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How to set out string lines for a carport

A person measuring a distance on pavers and inserting a wedge between two pavers

Overview

When you're building a carport it's important to make sure that the measurements are correct and the string lines are square. Just follow this step-by-step guide and we'll show you how easy it is to do yourself.

Steps

1Set up the hurdles

Follow the measurements on the approved plan for your carport. Use the nail gun to attach the first hurdle to the sleeper. The height of the carport slab should be the same as the pavers, so make sure that the posts sit a little bit higher than the slab.

Person using nail gun on piece of timber.

2Set your first string line

You need to take two measurements off your wall, from your approved plan, to make sure the string line runs parallel to your home. After marking the first measurement, use the hammer to drive in a piece of timber that you can tie the string line around. Measure the same distance out from your wall and hammer in a nail. Run the string line beyond the required length of the carport but don't tie it off.

A person measuring a distance on pavers and inserting a wedge between two pavers

3Install the second hurdle

Hammer two hurdles into the ground. Use the nail gun to secure a piece of timber to the hurdles. Pull the string line tight so that it touches the nail you hammered in for your string line. Mark that spot on the piece of timber and hammer in a nail. Tie the string line off around the nail.
Person hammering timber into the ground.

4Mark-off the height of the carport

Use two pieces of wood as a base and a piece of timber to measure the correct height for the carport. Mark this off with a pencil against the fence. Use the nail gun to secure a piece on the fence to mark the correct height.  

Person holding timber and marking it with a pencil.

5Check the carport is square

To make sure the carport is square, measure the distance, so that it's parallel to the paving. Mark that distance and hammer in a nail. Run and tie off the string line.

Person wrapping string around timber.

6Check your measurements

Measure the distance between the string lines at each end to make sure that they're square.

Person measuring timber.

7Run two more parallel string lines

Once the string lines are square, repeat the process to run two more parallel string lines.

Use fluorescent spray paint to mark any possible trip hazards, like the string lines.
Person wrapping string around nail that is coming out of piece of timber.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.