I want to build a seperate garage. The foundation needed is for a 16 x 24 cement floor. First, when laying it out, how do I find SQUARE. At this time the ground slopes about 2 feet toward the rear. There must be a process to start. Any place I can go for help?

The square for a 16' x 24' foundation is 28'-10 1/8". The formula is "a" (squared) + "b" (squared) = "c" (squared), then solve for "c". Assuming that this garage will be a slab on grade type with 8" stem walls:
1. Obtain permits, etc.
2. Regrade area to be level with
existing finish floor minus 8".
3. place first tape parralell to
your house at a pre-determined
setback distance.
4. Drive a large nail into ground
at "0" and pull tape to 24' and
drive second nail.
5. Place second tape on the 24' nail
and run out to 16'.
6. Place third tape at "0" and pull
diagonally to second tape. Where
16' and 28'-10 1/8" cross drive a
third nail. this will give you a
right triangle.
7. Repeat for last corner and there
you have it.
8. Double check to make sure that
square is within 1/2" of each
other and 16' and 24' dimensions.

Use flour or chalk to mark out footings to be dug. If your local codes require a 12" x 12" footing, chalk in 3". If they requie 15" x 18" footings, chalk in 5".