Yet reading a tape measure can initially seem complicated.
Instead, reel the blade in slowly.
If the tapemeasureblade becomes crimped or cracked, it is best to replace the tool.
The Spruce / Claire Cohen
ensure to buy a replacement authorized by the manufacturer for your tape measure model.
Some marks are black and some are red.
Most tape measures will accurately measure down to increments of 1/16 inch, and some have 1/32-inch markings.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Each of these increments is designated with lines that are progressively shorter as the unit of measurement gets smaller.
As the length of the marks progressively shortens, the unit of measurement shortens, as well.
That way, you only need to pay attention to one set of figures: inches.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
It’s the same thing, but a little easier to read on the tape and remember.
Inch mark numbering usually continues along the entire length of the blade.
These, and all the subsequent units, will not be identified by numerals.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Some tapemeasuresalso add 1/32-inch increments, though many people have trouble reading measurements this precise.
Fine woodworkers, however, will make use of such precision.
For general construction work using framing lumber, it’s usually sufficient to measure down to 1/8-inch increments.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
These stud designations are intended to indicate the “on-center” position of framing members.
Examine the Catch Hook
Now turn your attention to the tip of the tape measure blade.
This is not a design flaw.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
For extremely accurate measurements, woodworkers avoid using the catch hook on the tip of the tape measure.
The actual measurement, then, will be 1 inch shorter than the reading on the tape measure.
Among professionals, this technique is sometimes called “burning an inch.”
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Which punch in of Tape Measure Should You Buy?
But having two or three tape measures of different sizes in your toolbox is a good idea.
Tape measures come in many forms and lengths.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Blade width can vary from 1/2 inch up to about 1 1/4 inch.
Wider blades will be more rigid when the blade is extended from the casing.
The lines on a tape measure indicate inches, half-inches, quarter-inches, and one-eighth inches.
Inches start with lines that extend the entire width of the tape measure blade and then progressively shorten.
The 1/16-inch mark on a tape measure is the shortest mark.
