How to Determine Which Scale to Use on an Architect's Scale Ruler

Because blueprints are scaled representations of buildings, it is necessary to measure these drawings with an architectural scale or ruler. These rulers have three sides -- each divided into two sections. So an architecture scale has six scale representations on three sides, with each of the scales representing one real-world foot. For example, a 1/4-inch scale is laid out on the ruler so that 1/4 inch is equal to 1 foot. With a little practice, even a beginner can read an architectural scale with little or no difficulty.

Architectural scale
Blueprints

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the scale on the blueprints. All architectural blueprints have a universal location for the scale, generally at the bottom. The blueprints will note the scale used -- typically 1/8-, 1/4-, 1/2- or 3/4-inch representing 1 foot.
- 2
  Place the blueprints on a flat surface, and smooth out the specific page you are trying to measure.
- 3
  Locate the specified scale on the ruler. For example, if your plan denotes that 1/4 inch equals 1 foot, then locate the side of the ruler that is marked "1/4=1."
- 4
  Place the ruler onto the scaled drawing, aligning the "zero" mark on the ruler with the beginning of the wall, roof or floor -- measuring from left to right. Locate the end point of the wall, roof or floor you're measuring, and mark it with your pencil.
- 5
  Observe the number on the ruler located at your pencil mark. Rather than denoting inches, it will display a large number from 1 to 40. These numbers indicate the drawing measurements in feet. For example, a wall on the drawing that measures 4 inches on the ruler is really 16 feet -- on a 1/4-inch scale, as noted on the ruler.

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