A 16ft tape measure, for example, will have sixteen one-foot marks along its length and 192 one-inch marks (12 inches per foot). Each inch will then have eight 1/8th of an inch and sixteen 1/16th of an inch marks. Whilst the seasoned professionals amongst you will no doubt be fully aware how to read the various markings on your tape, there will be amateurs, enthusiasts or those just starting off in their careers who aren’t yet so knowledgeable. We regularly get asked the question “how do you read a tape measure”. In response to our customers, therefore, we’ve put together this simple guide that explains just that!

When looking at the image above, the 1st small mark after the 4cm point denotes a measurement of 41mm. The next small mark in line would be 42mm, the next would be 43mm and so on. 41mm can also be referred to as 4.1cm (0.041m) but the majority of trades in the UK do tend to quote measurements in milimetres. How to Read an Imperial Tape MeasureThat said and done, however, when you start looking deeper into the 5m tape category you'll start to see a very real increase in quality and, crucially, innovation. Not seen in many of the shorter or indeed longer tapes on the market, 5m/16ft short tape measures include some of the most innovative and useful features on the market today. The humble tape measure is the world’s most commonly used measuring tool, accompanying millions of tradesmen and contractors to work every single day. There are two types of measuring tapes. One is the soft measuring tape and the other one is the hard measuring tape. Soft tapes consist of a ribbon of plastic, fiber, or microfiber glass. The hard measuring tape is a flexible metal strip made of steel or carbon steel. Each measuring tape has markings in a linear direction. A decision on which tape you will select depends on the purpose of the work. The smaller measuring ones are usually made of plastic or steel. Few things finish a room as well as a lovely set of curtains. In fact, new curtains can give an old room a new lease of life.

When taking internal measurements (i.e. from the inside edge of an object such as between one internal wall and another) the hook can be pushed against the object (e.g. skirting board) providing an accurate measurement.When referring to the diagram above you'll see a series of large numbers marked 1, 2, 3, and 4. These numbers sit next to long vertical marks which represent whole inches. Put simply 1 = 1", 2 = 2" and so on. Between those numbers are a series of shorter marks which represent fractions of an inch. The mark directly in the middle of the inch denotes a measurment of 1/2" whilst the markings either side of it represent measurements of 1/4" and 3/4" respectively. Even smaller marks then denote 1/8ths and 1/16ths (marked in red) of an inch. Architects, civil engineers, surveyors, and carpenters use hard tapes. These are durable tapes. They can measure around curves and corners. A hard tape finds use in construction projects. A hard tape also measures long distances in land surveys. These are ideal for taking measurements covering long distances. Hard tapes are available from 3 meters to 100 meters. The tape is plastic coated to make it resistant to irregular creasing or twisting. Turners and Freemans are two brands offering such tapes. What's more, some tape measures (regardless of expense or quality) can feature steel blades with relatively sharp edges. They may not feel sharp at first but it can be a very different story when travelling at speed.

Any measuring tape is of the self-reading type and graduated in both centimeter and inch. The graduation appears on both sides of the top side of the measuring tape. Meter and feet are additionally marked in different colors. Proceed With Caution Prior To Buying Measuring Tape: Due to the sheer number of 5m tapes sold, manufacturers can justify spending vast quantities of time and money on research and development to make this particular length of tape one of the most innovative, accurate and durable types on the market. A measuring tape is a helpful device for measuring lengths or distances. Surveyors, carpenters, and tailors know the necessity of this tool and every household has at least one of these at one of their drawers However, not all of these tapes are same. Types Of Measuring Tapes: Measuring tapes are available in online shops. Buy a measuring tape online where there are a lot of options given. Do You Need Measurement Tapes?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! How to Read a Tape Measure how