Understanding Tape Measures: Features & Benefits

Blades can be made from various materials, including fiberglass, steel, and plastic. They are typically concave for strength, rigidity, and standout. To enhance longevity, blades often include coatings and reinforcements that protect against wear and tear.

Tape measures come in various lengths, including 10, 12, 16, and 25 feet, with wider blades (over 1") offering larger, easier-to-read markings. Most tape measures have lines or inch marks that go across the entire face of the blade.

A strong case will protect the blade and internal spring mechanism that controls the recoil. Search for a case that is made of high-impact ABS plastic or die-cast metals. Tape measures with bolded rubber bumpers or guards provide additional protection against impact and a better gripping surface.

At the end of the blade, there is a riveted hook or double hook, allowing for accurate measurements. Some options include removable and/or replaceable hooks and magnetic tips for secure attachment to metal surfaces.

The blade hook often includes a slot or hole to hold the tape securely on nails or screws for hands-free measuring.

Some measuring tapes come with a serrated edge, typically located at the bottom of the blade hook, which is ideal for marking material when a marking tool isn’t available.

Most tape measures that are over 10 feet include a lock button to hold the blade in place during measurements. Controlling retraction speed is crucial to protect the blade and enhance its longevity. There are two types: forward locking, using a thumb, depress downward; bottom locking, uses your other digits to engage the lock.