How to read a cm tape measure

On a tape measure that uses imperial units — as opposed to the metric system — the most prominent markings are typically the inch marks, designated by long, thin usapl and larger numbers. You will see a foot designation marked every 12 inches sometimes in a box as in the picture, or sometimes the number will be shown in red. Half-inch marks sit between two one-inch marks.

Always wanted to know how to take that particularly awkward measurement or how to take care of your tool? Perhaps you're interested in how particular trades use their tools? Then read on Got a tip to share? Then get in touch! The measurements towards the bottom of the image are metric.

How to read a cm tape measure

Tape measures are one of the most commonly used measuring tools. Everyone from contractors and tailors to tradesman and everyday homeowners use measuring tapes to get exact measurements of every kind. While it might seem like a simple tool, many tape measure markings are available in both the metric system and imperial measurements, so it's important to know how to read a tape measure to ensure you get a precise reading and accurate measurement. As the old saying goes: "Measure twice, cut once. Before we explain how to read a tape measure , let's talk about the parts of a tape measure. Though the parts might not look exactly the same on every tape measure, most are pretty basic and fall into these few categories:. Most tape measures you'll see in the United States have the boldest markings in inches and feet. So when looking at the tape starting at the hook, there will be number markings for every inch, as well as number markings for every foot on the top line of the tape. Once the tape measure goes past 1 foot in length, the inch markings on the top line increase to 13, 14, 15, etc. Some measuring tapes also have additional smaller numbers that equate with the last foot mark. For example, the tape measure might designate 22 inches equal 1 foot, 10 inches.

A 16ft tape measurefor example, will have sixteen one-foot marks along its length and one-inch marks 12 inches per foot. The lock feature is helpful for: [13] X Research source Quickly seeing which of two objects is bigger Seeing whether something will fit through a certain space Keeping the tape available for multiple quick measurements Keeping a certain distance "handy" to avoid having to re-measure.

Last Updated: February 14, Fact Checked. Crackerjacks Handyman Services offers an effective cost-saving solution for commercial and residential repair and maintenance needs, specializing in smaller projects. Crackerjacks Handyman Services carries liability insurance and all technicians go through a background check. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 86, times.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. Reading a tape measure can be tricky to master, but with the proper knowledge and practice, anyone can become an expert. This article on How to Measure will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding and using a tape measure, from understanding the different measurement units to measuring angles and estimating measurements. With this guide, you can use a tape measure like a pro in no time. Understanding measurement units is important to learn how to read a tape measure.

How to read a cm tape measure

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. So read on to explore this humble must-have implement and learn to employ it properly—for everything from measuring the inside width of a bookshelf to rapid stud location to drawing a perfect circle. In the United States, the imperial measurement system is normally used on a tape measure, though some models may have both the imperial and the metric system. A tape measure with both inches and centimeters usually has the imperial measurements in red on the top of the blade, while the metric measurements are in black on the bottom of the blade. To use a tape measure, pull the tang out from the housing and hook it on the edge of the object to be measured. Stretch the blade across the object, press the lock, and then observe where the blade meets the end of the object.

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If you're using multiple tapes on the same job, calibrate them to ensure your measurements on the job are exact. Follow Us. How to Fix a Hole in the Wall Seamlessly. Categories: Measuring and Marking Tools Mathematics. Did this summary help you? Most tapes, however, leave it up to the user to take the length of the case into account. View the range. These marks are usually not labeled with a number. Did this article help you? If you need extra accuracy, do what's called "burn an inch," which means start your measurement at the 1-inch mark instead of using the hook on the tape. Be sure to use the hook properly when using your tape measure! Millimeters: There are 10 millimeters per centimeter, and these will be marked by smaller lines between each centimeter. An internal measuring tape measure the Stanley Powerlock Top Reader is ideal A spirit level ideally try to avoi

Home » Home Improvement » Handy Tips. Are those little lines making you go cross-eyed?

Edit this Article. Was not sure about little markings, but thanks to this article, I understand. Here's How They Work. When taking internal measurements i. Most will show fractions down to eighths of an inch. Quarter-Inch: Four per inch, the quarter mark divides each inch into, well, quarters. I'm really glad that y'all have that, thank you. Centimeters are the next sub-unit leading up to the meter. The measurements towards the bottom of the image are metric. After each foot marking, the numbers next to each inch mark will either repeat from 1 - 11 again or keep counting to 13, 14, 15, and so on. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter Subscribe You're all set! Then read on To get the most exact measurement, make sure your tape measure is evenly aligned with what you're measuring. Whilst the ability to return the blade quickly into the case can seem like a useful function, it can be very dangerous with a number of people each year being injured by wildly flailing hooks. The next small mark in line would be 42mm, the next would be 43mm and so on.