9 · Guides
Measuring guides
How to read a tape measure and a ruler, how to work out square footage, and how to measure the things people measure most.
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Tape measure basics How to read a tape measure
How to read a tape measure in inches: what each line length means, how to count sixteenths, read feet and the metric side, plus a full fractions chart.
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Know your tape Tape measure markings explained
Tape measure markings explained: inch fractions, foot markers, red numbers every 16 inches, black diamonds at 19.2 inches, the sliding hook and case length.
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Ruler basics How to read a ruler
How to read a ruler in inches and cm: what each line means, an inch fractions chart, a mm-to-inch chart, worked examples and where to put the zero mark.
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Area and flooring How to measure square feet
How to measure square feet for any room: length × width, L-shapes, triangles and circles, sq ft to m², flooring waste and wall area for paint.
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Screens and spaces How to measure a TV
How to measure a TV: screen size is the diagonal of the visible screen, corner to corner, without the bezel. Width and height chart for 32 to 85 inch TVs.
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Windows and blinds How to measure a window
How to measure a window for inside or outside mount blinds and for replacement windows: where to measure, which number to use, and how to round.
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Window treatments How to measure for curtains
How to measure for curtains: where to hang the rod, how wide the panels should be, which length to buy, and a worked example using standard US panel sizes.
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Measuring hacks How to measure without a tape measure
How to measure without a tape measure: use objects with known sizes like letter paper, a credit card or a quarter, plus string, folded paper and your phone.
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iPhone tools How to use the iPhone Measure app
How to use the Measure app on iPhone: measure distances, rectangles and a person's height, use Ruler view and the level, change units, and check accuracy.
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