What material should flexible commercial tape measures be made of?

Flexible commercial tape measures are predominantly made of metal due to several key reasons. Metal strips provide durability and resistance to bending and distortion, ensuring accurate measurements over time. The tension and flexibility offered by metal allow the tape to extend and retract smoothly, which is essential for ease of use. Additionally, metal tape measures can withstand adverse conditions and rough handling that might otherwise damage materials like plastic or wood.

While other materials like plastic can be used for lighter applications, they often lack the sturdiness required for rigorous commercial use. Wood is less common due to its susceptibility to environmental factors like moisture which can alter its dimensions. Fiber materials may offer some flexibility but do not provide the necessary strength and stability needed for reliable measurements in a commercial setting. Therefore, metal is the optimal choice for flexible commercial tape measures, combining resilience and accurate performance in measurement tasks.