A measuring tape. There is more than just one kind. There are mini tapes that will measure up to 3 feet. Then there are large tapes that can measure up to 330 feet or 100 meters with a wide variety of choices in between.



Also, there are two different base units you can choose. There is the standard and most common method where you pull the tape out and push the retaining button to keep the tape extended. Then there is a measuring tape made by the manufacturer, Komelon USA, that stays out until the button is depressed then it retracts.


For anything beyond 330 feet, there is a Rolatape measuring wheel. This device is great for measuring longer distances up to 99,999 feet (almost 19 miles). The wheel is 15 1/4 inches in diameter or 4 feet in circumference. A pin hits the counter mechanism with each foot it rolls clicking off the distance covered. It is really good when you want to measure larger distances. As for usage around the home, it is not practical unless you have acreage and you want to measure what you have. This is also not a substitute for a survey.



We move on to the ultimate measuring device called a NuMetrics NITESTAR. This electronic device connects to the electronics and mechanics in your vehicle. I had this device in a Ford Bronco when I was doing outside plant engineering years ago. It made the work go much faster in any weather. This device was replaced by a GPS based system that took most of the experienced labor out of the field





Here is an interesting device called a height stick. This extendable pole measuring device allows the user to measure of almost anything up to the accumulative height of the stick.






One great invention I have found as an add-on for the measuring tape is the Tape-Dolly. See the pictures below. It was given to me by one of my roofing contractors. This is really useful if I am trying to get an accurate measurement of a roof or any sloped surface. The tape will cooperate and slide straight up to the ridge, rolling over obstacles along the way.





So the next time you are in your big box or browsing the web, check out some of the different measuring devices there are on the market.




Air Flow Gauge or Thermo-Anemometer This is to measure air flow through the home HVAC ducts.

Electronic Measuring Devices Here are some electronic measuring devices I have used and I tell what I think of each of them.

The Moisture Meter Check out the different uses of a moisture meter. It is a neat little device.

Electrical Meters Here are my thoughts on electrical meters and which ones that have worked well for me over the years.

Drywall Tools Here are useful some ones for anyone who is doing drywall repairs around the house.

Data Cable Testing Devices Ready to test cables after you have installed the data cable in your home office? Here are three devices that do a great job.

Garage Door Opener Remote - The Fingerprint Keyless Entry Pad The garage door opener remote that uses our fingerprint to open. No more codes to remember.What will they think of next.

A Measuring Tape to Tools and Gadgets

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