How To

How to Use a Metric Tape Measure

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)

There will come a time, because of the growth in today's global economy and knowledge base, when you will receive building instruction or plans with the measurements using the metric system. This system of counting and measuring is used everywhere in the world except the United States. Complete your tool kit with a metric tape measure and be ready when you need it.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Use the metric tape measure the same way you use an inches and feet measuring system. Most metric tape measures sold in the U.S. have meters and centimeters printed on one side and inches and feet on the other. As a matter of act, it is difficult to find a metric-only tape measure in the U.S, These rulers are easy to flip over to make the conversion if you do not know it by heart.

  2. Step 2

    Take the opportunity to learn more about the metric system and the correct conversions. Many people say that it is a superior form of measurement, since it is more precise and easier to use. Many measurements can be more exact with metric measurements. If you use it a lot, then you will learn metrics without much effort at all.

  3. Step 3

    Get a metric tape measure that is 10 meters long, or 33 feet, for most home improvement and other large measuring tasks. You can use it to measure furniture or windows. Also buy a 12 inch/30.48 cms ruler with metric and standard measurements for craft, office and school use.

  4. Step 4

    Look for a metric tape measure with a tension weight on one end for taking body measurements. You wrap the tape around a part and the small weight, which is less than six ounces or so, pulls on the tape measure so you don't have to. It gives much more accurate measurements each time you use it. Often when taking body measurements, you can tighten the tape with varying pressure, so the results vary each time.

Tips & Warnings
  • Remember that 1 inch equals about 2.54 centimeters in the metric system.

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