Measuring Devices Guide: 2021
Measurements are one of the most important elements when it comes to starting a home improvement project of any size or scope. From a simple task like hanging a framed photo to a more complicated endeavor like remodeling a kitchen, having the correct numbers handy can provide you with the exact data you need to get the job finished in the right way. This means you always want to take time to invest in the best
measuring devices for the job. Review this guide to the top measuring gadgets and devices for 2021 and learn what you need to know.
Calipers
When you’re trying to measure the distance between two sides of an object, you need to make sure you use a tool that has been designed for this specific purpose. Calipers are made to provide accurate readings. Calipers are available in both classic designs and modern digital options, allowing for a range of models to consider. No matter what option you go with, it can be beneficial to look at calipers made from stainless steel, as this is the most durable material available.
Laser Measuring Devices
Tools for laser measurement have become incredibly popular over the course of the last few years. These tools approximate the distance between two points by relying on a system of lasers and mirrors to read the space. Different laser tools are calibrated for different distances, so you want to be certain that the option you select can go as far as you will need it to. These days, laser devices have replaced the tape measure as the standard tool used to figure out basic measurements before a project.
Ruler
Most people have used a ruler at one point or another. This is one of the most common tools, with a majority of people having a familiarity with the tool from school. A ruler is a useful tool when you need to mark flat surfaces up to a certain length or create straight lines while drafting. Rulers vary in length, though the average individual doesn’t need one that extends too far. If the measurement is particularly long, a laser device or tape measure are better options for the job.
Compass
A compass is another one of the
measuring tools that people are familiar with from school. Architects traditionally use compasses to draw circles, much in the same way that a ruler allows a person to draw a perfect square or rectangle. The compass is also used as a way of measuring distances on blueprints or a map. Though important in some lines of work, a compass is a tool that will not always come into play for simple gigs.
Square
A measuring square is a common tool that is often used by people looking to take on carpentry tasks. The common “L square” looks like two rulers coming together to form the letter L. The tool is usually used to get a reading on a corner or a right angle. If you’re attempting to create a frame for a doorway, window, or photograph, then you will find it most helpful to take measurements with the appropriate measuring square.
Measuring Tape
As mentioned, the measuring tape is one of the most important tools that people use when it comes to construction. Up until the invention of laser tools, the tape measure was the go-to item for anyone who needed to take a reading on anything. Whether you wanted to check a doorway to ensure that a certain piece of furniture could fit through or you want to know what points on a piece of wood to cut, a tape measure is an essential item to have handy. Even if you’ve switched to more advanced measuring options, measuring tape can be useful.
Level
Another classic item that people are familiar with to some degree is the level. As the name suggests, this is a tool that comes into play when a person is trying to figure out whether or not a specific surface is level. A basic level usually features liquid and a permanent bubble, with the bubble’s positioning serving as indication of the surface angle and whether it is level. These days, more complex laser options are available.
Protractor
The protractor is one of those tools that people are again familiar with because of their days sitting behind a desk at school. Made from both plastic and metal, protractors aid in getting measurements off angles and figure out more complicated arrangements. Though not always a part of the process, a protractor is useful and affordable to have around in the event that you need one.
Measuring Wheel
If you are someone who needs to survey a large piece of land, you can’t rely on something as basic as a measuring tape. To see the best possible results, you absolutely want to invest in a more complicated device like a surveyor’s wheel. Also known as a measuring wheel, this is a type of tool that is used to measure property and other long distances. From measuring to marking, wheels can play a big part in your success while working on larger projects.
Angle Fingers
Understanding an angle makes a big difference when it comes to measurement. When you are not sure what tool to get, angle fingers could be the best possible
laser measuring device options worth your time. Learn everything you need to know about an angle by using this tool to gain accurate readings and understand whatever numbers you need to know to complete a task.
Grade Rods
In order to measure a surface with different elevations, you need to invest in gadgets that can make this task a lot easier for you. Grade rods are perfect for this, as they have been created for surveyors to obtain accurate readings on the differences in elevation. These are available in traditional and laser models. Rods are available in a variety of materials, including plastic and wood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Can I Order New Measuring Devices?
When it comes to ordering new measuring devices for your next project, you’ve got a world of exciting options to consider. Give yourself ample time to look over all of the different gadgets available at Engineer Supply and gain insight into which are right for your needs.
Is It Possible To Measure Property With a Ruler?
Though you technically could measure a piece of real estate with a basic ruler, you will be making your life a lot more complicated than it needs to be. The best way to measure property is by using a tool like a surveyor’s wheel to gain the most in-depth readings possible.
What Measuring Tools Are Most Common?
When it comes to common measuring devices, you’re most likely to see measuring tapes and laser options. These are the go-to tools for anyone who needs to take fast, accurate readings on anything from a doorway to a piece of wood.
What Material Is Best for Measuring Tools?
Picking tools that are made from steel and other strong metals can be essential when it comes to the longevity of your gadgets. Durability matters when you’re working on a difficult project, so be sure to spend a bit extra to get more from your investment.
Do People Use Protractors Outside of High School Math?
Yes! You’re likely to see protractors, compasses, and other basic math tools on the desks of professionals in the field of architecture, engineering, art, and anything else that involves math. Whether or not you listened in school, knowing how to use these items is important for adults.
There are plenty of important points to think about when it comes to completing construction jobs. From calipers to grade rods to surveyor’s wheels, knowing what’s what can make a big difference. To see your project through successfully, you want to make sure you have all of the best possible tools for the specific job in front of you. Review all of the measuring devices at Engineer Supply, learn more about all of the tools available to you, and get ready to make your next project easier from start to finish.
Best Measuring Devices
This measuring wheel is great for heavy construction, large commercial operations, utility companies, land surveying, and many other applications where accurate measuring is critical. It has several features that make it one of the best distance measuring devices, which includes the following:
- All steel construction with a spoked wheel provides strength and durability.
- A folding handle with a locking knob for compact storage and transport.
- A large, five-digit counter that’s easy to read.
- A convenient reset knob.
- A large-circumference wheel that makes it easier to measure accurately on rough terrain.
- A wheel brake that allows you move it to a second site without losing your current measurement.
- A stand that keeps the wheel upright when it’s not being used.
It also has a 15-inch wheel diameter with a range of up to 100,000 feet.
This tape measure has units in feet, tenths, and hundredths marked on a 200-foot steel blade housed in an ABS plastic case. It also has a contoured handle, hand wind, as well as an extra-large stake that allows you to make secure measurements. It’s even backed up by a one-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Because of its ergonomic design, this measuring tool will give you simplicity, versatility, and accuracy. It has a comfortable grip, an improved weight balance, dedicated function keys, and two LCD displays so it can be used with either the right or left hand — all while giving you the same ease-of-use, quality, and reliability that you want from a Scale Master. You can program up to ten custom scales, so you can use it on out-of-scale plans and plan books. It has built-in memories for easy area and volume storing. You can even add and subtract values that you have stored in memory.
This laser measuring tool has Auto Square, which will automatically calculate square footage totals with the push of a button. It also has a back-lit color display with an outstanding amount of visibility and durability. It has a variety of features that makes it one of the best measuring devices, which include the following:
- Immediately gives you accurate measurement that will automatically adjust as you move it closer to or farther from the target.
- Will give you measurements with a 1/16-inch accuracy for distances of up to 165 feet.
- Fits in any pocket for easy access.
- Has an IP54 Rating to withstand rainy or dusty jobsite conditions.
It also comes with the following items:
- Hand strap
- Target cards
- AAA batteries
- Pouch
If you’re looking for one of the best distance
measuring tools that you can use on your next project, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.
This is a great tool if you want to get fast and accurate measurements without needing a second person. It can be used for measuring heights, clearances, and horizontal distances. It also has two measuring scales — the front scale in Imperial measurements with 1/4-inch increments and the rear scale in metric units with 1/2-centimeter increments. It’s a measuring rod that can be used for direct reading, and it has no tapes that can break or wear.
This is a powerful, dual-direction laser measuring tape that can make it easier to measure buildings and rooms. The two lasers allow you to stand in the middle of the room, so you can find the distance between walls or even between the floor and ceiling. It can measure 300-foot distances or more, which makes it one of the best measuring devices for any of the following:
- Garages
- Warehouses
- Tall ceilings
- Door casings
You can even measure awkward spaces without having to climb, crawl, or balance.
This measuring tape has a stainless-steel housing, which makes it the strongest on the market. And the double nylon-coated steel blade is guaranteed to last a long time under the abuses of being on the field. It also has the following features, which makes it one of the best distance measuring devices in the industry:
- A rubber-grip shovel handle for comfortable and rapid reeling.
- A metal crank handle for durability.
- A housing that’s reinforced with rivets for superior strength.
It also comes with a limited lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
This heavy-duty measuring wheel is designed and built for the working professional. It has a variety of features, which includes the following:
- Counter-clear control located on the pistol grip.
- Counter-clear control located near the wheel.
- Trigger-operated brake.
- Can measure up to 100,000 feet.
- Balanced, in-line design.
- Heavy-duty chassis.
- Debris scraper.
- High-traction tire.
- Wide-stance folding stand.
- Belt-driven counter for long life and smooth operation.
- Sealed roller bearings.
The graduations on this measuring wheel are in feet and tenths, and comes with a padded codura carrying case.
This 78-inch folding ruler is made from downy birch with joints that are made of Swedish steel, which allows for thinner sections and a greater level of flexibility. It has a traditional 1/16-inch scale with black and red markings, and the material is coated with a water-based protective lacquer that gives it more resistance to dirt and moisture. Every one of these measuring devices goes through a thorough inspection to ensure accuracy. The joints are also heat-treated, coated, and oiled to ensure maximum performance.
The non-slip cork backing adds value and functionality to this ruler. The imprint can be in oxidized laser engraving for 1-color black logos, or it can be done with epoxy ink screenprinting for colors other than black. If you want one of the best measuring tools that can give you the results you need for your next project, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.