The Definitive Levels Buying Guide
Type of work
First and foremost, you need to decide what type of work you are going to perform and for that work, what type of level would you need. In particular, the length is important if you are working with the paver project, lumber, or drywall. It is because a long level will give you a better and precise measurement.
There are many levels, which can perform double duty both as a straight edge and ruler. Some levels are magnetic, which allows for hands-free operations. You can use these types of levels on any metal surface. There are some models, which feature lights – thus allowing for reliability in low-light areas.
Types of levels
The first type of level you would find is the cross-check level. It is a small tool, which you can use to check vertical and horizontal at the same time.
Digital level, on the other hand, uses batteries to display measurements in degrees, inches, feet, and percentages.
Another type of level is the laser, which can be used to find plumb, level, and distance. A line level is specifically designed for attaching to the cord of the mason or other strings in order to determine the string’s level over a distance.
Moreover, a plumb bob is not a conventional level that comes with liquid-filled vials. In fact, it is a tool, which uses gravity for finding the plumb. Typically, you can use this type of level to align wallpaper or locate posts.
A post level – on the other hand – can find level and plum simultaneously. However, it is important that you use it on plum posts, water pipes, flagpoles, decks, and railings.
Water Level
The water level is a length of flexible and clear tubing, which has markers on it. This type of level works on the principle that water existing on both ends of the tube will come to a resting position at the same height.
So, this allows for height transfers around the deck or room area. A water level is used frequently in the installation process of footings on the decks as well as in hanging dropped ceilings.
Electronic Levels
These types of levels usually have spirit vials, which are used for manual readings and digital displays for accurate and precise measurements. They likewise have percentages and degrees of slope information, which are helpful for you in installing drain pipes.
When you opt to choose a level, it is important that the edges are free from imperfection such as burrs, which otherwise could lead to inaccurate measurements. At the same time, the levels you are going to buy must have perfectly smooth sides.