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The black diamonds which appear every 19 3/16” on metal tape measures are for spacing I-beam “timbers.” Several wood-product manufacturers offer I-beam “timbers” as a substitute for solid lumber floor joists. The diamond marks on tape rule blades are for spacing these engineered floor joists in new construction.
How do you use a black diamond on a tape measure?
The black diamonds on the tape measure represent that spacing. The first black diamond is at 19.2 inches” and after that black diamonds appear at 38.4, 57.6, 76.8, and 96 inches or 8 feet. That is one less stud for every 8 feet of wall, counting the beginning and end studs.
What are the red numbers on a tape measure?
As you extend the tape measure, you’ll probably see the numbers 16, 32, 48, 64, 80, 96 and so forth in red. The red indicates 16-inch-on-center spacing. This is a common framing spacing for wall studs, floor joists and common roof rafters.
What is the 8 foot rule on a tape measure?
For every 8-foot section of your wall, there should be six studs placed 16 inches apart. That’s why there are red numbers highlighted every 16 inches. If you use the tape measure, you can note exactly where the studs are by using the red numbers and marking the studs using a pencil.
Why is 16 inches marked on a tape measure?
Note the Marks for Studs and Joists Tape measures usually have a red mark every 16 inches. This makes it convenient to mark off wall studs or joists, which typically are 16 inches apart.
What is the metal end of a tape measure for?
The metal tip at the end of your tape measure is a little bit loose for a reason. The first inch of the tape is short by 1/16 of an inch. This isn’t an error: it’s meant to provide you with accurate readings whether you’re measuring the inside or outside edge of a surface. This feature is known as “true zero”.
What is M on a measuring tape?
On many tapes (but by no means all) you will find a small red rectangle with the letter M printed inside followed by a number. The number simply denotes the year that the blade was stamped as conforming to the Measuring Instruments Directive. On the whole this will also be the year in which that tape was manufactured.
What is the little triangle on a tape measure?
Tape measures often use small, black diamond or triangle shapes called black truss marks. They indicate truss layouts of every 19 3/16 inches. This spacing is often used by some engineered joist manufacturers. There are 5 of these marks for every 8 feet.
What is the distance between the little black diamonds?
The black diamond marker on a tape measure falls between the 16-inch and 24-inch spacing. This marker is commonly used in building a concrete block chimney. But, it has other uses too. Marked at 19.2 inches apart, using this type of placement also allows for more weight loads with fewer pieces of wood.
What is the maximum length of a long line tape?
They are available in fractional/decimal formats and lengths ranging from 50 ft to 200 ft making them ideal for many long distance measuring jobs.
What does arrow mean on measuring tape?
If you look closely most tapes have arrow marks every 19.2″ also. This is for non load bearing walls where code allows for wider stud spacing and you can save one stud every 8′.
How far apart are studs?
The general spacing for wall studs is 16 inches on center, but they can be 24 inches. At my home, the exterior wall studs are spaced at 24-inch centers, but the interior walls are 16 inches on center.
What are the two groups that tapes are classified in?
There are two basic types of tape measures with cases: spring return pocket tape measures and long tape measures. Spring return pocket tape measures will generally fit in a pocket. They are small; the case is up to about three inches across. The tape is returned to the case by a spring mechanism.
Can a tape measure cut you?
A tape measure can’t cut off a finger like a table saw or puncture your body like a nail gun, but it comes with some safety considerations you need to observe. Tape measures can cause injuries when used improperly, and they can damage breakable items in your home.
What is the most accurate tape measure?
Class 1 tapes are the most accurate tape measures on the market. Ideal for precision trades and sensitive industries, they also delivery great value for money.
Why does my tape measure start at 2?
The tape starts at 2 inches so that the measurement includes the portion of the case that is snug against the body when using the tape. As a result, the measurement you read on the tape automatically subtracts this 2 inches, and the number you read on the tape is exactly accurate!.
Why do tape measures have rivets?
Ever wonder why that hook on the end of a tape measure isn’t fixed in position? It wiggles on its rivets to make up for the hook’s thickness. But if the hook leaves you guessing when you’re measuring short distances, line up the 1-inch mark at the start, then deduct that extra inch from the final measurement.
