14 best surveying tapes
Surveying tapes, also known as land survey tapes or measuring tapes, are specialized tools used in land surveying, construction, and various measurement applications.They are essential for accurately measuring distances and ensuring precision in various engineering and construction projects. Here is what you need to know about surveying tapes in the context of tape measures, linear measurement, measuring layout tools, and tools for home improvement:
Purpose and Use: Surveying tapes are primarily used for measuring long distances in outdoor and large-scale construction projects. They are designed to provide accurate measurements of land, roads, boundaries, and other linear features.
Materials: Surveying tapes are typically made from durable materials such as fiberglass, steel, or cloth-reinforced steel. These materials are chosen for their strength, flexibility, and resistance to stretching or contracting due to temperature changes.
Types: There are different types of surveying tapes available, including open-reel tapes and closed-reel tapes. Open-reel tapes consist of a reel and a marked tape wound around it, while closed-reel tapes are enclosed in a case with a handle for winding and unwinding.
Length: Surveying tapes come in various lengths, typically ranging from 50 to 500 feet (15 to 150 meters) or more, depending on the specific requirements of the project.
Measurement Units: Surveying tapes are usually marked with both imperial and metric units, making them versatile and suitable for projects that require measurements in different units of length.
Accuracy: These tapes are designed for high accuracy, often featuring markings at intervals as small as millimeters or fractions of an inch. They may also have markings to account for temperature-related expansion or contraction.
Handles and Winding Mechanisms: Surveying tapes often have ergonomic handles and winding mechanisms to facilitate easy deployment and retrieval. Some models may feature a crank for rapid winding.
Maintenance: Proper care and maintenance are crucial to ensure the accuracy and longevity of surveying tapes. They should be kept clean, free from dirt or debris, and stored in a dry environment when not in use.
Accessories: Surveying tapes may come with accessories such as stakes, markers, and plumb bobs to assist in accurate measurements and layout.
Applications: Surveying tapes are used in a wide range of applications, including land surveying, civil engineering, construction, forestry, and landscaping. They play a vital role in determining property boundaries, mapping terrain, and ensuring that construction projects adhere to precise measurements.
In summary, surveying tapes are essential tools in construction and land surveying, designed to provide accurate measurements of distances over various terrains. They come in different materials, lengths, and types, offering versatility and precision for a variety of measurement needs in the field of home improvement and construction.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best surveying tapes on the market
Komelon 6611IM Feet/Inches and Metric Fiber Tape Reel with Double Nylon Coated Fiberglass Blade, 100-Feet-30M by 1/2-Inch
Product description
Komelon Open reel fiberglass tapes are perfect for all of your long measuring needs. The double coated fiberglass blade is waterproof and dirt resistant. The coating also protects the markings and graduations from chemical and mechanical abrasion. In addition to a heavy duty ABS frame, This tape has a two color blade with double sided printing and a versatile ring end hook and claw. With its dual scale blade allowing measuring in both inch and metric, The 6611IM is great on any jobsite or athletic field.
- Double nylon coated blade
- Double sided printing reads in feet/inch and metric
- Heavy duty ABS frame with comfortable rubber hand grip
- Versatile end hook
- Two color blade
- Stake included for one person operation
User questions & answers
| Question: | How does the orange stake come off? one person said it just pops off. mine sorta slides around in the holder, but it’s not popping off easily. i’m afraid i’ll break it if i pull any harder. help please |
| Answer: | no. inches and feet on one side, metric on the other side. |
| Question: | Is this item made in the usa |
| Answer: | Yes, it does - one side of the tape (yellow background) is metric, the other side (white background) is standard. |
| Question: | Does this tape measure feet in tenths |
| Answer: | Hi, first off, I'm not sure, not being an owner of said equipment. But, I would imagine that strong tape would be called for. My worry is that this tape has perforations every few inches to allow you to tear it by hand. These weaken the tape a lot at those lengths. I believe you can also find the Medipore tape that is not perforated. I know this because I mistakenly ordered some 2 inch wide non-perforated Medipore tape a while back. You could also look at either paper medical tape (be warned it is not as sticky) or plastic medical tape (be warned it is so sticky it can damage the skin on removal) for your use. Also, Amazon sells something called Boob tape that seems like it might meet your needs. Good Luck Mike |
| Question: | Does it have both standard and metric units |
| Answer: | If I recall correctly these come as a package of 4 rolls of tape. This is a comfortable tape with a minimum amount of irritation or residue. The only problem I've had is occasionally the doesn't hold well if there's very much moisture on my skin. |
Keson SNR18300 Nylon-Reinforced Steel Blade Tape Measure with Stainless Steel Housing with Hook End (Graduations: ft., in., 1/8), 300-Foot
Keson
Product description
The strongest housing (stainless steel) on the market. There is no better housing available for our double nylon-coated steel blade. Both case and blades are built to ensure a long life under field abuse. Our rubber-grip shovel handle offers a comfortable, secure grip. The crank arm is metal as well.
From the Manufacturer
The world's best steel long tape in a housing that's built to last
- Rubber-Grip Shovel Handle for comfortable, rapid reeling
- Metal Crank Handle for durability
- Tough, Double Nylon-Coated Steel Blade assures long life under field abuse
- Housing Reinforced with Rivets for superior strength
- Strongest housing on the market
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this tape have markings in inches and feet |
| Answer: | No, the blade is Ft, In, and 1/8 increments and is not in continuous inches. |
| Question: | Does this tape come in a 500' length? I need one to measure static water level on my well |
| Answer: | It is not a surveyor's tape. |
| Question: | at 5 feet does it say 60 inches |
| Answer: | It is attached at one side. Try wiggling it back and forth or rotating it. It should easily pop off, as well as pop back in for storage. |
| Question: | Has this tape been calibrated at a standard temperature? Is it marked as such |
| Answer: | Not sure but highly doubt it. |
IRWIN Tools STRAIT-LINE Flagging Tape, 150-foot, Glo-Pink (65603)
Irwin Tools
Product description
IRWIN Tools STRAIT-LINE Flagging Tape, 150-foot, Glo-Pink (65603)
From the Manufacturer
Pink-Glo Fluorescent Flagging Tape, 1-3/16 inches wide, 150-foot roll of colorfast extruded plastic with extra high visibility fluorescent colors for the professional tradesperson. Irwin tools are made of only the finest materials, manufactured to exacting tolerances.
- Pink-glo, 150' long and 1-3/16 inch wide
- Extra high visibility fluorescent colors for the professional tradesperson
- Each roll contains 150 feet of colorfast extruded plastic
User questions & answers
| Question: | is it rolled on a plastic core instead of cardboard |
| Answer: | No. This tape does not glow. It is a very bright pink and it is UV reflective so it glows under blacklight but it doesn't glow on its own. |
| Question: | How many rolls come with this purchase ? Can I buy it in a case ? What is case quantity & price of each roll is |
| Answer: | No this tape has no adhesive. It will not stick |
| Question: | Does it glow at night |
| Answer: | Yes. The inches are numbered in the color black and each foot is colored in orange. |
| Question: | Does this tape stick to itself |
| Answer: | The longest I've seen is a 300' |
Crescent Lufkin 1/2" x 200' Hi-Viz Orange Fiberglass Tape Measure - FE200
Lufkin
Product description
Crescent Lufkin® (FE200), 1/2" X 200' Hi-viz orange fiberglass tape measure, feet & inches, open four-arm frame design protects the blade and does not Trap dirt in the case, Lightweight case for easy handling and transport, dual-material grip elevated above the reel prevents contact between reel and knuckles, versatile folding end hook for use in multiple applications
From the Manufacturer
Lufkin 200 foot Fiberglass long tape is designed for rugged field use by the surveyor, engineer, contractor or household use. The tape is durable, waterproof and able to withstand breakage and abrasion under extreme conditions.
- 1/2" X 200' Hi-viz Orange fiberglass tape measure, feet & inches
- Open four-arm frame design protects the blade and does not trap dirt in the case
- Lightweight case for easy handling and transport
- Dual-material grip elevated above the reel prevents contact between reel and knuckles
- Versatile folding end hook for use in multiple applications
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it have hundredths of a foot increments |
| Answer: | The 200' version is going to be the 200' version. The 100' version will be the 100' version. Image tends to be relative on Amazon, because the product looks the exact same whether it's a 100' or a 200'. 200' will be bigger than the 100'. |
| Question: | Is it made in the USA |
| Answer: | No, only feet and inches. |
| Question: | Looks like the 100' version to me. Is it |
| Answer: | No it is rolled on grayish cardboard... NOT white plastic as pictured. |
| Question: | Does it have metric measurements |
| Answer: | One |
Brady Yellow Flagging Tape for Boundaries and Hazardous Areas - Non-Adhesive Tape, 1.188" Width, 300' Length (Pack of 1) - 58347
Brady
Product description
Quickly and easily mark a wide variety of areas with non-adhesive, color-coded flagging tape.
- Non adhesive flagging tape to mark boundaries and hazardous areas
- Quickly and easily mark a wide variety of areas with non adhesive, color coded flagging tape
- Plastic fluorescent yellow tape, for high visibility and durability, indoor and outdoor
- 300 Feet roll of tape
- RoHS Compatibility Pass 2011/65/EU(Pass 2015/863)
User questions & answers
| Question: | how wide is it |
| Answer: | No, it's not like a garbage bag and it will probably droop if tied in a bow. It's very stretchy. |
| Question: | Does this tape fade out |
| Answer: | About 300 feet. |
| Question: | Is the material on this tape as strong as a heavy-duty garbage bag? I need material that will stay in a bow, not droop |
| Answer: | The smallest increment is 1/8". |
| Question: | How long is it |
| Answer: | The company was founded by Edward Taylor Lufkin, an American Civil War veteran of the Sixtieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry[1] in Cleveland, Ohio 1869[2] and was originally named E.T. Lufkin Board and Log Rule Manufacturing Company. Its Canada-based plant was in Barrie, Ontario. The company was acquired in 1967 by Cooper Industries.[3] |
Flagging Tape for Boundaries and Hazardous Areas， Surveying Tape Non-Adhesive with 1" Width, 150' Length -40F Temperature Resistance at Winter (Pack of 10) (Yellow)
Product description
Flagging Tape plays a role in safety make measures. Quickly and easily mark a wide variety of areas with high visible colorful flagging tape.
Used for Boundaries and Hazardous Areas Non-adhesive-type tape made of durable for marking trees, trails, or anything else you might need to recognize visually by tying it to tree branches.
With great performance even in -40F temperature Resistance, made of premium Polyethylene which is very durable.
Not only work for dangerous areas. The bright colorful tape even works well as a decoration for a construction themed parties, it could even be used for hunting, Traveling, Hiking, etc. Package 10 flagging tapes per roll, easy to caring and easy to use
We hope you will like it
- SAFETY MARK- Flagging Tape plays a role in safety make measures. Quickly and easily mark a wide variety of areas with high visible colorful flagging tape.
- HIGH VISIBILITY :Reflective Ribbon tape for Boundaries and Hazardous Areas Non-adhesive-type tape made of durable for marking trees, trails, or anything else you might need to recognize visually by tying it to tree branches
- EXCELLENT DURMATERIAL: Survey Ribbon Tape with great performance even in -40F temperature Resistance, made of premium Polyethylene which is very durable.
- CONSTRUCTION PARTNER - Survey Tape does not only work for dangerous areas. The bright colorful tape even works well as a decoration for a construction themed parties, it could even be used for hunting, Traveling, Hiking, etc.
- HIGH VILUE: Survey Ribbon bulk packaged 10 tapes per roll, easy to caring and easy to use
Lufkin FE200D 1/2" x 200' Engineer's Hi-Viz Orange Fiberglass Tape Measure, 1
Apex Tool Group
Product description
Blade Width (-Inch): 1/2-Inch Blade Length (-Inch): 200-Feet Blade Style: C2 Case Color: Orange Blade Finish: Fiberglass Replacement Blade Cat No. : O1708D Blade Width: Peg Hook/Retail Packaging.
- Open four-arm frame design protects blade, does not trap dirt in case
- Lightweight but strong case is easy to handle and rewind
- Two-material grip is comfortable to use
- Hi-Viz orange case is easy to find on the job site
- Folding end hook for true-zero measurments
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does the tape have markings on both sides |
| Answer: | 200' tape is included. 1/10 ft scale. |
| Question: | Is this a rapid rewind model |
| Answer: | 1/10" |
| Question: | Does it come with the 200’ tape? I was actually looking for just the reel. I have a 200’ tape but the reel broke |
| Answer: | 1” to 1.25” |
| Question: | Does this have surveyor markings |
| Answer: | holds the color, depending on application. exposed to the sun long enough and after several years, it will tend to bleach out. Still be yellow, but a much more faded yellow. |
SE Survivor Series High Visibility HV Neon Marking Ribbons (5 PC.) - ESF2036-5
SE
Product description
"Keep your equipment, group, and area easily marked with the SE ESF2036-5 Survivor Series High Visibility HV Neon Marking Ribbons (5 PC.). They are great for marking boundaries, construction sites, hazardous areas, locations, team colors, and more. You can also safely mark your boundaries or find your way back to your camping site with our high visibility marking ribbons. The durable non-adhesive marking ribbons make it easy to mark trails and paths without damaging trees or leaving any permanent markers. Safely tie to objects without damaging them. The non-adhesive flagging tape can be used to mark boundaries and hazardous areas. The five rolls measure 16' 8"" long and 1"" wide.SE is committed to providing the customer with the best source for value possible on the market. You will enjoy the quality, function and usefulness of our SE ESF2036-5 Survivor Series High Visibility HV Neon Marking Ribbons (5 PC.).IPR Rights Notice:Important: Avoid getting counterfeit items. Genuine SE products come with the SE logo on the packaging.SE is a registered trademark protected by US Trademark Law."
- 5 High visibility (HV) marking ribbons survivor series for camping, hiking, outdoors
- Quickly and easily mark a wide variety of areas with non-adhesive, color-coded flagging tape
- Assorted neon colors
- 200' per roll
- Width: 1"
User questions & answers
| Question: | is this smooth or textured |
| Answer: | All High-Visibility: Lime Green, Orange, Yellow, Red, Maroon |
| Question: | Where made |
| Answer: | Sorry never tried it. |
| Question: | What colors are included |
| Answer: | No, only on one side. |
| Question: | do these react and glow in black light |
| Answer: | You rewind with the handle. |
Product features
Never Lose Your Way
Our 5 Pc High Visibility Marking Ribbon Set is a must-have for your next biking, camping, hiking, or any other outdoor adventure. These ribbons are also great for keeping on hand in case of an emergency or for fun outdoor activities. There are many uses for this ribbon set. You can mark trees, yourself, important gear, and more with these ribbons.
Features
- 5 Pc Set
- 200 Feet Each
- 1" Wide
- High Visibility Assorted Colors
- Green, Pink, Yellow, Orange, & Red
Keep Track Of Your Group
Stay safe and together. Our high visibility marking ribbons are perfect for keeping everyone in your group visible. They can also be used to create separate teams for group activities.
Never Lose Your Path
Stay on track and keep your path marked. Don't risk getting lost on your next hike, jog, or walk. The bright colors of our high visibility ribbons are easy to see.
Keep Important Gear In Sight
By marking your gear with our high visibility marking ribbons, you will quickly and easily be able to see where everything is.
Komelon 6633 Open Reel Fiberglass Tape Measure, 300-Feet, Yellow
Komelon
Product description
300-Feet by 1/2-Inch open reel fiberglass tape measure, with double coated blade, shock absorbing rubber bumpers, versatile end hook and marking stake included.
- 300-Feet by 1/2-Inch open reel fiberglass tape
- Double coated blade
- Shock absorbing rubber bumpers
- Versatile end hook
- Marking stake included
User questions & answers
| Question: | does this product have measurement in feet on both sides of the tape |
| Answer: | No. It is feet and inches on one side, and feet and tenths on the other. I believe they do sell the model you are looking for, but this one is considered an engineer's tape because of the tenths. |
| Question: | Does anyone know where these are made |
| Answer: | The scale is marked with both feet and tenths and inches. One side of the tape is 10ths, the other inches. It is really pretty cool!Dave Goodwin |
| Question: | Does this tape also have measurements in meters |
| Answer: | They are smooth. |
| Question: | What scales are on the tape? I'm looking for feet and tenths (not inches |
| Answer: | I don't know where they are made. I used them for luggage tagging when traveling |
Product features
Komelon 6633 Open Reel Fiberglass Tape Measure, 300-Feet
Komelon's open reel fiberglass tapes are perfect for all of your long measuring needs. The double coated fiberglass blade is waterproof and dirt resistant. The coating also protects the markings and graduations from chemical and mechanical abrasion. In addition to a heavy duty ABS frame, this tape has a two color blade with double sided printing (engineer scale on back of blade) and a versatile ring end hook and claw. The 6633 is good on any jobsite or athletic field.
- Double coated, two color fiberglass blade with versatile end hook
- Double sided printing reads in feet/inches
- Heavy duty ABS frame with comfortable rubber hand grip
AdirPro 12 Pack Fluorescent Flagging Tape, 150' X 1'' Wide - Multipurpose Neon Marking Tape - Great Visual Labeling & Tagging for Home & Workplace Use (Fluorescent Pink)
AdirPro
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION. This marking tape is durably crafted of colorfast extruded plastic to provide long-lasting strength and use in any outdoor location.
- HIGH VISIBILITY. Create high visibility while laying out boundaries and hazardous areas. The AdirPro Flagging Tape is furnished in an extra-high visibility, fluorescent color for easy identification in daylight and nighttime hours.
- VERSATILE USE. Clearly marking an area, this tape is perfect for professionals in surveying, construction, forestry, hardware, oil exploration, nursery, mining, geophysics and more.
- CHOICE OF COLOR. For your convenience, this non-adhesive tape is available in five, bright and long-lasting color options – fluorescent red, orange, pink, lime and yellow
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is it biodegradable |
| Answer: | i didnt use a black light on it |
| Question: | I ordered this, but when I got it, it was red.....isn't it supposed to be orange |
| Answer: | No. This tape is not sticky or insulated. It is purely for tying onto items so they can be easily identified. |
| Question: | Several have asked with no definitive answer. Is this black light/uv reactive or not? ("idk" is not an answer; save it |
| Answer: | Yes, this product does have measurement in feet on both sides of the tape. |
| Question: | Can this be used as electrical tape |
| Answer: | Don't know where it's made but I've been using it under all kinds of conditions and it works fine. |
Product features
High-Visibility Markings.
A perfect way to visibly mark an area, the AdirPro Fluorescent Flagging Tape can be used for surveying, trail marking, mapping and other industrial applications, including construction, forestry, hardware, oil exploration, nursery, mining geophysics and more. Furnished in solid, fluorescent colors, this durable, long-lasting outdoor flagging tape allows for easy identification in any location.
12-Count Package.
This non-adhesive tape comes in a convenient 12-count package, furnishing you with a sufficient supply to last through all your jobs. Reusable and economically responsible, each roll is 150-feet long and 1-inch wide, durably crafted of colorfast extruded plastic to provide long-term strength which will last through any marking project!
Solid, Fluorescent Colors.
Create high visibility while laying out boundaries and hazardous areas with AdirPro’s Fluorescent Flagging Tape. Available in five, bright and long-lasting color options – fluorescent red, orange, pink, lime and yellow – each solid color is highly visible during the day and at night. Easy to use, simply tie the tape to posts and untie the tape when through.
HEAVY DUTY MARKING TAPE
Brady Fluorescent Pink Flagging Tape for Boundaries and Hazardous Areas - Non-Adhesive Tape, 1.188" Width, 150' Length (Pack of 1) - 58354,Fluorescent Pink
Brady
Product description
Quickly and easily mark a wide variety of areas with non-adhesive, color-coded flagging tape. Ideal for use on boundary stakes.
- Use non-adhesive flagging tape to mark boundaries and hazardous areas
- Model number: 58354
- Item package dimension: 5. 8" L x 3. 9" W x 1. 80" H
- Item package weight: 5. 6 ounce
User questions & answers
| Question: | Bought this tape by accident. Realized it wasn't adhesive on it and thought I'd keep it anyway but the label says cancer causing. What's in it |
| Answer: | 150 feet |
| Question: | Is this reactive to blacklight |
| Answer: | Hi D. Black! This is Lauren from Brady. Our flagging tape is made from a non-adhesive vinyl material, so you could write on it with a permanent Sharpie marker. Yes, it has a little stretch to it. Our Customer Support team would be happy to send you a sample to test before ordering. They can be reached at 888-250-3082. Thank you for your question! |
| Question: | How many feet/roll |
| Answer: | No. |
| Question: | Can you write on it? & Does it have any stretch to it |
| Answer: | I ordered a dozen rolls and had a choice of many colors. I chose pink for marking trails in a national forest. It has worked out very well. |
Brady 58353 Fluorescent Green Flagging Tape for Boundaries and Hazardous Areas - Non-Adhesive Tape, 1.188" Width, 150' Length (Pack of 1)
Brady
Product description
Quickly and easily mark a wide variety of areas with non-adhesive, color-coded flagging tape. Ideal for use on boundary stakes.
- Quickly and easily flag boundary stakes, trees and hazardous areas
- Non-adhesive tape
- Made of durable woven plastic material
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it stick on plaster walls |
| Answer: | Hi AJ! This is Lauren from Brady. Our fluorescent flagging tapes might glow under a uv/blacklight. Our Customer Support team would be happy to send you a sample to try before you purchase. They can be reached at 888-250-3082. Thank you for your question! |
| Question: | What type of material is this made of |
| Answer: | This product is manufactured in rolls of 150 feet. Thank you for your question! |
| Question: | Does this fluoresce under uv/blacklight |
| Answer: | It's plastic flagging tape. I know the warning is required if shipping to California. CA Prop 65 requires most items, places, etc. to post a carcinogen warning. The same warning is on the entrances to most public buildings. |
| Question: | how many feet per roll |
| Answer: | Hi Roberto. This is Lauren from Brady. Our fluorescent flagging tape has not been tested for blacklight reactivity, but our Customer Support team is happy to send you a sample to try. They can be reached at 888-250-3082. Thank you for your question! |
CH Hanson Fluorescent Orange Flagging Tape (3-Pack)
Hanson C H
Product description
C.H. Hanson offers an excellent flagging tape, perfect for your marking needs. The distinct orange color creates high visibility while laying out boundaries. Each Roll is 150 feet long and 1 3/16 inches wide. The tape is reusable and economically responsible. This durable tape will last through any marking project! Sold as 3 PACK
- Superior visibility because of fluorescent Orange Color
- Economical and reusable
- 1-3/16 in. Wide 150 ft. Long
- Superior visibility when laying out boundaries
- Sold as 3 PACK
CH Hanson Fluorescent Orange Flagging Tape
Hanson C H
Product description
CH Hanson Fluorescent Orange Flagging Tape
- This Product Is Easy To Use
- This Product Is Highly Durable
- Manufactured In China
- Fluorescent Orange Tape Is Noticeable And Easy To See
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this tape show under black light |
| Answer: | It's a plastic tape for outside use. So I'm assuming yes it's waterproof. I use mine outside in Oregon with no issues. |
| Question: | is it one roll for $4.40? The description says 12 rolls per package |
| Answer: | this tape is not sticky at all, it has no adhesive. |
| Question: | Is it waterproof |
| Answer: | Hi Kathy. This is Lauren from Brady. Our flagging barricade tapes are non-adhesive, so they would not stick to plaster walls. We do manufacture other types of adhesive tapes that would work for your application. Our Customer Support team would be happy to recommend a better product for you. They can be reached at 888-250-3082. Thank you for your question! |
| Question: | does this have a good stickyness to it |
| Answer: | Hi Cheryl! This is Lauren from Brady. Our flagging tape is made of a non-adhesive vinyl material. Thank you for your question! |
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