Red Seal Lather (Interior Systems Mechanic) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Lather Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

The tape measure is essential for measuring square footage in drywall installation because it allows you to accurately determine the dimensions of the walls and ceiling where the drywall will be installed. To calculate square footage, you need the length and width of each surface. A tape measure provides the flexibility to measure long distances and reach into tight spaces, which is crucial in various construction settings.

While other tools like the square, level, and marking gauge are important for different aspects of drywall installation—such as ensuring straight cuts, leveling surfaces, and marking measurements—they do not specifically serve the purpose of measuring area. The square helps in creating right angles, the level ensures that installations are plumb and flush, and the marking gauge assists with transferring measurements accurately to the material. Each of these tools plays a supportive role, but without the tape measure, you wouldn't be able to determine the necessary square footage needed for the installation.