How to Take Measurements On a Tape Measure

Taking measurements with a tape measure is quick and easy to do. Follow these guidelines to get accurate measurements for any home improvement project.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Pad of paper

Instructions

1. Choose tape measure that has a lip on the end of the measure to secure over edges. Also make sure it has a lock feature to lock the measure in place so you can move it to get an accurate reading.

2. To measure distance, simply slip the lip on the end of the tape measure over the end of the object. When measuring floors, the end can often be slipped between the flooring and the wall to secure it. You can also slide the end of the tape measure up to the wall without securing it, but you will need to make sure the tape measure doesn't move away from the starting point before taking any readings.

3. When you have finished measuring the space, simply click the tape measure to the lock position to mark the length. You can now move the tape measure in order to find the best view for the units on the tape measure.

4. Jot down the exact measure. Most tape measures use inches and feet, and measure to 1/16 of an inch. Many measure to 1/32 or 1/64 of an inch. Each is separated with a full line, and the inch number is featured in bold numbers. As the subunits decrease, the line to mark them decreases also. Generally, 1/2 inch will be noted with a line that is about 1/2 the length of the inch mark. The order of these decreasing subunits is as follows: 1, 1/2 ,1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, 1/64.

5. Depending on what you are measuring, it may not be necessary to measure to these minute units. For practical purposes in measuring to determine the size of an object, measuring to the closest 1/2 inch is probably fine. If you are measuring to determine the exact dimensions in order to create an exact fit for the space, then be exact. Keep your need in mind when taking measurements. Trying to put an appliance in a space that is 1/2 inch too narrow simply won't work.

Tips & Warnings

• Always make a note of what the measurements refer to, stating both the width and height of the object. It is easy to forget which window you measured once you walk away from the room.

• Beware of rounding numbers. Although 1/4 of an inch may not seem like much, if you buy a window shade that is 1/4 inch wider than the inside of your window frame, it simply won't fit.