8 tips on how to choose a building level: types, accuracy, manufacturers

1.Bubble building level

This is the most common type of building levels. It is a very simple but quite functional device .

Design

This is a rectangular frame, most often made of aluminum and hollow inside, with a transparent bulb in the middle. It is the measuring flask , sometimes called the “eye”, that is the most critical part of the level. The flask is filled with liquid, most often industrial alcohol , since it has a lower density compared to water, and the air bubble, due to this, more sensitively to deviations and moves faster inside the flask.

fluorescent are also added to it to make work easier in the dark. Lines are drawn on the flask perpendicular to the body of the level, which serve as permissible limits of deviation. That is, looking at the flask you will see two thin lines, an air bubble and again two thin lines. If the bubble is clearly in the middle between the lines, then the surface is perfectly flat.

An important point is that the larger the bubble itself and the less space left from it to the lines on both sides, the more accurate the device will be and the smaller its error. By the way, there are levels that can be customized. The bulb at these levels is attached with fasteners, which makes it possible to adjust at any time. The most common type of bubble level is a level with two flasks. One serves to control the deviation from the vertical (90 degrees), the other - from the horizontal (180 degrees). They are located perpendicular to each other on different planes. If you see three cones, then the last one serves to measure 45 degrees from the horizontal plane or is rotary, to measure any angle of the surface. There are also levels with a large number of flasks that duplicate horizontal and vertical flasks; such levels are used for very important work, since they have a higher measurement accuracy. Modern levels are additionally equipped with various useful functions :

• Stiffening ribs are a very important element, the presence of which will make the level body more durable and protect against deflections, which is especially important when using long levels.
• The markings made on one of the surfaces of the level can be used as a ruler, which makes it possible to refuse additional tools and free your hands.
• The milled surface, often located on the opposite side of the measuring flask, prevents the level from sliding off the work surface and eases the effort required to hold the level with one hand.
• The impact pad is necessary for adjusting the controlled surface by applying moderate blows with a hammer.
• The pipe groove is a very convenient additional feature when installing sewer pipes, which prevents slipping from radius surfaces.
• Magnetic side - there is a magnet at one end of the level, which allows you to attach it to metal surfaces and carry out installation hands-free.

The length of bubble levels starts from 20 cm and reaches 3-4 m , which makes them universal for any application. For example, for simple repair work with your own hands, a level 30-40 cm long will be enough; for laying tiles, you should choose a slightly longer length - 40 cm-1 m. And if you are planning to make a screed, or do wall finishing, then a level with a length of from 2 meters.

Benefits of the bubble level

• Quite high strength , especially with stiffeners
• Very easy to operate, no special skills required to use it
• Suitable for both home use and more precise work
• Availability of various sizes , which makes it possible to choose the tool that is most convenient for you and most suitable for a specific task
• Affordable price

Flaws

• If you purchase a low-quality level of questionable production, it will go wrong
• Bubble levels are afraid of falls and bumps
• If you choose a bubble level with the ability to adjust, then remember that they get lost more often, and to adjust them you will need a flat surface, which is not always at hand.

Operating technique

To use the building level correctly, you need to study its parameters. The operating principle is the same for each device.

Using Bubble Type

The device is applied to the work surface, and the builder observes the air bubble. It should be located in the middle of the capsule.

Deviation of the bubble from the norm means:

1. The air capsule is shifted to the left. It is necessary to lower the left side of the tool or raise the right one.
2. Move the bubble to the right side. Lower the right side of the level or raise the left.

The device is never installed on its side, otherwise an unknown plane will be measured.

The popular bubble level requires state control. If the tool is dropped, it must be calibrated before use. Unlike other devices, a level cannot be a comprehensive device. The choice of its type, length and functions depends on the purpose: for minor work, finishing, installation, repair of external walls, laying bricks.

Application of water and laser device

During operation, the first part of the device (flask) is installed at one point, the second - at another. After a couple of minutes, the liquid is balanced and reaches the same level in each of the vessels.

Important rules:

1. The tube must not be kinked.
2. The liquid temperature is equal to the room temperature.
3. All bubbles must be removed from the tube.
4. For ease of use, the liquid in the tube is painted in a bright color.

The laser level projects a beam at a distance of up to 100 m vertically and horizontally. Maximum readings are given at 10 m. There are devices on sale that produce up to 10 beams. This improves measurement accuracy. For mounting, use a stable tripod, magnet, tripod or belt. Settings are required first.

The accuracy of repair and finishing work depends on the level of skills in working with the construction level. A regular tool helps level brickwork, floors or walls before wallpapering.

It is important to control the position of the plane during the construction of a building; the external appearance of the walls, the accuracy of the placement of window, doorways and other structures depend on this.
Without a building level, it is impossible to make the walls even. The choice of device type depends on the size of the allocated budget and the principle of work. Precise adjustment and constant control over the condition of devices will allow you to save your own funds. This is interesting: a set for laying bricks.

2.Pipe level

This type of level has a very narrow scope of application ; it is used for laying gas, water, sewer pipes or round profiles and beams.

Design

A pipe level is a type of bubble level. It is equipped with several flasks with liquid, in each of which an air bubble floats, which also determines the deviation from the required direction. A distinctive feature of the pipe level is the V-shaped shape of the body and the presence of magnets. Also, pipe levels can have a detachable, replaceable clamp to fit the pipe diameter.

Advantages of a pipe level

• Thanks to its special design, it can be easily mounted on a round surface without fear of slipping at the most inopportune moment.
• Thanks to the presence of magnets, the pipe level can be easily installed on a metal pipe or support
• For ease of storage, they can be folded by connecting sections
• Light weight

Flaws

• Small size (up to 40 cm)
• Narrow scope
• Higher price compared to bubble
• Shows the slope of one specific pipe, and is not suitable for assessing the overall slope

How to choose a building level?

The simplest bubble devices can vary significantly in quality. Choosing the right level will help you purchase a durable and accurate tool. Even amateurs can distinguish an inexpensive fake from a good instrument by its appearance, using the following tips:

1. High-quality samples have a thick base and greater weight at the same length.
2. Models with a ruler on the body are more functional.
3. The longer the level, the more accurate the measurements.
4. The shortest levels (30 cm) are suitable for household purposes; for laying tiles, it is better to take tools up to 1 m long.
5. When planning the installation of panels, dimensional planes or communications, it is better to purchase the longest models.
6. Rubberized handles make work more convenient.
7. Expensive shockproof models last longer.
8. Responsible manufacturers always supply a construction grade protective cover.
9. Magnets make it easier to attach when working with metal.

Building Level Rating

Bubble tools are relatively easy to make, but even in this category there are often extremely poor examples. Thin bodies are bent, which is why measurements are obtained with a large error, and the milling of the surface and installation of the bulbs is defective. By purchasing the best construction levels from trusted brands, we are guaranteed to receive a device of normal quality.

The best manufacturers of building levels:

• Stabila
  ;
• Kapro
  ;
• Ermak
  ;
• Bison
  ;
• Leader
  ;
• Bosch
  .

3.Hydraulic level

This type of building level is used to apply precise horizontal markings on objects distant from each other. It is advisable to use it when it comes to installing a ceiling, marking the level of the future floor, installing a foundation or any other construction installation in one plane.

Design

The hydraulic level consists of two vessels, with a scale in centimeters printed on them, connected to each other by a transparent, flexible tube. Please note that for ease of use, it is better to choose levels with rectangular so that they fit tightly to the surface. It is better to choose a tube with a larger diameter so that the liquid fills it faster and flows through it faster. The optimal diameter is 6-8 mm .

Before work, the level must be filled with water so that it occupies approximately 2/3 of the volume of the vessels. air bubbles should be avoided . Do not bend the tube - water should flow through it freely. After filling the system with water, align the flasks with each other, the liquid level in them should be the same, this means that the level is ready for use. The length of hydraulic levels can be from 5 to 25 m.

Advantages of the hydraulic level

• Low price
• Does not require special skills to operate
• Covers large areas
• Not afraid of falls and bumps
• No calibration required

Flaws

• Two people are required to use this type of level.
• Not a very convenient method of filling with liquid, in which it is not always possible to avoid the appearance of bubbles, which means that there may be several attempts
• Work only in the horizontal plane
• Possibility of use only at positive temperatures

4.Electronic level

This type of level is considered professional and allows you to perform work with increased precision.

Design

The electronic level looks the same as a regular bubble level and has several eyes for assessing deviations from the vertical or horizontal plane. The difference lies in the presence of a protractor and a digital display , which displays the deviation value. It can be displayed in degrees, percentage or millimeters, your choice. The electronic level has the ability to record measured slopes, and can also signal with sound when reaching 0º or 90º.

Advantages of an electronic level

• High accuracy
• Ease of use
• Possibility of storing measured slopes
• Presence of a sound signal

Flaws

• The need for periodic calibration
• Just like the bubble one, it requires careful treatment
• Higher cost compared to previous types

Laser level (level)

Belongs to the group of professional measuring instruments. The principle of operation is to build horizontal, vertical or inclined planes at a distance of several tens of meters from the location. This is an indispensable device when applying markings, leveling walls or ceilings, installing suspended ceilings or plasterboard ceilings, when constructing walls or interior partitions, or when tiling with ceramic tiles.

There are three main types of laser levels - point, linear, rotary . From the name it is clear that they are used to construct points, lines or planes. Some laser levels have the ability to self-level within 2÷4º.

Design

An LED is installed inside the housing , which produces the luminous flux for the laser. At the linear level, light passes through perpendicular prisms and at the output two mutually perpendicular straight lines are formed. In the rotational level, light is focused to a point at the moment it passes through the lens, and a straight line is formed by rotating the light source around its axis. Self-leveling levels are equipped with a pendulum with a copper tip-weight, which freezes in a magnetic field induced by eddy currents, thereby allowing the level to level. A regular laser level has a small built-in bubble level that must be leveled before use. Everything is quite simple, but the possibilities of using a laser level are really very extensive.

Advantages of a laser level

• Easy to use
• Significant savings in time spent on marking and other preparatory work
• High accuracy
• Easy to store and transport
• Ability to cover large areas

Flaws

• The main disadvantage of laser levels is their cost , but believe me, the costs will be fully justified when you appreciate all the advantages and possibilities of working with this device.
• Laser levels are not always sold complete with a tripod and a storage case, which incurs additional costs for their purchase.

Construction level - how to use?

If you need skills to work with laser devices, then the bubble level is extremely easy to maintain. Its body has two or three eyes, which serve as reference points for measurements. The working edges of the tool are not painted and are often equipped with magnetic inserts. There is a horizontal level peephole on the long side, and a vertical level on the short side. The third capsule is on the opposite side at an angle of 45°.

How to use a building level correctly:

1. To determine the horizontal error, apply a level with its long working edge to the plane.
2. Ideally, the bubble is located centrally between the marks in the capsule.
3. To level, lower the side of the surface where the bubble has deviated, or raise its opposite edge.
4. The slightest deviation of the bubble from the center threatens a serious error, especially if you work with long objects.
5. When measuring vertically located beams or walls, the vertical level flask should be on top.

6.Measurement accuracy

The most important thing you need to know when performing any work is the amount of error that building levels can produce.

• The bubble level has a measurement accuracy of 0.5-1 mm/m, the longer the level, the smaller the error
• The error of the pipe level depends on its length; the shorter it is, the greater the deviation
• Hydraulic levels from 5 to 25 meters long have an error of 2-3 mm
• The electrical level has a fairly high accuracy, the error is up to 0.1º
• Laser levels are very accurate, their error is only 0.1-1 mm/m depending on the class of the device

Device characteristics

The device helps to form straight lines in any plane, control the desired slope or angles. There is a certain principle for selecting a device, its operation and testing.

Description and selection criteria

Building levels are used during home repairs and during major construction of buildings. Therefore they come in different sizes and types . Spirit levels are indispensable when laying pipes and various surfaces that require an angle of inclination. They are used during installation of vibrating and demanding equipment for a flat surface. Reliable slats have a metal casing that protects the device during falls and from other damage on the construction site. Metal slats are made of a special alloy that is resistant to corrosion. Plastic devices are less durable, but cheaper.

The device is selected with the ability to adjust the capsule. Determine the correctness and accuracy of the indicators. To do this, place a level in the store on a horizontal surface, marking the edge of the end of the bar with a marker.

The bubble is not always in the center of the ampoule, but extends 1-2 mm, for example, beyond the left ruler. The readings are remembered and the bar is turned 180 degrees.

If the capsule expresses a similar indicator, the level is correct. The second capsule, responsible for the vertical plane, undergoes the same test. In this case, the device is leaned against a vertical stand. The readings are checked on one side and then on the opposite side.

Construction levels come in different lengths : from 20 cm to 4 m, each of them is designed for specific types of work. The optimal option for using the device in a domestic environment is a length of 50-60 cm. Short devices are suitable for installing sockets and switches. Others - 40 cm and 1 m - are convenient for laying tiles. Large sizes are used for large-scale construction and repair work. The longer the level, the more correct its readings.

The technology for manufacturing a building level is simple, but it requires precision and the use of high-quality materials for the device to work properly. Trademarks that characterize themselves as responsible manufacturers of levels: Kapro, Shtabilo, Ermak, Bosch, Gross Laser, Shark and Leader.

Types of construction tools

Today there is a large selection of levels depending on modification, shape, size and cost. The device must be purchased from a specialized hardware store and comply with quality certificates. This will ensure that the planned work is completed correctly.

Level types:

1. Bubble.
2. Water.
3. Laser.

Each type of device is used to align vertical and horizontal lines. Before using a bubble level, carefully study its structure. The device looks like long marked strips, each containing 1-3 level indicators (“eyes”). Each indicator is like a capsule, inside of which there is technical alcohol and an air bubble. If the integrity of this part is damaged, the entire device is considered unsuitable for further use. The ball moves in the capsule due to gravity. Its correct location is in the center.

The base of the plank is made of wood, plastic or aluminum. The heavier the device, the more accurate and functional it is. The first “eye” is called the sight and is located in the center of the level body. It is responsible for the exact and correct location in relation to the horizontal plane. The second landmark is rotated 90 degrees and, unlike the vizier, adjusts the vertical values. The next capsule is placed at a 45 degree angle to the first “eye” and is used to align the corners.

A water level (spirit level) is used to horizontally level the surface. It is convenient for them to measure distant points on the surface, for example, in distant rooms. A simple design consists of two tubes with divisions and a hose connecting them, ranging in size from 3 to 25 m.

In this case, Pascal's law of communicating vessels works. The principle of operation is that water is drawn into a colorless hose with flasks at the ends, and according to the law of communicating vessels, it will be the same in two containers. Gradually move the tool onto walls and other surfaces. By connecting the marks, you get an even horizontal line.

An expensive and technologically advanced laser level is used in profile construction and planning. The laser beam that the device emits passes in three planes, allowing you to adjust the placement of materials. Narrow specialists still highlight the digital level, but it does not inspire confidence due to the special device built into the smartphone.

Some models are equipped with a magnifying glass or fluorescent liquid for ease of use. Thanks to the lens, the size of the bubble increases, and the latter factor provides illumination in the evening. Some manufacturers combine several tools in one, for example, marking divisions for measuring parameters on the narrow part of the bar. This device is used as a construction ruler.

A round bubble level with a similar principle of operation is sold. A sealed capsule with an air bubble indicating deflection is located in a small round housing equipped with an adhesive base on the underside. This device is used in industrial enterprises where the strict horizontal plane of machines or other equipment is important. Over time, any building shrinks. The level notices the changes taking place and does not allow violations of production technology.

Shockproof models have become popular. During the work, falls, shocks, and mechanical damage often occur that disable the device. Long devices break more often, since their parameters increase the likelihood of a fall and increase the impact.

Device made from scrap materials

A simple bubble tool is made using a plastic bottle with convex walls. Multi-colored water is filled into it so that the air ball has a diameter of 0.5-1 cm. Place a bottle on a horizontal plane and mark the location of the bubble with a marker. This results in a horizontal surface mark.

Another way is to use a small ball. On a smooth surface it will easily move towards the maximum inclination. The vertical plane is checked using a plumb line. This is a copper weight suspended on a long rope. The device is fixed along the wall, obtaining a clear vertical. To maintain the even position of the thread during the repair process, screws are attached along it.

Which manufacturers should you prefer?

You can save on anything, but don't try to save on the cost of a building grade. It doesn’t matter what type of levels you give your preference and for what purposes you will use it - it must provide the declared accuracy . This can be achieved by purchasing products only from trusted manufacturers . According to reviews from experienced users and surveys of people who professionally engage in interior decoration and installation, the following manufacturers can be distinguished:

• Stabila (Germany)

Specializes in the production of laser levels, spirit levels and levels, known all over the world. The products of this brand are supplied to all industrial countries. All measuring instruments of this brand have reliable build quality, high quality materials used and high measurement accuracy. That is why Stabila has high popularity and a high reputation.

• Kapro (Israel)

One of the leading level manufacturers in the world. Kapro levels are valued for their high strength, they are the only levels whose measurement accuracy is confirmed by a certificate from the German VPA laboratory.

• Bosch (Germany)

Specializes mainly in the production of laser levels. The measuring instruments of this manufacturer are distinguished by a high level of accuracy, high-quality assembly and high quality materials.

What to look for when choosing?

Even if you listened to our advice and are not going to save on the cost of a building level, when purchasing you should conduct an external inspection of the device and pay attention to the little things that, in fact, will tell you a lot about the serviceability and accuracy of the level you have chosen.

• When choosing a level with bubble elements, be sure to pay attention to its main element - the flask. Carefully inspect its surface; it should be transparent and free of abrasions or other mechanical damage. Then check the strength of its fastening. It must be motionless and securely fixed in the body of the level, unless, of course, you have chosen a level with the possibility of manual adjustment, in which case the flask will be removable. Experienced users advise giving preference to levels with rigid fixation of the flasks, since in case of falls or other mechanical damage, they are more likely to remain intact and not get knocked down. Pay attention to the stripes that are applied to the flask; they should be even and clear. It is better if they are painted from the inside, so they will not be erased with frequent use. The air bubble should also be clear and not separate at the first shake; do not buy levels with a small bubble - their error will be greater. Another important point is the material of the level. Now almost all building levels are made of aluminum; it is much lighter and more practical than wood or plastic. If you purchase a long level, then it is mandatory to have stiffening ribs, so it will be more durable and will not sag.
• After a visual inspection it is necessary check level by clarity of indications. It's very easy to do. Specialty stores even have special surfaces for testing. If there is none, just use a more or less flat, horizontal surface. Place the selected level on it and mark, for example with a marker, the position of the air bubble, then turn the level 180º and place it in the same place. The bubble should be where your mark is. The bubble doesn't have to be in the center because your surface isn't perfectly flat, it just needs to return to the same position. If, after turning, the bubble is in a completely different place, you should refuse to buy this level.

• When purchasing a hydraulic level, pay attention to the shape of the liquid containers; give preference to rectangular shapes. The material from which the vessels are made must be clearly visible and free from abrasions, scratches, and chips. The scale applied to the vessels must be clear, legible, and most importantly, the same on both containers. Don’t forget to look at the hose - it should be soft, flexible, able to quickly acquire the necessary bends and not break. Do not purchase a level with a hose that is too narrow, otherwise the liquid will take a long time to flow through it.
• When purchasing a laser level , give preference only to well-known manufacturers, do not be tempted by a lower price, otherwise your device may quickly fail, and you will have to pay twice when purchasing another one. If you are going to use it often, or construction and repair are your way of earning money, pay attention to the number of available functions. The most popular are horizontal, vertical straight, plumb and cross. This is the minimum set for a professional level; as a rule, there are much more. It would be good if the level comes with storage case tripod . The case must be durable or shockproof, have a soft protective coating inside and special recesses for storage elements, which must fit tightly into them and not fall out when the case is turned. The telescopic tripod must be rigid, strong and stable. It is better if it has as few plastic elements as possible.

Following these simple rules, the level you choose will serve you for a very long time and will become an indispensable assistant in any of your endeavors. And most importantly, it will be convenient for you.

The article was written for the site.

Tags:Preparing for room renovation