Whether you’re planning a home renovation, building a bookshelf, or hanging up pictures, there’s one tool that always comes in handy: the tape measure. Almost everyone has at least one of these essential tools tucked away in their toolbox, drawer, or even kitchen counter. And while using a tape measure may seem straightforward, there’s one feature many people overlook — the black diamonds on the tape.

The Basics of Tape Measure Markings

Most people are familiar with the basic measurements on a tape measure: inches, feet, and sometimes even metric units like centimeters and meters. But if you’ve ever looked closely, you might have noticed other markings in different colors and shapes. These are not decorative elements added by the manufacturer. Instead, they serve practical purposes, especially for builders and DIY enthusiasts.

There are three key markings we’ll explore:

• Red boxes
• Black boxes
• Black diamonds

Each one has its specific use, and understanding these markings can make your projects much simpler.

Red Boxes: Helping You Locate Studs

One of the most practical features on a tape measure is the red box that appears every 16 inches. This isn’t random. In fact, it aligns with a standard building practice — the spacing of studs in walls. Most homes and buildings are constructed with studs that are placed 16 inches apart. These red boxes help you quickly measure and mark the correct distance between studs without having to measure repeatedly.

If you’re planning on hanging something heavy, like a TV or shelving, finding the studs in your wall is crucial. The red box helps you do just that by making it easier to identify where the studs are likely located.

Black Boxes: The Alternative for Smaller Buildings

In addition to red boxes, you might notice black boxes that appear every 24 inches on a tape measure. This marking corresponds to a different stud spacing pattern, often used in lighter construction projects like sheds, garages, or smaller buildings. In these cases, the weight load is lower, allowing for the studs to be spaced further apart.

By using the black boxes, you can quickly and accurately mark stud placements for these types of projects without needing to do any complicated math.

So, What Do the Black Diamonds on a Tape Measure Mean?

Now let’s get to the black diamonds, which are perhaps the most intriguing and lesser-known feature of a tape measure. These black diamond markings typically appear at 19.2-inch intervals. This measurement might seem oddly specific, but it has a practical purpose, particularly in construction.

The black diamonds are used for truss layout, which is a type of structural framework commonly used for supporting roofs and bridges. Spacing trusses 19.2 inches apart allows builders to use fewer support beams while still maintaining structural integrity. This can save both time and materials during construction.

However, it’s worth noting that this method of spacing doesn’t always meet local building codes, especially in areas with stricter regulations. But for projects where you’re allowed to use this spacing, the black diamonds make it easy to measure the correct distances, ensuring your project is both cost-effective and structurally sound.