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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 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.
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.
Why is end of tape measure loose?
The metal tip at the end of your tape measure is a little bit loose for a reason. 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 the red dot on a tape measure?
The red is for 16-inch-on-center spacing. The common framing spacing is for wall studs, floor joists and roof rafters. There will be red marks on the tape measure if you decide to space frame at 24 inch centers.
What is the 8-foot rule?
It’s called the 8-foot rule. A leader at a manufacturing facility recently gave the direction to his leadership team to engage with their employees every time they come within eight feet of one of their employees. It’s a simple rule that is simply brilliant!Aug 1, 2013.
Can you measure your shoe size with a tape measure?
1) FIND YOUR SHOE SIZE: Using a tape measure or ruler, measure the distance from the back of your heel to the end of your longest toe (in mm). Most people have feet of different sizes and the length of your longest foot should determine your shoe size.
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.
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′.
What are the triangles 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 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 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 is more accurate than a tape measure?
The laser measure is accurate to within 1/8″ and measures to 50 feet. It makes this measuring tool more accurate, easier and faster than a tape measure.
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 size tape measure is most commonly used by an electrician?
While laser distance-measuring tools are growing in popularity, the not-so-humble tape measure still is best for multiple measurement tasks. Most popular with integrated systems installers and electricians are 25- and 30-foot models.
What is the 21ft rule?
It’s taught to police across the country. Prosecutors, including in Utah, point to it when deciding if a police shooting was legal. It’s called the “21-foot rule,” and it means that someone with a knife running toward police, could cover about 21 feet before officers unholster their gun and fire.
