how to read a measuring tape in meters

Tape measures are available in both imperial units (inches and feet) which are commonly used in the USA but you can also buy metric ones (centimeters and meters). Tape measures may have measurements in imperial and metric, imperial-only, or metric-only. Then examine leftover indicator lines to see what fractions of an inch remain. Metric tape measures indicate 10 marks to the centimeter. To learn about the differences between the imperial system and the metric system, read on! Freemans Measures Fiber Plastika 50 Meters ₹ 752.00 . Reading a ruler is really simple once you know what you're doing. 1. ... Reading the tape measure is of course one of the most important skills to pick up when using these tools. Step 1: Examine your tape measure. Each measuring unit is represented by a small marking line. Extend the tape measure, the tape is in increments of 16ths, 8ths, 4ths, 1/2's and inches. In this case, keep in mind that two eighths of an inch make a quarter. Lay the tape on the floor and hook the end into one corner of the room. The longest mark indicates one inch. Place the laser distance meter at the exact distance indicated by the tape measure. Sep 14, 2020 - Explore Michele Volponi's board "how to read measuring tape" on Pinterest. 3. ", "My son needed to know how to read a measuring tape for a school project. These tools will make it easier to calculate square meters, since they were designed in the same system of measurement. The measurement is technically taken at the center of the mark; however, if you need measurements to that precision, I would recommend using something a bit more accurate, such as calipers. On a metric tape you will basically see markings for meters, centimeters, and millimeters. Watch Now: How to Read a Tape Measure. To use a tape measure, pull the tang out from the housing and hook it on the edge of the object to be measured. The tape measure can be marked with US or English measurements (feet and inches), metric measurements (meters and parts of meters: centimeters, millimeters, etc) or both shared on the same tape. in the inches column of the tape? In this case, you need to use the markings on either side to guide you. As you may know it, there are two main systems for measuring length – the Imperial System of Measurements where things are measured in yards, feet and inches and the Metric System of Measurement which uses meters, centimeters and millimeters.. The tape measure can be marked with US or English measurements (feet and inches), metric measurements (meters and parts of meters: centimeters, millimeters, etc) or both shared on the same tape. In the example below, we are measuring to the arrow. We'll walk you through the basics of each type of ruler. There are 100 centimeters in a meter and 10 millimeters in a centimeter. Completely different to an imperial tape measure, it is arguably easier to read a tape measure in metric than imperial; Each small increment is 1mm and … TIP: There are 100 centimeters in a meter and 10 millimeters in a centimeter. Just line the tool up with whatever you're measuring, make sure the "zero" mark is aligned with the edge of the object being measured and then read along the ruler, measuring tape or meter stick until you reach the far edge of the object being measured. Measure a length with the yard stick or tape measure. The tape measure is one of the most convenient tools for measuring lengths and distances nowadays, yet reading a tape measure can be tricky! After each metre, the centimetre markings may, The metric system is in base ten, which makes it much easier to work with decimals compared to imperial measurements. Thankfully, it is very easy to do. Tape measures in the U.S. mostly utilize Imperial measurements, which means that you measure in feet, inches and fractions of inches. In order to determine the length, … Complete the rotation and you should have a perfect circle. Measurement Increments on a Tape Measure 1. It depends on the tape measure itself, they come in different lengths. Steps of Reading a Steel Measuring Tape. The 1/2″ marks is the next largest and falls halfway between the 1″ marks. and I believe that this is the best outline on how to read a tape measure. http://www.johnsonlevel.com/News/TapeMeasure, https://www.ustape.com/blog/accurately-reading-a-tape-measure/, https://sewguide.com/sewing-tape-measure/, https://www.ck12.org/measurement/tools-for-measurement-of-customary-and-metric-lengths/lesson/Appropriate-Measurement-Tools-MSM6/, https://www.mathsisfun.com/measure/metric-length.html, https://sciencing.com/read-metric-tape-measure-4472324.html, http://thesweethome.com/reviews/the-best-tape-measure/, https://www.constructionprotips.com/tools-materials/ultimate-tape-measure-guide/, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow, Every 12 inches, there will often (but not always) be a. To read a tape measure find the number next to the large tick, and then find how many small ticks past it the measurement is. ", after reading this article, I realized how easy it is to use a tape.". Reading 1/2-inch measurements is the same principle as reading one inch: simply locate the second-longest mark between the longer inch marks. Reading a tape measure is more about combining basic fractions with an understanding of how marks work on today's tape measures. Always ensure that the tang is fully extended when hooked onto an edge. Metric is based on ‘tens’. The tape runs along the … The outer end of the tape is provided with a ring or other device for facilitating withdrawal. How to read a sewing measuring tape. Step 4: Notice the metric side Notice the metric side of the tape measure. 2:47. This has made me feel confident in doing the tasks at home that I have avoided, "Thank you for the methods of measurement, it really helped me. Now I'm good. The following is a quick overview on how to properly read a measuring tape in daily use. But not all tape measures are alike. Thanks. For a 12 inch measurement, do I mark the left edge of the 12" gradation, the center, or the right edge? Is the blade or hook at the end of a measuring tape included in the measurement? Then, taking measurements will be a breeze. Note that some very precise measuring tapes will mark down to one-thirty-second of an inch or even one-sixty-fourth of an inch! 1. These are known as ‘Fractional Read’ or ‘Easy Read’ blades. There are also some that combine the two systems in one measuring tape. It could be very approximate but first choose some known distance - for example, the size of a room and then walk a few times up and down counting the number of steps and keeping the size of the step as uniform as possible. Note that, starting with half-inch marks, not all lines may be labeled with numbers. If it is, for instance, six inches at this point, then your wrist has a circumference of about six inches. One meter (39 inches) is a similar measurement to the yard above, but use your arm with fingers extended and measure to the tip of the fingers. A: Laser measures can be used outside. Last Updated: September 3, 2020 If you don’t have a pencil or marking tool handy, run the serrated edge back and forth across the material being measured to mark the spot. Pull the tang out and hold it to the other side of the bookshelf. Luckily, with the proper approach, using a tape measure can be a quick, easy way to get you the information you need about your project. For fractions of an inch, simply put the fraction after the whole number for inches. Other advanced measures are able to measure at an accuracy of 1/32. wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. Bending the tape can lead to an estimate instead of an exact measurement. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. If you need to measure beyond your reach, you can try keeping the zero end of your tape measure in place with a weight or getting a friend to help. ", measurements. Similar to reading rulers, the large numbers on a standard tape measure are the inch marks.That number is usually in bold, black type, easy to read and refers to the longest of the markings along the edge. The ring or other device is fastened to the tape by a metal strip of the same width as the metric woven tape. For example 3 feet, 6 1/4 inches. The markings represent meters, centimeters, and millimeters. If your tape is marked with the English or Standard system, it will be broken into inches. Either make a mark or secure the tape measure in place. You can also buy tape measures, like this one from Komelon, which prints the fractions right on the tape, which makes the increments easier to read. ... ₹ 675.00 . Step 4: Notice the metric side Notice the metric side of the tape measure. See more ideas about Tape, Tape measure, Reading. 2. If the tape measure stretches exactly halfway between the 27 and 28 inch markings, this means that your arm is 27.5 inches long. How do I write in feet, inches, and fractions of an inch? Put simply 1 = 1", 2 = 2" and so on. Completely different to an imperial tape measure, it is arguably easier to read a tape measure in metric than imperial; Each small increment is 1mm and there are 10mm that make up one centimetre. The distance between each measurement with a red dot. For example, the half-inch mark between inches three and four stands for 3 1/2 inches, even though it's not labeled. The tape measure is one of the most convenient tools for measuring lengths and distances nowadays, yet reading a tape measure can be tricky! A diameter tape has either metric or imperial measurements reduced by the value of π.This means the tape measures the diameter of the object. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. If your measuring tape doesn't have 0.5 centimetre markings, the fifth millimetre after each centimetre marks the 0.5 centimetre. If you like to work in meters and centimeters there are better metric tape measures out there for you. How To Read A Tape Measure: Example #1. This a common layout measurement for various items used in building homes and other structures. Between those numbers are a series of shorter marks which represent fractions of an inch. 60 inches and 7/16ths of an inch would be written as 60-7/16.". A: They are pretty accurate, with most of them able to measure at an accuracy of 1/16. A measuring tape is typically a flexible tape used for measuring length, often between 2 meters or yards, and 100 feet or 30 meters. But unless you know how to use a tape measure and correctly read its markings, your best efforts can be slightly off—and, unfortunately, any amount of “off” just won’t do. Suitable for grades 1 - 3, Measure It lets you choose the measurement that matches the length of the bar. Notice the metric side of the tape measure. To measure a room from one corner to the other: All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published. If you're looking for how to read the markings on your tape measure, click here. I'm really glad that y'all have that, thank you. Place the end of the measuring tape against the wall on top of the vanity in your bathroom and pull it out to the front edge of the top. Read the tape measure knowing that one centimeter (1 cm) is separated into smaller units. Notice the metric side of the tape measure. How to Use a Tape Measure Start by putting the end tab at one end of the item or space you want to measure, then pull out the tape until you get to the other end. Knowing how to use and read both a retractable measure and a traditional ribbon-style tape measure can be a major asset to anyone working with his or her hands, so learn today and start measuring! As I mentioned above, you read the measuring tape from left to right, so the first mark when going to the right is the 1″ mark and then continuing to the right we get to the 2″ mark. The following is a quick overview on how to properly read a measuring tape in daily use. You can also try putting a kink in the tape, then lining up this kink with the edge of what you're measuring. See more ideas about Tape, Tape measure, Reading. To create this article, 60 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. Part of the problem with manual tape measures is that they're most useful for measuring only short differences because you have to be able to hold the zero end in place while you move the other end into position. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. By Timothy Dale. Simply insert a nail or screw to the side of the surface, grab the head of the fastener with the hole of the tang, and pull out the blade to take a quick, accurate measurement. 2. Q: Can you use laser measure outside? To read a tape measure, think about moving from long marks down to short marks. Make a straight horizontal line on the sheet of paper. This is usually in a different color than the other markings — often r… wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. There are also some that combine the two systems in one measuring tape. Note that the line next to the number marks each inch, not the number itself. Approved. Tape measures are commonly used in construction, architecture, building, home projects, crafts, and woodworking. 1 The regular measuring tape Typically a measuring tape for measuring the body is 60 inches long which is about 1.5 meters (152 cms). The distance between each measurement with a red dot. A 1/16 of an inch, is usually the smallest measurement on a tape measure. For example, if you wanted to write five feet, one and a half inches, you would write it like this: 5'1 1/2". This guide will explain how to read a tape measure with Imperial units. Most vanity tops are 21 inches deep. The dull serrated edge on the end of the tang can also be used as a marker. Play Measure it online, here. Marks on a tape measure are the straight lines that run perpendicular to the tape. "I've sent this to my sons who are just starting in the construction business. The 5 mm mark indicates 5 mm and indicates a half centimeter (0.5 cm). Step 1 - Understand the Markings on the Tape. Metric tape measures. Measure a length. Most US tape measures have both inches and foot marks. Learning how to read a tape measure is an important skill to learn, whether you're doing home projects, teaching your kids or students, or looking to get into the skilled trades in some capacity. The large numbers are the units you're measuring, like inches or centimeters, and the markings between the large numbers correspond to fractions of that unit. How to Use a Tape Measure Start by putting the end tab at one end of the item or space you want to measure, then pull out the tape until you get to the other end. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Tape measure blades are slightly concave to increase the blade’s rigidity when in use. However, this would leave you 1/16 of an inch short for objects that are measured from the outside edge, such as a deck board. The most common lengths being 20, 30 and 50 m. It’s a common mistake when taking inside measurements (such as the inside width of a bookshelf) to pull the blade out further than necessary and then bend it to fit against one side of the object while the tang is pushed against the other side. If the increment on the tape measure is not labeled, then determine the marking’s increment and calculate the respective fraction and length. You get 120 inch long measuring tapes in shops as well, which is useful for measuring those curtains and quilts and other home decor stuff. It is also a common divisor for materials such as plywood (4' x 8'), ceiling heights, and common lumber lengths. Add the number next to the large tick with the fraction to get the measurement. It is indicated by a 1m. Metallic measuring tape Cloth measuring tape:- These measuring tapes are made of cloth which is suitable for measuring in the wet area because it does not get rust or never spoiled with water but has a disadvantage liable to break easily when stretching in straight. The pictures made it really easy to follow and, "The uncomplicated layout of the measuring tape, indicating the number range, was very helpful. The distance between every line on the tape measure is 1/16 of an inch. Every day at wikiHow, we work hard to give you access to instructions and information that will help you live a better life, whether it's keeping you safer, healthier, or improving your well-being. Some tape measures make it easier to decipher the markings by calling out the fractional equivalents right on the face of the blade. Note: To find a length that is less than 1 inch, just read the tape measure of the length. On the other hand, if you're measuring something that can't be latched on to (like, for instance, the distance across a door frame), just press this metal notch into one side of the object. Generally, laser measures are more accurate and deliver better results than traditional tape measures. So read this article that teaches you how to read a tape measure. There are 10 decimeters in a meter, 10 centimeters in a decimeter, and 10 millimeters in a centimeter. Instead, sit the base of the tape measure against one side of the object to be measured. 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. This article has been viewed 2,909,813 times. Measuring tape is pretty straightfoward, but there's no shame in getting a tad disoriented. Thank you! Make sure your meter is set to the right measuring position (front, rear, corner extension piece). For this reason, it's usually fine to refer to half-centimetre markings in decimal terms (i.e., 1 1/2 centimetres becomes 1.5 centimetres.). Commonly a tape measure can be seen in a carpenter’s tool box. Add to cart. It's important to know how to read a tape measure. Add to cart. Count to the second eighth-inch marking after the inch marking — this is the quarter-inch (and the line in the same spot on the other side of the half-inch mark is the three-quarter inch.). Note: To find a length that is less than 1 inch, just read the tape measure of the length. As the length of the marks progressively shortens, the measurements shorten, as well. Use the same pattern for recognizing these miniscule measurements. Use the big, numbered markings for inches. 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. Most US tape measures have both inches and foot marks. Different types of measuring tapes used in sewing 1 The regular measuring tape. Most tape measures have common elements to be able to use them easily. I've been in it for over 30 years, "These examples on how to read a tape measure really helped me refresh my memory on how to make accurate, "I've always taught that using a measuring tape was difficult because of all the minuscule lines on the tape, but, "Your article shows the exact points on making reading a ruler so easy. ", "Specific steps helped. Exactly where is the measurement taken? When reading a tape measure, the edge of the object may fall between two lines on the blade. This tape is used for our Model 101 Water Level Meters, Model 101D Water Level DrawDown Meter, Model 107 TLC Meter, 201 Water Level Temperature Meter and our Model 122 Interface Meters.The PVDF is ideally suited for our Model 122 Interface Meters, as they are often used in applications where the tapes may be exposed to contaminants. Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. To read a measuring tape, line the zero mark up at the edge of the item you're measuring, then stretch the tape all the way across the item. If it's in inches, there are big marks for inches and smaller marks for parts of an inch. Take the reading from the tape and add it to the length of the housing (noted on its base) to get an accurate reading. On a tape measure labeled with imperial units, the most prominent marks are usually the one-inch marks. Measuring tapes in the United States and Canada usually have both metric and … After the number 17, count four lines, noticing that you stop on the third longest line. Extensometers or extension-meters are extensively used to measure the change in the length of an object. When taking an external measurement the tang slips over the object to be measured, this both holds the tape measure in place, and compensates for the thickness of the tang to give an accurate measurement. Measuring tape is pretty straightfoward, but there's no shame in getting a tad disoriented. The markings represent meters, centimeters, and millimeters. Was not sure about little markings, but, "Clear information, and useful tips. You’ve no doubt heard the carpentry proverb “Measure twice, cut once” and may even have made it a mantra for your own projects. Taking a measurement in metric units works just the same as measuring any other unit. Why is there an arrow marking on 16, 32, 48, etc. Your support helps wikiHow to create more in-depth illustrated articles and videos and to share our trusted brand of instructional content with millions of people all over the world. Metric tape measures often use special symbols, such as red numbers, for every 10 centimeters or 100 centimeters (1 meter), but often do not have a unique symbol for each meter. e.g. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. When using a metric tape measure, the measurements appear in centimeters, millimeters and, sometimes, meters. Twelve of these equal one foot. Slowly allow the blade to return to the housing. 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. With contractor measuring tapes, used for measuring large areas, you often cannot get a measurement using just the tape, as the body or case of the measuring tape gets in the way. Safety Tips The tang also has a small hole in the end, just above the serrated edge, specifically designed to be hooked onto a nail or screw—very helpful when measuring a flat surface and working without a partner. Reading it used to be a problem for me. Look on the case body for the width indicator. Meter or 1m: The one-meter marking is located at the one 100th centimeter marking or 10th decimeter marking. Check the length of your arm against a ruler or measuring tape to find out how close to 1 meter this distance is for you. This section deals with how to use the two most common styles of tape measure. Let's say that we measure past the 33 centimetre mark to the sixth millimetre marking. Extend the tape measure, the tape is in increments of 16ths, 8ths, 4ths, 1/2's and inches. Once you have noted it, unhook the tang, holding the blade with your hand so that its recoil won’t cause injury, then press the lock to release the blade. By using our site, you agree to our. For example, if you are measuring across the front of your dresser and the edge of the dresser lines up right after the 24 inch marking, this means that your dresser is between 24 and 25 inches wide. First, let's review some background. Many are 3". What’s more, this seemingly one-note tool can actually be used for tasks besides simply measuring the length between point A and point B. Take your measurement from the tape and then add the 3" for the complete width. The first inch on a tape measure is actually short by 1/16 of an inch, because the metal on the tang is exactly 1/16 of an inch. The nearest line on the blade to the end of the object is the final measurement. References Numbers shown represent meters, decimeters (sometimes shown in red-see example picture), and centimeters. Length Whilst the length of most tapes is printed on the case, it is a legal obligation for manufacturers to print it on the blade as well. Example: Measure a space on your wall. If you have an object that measures longer than a whole centimeter, you will write your measurement as a decimal, such as 5.1 centimeters, or as 51 millimeters. This article has 17 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. They are designed for strain measurements or to carry out tensile tests. First, let's review some background. Step 1: Examine your tape measure. Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. Thank you, wikiHow. The denominations of these tape measures are 1, 2, 10, 20, 30 and 50 meters. To account for this, the tang slides out 1/16 of an inch when it is hooked onto an object, allowing the true measurement to be taken. Wrapping Up. You are probably familiar with rulers, meter sticks, tape rules, folding rules, and tape measures.You will also find rulers on many machines such as saws, sewing machines, photocopiers, and paper cutters. Tape Measure Marks . The distance between every line on the tape measure is 1/16 of an inch. Cloth measuring tape 2. Wrapping Up. ", "Read this in math class, it really helped! Some reveals English measurement (feet and inches) while others use Metric measurement (meters and centimeters). We use cookies to make wikiHow great. It could be very approximate but first choose some known distance - for example, the size of a room and then walk a few times up and down counting the number of steps and keeping the size of the step as uniform as possible. Designated Inches. A prime (apostrophe) is used for feet, while a double prime (quotation mark) is used for inches. So for measurements taken from the inside edge of an object, such as measuring the length of a wall from corner to corner, the tang slides back against the blade and the metal of the tang is added to account for the “missing” 1/16 of an inch. 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. When the length stops, take a reading on the tape ... Find the length. Reading a Tape Measure. 7 Easy Makeovers That Totally Transform. The smallest measuring unit is one millimeter (1 mm), followed by one centimeter (1 cm) and one meter (1 m). For example, if you want to find the distance around your wrist, place the zero end of the tape measure on top of your wrist, wrap the slack around and underneath, then line it up with the zero end on top. These are typically marked by long, thin lines and fairly large numbers. ", "We can use it for training purposes. if your 5 ticks past the number 4 tick then the measurement is 4 5 ⁄ 16 “. This practice also prevents the tape from being bent repeatedly, which causes damage and premature wear. 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters; therefore, "n" centimeters = n x 2.54. You can learn more about the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 tape measures by reading our article – The Advantages of a Class 1 Tape Measure. Add to cart. If your tape is marked with the English or Standard system, it … Freemans Measures Hi- Plastika 30 Meters ₹ 387.00 . Steps of Reading a Steel Measuring Tape. They are available in a variety of styles and lengths ranging from 3 ft to 35 ft making them ideal for jobs both small and large. A tape measure basically uses a specific measurement system. This is an easy way to estimate yards and meters of cord, fabric, or ribbon. This curve lets the blade be pulled out further without losing stiffness, helping take longer measurements with more accuracy. KVN Easy Read 5M 19mm ₹ 202.00 . When you reach the other corner push the butt of the tape case into the corner (the butt or back of the case has been flattened for this purpose). You are probably familiar with rulers, meter sticks, tape rules, folding rules, and tape measures.You will also find rulers on many machines such as saws, sewing machines, photocopiers, and paper cutters. Pull the blade out to the desired radius (half the diameter of the circle) and press the lock. Insert a nail or screw in the middle of the material to be measured, then hook the tang to the head. When reading a tape measure, find the closest whole inch to the end point. If the increment on the tape measure is not labeled, then determine the marking’s increment and calculate the respective fraction and length. Step 5: Write your measurement Write your measurement in feet, inches, and fractions of an inch. Timothy Dale, 11 Decorative Pillow Trends to Expect in 2021, 10 Things You Never Thought to Keep in Your Car, Sweet Dreams: 15 Inventive Beds You Can Make Yourself, 14 House Problems That Don't Require a General Contractor, 17 Creative Ways to Reuse Cardboard Boxes, Ugly Appliance? Match correctly to win. Look at the tape and see the last number before the stop point, for example, 17. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Read-a-Measuring-Tape-Step-1-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Read-a-Measuring-Tape-Step-1-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Read-a-Measuring-Tape-Step-1-Version-6.jpg\/aid4365-v4-728px-Read-a-Measuring-Tape-Step-1-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"410","licensing":"