We all have tape measures floating around the house, as they are crucial in helping us complete various household tasks.

While we all know what the inches and centimeter markings are on the tape measure, you likely don’t know what the black diamond on it means.

That’s why we’ve decided to let you in on the secret of what this black diamond symbolizes!

The black diamonds, which many refer to as “truss markings” make it easier for you to hang frames, decorations, and other things from the wall because they are located equidistant from the 16 and 24-inch markings.

This will help you to lay five rafters beneath each 8-foot piece of plywood.

The video below this story will give you a full tutorial on how best to use these black diamonds.

The video has quickly gone viral, with people all over the world commenting on it.

“FYI. 24 inch on center is what most roof trusses are set at,” one social media user commented. “16″ is what most wall studs and flooring joists are set at. 16″ centers let you install 1/2″ drywall. With 24″ centers you must install 5/8″ drywall.

That is why walls in houses are normally 1/2″ drywall and Ceilings are almost always 5/8″ drywall.”

“I have never heard of someone using the black diamonds before,” the user continued. “I live in MI and never knew anyone to put trusses less than 2′ apart. I am an electrician and have been doing residential wiring for 40 yrs. I have never seen 5 by 2s in 8 feet. Something to know though. I will have to ask some carpenters about this. :)”

“The diamonds, many call them “truss markings”. But in Canada, the are joist markings,” another user commented.

“The 3/4 inch floor sheeting is rated to a maximum of 24inch span. Or, 4 spaces (5 joists) for every sheet. But to shrink it up so it has more tolerance and not at it’s “maximum” They use a spacing that is smaller than 24in, but bigger that the old standard, 16inch (6 spaces/7 joists).”

Check out the tutorial for yourself below!