The Tape Measure - A Workshop Guide
- The Tool Pro
- Jun 3, 2025
- 2 min read
From ancient surveying ropes to high-tech laser devices, the tape measure has stood the test of time. It's one of the simplest yet most indispensable tools in construction and DIY work.
A Brief History of the Tape Measure
Civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans used knotted ropes, sticks, and chains for measuring. One example: the Gunter’s chain, a 66-foot-long tool with 100 links, used for surveying land.
In 1829, James Chesterman of England created the first steel tape measure, originally for tailoring. Then in 1868, Alvin J. Fellows of Connecticut patented the spring-return steel tape, which forms the basis of today’s retractable designs.
By the 20th century, brands like Stanley and Lufkin were mass-producing durable, retractable tape measures—quickly replacing the folding ruler in toolboxes everywhere.
Types of Tape Measures
Here are the most common tape measure types used today:
Spring Return Steel Tape
Standard for construction and carpentry
Typically 12–35 feet long
Features a spring recoil mechanism
End hook allows one-person operation
Long Tape / Surveyor’s Tape
For large distances (50 ft to 500 ft)
Made of fiberglass, steel, or reinforced cloth
Crank-handle design for manual winding
Common in site layout and landscaping
Laser Tape Measure
Uses laser beams for ultra-precise distance measuring
Highly accurate and fast
Great for indoor use, estimates, and room layouts
some models can hold data from measurements making multiple measurements easy
Pocket Rule / Keychain Tape
Compact and portable
Often 6–10 feet in length
Perfect for light-duty, quick reference work
Digital Tape Measure
Combines a traditional tape with a digital screen
Often includes features like Bluetooth, memory storage, or level tools
Useful for advanced projects but not yet common on all job sites
Why Tape Measures Are Still Essential in Construction
Despite high-tech tools, tape measures remain irreplaceable. Here’s why:
1. Framing & Carpentry - Precise spacing for studs, joists, and framing elements depends on accurate tape measurement—especially with common stud layouts like 16”, 19.2" & 24" on center.
2. Site Layout & Concrete Work - Long tapes are crucial for layout work, measuring slabs, forming concrete foundations, and marking trench lines.
3. Trim & Finish Work - Every inch counts in baseboards, moldings, and cabinetry. The tape measure ensures those precise cuts are correct the first time.
4. Material Estimation - Measuring square footage or wall lengths helps avoid under- or over-ordering drywall, flooring, or tile. Laser tape measures are great for this task.
5. Renovation & Remodelling - It’s a go-to during every phase: from demolition planning to layout tweaks and installations.
Why the Tape Measure Endures
Even in the digital age, the tape measure stands strong:
Fun Facts About Tape Measures
The hook end is intentionally loose—it shifts the thickness of the hook to allow both push and pull measurements to be accurate.
Some tape measures show a black diamond every 19.2 inches—a layout guide used in different stud, truss and joist layout design.
Most tapes include markings every 16 inches to align with standard stud spacing.
From the pyramids to penthouses, the tape measure has been a constant companion to builders throughout history. While laser and digital tools offer exciting advancements, the tape measure continues to be the foundation of hands-on precision on any job site.
Comments