Gauge
A gauge is a type of instrument that measures something and gives a visual display of the amount measured. NB - it can also be used to refer to the thickness of something.
Gauges are essential tools in the construction industry, used to measure dimensions, pressure, angles, and alignment with precision. They play a critical role in ensuring accuracy and quality across various construction activities, from the early planning stages to the final inspection of structures. Whether it's verifying the thickness of materials, the depth of cuts, or the pressure within systems, gauges help workers maintain consistency and compliance with engineering specifications and safety standards.
In construction, different types of gauges are used depending on the task. Pressure gauges, for instance, monitor systems like HVAC, plumbing, and gas installations to ensure safe and optimal performance. Depth gauges are used to measure how deep a hole or cut has been made, which is crucial in foundation work and concrete pouring. Angle gauges assist in verifying the correct slope or inclination of components, particularly in roofing, drainage, and structural framing.
By using gauges, construction professionals can detect inconsistencies and potential issues before they become costly problems. This not only improves the overall quality of the build but also enhances site safety and reduces material waste. In essence, gauges are silent enforcers of precision in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment, supporting engineers, architects, and tradespeople in delivering structurally sound and regulation-compliant projects.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings.
Featured articles and news
What they are, how they work and why they are popular in many countries.
Plastic, recycling and its symbol
Student competition winning, M.C.Esher inspired Möbius strip design symbolising continuity within a finite entity.
Do you take the lead in a circular construction economy?
Help us develop and expand this wiki as a resource for academia and industry alike.
Warm Homes Plan Workforce Taskforce
Risks of undermining UK’s energy transition due to lack of electrotechnical industry representation, says ECA.
Cost Optimal Domestic Electrification CODE
Modelling retrofits only on costs that directly impact the consumer: upfront cost of equipment, energy costs and maintenance costs.
The Warm Homes Plan details released
What's new and what is not, with industry reactions.
Could AI and VR cause an increase the value of heritage?
The Orange book: 2026 Amendment 4 to BS 7671:2018
ECA welcomes IET and BSI content sign off.
How neural technologies could transform the design future
Enhancing legacy parametric engines, offering novel ways to explore solutions and generate geometry.
Key AI related terms to be aware of
With explanations from the UK government and other bodies.
From QS to further education teacher
Applying real world skills with the next generation.
A guide on how children can use LEGO to mirror real engineering processes.
Data infrastructure for next-generation materials science
Research Data Express to automate data processing and create AI-ready datasets for materials research.
Wired for the Future with ECA; powering skills and progress
ECA South Wales Business Day 2025, a day to remember.
AI for the conservation professional
A level of sophistication previously reserved for science fiction.
Biomass harvested in cycles of less than ten years.
An interview with the new CIAT President
Usman Yaqub BSc (Hons) PCIAT MFPWS.
Cost benefit model report of building safety regime in Wales
Proposed policy option costs for design and construction stage of the new building safety regime in Wales.
Do you receive our free biweekly newsletter?
If not you can sign up to receive it in your mailbox here.

























