Tape Measure Markings
- On every tape measure, there are both small and large tick marks and numbers. The biggest tick mark usually represents inches. The second biggest mark represents 1/2-inch, the third biggest represents 1/4-inch, the second smallest denotes 1/8-inch, and the smallest denotes 1/16-inch. It helps to remember that the 1/16-inch mark is the first mark you'll see after or before a whole-inch mark.
- The largest numbers on the tape measure correspond to inches, with fractions of inches being in between each of the largest numbers. Read measuring tape inches just like a book — from left to right.
- Some tape measures have both metric (centimeters and millimeters) and imperial (inches and feet) markings, usually with one on the top and the other on the bottom. This can be helpful when you're trying to do conversions.
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Foot markers are usually black squares every 12 inches.
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Stud markers are the little red diamonds on the spool of your tape measure. Most framing studs are at a standard distance of 16 or 24 inches center to center.
Use a Tape Measure Correctly
The flat metal hook attached at the end of the tape measure is there so that you can grab the end of an item and extend the tape outward. When you've extended your tape to the desired length, push down on the thumb lock to keep the tape from sliding back in automatically. The action of pushing down on the thumb lock will lock the blade in place, while pushing it back up releases the spring, causing the tape to return to the housing.
Always be careful when releasing the thumb lock. The tape will move quickly and could snap back on your hand or face.
Taking an accurate measurement isn't as easy as it seems. Remember the carpenter's adage to "measure twice and cut once." Always double-check your measurements so you can avoid wasting time and material.
Of course, there are times when using a measuring tape isn't ideal, and you need to use another instrument to take your measurements. When locating the correct depth to plant your garden seeds, you might push a wooden ruler into the soil to your desired depth. When trying to find the exact thickness or diameter of an object, you might want to use a caliper. Regardless of which instrument you use to take your measurements, knowing how to read it is crucial to the success of your project.
The hook on the end of your tape measure is made of a strong, often serrated, metal. That's there so you can mark the material you're measuring if you've misplaced your carpenter pencil.
Using a Laser Distance Measurer
Laser distance measurers are a valuable addition to both Pro and DIY toolboxes. The ability to get accurate measurements of distances great and small with just a point and click makes any project simpler.
Using a laser measurer is an easy process:
- Place the measurer at the edge or base of what you are wanting to measure. For example, you would place it on the floor next to a wall to measure the ceiling height, or at the edge of a countertop to measure the linear feet.
- Power the device on and press the arrow button to begin measuring.
- Your result will appear on the display window.
Laser measurers also allow you to point and shoot across large areas to quickly calculate square footage. Some models have real time measuring, adjusting calculations as you move across the space.
The accuracy of lasers is an advantage over a regular tape measure, especially when dealing with sizable distances. Many models are accurate to within 1/16th of an inch at up to 400 feet. For most DIYers, an indoor laser will be a good choice with the ability to measure up to 165 feet. For Pros, there are outdoor laser versions that can compute distances of 400 feet or more.