Right type of measuring tool
Measuring is something that is very important with do-it-yourself projects. Metal and wood do not have the ability to grow back or have a ‘try again’ button so it’s always important to know your tape measure is accurate. Measuring devices come in different lengths and styles. Retractable tape measures are most common varying in sizes from the small 3Ft to the long 100ft and sometimes greater. These have different styles like basic, magnetic, rust resistant, or double sided. Some measuring tools are triangular in share or straight edge. These are used for different things such as angles, or marking straight lines for a cut you’re looking to make.
Reading a Tape measure
Not all tape measures are accurate. For example, have you ever placed two of them together and noticed that the tack marks are don’t quite line up the further down the tape measure you look the more offset they become? Before long one tape will be inches off from the other. The best way to manage this is to use the same tape measure for each measurement. One issue many people fail to realize is the metal clip at the end of the tape measure that acts as your starting point. These over time tend to come lose and wobbly which cause some of the differences in the actual measurement. For this same reason many people may push and pull on the tape for the same measurement. Ever place a tape measure against a hard surface like a wall and when you go to make a mark as your cut line you hook the clip on the end of your material and pull out rather than push in? This action also cause play in the length that some people may not be aware of leading to a quarter inch or more extra than what is needed. Always check you measuring equipment to ensure you do not have play in your tape measure. In some instances, a digital ruler also come in handy.
Measure twice/Cut once
Wood, metal, or other material you may be cutting cannot regenerate. Many people have made the mistake of taking a measurement once with the understanding that they are accurate. Unfortunately, their measurement many have been off by one eighth, or one quarter inch. I personally have made the error of switching numbers around being a little dyslexic. The best way to combat this is to measure twice and cut once. This old saying has a true and literal meaning because I have caught myself being just slightly off with my measurements and using this two times measurement can prevent many faults.
Conclusion
With so many do it yourself projects its always good to know which tool is best for the job. Knowing how to read a tape measure accurately, using the correct type of tape and always measuring more than once before the cut, are just some of the ways to improve on your building skills. Please feel free to share below some of your comments or stories that you have experienced while working on a DIY project.