The large, numbered markings are centimeters.If you have a metric tape measure, the numbers should be read like this: There are 10 decimeters in a meter, 10 centimeters in a decimeter, and 10 millimeters in a centimeter. Numbers shown represent meters, decimeters (sometimes shown in red-see example picture), and centimeters. On a metric tape you will basically see markings for meters, centimeters, and millimeters. Most will show fractions down to eighths of an inch. These are known as ‘Fractional Read’ or ‘Easy Read’ blades. Some tape measures make it easier to decipher the markings by calling out the fractional equivalents right on the face of the blade. For example, the second eighth-inch marking after the inch marking is a quarter inch. Remember that two sixteenths of an inch equals one eighth, two eighths of an inch equals one quarter, and 2 quarters equals one half. On some tapes, quarter inch marks are the same size as eighth-inch marks. These are smaller, sometimes thinner markings, evenly spaced between the half-inch and inch marks on a tape measure. have markings that measure down to 1/16 of an inch. QUARTER INCHES, EIGHTH INCHES, AND SIXTEENTH INCHES In other words, the half-inch mark between inches 13 and 14 is read as 13 ½ inches, and sits exactly midway between the markings for those numbers.ģ. Depending on the tape measure, these may not be designated with a number, which means you’ll need the markings on either side to guide you. Half-inch marks sit between two one-inch marks. 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). 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 lines and larger numbers. Let’s begin by reviewing the essential parts of an “Imperial” or “English” tape measure: In this blog post, we’re going to look at how to accurately read a tape measure. They’re only effective if the person using them knows how to get an accurate reading. That’s an old saying, but a true one, and something that applies to tape measures as well. These stud designations are intended to indicate the "on-center" position of framing members.A tool is only as good as the person using it. You will rarely use these markings unless you happen to be building a shed or playhouse, or constructing partition walls during major remodeling projects. These increments correspond to the common intervals for the studs, joists, and rafters that are used to create the basic structural framework for walls, floors, and roofs. Find the Stud Markingsįor the benefit of framing carpenters who do repetitive work, most tape measures also have convenient markings at 16-inch and 19.2-inch increments, usually designated by a number highlighted in red, or by a small diamond marking on the blade. 1/16- and 1/32-inch increments are more often used in fine woodworking projects where hardwood workpieces need to fit very tightly. When framing walls, for example, tolerances down to 1/8-inch are usually completely sufficient to bang studs and joists into place. On dual-purpose tape measures, the numerals on the opposite side of the blade indicate centimeters.įor general construction work using framing lumber, it's usually sufficient to measure down to 1/8-inch increments. On some tape measures, the inch markings repeat 1- to 12-inch increments on one side of the blade, with running inch increments on the other side (as shown here).Inch marks are usually in the largest font.At 8 feet, for example, you will see both a "8 ft." and a "96" inch designation. Inch mark numbering usually continues along the entire length of the blade. The next increments of measure on a tape measure blade are the inch marks, which will be identified by the longest lines and usually labeled with a single numeral-1, 2, 3, etc. It's the same thing, but a little easier to read on the tape and remember. So, instead of a ceiling being measured as 7 feet, 6 inches, it would be measured as 90 inches. That way, you only need to pay attention to one set of figures: inches. The Spruce Home Improvement Review Boardįoot marks are valuable, but often it's easier to avoid them altogether and measure only in terms of inches.
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