Tape Measure Guide: Everything you need to know about measuring tapes

The folding ruler is a true classic in craftsmanship. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the different types of folding rulers and compare them with tape measures.

Material

Folding rulers are made from various materials, each offering their own advantages and disadvantages:

Wood: Classic, robust folding ruler made of wood. However, wood is weather-dependent and can expand in humidity or sun.
Plastic: Plastic folding rulers made of fiberglass are almost unbreakable and weather-resistant, but do not offer the classic wood feel.
Metal: Usually made of aluminum, flexible and stable, ideal for drawings, but lighter and thinner than wood.

Accuracy Classes

The accuracy of folding rulers is divided into 3 classes:

Accuracy Class III: Standard class with a tolerance of 1.4 mm over 2 meters.
Accuracy Class II: With a tolerance of 0.7 mm over 2 meters for higher precision.
Accuracy Class I: This class usually only exists for measuring lasers, not for folding rulers.

In comparison, tape measures are often more accurate as they were developed for more precise applications such as engineering work.

Joints

Folding rulers have classic spring joints, but also different designs:

180° Locking Function: Important so that the folding ruler stays straight and does not wobble.
90° Locking Function: Allows precise measurement of right angles without adjustment.
Marking Edge: A smooth edge ensures a precise line when drawing, without irregularities caused by thick joints.

Further Extras and Designs

There are also special folding ruler designs with practical functions:

For Electrical Installations: Folding rulers with a hole for cables and voltage protection up to 1000V.
Fluorescent Paint: Useful for seeing the folding ruler better in darkness or blacklight.
Measuring Tongue: An extendable element in the first link for inside measurements in narrow openings.
Measuring Diameter: A folding ruler with which you can measure the diameter of pipes using the correct technique.
Protractor: For precise angle measurements, ideal for construction and craftsmanship work.

Conclusion

Whether wood, plastic or metal – the choice of material depends on your requirements. If you are looking for precision, pay attention to the accuracy class. For precise work, a folding ruler with a locking function and a good marking edge is a must. Extras such as a measuring tongue or fluorescent colors can be helpful depending on the application.

For professional work in various areas, you should have different measuring instruments at hand. **Folding ruler** and **tape measure** complement each other perfectly and thus offer you the best flexibility for all work!