

If the WorkPro 100 Foot Fiberglass Measuring Tape can't handle the job, it's probably time you call in the professionals anyway. Most measuring tapes are between 15 and 25 feet long, and for most projects, that's plenty of reach, but for measuring the area of extra-large rooms or for plotting out design schemes for landscaping, patios, and other outdoor projects, you often need a tape measure with some extra reach. Pros: Great low price, time-tested design, smooth extension and retractionįoto: Source: Amazon If the area you need to measure is too long for a standard 25-foot tape measure, chances are the WorkPro 100 Foot Fiberglass Measuring Tape can handle it with ease. While this tape measure is short on bells and whistles, it's big on quality, and that's the true measure of success here. The hardware is well protected, but the overall piece is relatively lightweight.Īs the PowerLock portion of the name implies, the blade stays locked in place when you have the locking slide pushed forward, so once you have a measurement calculated, you can count on the tape staying steady while you note the length or make your marks. Its case looks like polished chrome but is in fact made from high-impact ABS plastic. This tape measure features a one-inch wide, 25-foot long blade that will stay straight without bending (often called standout) for eight or nine feet, provided you have a steady hand. This basic, no-nonsense tape measure is a fine example of the years of design experience the company has to offer.

A man named Hiram Farrand patented the first modern spring-operated retractable tape measure in the 1920s, but the product rights were subsequently sold to Stanley Works. They have been around for generations and, arguably, are the original retractable tape measure brand. Stanley tape measures are something of a benchmark for this category of tool. All you have to do is jiggle the measuring tape ever so slightly once you have it in the right position and you will create a clear dark gray mark exactly where you need it.įoto: Source: Stanley/Business Insider The Stanley PowerLock 25-Foot Tape Measure is tough enough for commercial use and durable enough to last for years, and it's very budget-friendly. The QuickDraw DIY Self Marking Measuring Tape eliminates that all-too-common problem thanks to a graphite marking wheel built directly into the base of the unit. The best overall The QuickDraw DIY Self Marking Measuring Tape helps prevent human error in carpentry, construction, and craft projects with its built-in graphite marking wheel.Įven if you have carefully measured out a length of lumber or chosen the exact right spot on the wall, your painstaking measurements won’t count for much if you make a mark in the wrong spot and then cut, drill, or sink a nail in the wrong place. We also added a selection of related buying guides. We added a product showcase at the top of the guide so you can easily shop all our picks. Prices and links are current as of 8/4/20. The best for precision: eTape16 Digital Measuring Tape.The best professional-grade tape measure: General Tools LTM1 2-In-1 Laser Tape Measure.The best extra-long measuring tape: WorkPro 100-Foot Fiberglass Measuring Tape.The best on a budget: Stanley PowerLock 25-Foot Tape Measure.The best overall: QuickDraw DIY Self Marking Tape Measure.For most people, a basic 25-foot tape measure is about all they’ll ever need, but as a reliable tape measure should last for many years, it’s OK to spend a few extra dollars and get some special features. I almost wish it would, because a few of the newer releases in the measuring tape category feature innovative and clever features, such as laser-assisted measuring and digital displays. I’ve been using the same Stanley tape measure for years because the thing just won’t break. That old adage of “Measure twice, cut once” is oft-repeated for good reason. Imagine seeking the perfect placement for a painting, calculating the size of a bedroom, or planning the design of new kitchen cabinets and countertops without a tape measure – nothing would ever look or fit quite right. The QuickDraw DIY Self Marking Measuring Tape is our top choice because its innovative built-in pencil ensures you mark the same spot you measured.Ī measuring tape or tape measure is useful for landscape design, interior decorating, construction, crafts projects, and so much more.
#Quickdraw precision measuring professional
From the professional contractor’s work to the DIY home repair, countless projects call for precise measurements.
