How to Square 4X4 Posts When Deck Building

When you build a deck, it's important to make the posts that support it perfectly square. Otherwise, the deck could be unstable, leading to irritating squeaks, movement and possibly compromised safety. Beginning with four-by-four posts that are perfectly squared on both ends is the best way to create a solid and secure foundation for your deck. A post with square ends is much easier to install in a perfectly vertical position.

Framing square
Pencil
Measuring tape
Circular saw

Instructions

- 1
  Lay a framing square on top of a post, with its long end parallel with the edge of the post and its short end extending across the width of the post.
- 2
  Hold the framing square firmly against the post, and use a pencil to draw a line about an inch from its end.
- 3
  Cut the end off the post with a circular saw, carefully following the pencil mark with the blade of the saw.
- 4
  Hook the end of your measuring tape over the end of the post you just cut, and extend it along the length of the post. Make a pencil mark at the length where you want to cut the post.
- 5
  Lay the framing square on the post, with its long end parallel with the edge of the post and its short end extending across the post at the point where you made the pencil mark. Draw a line across the width of the post at that point.
- 6
  Cut the post using a circular saw, carefully following the pencil line.

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