Fraction to Decimal Chart (16ths of an Inch) | Inch Conversion Table

Fraction to Decimal Conversion Chart for 16ths

This chart converts every 1/16-inch increment to its decimal-inch and millimeter equivalent. It is part of the reference charts on this site and serves as a focused companion to the full fraction to decimal chart, which covers 16ths, 32nds, and 64ths.

If you work with a standard tape measure marked in sixteenths, this is the only table you need for everyday conversions.

For conversions beyond 16ths, including 32nds and 64ths, use the fraction to decimal chart.

How to Use This 16ths Chart

Find the fraction on your tape measure, then look it up in the table above to get the decimal-inch and millimeter values. Here is the step-by-step process:

• Read your tape measure. Identify the fraction by counting the marks past the last whole inch. On a 16ths tape, each small mark represents 1/16 inch.
• Find the fraction in the chart. Locate the row that matches your reading. Common fractions like 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 are bolded for quick scanning.
• Use the decimal value in calculators or software. Enter the decimal-inch number into layout software, CNC programs, or any of the construction calculators on this site.
• Use the millimeter value for metric parts. When matching metric hardware, Euro hinges, or metric fasteners to an Imperial measurement, read the mm column directly.
• Click any decimal value to copy it to your clipboard for pasting into another tool.

When 1/16 Inch Accuracy Is Enough

Most general construction and DIY work falls within 1/16-inch tolerance. Framing walls, installing deck boards, cutting rough shelving, hanging drywall, and laying out stud spacing are all tasks where 1/16 inch is more than precise enough. Standard tape measures are marked in 16ths for this reason.

Where you may need finer precision is finish carpentry, cabinetry, and visible trim joints. Gaps at baseboard miters, cabinet face frames, and door casing reveals become noticeable at 1/32 inch and smaller. For those tasks, the 32nds of an inch chart provides a focused reference, or use the full fraction to decimal chart with 32nds and 64ths views.

Machining, CNC routing, and precision jig work call for 1/64-inch accuracy or finer. If you regularly work at that level, bookmark the main chart and switch to the 64ths view.

Common 16ths You’ll See on a Tape Measure

These are the 16 fractions that make up one inch on a standard tape measure. The most frequently used values are marked in bold.

Example: You measure a board at 5 and 3/16 inches. Look up 3/16 in the chart: 0.1875. Add that to 5 to get 5.1875 inches, or 5.1875 × 25.4 = 131.76 mm.

Example: A plan calls for a 0.4375-inch spacer. Scan the decimal column and find 7/16 inch. Set your tape to seven marks past the inch line.

Related Tools

• Fraction to Decimal Chart — Full interactive conversion chart with 16ths, 32nds, and 64ths views plus a quick converter for any fraction.
• Lumber Dimensions Chart — Look up nominal vs actual lumber sizes where fractional dimensions like 1-1/2” and 3-1/2” are standard.
• Drywall Calculator — Estimate sheets and materials for drywall projects where 1/2” and 5/8” thickness fractions are standard measurements.
• Flooring Calculator — Convert fractional plank dimensions to decimal inches for accurate coverage-per-box calculations.
• Concrete Slab Calculator — Calculate cubic yards for slabs where thickness is commonly specified in fractional inches.