with your free hand.

Edit: Vern beat me to it with the same idea.

 
Posted : February 5, 2016 2:17 pm
(@Anonymous)
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I'm with Jim on this.

But not being sure what end use would be put to I'd measure several places and make a note of any discrepancies.
If it does vary then say so and state this clearly.
I was once asked to measure the underside of concrete beams for fitting an outrigged walkway.
I had a set of giant callipers used in bridge work. The bridge was by the sea and concrete a bit spalted in places, plus the boxing used was flooring and finish good enough for out of site construction.
The beams varied and I said they varied in thickness from x to xx mm. Did not impress and my credentials to measure was questioned. o.O

 
Posted : February 5, 2016 2:26 pm

(@roadhand)
Posts: 1517
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I am sure that I could do a little arithmetic and make something like This F Clamp into a measuring tool.

 
Posted : February 5, 2016 5:20 pm
paden-cash
(@paden-cash)
Posts: 11088
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Am I the only carpenter in the pack?

lumber calipers

 
Posted : February 5, 2016 7:26 pm
jhframe
(@jim-frame)
Posts: 7308
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Those look pretty slick, though they might be a bit small for some applications, particularly where the trim is thick and/or deep. Still, for that price they'd be worth a try.

 
Posted : February 5, 2016 7:43 pm
(@totalsurv)
Posts: 802
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Topic starter
 

Thanks for all the suggestions. I have found this I think it may be the ideal solution Wall caliper

 
Posted : February 6, 2016 2:02 am
(@totalsurv)
Posts: 802
Member
Topic starter
 

One of my employees put together this. It's a bit clunky but should do the job.

Attached files

 
Posted : February 27, 2016 1:46 pm