The tape is ¼ to ¾ inches wide and one foot to fifteen feet long while the larger ones can go up to 35 feet in length. Spring return tape measure has a spring mechanism that returns the tape (ribbon) into its case for convenient storage whenever the tape is pulled. The ribbon is fairly stiff yet flexible and remains in the case until you stretch it out when you need to take measurements. They come with a hard case that is about three inches wide, and the actual tape (known as the “ribbon”) which coils up in the case. These tape measures will fit in your pocket due to their small sizes. This type of tape measure is also known as a pocket tape measure. In this section, we will take a quick look at the types of tape measure available and how they work. In the case of a tape measure, the operation of the tool is influenced by the type of the tool being used. But we cannot achieve success without having a proper understanding of how these tools work.

The main aim of this article is to compare the traditional tape measure with the laser measure. Tape measures are very common on the building site Types of Tape Measure and How They Work It was originally intended for use in tailoring but made its way into different walks of life and professions such as carpentry, electricians, metal works, architecture, survey, real estate appraisal, interior designing, etc. The tool was invented by James Chesterman in Sheffield, England in the year 1829, but was not widely accepted until the 1940s. They are made from different materials such as cloth, plastic, fiberglass, and metal.

Tape measures are one of the most common distance measuring tools that are still in use today. It can also be described as a flexible ruler with marked graduations in metric (meters and centimeters) and imperial units (feet and inches) measurements. We are also going to explore their accuracy and efficiency and discuss the benefit of one over the other to help you select the best tool for your job.Ī tape measure, also known as measuring tape is a narrow strip with linear-measurement markings (both metric and imperial units) that are intended for taking distance measurements. In this edition, we are going to compare the tape measure with the laser distance measure and show you what they are and how they work. Here comes the question: is a laser distance measure a perfect replacement for your traditional tape measure? Which of these tools is more accurate, easier to use, and promises to increase and enhance your productivity? There are lots of distance measuring tools available on the market today, but the real challenge comes when it’s time for you to select the right distance measuring tool for your work.Īs technology evolves, the classic tape measure is almost considered an anachronistic tool in a modern high-tech workshop especially with the invention of the laser distance measure. This is because these professions require a great deal of distance measurement accuracy that only the right distance measuring tool can provide. You will agree with me that a good distance measuring device is an essential part of any engineer, woodworker, architect, contractor, and DIY enthusiast tool kit.

Standard error measurement tape measure