(1) Attach a string to the bob. The string should be long enough to extend to or below the bottom of the post.

(2) Lay a rule on top of the post so that 2 inches of the rule extend over the post on the side to be plumbed.

(3) Hang the bob line over the rule so that the line is 2 inches from the post and extends to the bottom of it. Refer to Figure 2-14 .

(4) With another rule, measure the distance from the post to the center of the line at the bottom of the post. If it does not measure 2 inches, the post is not plumb.

(5) Move the post inward or outward until the distance from the post to the center of the line is exactly 2 inches, then nail the temporary brace in place.

(6) Repeat this procedure from the other outside face of the post. The post is then plumb.

(1) Attach the plumb-bob string securely to the top of the post to be plumbed. Be sure that the string is long enough to allow the plumb bob to hang near the bottom of the post.

(2) Use two blocks of wood, identical in thickness, as gauge blocks.

(3) Tack one block near the top of the post between the plumb-bob string and the post (guard block 1).

(4) Insert the second block between the plumb-bob string and the bottom of the post (gauge block 2).

(5) If the entire face of the second block makes contact with the string, the post is plumb.