No DIYer or handyman should ever be without a spirit level - small or large. A spirit level is used for determining horizontal and vertical levels and can be used on a variety of DIY projects in and around the home.
The accuracy of a level depends on the quality of the spirit level used. Obviously, a quality spirit level will offer a more precise and accurate reading than a cheaper, more inferior model.
What to look for in a spirit level
The most important feature on any spirit level is the glass or plastic vial. This vial contains a coloured liquid that has a bubble of air that moves horizontally or vertically along the vial.
The best spirit level to buy is one that features both a horizontal and vertical vial.
These vials feature two graduation marks that are spaced apart to allow positioning of the bubble between these two graduations, which then indicate horizontal or vertical levels.
The accuracy of a level depends on the quality of the spirit level used. Obviously, a quality spirit level will offer a more precise and accurate reading than a cheaper, more inferior model.
Using a spirit level
To properly use a spirit level, it should be positioned in the centre, on a firm horizontal or vertical surface. If the plane to be checked is not even, place a straightedge on top and the spirit level on top of the straightedge.
The bubble should sit between the graduation marks.
Where the bubble sits over or out of the graduation marks, adjust the spirit level to the left or right.
When the left side is too high the bubble will sit on the right side of the graduation marks and vice-versa for the opposite side.
Using this as a guide, you can now make the necessary adjustment to create a perfectly level project.
When you need to check vertical levels, place the back edge of the spirit level against a straightedge, which is then positioned against the vertical plane to be checked.
If the bubble is between the graduations, the plane is level. Where the bubble lies outside the graduations, move the straightedge until the bubble is centrally placed.
This will allow you to determine any unevenness on the vertical plane.
Handy tips
Use a spirit level to check that timber or board is not bowed. This is important when looking for pieces to make projects with large flat horizontal or vertical sections.
It’s always better to invest in a spirit level that is at least one metre in length because the longer the spirit level the more accurate the reading.
Article courtesy of www.home-dzine.co.za
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