9 Measuring Hacks Every Homeowner Should Know
No matter if you’re a renter or you own your home, if you’re ever decorating a space, you’ll need to measure. Whether you’re hanging shelves, replacing furniture, or prepping for a renovation, it helps to know a few tricks that make said measuring easier, faster, and more accurate. The good news? You don’t need expensive tools or professional training. Here are some simple, useful measuring hacks that’ll help prevent any frustrating mistakes.
1. Use Painter’s Tape to Transfer Measurements
Trying to copy a measurement from one spot to another can go wrong fast. Instead of using your hands to hold the measurement or trying to remember the number, stick a piece of painter’s tape where you measured, either at the exact length or marked with correct length, then peel it off and place it exactly where you need it. It sticks wherever you need it without leaving marks and keeps your measurement exact.
2. Use a Dollar Bill for a Quick Estimate
Don’t have a tape measure nearby? A standard U.S. dollar bill is just over 6 inches long. Fold it in half for about 3 inches or use it flat to make rough estimates. It’s not perfect, but it works when you just need a ballpark figure. Great for spacing, quick checks, or visualizing size without grabbing a toolbox.
3. Use a Post-it Note for Angles
When you need a 90-degree angle, a perfect square isn’t always within reach. A standard square Post-it note is perfect for making sure corners are right-angled, like when aligning frames or shelves. Stick it in place and line up your pieces along the edges. They’re lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to keep around when you need them!
4. Use Your Body as a Measuring Tool
Learn the length of your foot, your hand span, or your arm from elbow to wrist. These quick references make it easier to estimate lengths when you don’t want to (or can’t) stop and grab a tool. You might not get a perfect rounded number of inches, but you’ll be close enough for rough cuts, spacing furniture, or planning layouts.
5. Tape Measure Hook is Designed to Wiggle
If the end of your tape measure moves around too much, that’s not a flaw. It’s meant to. The hook slides slightly to account for its own thickness, giving you an accurate inside or outside measurement. Don’t try to fix it or tighten it. That little bit of play helps keep your numbers right whether you’re pushing against a wall or hooking over an edge.
6. Use a Straw to Measure Depth
Need to know how deep a (small) hole is? Stick a plastic straw in and mark it with your thumb at the surface. Pull it out and measure the length. It works well for planters, anchor holes, or anything narrow. No guessing, no fiddling with bulky tools. You can also use a chopstick or even a kabob skewer depending on the width of the hole.
7. Mark Your Drill Depth with Tape
If you’re drilling a hole to a specific depth, wrap painter’s tape or masking tape around the drill bit at that point. As you drill, stop when the tape meets the surface. This prevents over-drilling and keeps things neat, especially when working with walls, shelves, or delicate materials.
8. Photograph Measurements for Later
Take a quick photo of any measurement with your phone. Whether it’s the length of a window, the space behind your fridge, or the distance between outlets, snapping a picture with your tape measure in view keeps the info on hand. It’s easier than writing things down, and great when you’re shopping or planning later.
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These measuring hacks aren’t complicated, but they make a big difference. Whether you’re fixing, building, or rearranging, using these tricks means fewer mistakes and better results. No matter your skill level, a few clever shortcuts can make home projects feel more doable, and a little less stressful!
Daniel Mitchell
