How To Read A Tape Measure In Inches
Looking to understand how to read a tape measure for DIY projects or home improvements? Read on as we’ll cover the basics of reading measurements on a tape measure and tips for accurate measurements!
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Understanding how to read a tape measure in inches is a crucial skill for anyone involved in DIY projects, home improvements, or any kind of construction work. Despite seeming straightforward, there are nuances to using this tool effectively, especially given that not all tape measures are the same.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of tape measures, explore the different types, break down the process of reading one, and offer tips and tricks to help you measure like a pro.
Not All Tape Measures Are The Same
Tape measures come in various forms, lengths, and units of measurement. The most common type you’ll encounter is the retractable tape measure, but even these can vary significantly.
Types of Tape Measures
- Standard Retractable Tape Measures: These are the most common and usually measure in both inches and centimeters. They come in various lengths, typically you’ll see 12, 25, or 100 feet.
- Pocket Tape Measures: Smaller and more compact, these are perfect for quick measurements on the go. They typically measure up to 10 feet.
- Digital/Laser Tape Measures: These incorporate a digital display to provide measurements, often with added features like memory storage or unit conversion. You’ll see them both using a standard tape measure paired with a laser as well as ones that purely have a laser and digital display to measure.
Our favorite standard tape measure is the FastCap Easy Read Tape Measure. It clearly marks and labels each increment, helping take a lot of the thinking out of using the tape measure.
Measurement Units
Most tape measures in the United States measure in inches, but you can also find those that measure in centimeters or millimeters. Some tape measures will have dual markings for versatility.
How To Read A Tape Measure (Inches)
Reading a tape measure accurately involves understanding the markings and knowing how to use the tool effectively. You’ll start by reading the closest full inch marking and then break it down and identify the nearest fractional inch marking. Here’s how an inch breaks down.
Breaking Down the Inch
An inch is typically divided into fractions, and a standard tape measure will include the following fractions: 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2.
- 1/16 Inch: The smallest marking, often denoted by the shortest lines.
- 1/8 Inch: Slightly longer than the 1/16 inch, found between every two 1/16-inch markings.
- 1/4 Inch: Longer still, found between every two 1/8-inch markings.
- 1/2 Inch: The longest markings besides the full inch, found at the midpoint between each inch.
Reading Measurements on a Tape Measure
So if you read a tape measure left to right, the order of markings would be as follows:
- 1/16”
- ⅛”
- 3/16”
- ¼”
- 5/16”
- ⅜”
- 7/16”
- ½”
- 9/16”
- ⅝”
- 11/16”
- ¾”
- 13/16”
- ⅞”
- 15/16”
Tape Measure – Fractions To Decimals
Here’s a quick cheat sheet for converting fractions to decimals and vice versa for measurements. Take a screenshot, favorite it, and then use it on your phone out in your workshop or around your home for quick and easy access when building.
Fraction | Decimal |
1/16” | 0.0625 |
⅛” | 0.125 |
3/16” | 0.1875 |
¼” | 0.25 |
5/16” | 0.3125 |
⅜” | 0.375 |
7/16” | 0.4375 |
½” | 0.5 |
9/16” | 0.5625 |
⅝” | 0.625 |
11/16” | 0.6875 |
¾” | 0.75 |
13/16” | 0.8125 |
⅞” | 0.875 |
15/16” | 0.9375 |
Steps to Read a Tape Measure
- Extend the Tape: Pull the tape out to the length you need to measure.
- Secure the Tape: Use the tape measure’s lock to hold it in place, if necessary.
- Identify the Closest Inch: Look for the nearest full inch marking to the point you’re measuring.
- Identify the Fractional Inch: Determine the nearest fractional marking past the last full inch.
- Combine Measurements: Add the inch and fractional inch together for your final measurement. Then you have your measurement!
Tape Measure Examples
Let’s go through a few examples to illustrate how to read a tape measure.
Example 1: What is 3/16” on a tape measure?
To find 3/16”, start at a whole number like 15, then it’s going to be the third line over or the second shortest line.
Example 2: What is ⅝” on a tape measure?
Again, start at a whole number, then you can could over ten lines or five of the lines that aren’t the shortest line.
Example 3: Converting from Decimal
Sometimes you may need to convert a decimal to a fraction. For instance, say some DIY plans call for 3.375”.
- Convert the decimal to a fraction – Start by identifying the place value of the decimal and then create your fraction. 0.375 is the same as 375/1000 because the last digit (5) is in the thousandths place.
- Simplify the fraction – Now, simplify the fraction 375/1000 by finding the greatest common divisor (GCD) of 375 and 1000.
- Factors of 375: 1, 3, 5, 15, 25, 75, 125, 375
- Factors of 1000: 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 20, 25, 40, 50, 100, 125, 200, 250, 500, 1000
- The greatest common divisor is 125.
- Divide the numerator and the denominator by the GCD
- 375÷125/1000÷125 = ⅜
Or if you don’t want to math, screenshot that cheat sheet above and have it handy to use!
Unique Markings On A Tape Measure
Some tape measures will have unique markings on them to help with specialty layouts that are used commonly in the construction industry. However, you may not use them often (or even ever) if you’re more focused on DIY and woodworking projects.
Stud Marks aka the Red Numbers
Many tape measures include markings at 16-inch intervals (16, 32, 48, etc.) to indicate the standard spacing for wall studs and roof joists in construction. These are typically marked with a different color like red or a symbol like a rectangle. It’s just a way to help people work quicker without needing to do mental math for common framing tasks.
Tips For Measuring
Use The Same Tape Measure For The Entire Project
Many of us naturally own several measuring tapes. However, once you start working on a project, always use the same tape measure throughout the whole project. Measuring tapes are technically all supposed to be the same, but it could vary from manufacturer slightly or the tab could loosen over time. These could lead to slightly different measurements from one measuring tape to another. It’s always a best practice, even though it likely won’t make a huge difference.
Mark It With A Carrot
The way you mark can impact how accurate your measurement is. We like the carrot method where you draw a “carrot” aka arrow pointing at your measurement. This helps to point exactly to the spot and not worry if you drew a crooked line. Also, a sharper pencil will also make a finer mark and allow for a more accurate cut.
Understand the Tab
The hook (aka tab) at the end of the tape measure can move slightly to account for its thickness. This allows you to have “true zero” when you measure. For example, when you measure the inside of something, the hook can shift in about a 1/16” to adjust for its thickness. If you’re measuring by hooking the tab to the end of something, then the tab will move slightly outwards to not add it’s thickness to your measurement. Basically, you just need to ensure you let the hook do its own thing and not worry too much about it.
Measure Straight
This is the basic fundamental of measuring, but it’s very important. Slow down and ensure your measuring tape is straight to get an accurate measurement. If you’re moving too quickly, it’s easy to have the tape measure at an angle or slant or even bend it, and that will end up leading to an inaccurate measurement.
Measure Three Times, Cut Once
People always say measure twice, but honestly, we double-check measurements more like three times before cutting or marking. This simple step can prevent costly mistakes.
More Tool Basics & DIY Projects
Mastering the use of a tape measure is an essential skill for any DIY enthusiast, woodworker, or homeowner. By understanding the various types of tape measures, the nuances of their markings, and employing best practices, you can ensure accuracy in all your projects. Remember, practice makes perfect! With the right knowledge and techniques, you’ll be measuring like a pro in no time.
If you’re ready to start making items, check out some of our DIY plans to build beautiful, functional things! Or our DIY Resource Hub!
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Hope this comprehensive guide on reading a tape measure in inches helps you understand and refine your skills. If you have any specific questions or need further clarification on any point, feel free to ask in the comments below!
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Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Please note that I’ve linked to these products purely because I recommend them and they are from companies I trust. There is no additional cost to you.
Great breakdown of how to read a tape measure! The tips on using the same tape measure throughout a project and marking measurements with a carrot are super helpful. Definitely bookmarking this for my next DIY project. Thanks for making it easy to understand!
Great, glad it was helpful!
I am in need of measuring tapes in 5 mtrs. (20 Nos.) & 15 mtrs. (05 Nos.) in inch series having fractions in inches.
Can you please help me in sourcing it?
My email ID is – nitin.shendge@indianagroup.com & phone number is +91 7045954717.
Regards.
Nitin Shendge
Indiana Gratings Pvt. Limited.
Pune (India)
Hi Nitin,
You can take a look at our recommended brands linked in the article to see if they’re available to you internationally. Unfortunately, I otherwise cannot really help with sourcing tape measures in inches for you.
Best,
Amanda