Measure Horizontal House Dimensions

What happens in this clip

Using a long tape measure (a 30-meter fiberglass tape is shown), meticulously measure the horizontal dimensions of the house's exterior. Start at a corner and extend the tape along each wall segment, recording lengths. The presenter notes that for general landscaping, vertical measurements of the house itself are often unnecessary, but can be taken if planning extensions or other vertical structures. He highlights the challenge of maintaining tape straightness on a windy day. Additionally, rough initial measurements of existing features like patios or pathways, like the sandstone paving shown, should be taken to include them in the overall plan.

Goal: Obtain accurate horizontal dimensions of the house and primary fixed features.

What's used

Tools

• Measuring Tape
• albeit sometimes less accurate
• readings outdoors.
• Notepad and Pencil

About the full video

This project provides step-by-step instructions on how to conduct a comprehensive DIY land survey for a residential property, including measuring physical dimensions, establishing baselines, plotting irregular features using triangulation, and performing a level survey with a rotary laser level. The collected data is then used to create a scaled plan and cross-section drawings, essential for planning future landscaping and ground leveling projects.

Step 1 of 4: Measure the landing width

Using a measuring tape, carefully measure the width of the landing from one side to the other. Record this measurement accurately.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Measure for a Landing Rug or Landing Pad

1. Step 1: Measure the landing width

   • 0:08–0:13 Measure the Width
   • 0:13–0:17 Measure the Length/Height
   • 1:38–3:34 Measure Horizontal House Dimensions (this video)

2. Step 2: Measure the landing depth

   • 1:04–2:19 Measure Top Landing Dimensions
   • 8:46–9:51 Measure Half Landing (Sub-Landing)
   • 0:26–1:13 Measure the Stairs

3. Step 3: Note any obstructions or irregular shapes

   • 1:04–2:19 Measure Top Landing Dimensions
   • 0:25–0:54 Sketching Deck Sections and Constraints
   • 3:09–4:52 Record All Measurements on Template

4. Step 4: Determine the desired rug size

   • 1:12–1:47 Select Appropriate Rug Size
   • 0:44–2:29 Determine the Right Rug Size
   • 1:34–1:49 Determine Rug Shape and Size