To stake building corners from a total station: set up on a control point, orient with a backsight, load the corner coordinates, navigate to each corner in layout mode, drive a hub stake when the measured offset is within tolerance (±0.05 ft typical), and set reference offset stakes outside the footprint. Verify square by measuring both diagonals — they must be equal within ±0.05 ft for a rectangular building.
Before You Stake: Plan Review
Review the architectural and civil plans for: building corner coordinates (from the site plan or CAD file), coordinate system (State Plane, project-local, or NAD83/WGS84), and required offsets to property lines or existing improvements. A coordinate system mismatch between your control network and the building coordinates sends the building to the wrong location. Verify before staking.
Control Requirements
Minimum two control points with known coordinates and clear lines of sight from the instrument station to each corner. If the building footprint covers control points, set temporary control at the perimeter before staking disturbs them.
Staking Procedure
1. Set Up and Orient
Set up the total station on a control point and orient with a backsight. Verify orientation with a check shot on a third known point before staking. A failed check shot means every corner will be wrong (see Total Station Setup and Backsight Procedure).
2. Navigate to Each Corner
Select the first corner point in the layout/stakeout function. The display shows horizontal angle and distance to the design point. Direct the rodperson: “go right/left” and “forward/back” until the measured offset is within your tolerance. Drive the hub stake.
3. Mark and Protect Each Corner
Drive a hub stake at the corner location. Set a tack nail in the hub top for precise location. Set a reference stake 3–5 ft outside the footprint so the corner can be recovered after foundation excavation disturbs the original hub.
4. Verify Square with Diagonal Check
Corner B to D (diagonal 2): 84.59 ft
Difference: 0.03 ft → within ±0.05 ft ✓
If diagonals differ by more than 0.05 ft, at least one corner is off. Re-stake the problem corner and re-check.
Staking Tolerances
| Staking Type | Horizontal Tolerance |
|---|---|
| Rough grading corners | ±0.10 ft |
| Building footprint layout | ±0.05 ft |
| Structural foundation | ±0.02 ft (1/4 in) |
| Anchor bolt setting | ±1/8 in |