How to read a cm tape measure

On a tape measure that uses imperial units — as opposed to the metric system — the most prominent markings are typically the inch marks, designated by long, thin lines and larger numbers. You will see a foot designation marked every 12 inches sometimes in a box as in the picture, or sometimes the number will be shown in red.

Last Updated: February 14, Fact Checked. Crackerjacks Handyman Services offers an effective cost-saving solution for commercial and residential repair and maintenance needs, specializing in smaller projects. Crackerjacks Handyman Services carries liability insurance and all technicians go through a background check. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.

How to read a cm tape measure

Tape measures are one of the most commonly used measuring tools. Everyone from contractors and tailors to tradesman and everyday homeowners use measuring tapes to get exact measurements of every kind. While it might seem like a simple tool, many tape measure markings are available in both the metric system and imperial measurements, so it's important to know how to read a tape measure to ensure you get a precise reading and accurate measurement. As the old saying goes: "Measure twice, cut once. Before we explain how to read a tape measure , let's talk about the parts of a tape measure. Though the parts might not look exactly the same on every tape measure, most are pretty basic and fall into these few categories:. Most tape measures you'll see in the United States have the boldest markings in inches and feet. So when looking at the tape starting at the hook, there will be number markings for every inch, as well as number markings for every foot on the top line of the tape. Once the tape measure goes past 1 foot in length, the inch markings on the top line increase to 13, 14, 15, etc. Some measuring tapes also have additional smaller numbers that equate with the last foot mark. For example, the tape measure might designate 22 inches equal 1 foot, 10 inches. Keep in mind when you're learning how to read a tape measure in inches, the majority of tapes will divide each inch into 16 sections. Metric tape measures feature 10 marks to every 1 centimeter. The bold markings on a metric tape measure indicate centimeters. Using a measuring tape properly is essential to getting an accurate measurement.

We're glad this was helpful. Updated: February 14,

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! The measurements towards the bottom of the image are metric. In other words they're in centimetres and milimetres.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. 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. 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. 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. To use a tape measure, pull the tang out from the housing and hook it on the edge of the object to be measured. Stretch the blade across the object, press the lock, and then observe where the blade meets the end of the object. The nearest line on the blade to the end of the object is the final measurement.

How to read a cm tape measure

Home » Home Improvement » Handy Tips. Are those little lines making you go cross-eyed? Learn how to read a tape measure correctly so you can complete your project with confidence!

Temo kings league nombre completo

There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. To read a metric measuring tape, find the nearest whole centimeter to the end point you're measuring. For example, the tape measure might designate 22 inches equal 1 foot, 10 inches. Whatever you do, never allow the blade and hook to return uncontrolled at full speed when rewinding. They are the large and numbered markings on the metric row. Norm Abram, Master Carpenter. It's helpful to have a variety of measuring devices on hand to be prepared for any type of project. Don't be worried if you can't find it—some tape measures only measure to the eighth mark. Centimeters are the next sub-unit leading up to the meter. Not Helpful 2 Helpful 4. Log in Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Here are a few tips on how to make sure you're using your tape measure and reading those special markings correctly.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Few things finish a room as well as a lovely set of curtains. Most tape measures you'll see in the United States have the boldest markings in inches and feet. About This Article. So, divide the number of millimeters by to find out the number of meters. Step One: Start by placing the metal end of the tape measure flush against the edge of whatever you're measuring. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 3,, times. Use this conversion if what you measured is less than 1 centimeter. Then, look at the point where the tape meets the end of the item you're measuring and read the nearest large number. Thank you, wikiHow. Written by Ian Johnson. All rights reserved. Make the conversion from millimeters to meters. I'm really glad that there are websites like this to help people all around the world. These are smaller, sometimes thinner markings, evenly spaced between the half-inch and inch marks on a tape measure.