![]() ![]() This will be different if you’re working with a metric tape measure. Of course, I’ll note that I live in the United States, so our tape measures are all based on feet and inches (though some do have metric units on one side of the tape). But, for the most part, they have some pretty standard features when it comes to reading it. Every brand of tape measure will have a slightly different look. Now that we’ve got all the tape measure vocab down, let’s talk about how to actually read the tape measure markings. And some tape measures come with other fun things like pencil sharpener attachments, places for notes, and more! How to read a tape measure There’s often a belt clip on the case of the tape measure so you can attach it to your pants while you work. Other Featuresĭepending on the tape measure you purchase, you may have other features on it. The pull tab often also has a small serrated blade-like edge so that you can easily mark your wall when measuring. This is to allow you to hook it onto a nail or screw to help hold it into place while you measure! Most pull tabs also have a little hole or slot in the middle of them. It’s very precise, and a thoughtful design feature that most people don’t realize is even there! It’s based on the thickness of the metal piece itself, so that having it there doesn’t affect the final measurement. This tab will typically be left a little loose so that it can move back and forth – this is intentional! It will help make sure you have an accurate measurement whether you’re measuring from the inside corner of something (and you’re pushing the tab into the corner) or the outside corner (and you’re hooking the tab and pulling). The metal part on the end of the tape that you can hook onto various surfaces you’re measuring to help hold the tape in place. That means it’s really helpful if you’re often working alone and don’t have a second person to help hold the tape straight! The Pull Tab or hook Stiffer tape can handle longer distances before it starts to buckle. We’ll get into that in a minute! You also want to take note of how stiff the tape feels. Generally, most tape measures at least have different sized tic marks for the different measurements. ![]() I love that my favorite tape measure has the tic marks labeled all the way down to 1/16 of an inch. So, when you’re shopping for tape measures, pay attention to what this part looks like. This is the part that actually shows you the measurements! Essentially, it’s kind of like a flexible ruler. When released, the tape will (typically) coil back into the tape measure…sometimes at a very rapid pace, so watch your fingers! The Tape It will prevent the tape from retracting back into the case while you measure. ![]() It’s typically kind of like a switch that you push with your thumb. This is the button that you press to help hold the tape measure at a certain point. Some are plastic, some are metal, and some have special features like rubber on the bottom corners to protect it if it drops and help it grip surfaces better. It can be made of a bunch of different materials. The outer case of the tape measure is sometimes referred to as the body. Let’s talk about all of the language and mechanics of a tape measure that you may not know! The case ![]() So, if you want to learn how to read a tape measure and use it like a pro, my first tip is to get yourself one of these tape measures and you’ll already be halfway there. I think we just need to buy 20 and tuck them into every corner of the house, because they’re that good. We have two of these tape measures and I will literally spend five minutes searching for them before I’ll use any other tape measure in the house.
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