Measuring Tape Clip, Precision Tape Measure Aid Measuring Tool, Fits onto Most Tape Measures (Without Ruler)

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The bottom of the measuring tape is divided into centimeters. It signifies that the top portion of the tape may display measurements in millimeters, centimeters, and meters. As for the blade width, around 1 inch is best. Thinner than that, and the blade can be flimsy. Wider, and you may find the tape measure too bulky or difficult to retract.

Here's an easy to read diagram that shows the tape measure fractions. You can see that in comparison, millimeters and the metric system are a lot easier to understand! On the top of the measuring tape are measurements such as 1, 2, 3, and so on, which inscribe Inches Note: Some tapes will also have special markings for measuring stud locations, but this may not be accurate in your own home. Studs aren't always installed 16" on center, so instead of relying on a tape measure, use a stud finder or one of these methods for finding a stud without one. Other Tape Measure TipsThe hook, located at the end of the tape comes in handy when measuring hard surfaces such as tables. You may notice that the hook is loose; this is intentional to ensure accuracy. If the hook has a hole in it, this is so it can grip onto screws. Belt Clip Aside from a hammer and screwdriver, a tape measure is probably the most reached-for item in your toolkit. Michael DiMartino, Senior Vice President of Installations at Power Home Remodeling, says “I use tape measures all the time and store them in multiple locations throughout my home. You’d be amazed at how much you have to measure—especially now that we’re all relying more heavily on online shopping. Think about it; when you’re physically at a store and you’re looking at a piece of furniture, you can easily gauge with your eye whether or not it’s going to fit in your space or if it’ll even fit through your doorframe. But you can’t determine that as easily online." If squinting at the tiny measurement markings on a tape measure isn't your favorite part of using these tools, then you'll appreciate the clearly marked fractions on this tape measure, which are actual numerals, not just lines, indicating 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2 inches. You'll still need to count line markings for 1/16s of an inch, however. We tested both the 16-foot and 25-foot models and found them to be very accurate, comfortable to hold, and quite easy to read. The 1-inch-wide blade is coated with nylon for durability, and the case of the tape measure is very sturdy, with a rubbery coating for easy grip and added protection against damage from drops. Essentially, all tape measures do the same thing. Their job is to measure. What it comes down to is the applications you will be using it for. If your tape measure is getting old and beat up (like the one below!), the tab at the end of the tape may give you inaccurate measurements. But you can still use it for some applications.

Just butt the housing up against the wall. Make a note of the measurement on your tape, and add it to the length of the housing. This will give you the precise reading for the inside of your project. When you hook it over an edge for an outside measurement, the tab is pulled out so the measurement can start from the inside edge of the tab that's actually touching the board. What are the marks on a tape measure? There are so many types of tape measure available on the market today, so which should you choose for the job? The diamonds are spaced 19 3/16" apart, which is the standard spacing for the trusses in a roof. They have their own marking because roofers are working high in the air, and being able to see the spacing they need easily makes things faster and safer for them.

Suggested Tape Measures from Toolstop

Cased tape measures are the most familiar type, and the type we tested at our lab. These tape measures have a retractable blade marked with imperial or metric measurements, and a case that’s made of plastic or metal. This type of tape measure is a must-have in your toolkit and is useful for most measuring tasks around the home.The Irwin Strait-Line is a top option for any tool collection. The case is used to protect the tape, which makes the tape strong and long-lasting for use. Metal makes the most long-lasting designs, while plastic is more cost-effective. 2. Case Length The tape measure shown above goes down to the 1/32nd of an inch, but most only show lines for 1/16th and larger. If you're not sure about yours, count the lines between one and two inches (including the 2" mark). 32 lines = 1/32" spacing. 16 lines = 1/16" spacing. 8 lines = ⅛" spacing. The largest lines are the inches, and halfway between the inches is the ½" line. Halfway between the ½" on either side is the ¼", and you can divide that measurement again to find the ⅛" marks. Even smaller are the 1/16" and 1/32", but I usually just start counting individual lines if I need one of those!

Find the nearest cm marker and count the number of mm marks to its right. For instance, if eight marks follow the 12 cm marker, the measurement is 12.8 cm. Also, be careful not to let your fingers get close to the edges of the tape as it is retracting. The edges are not super sharp, but enough that they can leave a cut! How to Use the Nail Notch For example, if you want to find ⅝" on this tape measure, imagine that the inch is divided up into eight equal sections. ½" is 4/8", so look for the next ⅛" mark and you've found ⅝"!If your tape measure if for simple measurements around the home e.g. to measure furniture, a tape measure with a plastic case will suffice. Our top choice for measuring tape for domestic use is the Irwin 10507788. The main markings on the tape are the lines. There are all different sizes, and the size of the line corresponds to the size of the measurement it represents. So, the bigger the line, the bigger the section of measurement.