Tape measure information

Looking after your tape

Here are some suggestions to help you keep your tape rule in good working order and extend its useful life.

KEEP BLADE CLEAN
The graduated blade is protected by Mylar® but dirt, sand, drywall dust or metal chips can scratch through or wear away the protective layer. Wipe the blade clean frequently when working with gritty materials. Sticky roofing tar and glues can ruin the winding action of your tape rule.

WATCH OUT FOR WATER & OTHER FLUIDS
Moisture left on the blade will work its way into the spring motor and rust will follow. Wipe the blade dry after working in wet environments. Beware of solvents; some will attack the Mylar® seal or melt the protective skin. Use only mineral spirits or alcohol to remove tar or glue.

CONTROL RETRACTION SPEED
Don't let the blade recoil at high speed; it will strike the case with the force of a hammer blow and the whipping action can damage the blade or pinch your finger. Practice slowing the blade with your finger under the tape's mouth. Leverlock® models will stop the blade when the lock is released

TRU-ZERO HOOK IS SUPPOSED TO MOVE
The hook slides to accommodate inside and outside measurements, helping you avoid errors due to the thickness of the hook. Clinching the rivets will make the hook inaccurate

WATCH WHERE YOU STEP
Beware of sharp corners. Stepping on the blade will almost always cause damage. Pulling the tape over a sharp edge may create a kinked or twisted blade. Continual flexing of these kinks, when the blade rewinds into the case, will eventually break the blade.

LOOK OUT FOR HOOK TRAPS
The hook can be snared easily on cracks, on exposed nail heads, and the like. Take care to dislodge the hook before pulling sharply on the blade. Otherwise you might bend the hook or cause the blade to kink or tear.

WHOOPS - "LOOK OUT BELOW"
The rugged case will withstand most accidents, but just as you could be hurt by a fall from a ladder or a roof, your tape rule could be damaged by the impact of a major fall. Keep your rule secure in a leather holster or in your tool apron.

USE SPECIAL CARE AROUND POWER TOOLS
When measuring near power tools, be sure your tape rule blade stays clear of the cutting path. Spinning saw blades and drill bits will rip a tape rule.