How to Measure Quickly, Easily, and Accurately

In this guide, we’ll cover effective methods to measure quickly, easily, and accurately including:

  1. Using an AR measuring app on a mobile phone – recommended!
  2. Using a tape measure
  3. Measuring exterior elevations
  4. Measuring interior floor plans

Measuring with an AR Measuring App on a Mobile Phone – Recommended

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Download and Open the App: Choose an AR measuring app such as Air Measure or AR Ruler and download it for free from Google Play or App Store.
  2. Calibrate the App: Follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate the app, which may involve moving your phone around.
  3. Select Start and End Points: Point your phone’s camera at the starting point of the object or distance you want to measure. Tap the screen to mark the start point.
  4. Move to the End Point: Move your phone’s camera to the end point of the object or distance and tap the screen to mark it.
  5. Read the Measurement: The app will display the measurement on the screen.
  6. Save or Record the Measurement: Most apps allow you to save a screenshot of the measurement or record it manually.

Tips:

  • Ensure good lighting and a clear view of the points you are measuring.
  • Keep your hand steady while marking the points.

Measuring with a Tape Measure

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare the Tape Measure: Extend the tape measure and lock it in place if it has a locking mechanism.
  2. Align the Tape: Position the start of the tape measure (marked as ‘0’) at one end of the object or distance you want to measure.
  3. Pull the Tape: Extend the tape measure to the other end of the object or distance, ensuring it is straight and taut.
  4. Read the Measurement: Look at the point where the end of the object or distance meets the tape measure. Read the measurement on the tape.
  5. Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement for future reference.

Tips:

  • Ensure the tape measure is straight and not twisted.
  • Use the tape measure’s locking mechanism to keep it in place while you read the measurement.
  • Double-check measurements for accuracy.

Measuring Exterior Elevations

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Choose Your Tools: Use a tape measure, laser measure, or AR measuring app.
  2. Measure Width: Start by measuring the width of the exterior wall at the base. Use a tape measure or laser measure for accuracy.
  3. Measure Height: Measure the height from the base to the top of the wall or roofline. A laser measure can be particularly useful for this.
  4. Measure Lenght: Measure from front to back the length of the wall.
  5. Record Measurements: Write down all measurements, noting the location of each.

Tips:

  • For your safety, if you need to measure anything that is high we strongly recommend using an AR measuring app!
  • Double-check all measurements, especially if using a tape measure.

Measuring Interior Floor Plans

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Choose Your Tools: Use a tape measure or AR measuring app.
  2. Measure Walls: Measure the length of each wall from corner to corner. Record the measurements.
  3. Measure Height: Measure from floor to ceiling and record the measurement. 
  4. Measure Doors and Windows: Measure the height and width of doors and windows, as well as their distance from corners.
  5. Create a Floor Plan: Draw a rough sketch of the floor plan and input the measurements.
  6. Double-Check: Verify all measurements for accuracy.

Tips:

  • Start with a rough sketch to note where measurements are needed.
  • Double-check all measurements to ensure accuracy in your floor plan.

Grant Singlehurst-Ward

AuthorGrant Singlehurst-WardFOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR


A serial entrepreneur with background in sales and marketing, Grant is the founder and managing director. He founded Planning By Design to provide clients with the highest possible level of service at unbeatable prices.

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