Spirit Levels
Levels, also known as spirit levels, are used to check that surfaces are plumb or straight. Whether you’re a professional builder or an occasional DIYer, having a reliable level in your tool bag is a must. Fortunately, we have a range of products available from leading manufacturers such as Stanley, Stabila and Milwaukee. Featuring multiple windows, die-cast aluminium frames, magnified vials and pipe grooves for use on rounded surfaces, these accurate and robust spirit levels won’t let you down.
How to use a spirit level
- Remove any dust or debris from the surface that you want to make level.
- Place the spirit level against the surface. Ideally this will be flat and smooth so that the level doesn’t move or wobble.
- Look at the bubble in the tube or vial. If the bubble is to the left of the lines, your object slopes downward left-to-right. If the bubble is to the right of the lines, your object slopes downward right-to-left. You’ll want the bubble in the vial or tube to sit centrally, in the middle of the guidelines. Depending on what you are trying to achieve this might mean moving the level itself to make a mark, against a wall for example, or moving the object the spirit level is on to get it horizontal, such as a shelf or patio slab.
- Check the bubble again, before making the marking or adjusting the surface that requires levelling.
What are the different types of spirit level?
Torpedo levels
Perfect for keeping in the toolbox, torpedo spirit levels are generally multi-purpose all-rounders designed for use in tighter spaces. They are usually around 6 to 12 inches.
I-Beam levels
Also called a girder level, an I-Beam level’s frame makes an ‘i’ shape when looking at it from its end. They tend to be a slightly less sturdy, but a cost-effective alternative to a box level.
Box beam levels
Box beam levels, also known as box levels due to the frame is a box shape, are generally stronger than I-Beam levels but also slightly heavier.
Line levels
With a hook that can be attached to a string (hence their alternative name ‘string levels’), line levels are good for levelling across long distances. The string method has been used for years, long before laser levels were invented.
Magnetic levels
These are spirit levels that have one or more magnets fitted to the underside. This allows them to stick easily to metallic surfaces allowing you to work hands-free.
