A tape measure is one of the most essential tools in any handyman’s arsenal. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, chances are you’ve used a tape measure at some point in your life. But did you know that there are different types of tape measures for various purposes?
In this article, we’ll explore the world of tape measures and delve into their different types and uses. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which tape measure is best suited for your specific needs.
Understanding Tape Measure Basics
Before we jump into the specifics, let’s start with the basics. A tape measure is a flexible ruler used to measure distance or size. It consists of a long strip of metal or fiberglass with markings in inches, feet, centimeters, or meters.
Tape measures come in varying lengths, typically ranging from 12 to 35 feet (or 3 to 10 meters). They feature a locking mechanism that keeps the tape extended once it’s pulled out to the desired length.
Now that we have a general idea of what a tape measure is, let’s explore its different types and their respective purposes.
1. Standard Tape Measure
The standard tape measure is the most common type found in households and construction sites alike. It features markings on one side of the tape, usually in both inches and feet.
This type of tape measure is versatile and can be used for various applications, such as:
- Measuring furniture dimensions
- Taking body measurements for sewing
- Estimating room sizes during home renovations
2. Metric Tape Measure
As the name suggests, metric tape measures display measurements in centimeters and meters instead of inches and feet. They are widely used in countries that follow the metric system.
If you’re working on a project that requires metric measurements or if you’re more comfortable using centimeters and meters, a metric tape measure is the way to go.
3. Long Tape Measure
Sometimes, you need to measure longer distances that a standard tape measure can’t handle. That’s where long tape measures come in handy.
These tape measures can extend up to 100 feet (or 30 meters) or more, making them ideal for outdoor projects or large-scale construction jobs.
4. Measuring Wheel
While not technically a tape measure, measuring wheels are worth mentioning due to their similar function: measuring distance.
Measuring wheels consist of a wheel attached to a handle with a counter mechanism. To use them, you simply roll the wheel along the ground from one point to another, and the counter displays the distance covered.
These tools are particularly useful for measuring longer distances on flat surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, or fields.
5. Pocket Tape Measure
If portability is your primary concern, then a pocket tape measure is what you need. As the name implies, these tape measures are small enough to fit in your pocket or tool belt, making them convenient for on-the-go measurements.
Pocket tape measures typically have a shorter length, ranging from 6 to 12 feet (or 2 to 4 meters). They’re perfect for quick measurements or tasks that don’t require extensive reach.
6. Diameter Tape Measure
As its name suggests, a diameter tape measure is specifically designed to measure the diameter of circular objects such as pipes, poles, or tree trunks.
This type of tape measure features markings on both sides of the tape; one side displays the actual diameter measurement, while the other side shows the circumference measurement based on that diameter.
7. Laser Tape Measure
In recent years, technology has made its way into the world of tape measures with the introduction of laser tape measures.
Instead of using a physical tape, laser tape measures utilize laser beams to measure distance. They’re incredibly accurate and can quickly calculate length, area, volume, and even Pythagorean theorem measurements.
Laser tape measures are commonly used in industries such as construction, real estate, and interior design, where precise measurements are crucial.
8. Digital Tape Measure
Similar to laser tape measures, digital tape measures eliminate the need for manual reading and interpretation of measurements.
These devices feature a digital display that shows the exact measurement as soon as the tape is extended and locked in place. Some models even have additional functions like memory storage or unit conversion capabilities.
Digital tape measures are user-friendly and provide quick results, making them suitable for both professionals and beginners.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a comprehensive guide to different types of tape measures and their purposes. We hope this article has shed light on the various options available and helped you determine which tape measure is right for your next project.
Remember, whether you’re measuring a room for new furniture or building an entire house from scratch, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference in achieving accurate results.
