Selecting the Right Measuring Device for the Job

Distance Measuring Devices Safety Tips

 

 

Always wear eye protection

 

Do not open the case. Spring Motor is under tension and opening may cause injury.

 

To protect hands, don’t allow tape to retract into case at full speed

 

Folding Rule

 

 

Measuring device consisting of 6" to 8" hardwood, steel or aluminum lengths connected by spring joints that unfold for measuring distances.

 

Some models include an extension slide for measuring closed-in areas such as doorways and window frames where a regular folding rule will not work. The rule is unfolded as far as possible, then the slide is extended and its measurement added to the overall measurement for a total measurement reading.

 

Different models are designed for specific measuring needs of masons, engineers, carpenters and plumbers.

 

Retractable Tape Measure

 

 

Ranges in blade length from 6' to 35', with 10’, 16' and 25' being common sizes.

 

The concave blade measuring rule varies in width from 1/4" to 1-1/4"—wider tapes are easier to extend over longer distances without collapsing.

 

A spring mechanism contained in the housing automatically retracts the tape.

 

A locking mechanism locks the tape in place. Some models have buttons that slide to lock the blade, while others have levers and toggles that permit the tape to retract when squeezed.

 

Many have markings for laying out studs on 16" centers or other specialized markings.

 

Measuring Wheel

 

 

Consists of a wheel, handle and odometer designed for lengthy exterior measurements—up to 10,000 feet.

 

A push button reset returns the counter to zero.

 

Wheel diameters range from 4” to 25”, with professionals generally opting for the large-wheeled units that are suitable for rough terrain.

 

Tape Reel

 

 

Typically 100' long and designed to measure long distances.

 

Tape is contained in durable case and is generally rewound by a crank on the side of the case, with a small hook on the end for hooking onto objects to be measured.

 

Common tool of builders for measuring foundations

 

Digital Tape Measure

 

 

Similar to a conventional tape measure but with electronic features added, such as a digital readout to make measurement readings more precise and the ability to convert fractions to decimals or even metric equivalents.

 

Another useful feature is a function that compensates for the size of the tape case when taking inside measurements, such as a window frame or a door jamb.

 

Some models have a memory function which holds a measurement without having to write it down. Other models have a voice recorder to make it easy to keep track of multiple measurements

 

Ultrasonic Measuring Device

 

 

Tapeless electronic devices allow a single person to measure interior spaces (generally up to 50 feet) without assistance.

 

These electronic tapes often include built-in calculations for area (square footage) and volume (cubic footage) and can store measurements in memory

 

Yardstick Metal Rule

 

 

Used for measuring and cutting roll and sheet material using straight edge as a fence.

 

Also called a straight-edge rule, as thicker, rigid models can be used as a saw guide.

 

Some models measure in 1/8” and 1/16” increments on one side and in 1/32” and 1/64” increments on the other

 

Distance Measuring Devices PRO Corner

 

 

Professional-grade models feature blade coatings that extend blade life up to five time longer than standard blades.

 

Pros usually look for high-visibility tape measures for easy spotting on the job site.

 

Different professionals will look for different lengths of tape measures. Framers generally want 30’ tapes, while woodworkers like 16’ measures. If you cater to professional customers, make sure you have a wide variety in stock.

 

Courtesy of NRHA.org