Levels

Levels are precision tools used to determine whether a surface is horizontally level or vertically plumb. Essential across construction, plumbing, electrical, and installation work, levels ensure components are aligned correctly, improving safety, performance, and visual finish.

Using spirit-filled vials or digital sensors, levels help identify even slight deviations from true level or plumb, enabling accurate alignment of pipes, fittings, brackets, appliances, and structural elements.

• Spirit Level (Bubble Level): Uses a liquid-filled vial with an air bubble; aligns when centred between marked lines.
• Box Level: Rigid rectangular design for checking long horizontal or vertical surfaces.
• Torpedo Level: Compact and ideal for use in confined spaces or on small components.
• Post Level: Right-angle shape for levelling posts, pipes, or poles vertically and horizontally at once.
• Digital Level: Provides an electronic reading of angle or gradient, offering higher precision for advanced tasks.
• Laser Level: Projects horizontal or vertical lines across surfaces for long-distance levelling or layout.

Place the Level on the Surface:

• For horizontal checks, lay the level flat on the surface (e.g. shelf, pipe, bracket).
• For vertical checks, place the level upright against the surface (e.g. wall, post, conduit).

Read the Bubble:

• Look at the bubble in the vial:
• Centred bubble: Surface is level or plumb.
• Off-centre bubble: Surface is tilted; adjust as needed.

Adjust the Surface:

• Move, tilt, or reposition the component until the bubble centres in the vial.
• Recheck after each adjustment to confirm accuracy.

Check in Multiple Directions:

• For critical applications (e.g. wall-mounted items or pipe installations), check in at least two directions to ensure full alignment.

Position the Post in the Hole:

• Dig a post hole to the required depth and place the post in position.
• Use gravel at the base for drainage if installing in concrete.

Attach a Post Level or Spirit Level:

• Use a post level (a right-angle spirit level) for simultaneous front and side levelling.
• Alternatively, use a standard spirit level by checking two adjacent faces of the post.

Adjust the Post Until Plumb:

• Move the post gently in the hole until the bubble in each vial is centred.
• Ensure the post is vertically plumb from all sides.

Secure the Post Temporarily:

• Brace the post using timber supports or clamps to keep it in position.
• Double-check alignment after bracing.

Set the Post:

• Pour in concrete or compact backfill material while holding the post in position.
• Allow the concrete to set fully before removing braces.