Tape Measure

What are the common types of tape measure?

Push Pull Tape:

These are spring loaded tapes and retract into the casing on releasing it. This pocket tape style is popular among woodworkers or homeowners. It comes in varying lengths and blade widths.

Windup or Reel Long Tape:

As the name suggests, this tape (reel) is retracted (wound up) by cranking a built-in handle. The tape is of flexible material, such as, fabric. It is used by surveyors or on construction sites for measuring larger distances.

What features of a tape measure to consider?

Length:  A 10-foot (3 m) to 33-foot (10 m) tape measure is typically sufficient for most DIY woodworking projects. This length is manageable and covers a wide range of measurements.

Blade Width: The most common blade width varies from 0.5 inch to 1.25 inch. A wider blade width (1 inch or more) stays rigid and can stand out horizontally or vertically for 7 to 10 feet without collapsing.

This eliminates the need for a second person to hold the tape at the other end. One person can easily make 7 to 10 feet of horizontal or vertical measurement accurately.

Measuring Unit:  Determine if you’ll be using metric units (meter) or imperial units (inches) for measuring workpieces or objects. Some measuring tapes have both metric and imperial units marked on them.

Markings: Look for tape measures with large, high-contrast numbers and markings that are clear and easy to read.

Durability: Consider a tape measure with a durable case and a blade coated with nylon or other materials to resist wear and tear. Shock-resistant cases can help prevent damage from drops.

Lock Mechanism: A reliable locking mechanism helps keep the blade in place while measuring, preventing it from retracting unexpectedly.

The three types of locking mechanisms are:

Auto Lock: the blades automatically stay out when extended. The tape is retracted by pushing a button.

Sliding Lock: the blade when extended out is locked in position by sliding the locking mechanism. To retract the tape the lock is released.

Dual Lock: the tape has two locking mechanisms. Like auto lock tape, the blade stays extended when pulled out. It can then be locked using the locking mechanism. The blade is retracted by releasing the lock.

Hook Design: Retractable tape measure comes with a blade hook. The hook could be anchored to the end of workpiece or object being measured, hence, increasing its versatility.

A strong, well-designed hook is essential for accurate measurements. Some tape measures have magnetic hooks, which can be handy for measuring metal surfaces.

Standout and Recoil: A good tape measure should have a long standout (the distance the blade can extend without bending) and a smooth recoil action.

Belt Clip and Lanyard: These features can be helpful for keeping the tape measure easily accessible while working.

A tape measure belt clip allows easy, hands-free carrying and quick access to the tape measure during construction or DIY projects.

A tape measure lanyard attachment secures the tape measure to a lanyard. Attach the lanyard to the tape measure’s designated hole or loop. It keeps the tape measure accessible, enhancing safety and convenience during work or climbing tasks.