What is the end of the tape measure for?

• For an external measurement (e.g., the length of a board): Hook the tip onto the edge of the object and press gently. The tip will retract, compensating for the thickness.
• For an internal measurement (e.g., between two walls): press the tip against a surface and pull gently. The tip will extend outward, adding its thickness to the total measurement.

A nice bonus:   the length of the housing is often printed (for example,   76 mm  ). Remember to add it if you use the housing itself to attach the tape to a wall.

Keep an eye on this to make sure your tape measure is at its best.

While this design trick is well thought out, it’s still fragile. Get in the habit of checking it regularly:

• Make sure the tip is neither bent nor loose.
• Make sure the rivets are seated correctly.
• The tape should extend and retract smoothly.

And after use? Just wipe it down quickly with a   clean, dry cloth  , store it away from moisture, and your trusty tape measure will remain as accurate as the first day!