Measuring Wheels are great tools for the Appraiser, Estimator, Engineer, Architect,Contractor, Surveyor, Banker, Realtor, and anyone that is interested in measuring large distances in a short period of time. Most Measuring Wheels are for estimating and get fairly accurate, but we do recommend if you want ultimate accuracy you should consider a measuring tape and not a wheel. One thing to consider is measuring from against an object like a wall inside of a house for example. If you put the wheel against the wall and start rolling, you must add the distance of the radius of the wheel on both sides of the room. So, basically you add the diameter (radius x 2) to the distance you measured in order to measure from wall to wall.
There are basically two types of Measuring Wheels to choose from. There's the Mechanical type, and then the Electronic type. Here are some pros and cons of each;
MECHANICAL TYPE
Pros: Does not rely on batteries and is usually very simple to operate.
Cons: One Measuring Wheel typically offers a single unit of measure.
ELECTRONIC TYPE
Pros: Can handle multiple units of measure all in a single wheel.
Cons: Have to have batteries. What if your batteries die when in the field?
Other things to consider when shopping for a Measuring Wheel are;
PRICE
If you're concerned with cost of the product you're planning to buy, consider the useful life expectancy. You should consider the price being spread out over these years and not be as concerned with price in our opinion. We always think of the nice steak supper for $50 that lasts only a few hours. That's a good way to think about where your money is going.
INSIDE OR OUTSIDE
Will you be wanting to use your measuring wheel indoors or outdoors? Or possibly both places? If only inside use is planned, we would recommend a smaller wheel, possible dual-wheel model. If outdoors, you may consider a 10 inch or 12 inch model. If you're going to use for both indoors and outdoors, then maybe consider a 6 inch model. We are referring to the diameter, which is the distance from one side of the wheel to the other and traveling through the center of the wheel.
SIZE OF WHEEL
The size of the wheel can make the measuring task at hand easier if the size of the wheel matches what you plan to do with your wheel. Read our section of "Inside or Outside" and see how we recommend the various sizes of measuring wheels. Please note that the overall size of the unit is something to consider, as some measuring wheels handles even collapse to save space.
UNITS OF MEASURE
The units of measure that you will want is up to you to decide. Will you want to measure in feet and inches, meters and decimeters, or tenths and feet? These are examples of units of measure. Please consider that a mechanical wheel you will need to decide and purchase the product that meets the units of measure that you desire. If you're buying an electronic wheel, most of the electronic measuring wheels offer multiple units of measure you and can typically push a button to select which unit of measure you want to measure in. This setting can be switched to your liking depending on the measuring units you want to perform. This is a benefit of an electronic measuring wheel, however please remember the disadvantage of having batteries to rely upon.
WARRANTY
Most are one year, but you can find some with lifetime warranties. Something to possibly consider but most wheels last a very long time if properly cared for and used.
CARRYING CASE
You may want to consider buying a measuring wheel that comes with a carrying case, or possibly buying an optional case. Using a case will help keep dust and water off of your measuring wheel and allow it to last longer.
We recommend taking the time to think about what you want to accomplish with a measuring wheel. Then, putting your criteria in ranking order before you make the purchase. Disclaimer; By reading this guide on our website, you agree to not hold anyone responsible for any misuse or misunderstandings that you may make. EngineerSupply.com does NOT assume any responsibility with providing this information.
