All you need to know about tape measure blades

Blade types

1. Lacquered steel tape

An impact resistant steel tape covered by an anti-corrosion phosphorous layer that is then painted yellow or white. The scale is protected by a coating of matt polyester lacquer. Can withstand contact with most common solvents, but should not be folded. Also available in stainless steel, making the tape highly resistant to corrosion and wear.

2. Nylon coated steel tape

A steel tape covered by an anti-­corrosion phosphorous layer and then painted yellow. The scale is protected by a nylon coated. Treated with an extra thick nylon membrane to make the tape really durable. Withstands contact with the majority of chemicals, solvents and other liquids. Can also be bent, twisted and crushed without any problem.

3. Fibreglass tape

A tape measure made from fibreglass threads cast in plastic. Can withstand contact with the majority of chemicals, moisture, water and temperature fluctuations. A fibreglass tape can be bent, is lighter and more flexible to work with. The tape is non-conductive and is therefore safe to use when working in close proximity to sources of electricity.

4. Stainless steel tape

A premium quality deep etched stainless steel blade. Suitable for use in areas where solvents and chemicals are heavily used. (TR range only).

Blade start

Long tape measures

1. Type A start. The scale starts 100 mm in from the outer edge of the end hook. Used primarily on long tape measures that can measure longer distances and normally require two people to operate. Available on PL, PC and TR tape models.

2. Type B start. The scale starts where the hook attaches to the tape. Ideally suited for solo measurement applications. Available on CC, CC F and SY models.

3. Type C start. The scale starts at the outer edge of the end hook. Ideally suited for solo measurement applications. Available on model PL, YL and PC tapes.

Short tape measures

1. The scale starts immediately at the end fitting. Ideally suited for both internal and external measurement. Available on model BT, PR and SL tapes.

How to change the blade of a tape measurer

To ensure a longer life-span of the tape measurer; look for a model where the blade can be replaced. It’s not only good for your wallet, it’s also good for our environment.

Buying a replacement blade for your tape measurer costs approximately half as much as buying a new one. Replacing only the blade instead of buying a new tape measurer can save you a lot of money and time.

How to replace the blade

1. Pull out the whole blade until you see the attachment to the sprint.

2. Remove the old blade by unhooking it from the sprint.

3. Attach the new blade, make sure it locks in position.

4. Re-wind the blade slowly by holding it with one hand.