How To Read Measuring Tape: Inches, Feet & Meters

Ever found yourself staring at a measuring tape, wondering how to make sense of those numbers and lines? You’re not alone! Learning how to read a measuring tape might seem a bit confusing at first, but fear not – it’s simpler than you think.

In this guide, we’re going to break down the basics of how to read a measuring tape using everyday words and examples. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project, planning a home improvement task, or just curious about mastering this handy skill, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your measuring tape, and let’s unravel the mystery together!

They are a common measuring tool used in both professional trades and simply around the home.

Marking On Measuring Tape: The Measure tape is marked with a different unit such as centimeters, inches and feet.

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How To Read Measuring Tape

Everyone should know how to read measuring tape because sometimes we need to measure. That’s why it’s so important to learn how to measure with a measuring tape.

First, we will see how the marking is done on measuring tape,

How To Read Measuring Tape: Inches, Feet & Meters — How To Read Measuring Tape

The measuring tape is divided into two parts horizontal TOP Part and the BOTTOM Part.

How To Read Inches On Measuring Tape

The top part of the measuring tape was fractioned with inches. It means you can read dimensions in feet on the top part of the tape.

Each Part is equal to 1 Inch.

Again, This part is divided into 16 parts.

2nd Black line is equal to 1/8th of an inch
4th Black line is equal to 1/4th of inch
6th Black line is equal to 3/8th of inch
8th Black line is equal to 1/2nd of inch
The 10th Black line is equal to 5/8th of inch
12th Black line is equal to 3/4th of inch
The 14th Black line is equal to 7/8th of inch

There is a number written on the top part of the measuring tape like 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches and so on.

As we know 12 inches = 1 foot

Therefore, at every 12th-inch foot marking is done.

12″ = 1 ft

24″ = 2 ft

36″ = 3 ft

48″ = 4 ft so on.

How To Read Centimeters On Measuring Tape

The bottom part of the measuring tape was fractioned by centimetres. It means you can read dimensions in millimetres, centimetres, and meters on the top part of the tape.

A centimetre is also divided into 10 parts and each part is equal to 1 millimetre.

10 mm = 1 cm

100 cm = 1 m

Here, the smallest division reading can be written on the bottom part is 1 mm and the largest division reading can be written on tape is 1 m.

Example:

Let’s understand measuring tape reading with some practical examples,

Parts of A Tape Measure

There are different parts of measuring tape and each has its own importance.

Case: The case is used to cover tape. This is also responsible for making tape durable and long-lasting for use. The case is made from metal, plastic and other rubber materials.

Case Length: On the back of the tape measure, you will find the case length. It is essentially the length of the case but is a great addition to your tape. It comes in handy when you want to measure around corners. Use the housing for inside measurements instead of bending the tape.

Thumb Lock: The thumb lock is designed to keep your tape in place at your desired length. It stops your tape from automatically retracting back into its housing when carrying out measurements. Simply release the thumb lock to put the tape measure back in its case.

Blade/Tape: The most important part of your tape measure, the blade is what gives you your measurements. Imperial units are usually on the top row and metrics are on the bottom. More on the tape itself later…

Hook: The hook, located at the end of the tape comes in handy when measuring hard surfaces such as tables. You may notice that the hook is loose; this is intentional to ensure accuracy. If the hook has a hole in it, this is so it can grip onto screws.

Belt Clip: Does what it says on the tin. The belt clip simply allows the measuring tape to be hooked onto your belt so you can always have it to hand.

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