The Definitive Construction Rulers Buying Guide
If you want to choose a quality tool, follow these criteria:
Materials
Most of the models you find on the market are made with some type of steel alloy. These tools are manufactured to be durable and withstand even the toughest jobs. Our recommendation is that you choose stainless models.
Some models, of more traditional cut, are made with wooden parts. Carpenter’s rulers usually contain these types of materials. They are tough rulers, but with a more artisanal look. Models designed to carry angles and to draw usually have plastic stops that make work more comfortable.
Use
You must take into account the type of use you are going to give to the ruler before deciding on one model or another. For example, it is not the same to use it in an architectural office than in a mechanical spare parts workshop.
Depending on the intensity of use and the hardness of the work you should look for more resistant materials or less. Stainless steel rulers are usually designed for intensive use in aggressive environments.
If this is the use you intend to give it, also note that the scales have a quality engraving that does not wear out. If the use you are going to give is light, such as drawing and transporting angles, you should not worry so much about the materials.
Size and weight
The ruler, as a rule, is not too heavy an instruments. However, models made of steel alloys will weigh more than those made of plastic. Again we recommend that you think about the uses you are going to give it.
Size is also important. Look closely at what needs you have. Although the most common is that the squares are about 200 mm in size, there are larger and also smaller. You have to choose a tool that adapts perfectly to the demands of the job for which you plan to use it.
Design
School rulers, for example, are very different from construction rulers. The first has all sides of the triangle, while the others are usually formed by an angle and two sides. This allows you to use the inside of the angle to make measurements and mark the measurements for cuts and holes.
Universal rulers have more complex designs. For example, the joint part of the angle is usually mobile, which allows opening and closing to measure more angles. There are models with wooden handles, while others have plastic stops. And finally, some rulers have digital measuring elements.
When you make a purchase online it is important that you look at the opinions of others purchased. Almost always, buying a product that lacks comments is risky. This factor is very important because it is the only way you have to know what the product you are buying really is and if it is worth it.
In addition to the comments, you must look at the ratings of other users. At this point, you can discover very useful information about materials and technical specifications. These comments and ratings usually offer very complete and detailed information about the product that you will not find elsewhere.