Tape measure, also known as measuring tape is a form of a ruler that can be made flexible. Tape measures are constructed from various materials, such as plastic, fiberglass, and cloth. Tape measures are one of the popular measuring tools that are used today.
The word “tape measure” generally refers to a self-retracting, roll-up style tape measure intended for carpentry. The actual tape portion in the measure, referred to as the “ribbon” is made from a highly stiff metal material that will stiffen as necessary but can also be rolled into a compact size for use or storage. The term describes the entire range of tape measures, including tailor’s tape.
The concept of tape measures was born from the tailoring industry using cloth tape to alter or fix clothes. However, it was only when carpenters adopted the Farrand Rapid Rule, patented by Hiram Farrand, that the tape measuring device was the standard of daily use. The design of Ferrand was later licensed by the company Stanley Works.
Tape measures are available in Imperial Units (inches and feet) and meters (centimeters and meters) with breakdowns of units for greater precision. Specialized versions include markings for lengths of truss for roofing as well as intervals of studs for housing.
How to read a tape Measure
The tape measure is the most widely utilized measuring tool. It is used by thousands of tradespeople and contractors each day for their work.
The seasoned professionals in you are likely to be well-versed in reading the different markings on the tape; there’ll be novices, enthusiasts, or people just beginning in their career who aren’t quite as knowledgeable. We frequently get by our customers, “how do you read a tape measure.” So we’ve created this guide to answer our customers that will help you understand exactly how!
How to Measure with Tape Measure
Measure a length. Place the tape measure on one side of the object or space you’re trying to measure. When the measure’s size is finished at the point where it is not, read the standard.
Determine the length. To find the size, add the heights in inches. For instance, the picture below is a measurement that extends beyond the gap between the two marks (that equals one complete inch). To determine the length, add an inch’s width (1) and the gap between two-inch marks. In this scenario, you’ll add 1 inch plus 1/4 inch to come up with 1 1/4 inch or “one and a quarter inches.
If the length is is less than one inch, read the tape and take the measurement. When the units of an inch aren’t marked, find the marking’s increment, then add the fractions to make the total.
To illustrate, this image shows the length of the line that runs from the line of the inch to an unlabeled mark. It’s over 1/4 of an inch and less than one inch. The marking lies halfway from 3/4 (6/8) to 7/8. Thus, it is half 1/8 or 1/16. Based on this information and adding the fractions, you know to calculate the length. Convert 3/4 into 12/16 for common denominators, then add 12/16 plus 1/16 to arrive at 13/16, your size.
HOW to USE A TAPE MEASURE
So now that you understand what the various markings on your tape measure indicate, are you aware of how to utilize tape measures?
Take the tape from its end and stretch it until the point you want to take measurements. It’s that simple. It.
Tips and tricks to use tape measures
If you measure on your own, make sure you tap a nail on the edge of the surface. Then use the hole on the pull tabs to fix your tape onto the wall before completing your measurement.
In the event of a crisis, you may use your tape measure as straight edges if the mark isn’t 100% precise.
Most stores only have tape measures that can read when the body is placed in your right hand. However, if you prefer marking using your left hand and holding the tape measure using left needles, it is possible to request a particular left-handed instrument.
Is the tape that you use best for Carpentry work on-site?
When deciding on a tape measure, take note of these aspects;
Durable enough to stand up to usage on site
Strengthened and reinforced at the hook end
Secure locking – tape won’t move while secured
Clear markings make it simpler to read tape measures in darkness or the rain. Ideally, with a distinction in color or fonts between the various kinds (mm to cm, for instance.)
Clear markings on different centers like 400/800/1200mm, 16’/32’/48′ to make it easier to mark and lay out.
I prefer mine to have the imperial as well as metric measurement. And I’m able to use the one that’s the easiest to remember or the most precise in any given circumstance.