If you ’re wonderinghow to habituate a tape measure , we ’ve got you covered . It is an cheap and handy equipment that has many uses when build , maintaining , and repair a place or car . At least one mag tape measure should be in the toolbox of every householder or tenant .
A tape measure is a flexile ruler used to size up spaces and objects with preciseness . Whether it ’s a compact 12 - groundwork ( 3.66 - time ) mag tape for smaller shell national projection or a robust 100 - foot textile tape for outdoor use , these handy tools come in in various lengths and styles to beseem your measure needs .
They feature both imperial mensuration ( inch and substructure ) for U.S. standard dimensioning and metric measurements ( mm and centimeters ) for planetary compatibility .
What Does a Tape Measure Do?
At its core , a tape beat is a versatile and portable pecker , substantive for various measuring job . Whether it ’s about square off the length of a newfangled sofa or figuring out the distance between two walls , a tape bill is your go - to gadget .
But it ’s more than just a duration of pronounced tape ; it ’s a preciseness dick that caters to both the regal measurement organization and the metric system of rules . With a tapeline measuring rod , you ’re equipped to treat measuring in inches , substructure , millimeters and centimetre , ascertain you ’re ready for any task , anywhere .
The lulu of a tape measure lies in its elaborate markings . From the bold inch mark to the subtle half - inch mark and even lowly quarter- and 8th - inch markings , each line on a tape recording criterion has a purpose .
These accurate increments allow for precise measurement , whether you ’re eyeing the halfway point on a DIY task or need the accurate measurement for professional work .
And for those who prefer metric , the mm line and centimeter markings are equally detailed , extend the smallest metric measure for fine - tune accuracy .
How to Safely Use a Tape Measure
Using a tape measure might seem aboveboard , but there ’s an art to getting those precise measurements every time . First thing first : permit ’s spill about extend the tape .
Gently pull the tape from its suit , point it from your starting point to the hope length . Most tape measures number equipped with a sturdy alloy hook at the remainder , designed to latch onto objects for constancy . This feature is particularly handy when you ’re measuring a space solo .
Next , let ’s verbalize about control . Many modern measure tapes have latent hostility - ascendance brakes . These great additions allow you to lock the blade in place , giving you the freedom to take an accurate meter reading without the tape snapping back .
This feature is a life belt when work on undertaking that require precise measurements , like fitting ledge or appraise cabinets .
For those handling longer quantify tape measure , often used in outdoor configurations , you ’ll usually regain a methamphetamine on the side of the case . This churl is used to retract the taping smoothly , avoiding any kinks or tangle .
Retracting Your Tape Measure
While tape cadence are broadly safe tools , carefulness is key , especially when retract the tape . Slow and steadfast win the slipstream here .
If you ’re using a steel blade tape , gently guide it back into the case , go along your fingers absolved of the edge to keep any dent or cuts . This method avail maintain the unity of the tape and ascertain you wo n’t be surprised by a sudden ginger nut of the metallic element blade .
Remember , whether you ’re extending the tape to its full length or just a 1/4 inch , keep control and guard is paramount . This way , you may sharpen on getting those accurate measurements for your task , be it hang artwork in a square line or determining the inside measurements of a space .
Choosing the Right Tape Measure for Your Needs
Tape measures come in an array of lengths and styles , each suit for different tasks . The standard tape cadence , typically 12 feet ( 3.66 measure ) in duration , is pure for everyday base use , comfortably meet in a prick belt snip and ready to hand for smaller plate internal projects .
For more broad body of work , such as measuring the inside width of a elbow room or the space between wall he-man , a 25 - ft ( 7.62 - substructure ) tape measure , often refer to as a builder ’s tape , is idealistic . A detergent builder ’s taping is mark in feet and includes 1/16 - inch increment , aligning with stock construction measurements .
Then there are the larger measuring tapes , like the 100 - foot ( 30.48 - metre ) cloth tape , everlasting for outside measurements , such as property edge or landscape gardening projects . These long tapes normally come with a gyrate tape design , take in them easy to handle and draw in .
How to Maintain a Tape Measure
While mag tape measures are robust and designed for length of service , a little care can go a long way in extending their lifespan . fortuitously , defend a tape measure cadence is as aboveboard as using one . The key to a long - endure tape measure is keeping the sword clean .
After usance , particularly if you ’ve been measuring in cold or dirty environments , give the blade a quick rub down . This simple footstep prevents debris from have inside the case and potentially damage the chemical mechanism .
When it comes to recant the tapeline , a gentle advance is proficient . nullify the temptation to let the taping snarl back into the case at full focal ratio . This might seem like a quick and effective way to pack up , but it can damage both the brand and the internal kick mechanics over time .
alternatively , direct the tape back tardily , assure it shrink back smoothly and without kink . This not only protects the tape bar but also keeps your fingers dependable from getting caught in the tape measure .
Preserving the Accuracy of Measurements
An often - look across panorama of magnetic tape criterion upkeep is ensuring its truth . Over meter , the ending hook shot , which is crucial for accurate measurements , can become free . Periodically check to see if the lure is securely attached .
This is especially significant for project requiring exact mensuration , like appraise cabinets or the inside width of a space . If you find any dissipation , a simple adjustment with a screwdriver can often fix it .
This article was update in conjunction with AI technology , then fact - checked and cut by a HowStuffWorks editor .
