When should batter boards be installed during construction?

Batter boards should be installed after grading corners have been established because their primary purpose is to create a reference point for the layout of the foundation and framing of the structure. Once the corners are accurately graded and marked, batter boards provide a stable point to measure from, which helps ensure that the structure is built to the correct specifications and aligns properly with the intended design.

Installing the batter boards at this stage allows builders to establish the layout, including dimensions and angles, based on the squared corners. This assures that subsequent work, like foundation laying and measuring elevations, occurs accurately and efficiently. If batter boards were placed before grading, they might not represent the final or true corner points, leading to potential misalignments in the construction process.