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?
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
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.
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.
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
I am sure that I could do a little arithmetic and make something like http://www.rockler.com/sure-footreg-f-style-clamps&apos ;">This F Clamp into a measuring tool.
Am I the only carpenter in the pack?
http://www.garrettwade.com/lumber-thickness-gauge.html&apos ;">lumber calipers
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.
Thanks for all the suggestions. I have found this I think it may be the ideal solution http://g-nestle.de/en/product/wall-caliper/#tab-2&apos ;">Wall caliper
One of my employees put together this. It's a bit clunky but should do the job.