Tape Measure Guide: Choosing and Using Correctly

The humble tape measure is the most-used tool in most toolkits. Understanding what makes a good one helps you work more accurately.

Key Features

What separates good tapes from cheap ones:

• Standout: How far the tape extends before drooping
• Blade coating: Protective coating prevents wear
• Hook action: Should move to compensate for thickness
• Marking clarity: Easy to read in all conditions
• Case durability: Survives drops and impacts

Standout Matters

Good standout lets you measure solo:

• Budget tapes: 1-1.5m standout
• Professional tapes: 2-3m+ standout
• Wider blades (27-32mm) improve standout

The Moving Hook

The hook at the end should move slightly:

• Movement equals hook thickness
• Hooks inward when butted against something
• Pulls outward when hooking over an edge
• This ensures accurate measurement both ways

Tape Lengths

• 3m (10ft): Pocket-friendly, quick measurements
• 5m (16ft): Most popular general-purpose size
• 8m (26ft): Building work, room measurements
• 10m+ (33ft+): Site work, setting out

Metric vs Imperial

Most UK tapes show both:

• Metric on top edge (UK construction standard)
• Imperial on bottom (older plans, some materials)
• Some specialist tapes show brick courses

Care and Accuracy

Maintain accuracy by:

• Not letting tape snap back (damages hook)
• Cleaning dirt from blade
• Checking against a known length periodically
• Replacing tapes with worn hooks or markings

Measuring Tips

• Measure from the 100mm mark to avoid hook error
• Mark with a V not a line for precision
• Burn an inch for critical measurements
• Measure twice before cutting

Laser Measures

For longer distances:

• Quick and accurate over long spans
• Calculate area and volume
• Store multiple measurements
• Can't hook over edges like traditional tapes

A quality tape measure from our hand tools range is a worthwhile investment.