What level is needed for the construction of walls. Construction level

The final result of the work of a number of specialists in industrial areas depends on the accuracy of measuring instruments: a builder, a bricklayer, a carpenter, etc. The construction level of various modifications is a simple but obligatory tool for any serious team or individual craftsman, which allows to identify the accuracy of the location of horizontal and vertical surfaces. The history of the appearance of the first spirit level dates back to the second half of the 17th century, and the vertical plumb line is a well-known primitive prototype of later inventions.

Common classification for building levels:

• Bubble (spirit level) - with flasks installed in a rigid case, filled with liquid, and the presence of a floating air bubble in each flask;
• Laser level - with fast and clear marking of the laser beam point of the working surfaces;
• Water level (hydro level) - the principle of operation is based on Pascal's hydrostatic law and checks the conformity of the planes of the horizontal surfaces.

Despite all the obvious innovative advantages of the same laser level, skilled craftsmen never refuse to use a quality bubble level - this versatile, time-tested tool.

The main characteristics of the building level

• Measurement accuracy (from 0.3 mm / m, the longer the building level is and the heavier it is, the higher the accuracy of its readings);
• Impact resistance. As a rule, the levels have a hollow body, but with walls of sufficient thickness;
• Wide resistance to the slightest bending and torsion;
• Measuring flasks with high transparency and resistance to discoloration, haze, cracking and leakage when exposed to low and high temperatures, as well as ultraviolet rays.

Device

A rigid monolithic, most often rectangular case with a milled bottom edge is made of light and durable materials (aluminum, polystyrene, plastic, wood) with an anti-corrosion coating. In the case, depending on the required accuracy, a certain number of transparent sealed glass flasks (level eyes) with an air bubble floating in a colored alcohol-containing liquid are securely fixed:

• one flask - only for the horizontal rail (180 degrees);
• two - for horizontal (180 degrees) and vertical guides (90 degrees);
• three - for more complex work, with an additional third camera that controls the measurement of the angle of inclination (rigidly fixed at 45 degrees, or rotary - for measuring any angle of the controlled surface).

In order to minimize errors in angular vision, boundary lines are drawn on the surface of the measuring flasks - risks. Eyes for checking the position of the vertical plane surfaces and the angle of inclination have built-in mirrored reflectors for simultaneous control of the position of the bubbles.

Plastic plugs at the ends of the level protect the structure in case of accidental drops.

Some level manufacturers also provide additional conveniences: for example, a built-in magnifying lens for more comfortable eye control of the bubble, magnetic systems or fluorescent liquid of the flask for the possibility of continuing work at night.

The principle of operation of the bubble building level is simple: the measurement and adjustment of surfaces relative to the horizontal and vertical planes occurs due to the movement of the bubble inside a certain level eye. Correct adjustment will result in the bubble being exactly in the middle between the measuring risks of the flask.

Building level. Which is better?

Having made a decision to purchase a building level, it will not be superfluous to get acquainted with some recommendations for its choice:

1. Flask- must be securely fastened in the case. When buying, it is worth abandoning the level in which the bulb is screwed on, because of which it may loosen over time. You should choose flasks made of polyacrylic, which is stronger than glass and more transparent than plastic.
2. Level length- it is necessary to take into account the type of work to be done, since the larger the working area, the longer the level should be chosen;
3. Defects- the building level is a measuring device, therefore, when buying a tool, it is imperative to make sure that there is no factory defect, as well as errors in the readings.

1. Body material- the tool can be made of plastic, metal or wood. The most reliable and durable is, of course, the metal level, inside which the stiffeners are located
2. Markup- The best option is to place the control strips inside the bubble itself. The divisions applied to the surface of the flasks should be clear and located close to each other.

The spread in the cost of building levels is quite diverse. At the same time, it is not worth asking about the choice of more economic models, especially if it is necessary to use the tool repeatedly. If a thorough repair is to be carried out, then experts strongly recommend purchasing a professional tool. For it, a characteristic difference is the presence of a shock-resistant case with special rubber pads, which during operation are able to soften the shocks from falls, etc.

In operation, it proved itself better than others, the building level of the famous German brand "Stabila" has recommended. For such a tool, on average, you will have to pay from 700 to 1800 rubles. This measuring device is famous for such advantages as:

• high-quality and stable reading of indications (high degree of measurement accuracy);
• good ergonomic characteristics;
• precision in the geometry of the aluminum profile body.

In addition, magnetic building levels are also produced under this brand, which make it possible to work with electricity, and are equipped with special slots for marking for switches and sockets.

In addition to Stabila, another good option can be the building level of the Akula company.... The good thing about the levels of this brand is that they are not afraid of falls and bumps. Also good models are produced by the firms "Ermak", "Bosch" or "Kapro"... For example, the company "Kapro" constantly updates its models and often introduces the latest innovative solutions, releasing tools for household and professional type. Models of the German company "Bosch" are distinguished by their high quality. A similar tool with the Bosch models is also produced by the Russian company Condtrol, which is more affordable in terms of cost.

In the middle category of such instruments, it is worth highlighting the levels produced by the firms "Matrix", "Brigadier" and "Stayer", which are distinguished by special measurement accuracy and an optimal cost-to-quality ratio.

However, when buying a building grade, a well-known brand should not be a decisive aspect. The main thing is to decide on the type of future work and the frequency of using the tool.

180 degree method

You can check the accuracy of the level in the simplest way, called the 180 degree method:

1. It is necessary tightly, without gaps, to put the building level on a flat horizontal surface and remember the position of the bubble relative to the marks.
2. In the horizontal plane, turn the level 180 degrees and place it clearly on the same area.
3. In a qualitative and accurate level, the position of the bubble should remain the same.

The vertical accuracy of the readings can be checked in the same way.

Round bubble level

This type of building levels is designed to control only horizontal surfaces and is somewhat different from the usual levels in the design of the body with the same principle of operation. The round level is a hemispherical sealed capsule made of impact-resistant glass with a fixed flask, inside which the position of the bubble is determined by the bounding round line.

The scope of the circular bubble level is not only construction work and control of the degree of shrinkage of already rebuilt buildings. Levels of this kind are widely used in photography and video shooting to strictly adjust the position of the equipment tripod horizontally. It is very common to use circular levels and when installing commercial or check weighers, as well as for constant monitoring of the stable horizontal position of stationary machines, industrial tools and even jewelry surfaces - for example, polishing wheels.

A circular bubble level often has the ability to locally attach to a controlled surface and is very low cost with high measurement accuracy. A knowledgeable person will appreciate this simple and necessary tool.

The ubiquitous use of levels

Whatever work you have to do (check the vertical and horizontal alignment of the walls, floor and ceiling surfaces; install a washing machine without distortions, hang a bookshelf or a picture) - the simplicity and ease of use of the bubble building level will help you do it quickly and with the highest quality. Even in the presence of a laser level or a plane builder that is more complex in execution and principle of operation, the building level that is unchanged in the arsenal of any master will not remain idle.

The building level is a tool that reveals the slope of surfaces. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

How do they work

The algorithm of work of any of them comes down to the choice of the installation point and the place of level measurement. The rest of the possibilities depend on the specific type of instrument and can be combined.

The building level helps:

1. Determine the verticality or horizontalness of a given surface - in order to establish a further scope of work and its necessity.
2. Find out in which direction the tilt occurred, in some models its exact size is also available.
3. Set clear guidelines when marking surfaces - before installing frames or furniture.
4. Calculate the volume of materials - for this, the arithmetic average of the levels of different points on the same surface is applied.
5. Determine a single level in different rooms - often required when installing ceilings or windows.

In low-rise construction or apartment renovation, manual variations of the tool are often used. These are devices without complex electronics and do not require special skills. Professionals use several types at the same time.

Types and functions of building levels

Hydro levels

The functioning of this type of instrument is based on the laws of physics about communicating vessels. Structurally, hydrolevels are two flasks connected by a transparent tube.

Peculiarities:

• This is an accurate view of the levels, but it is important that the hose is not kinked and that you have good vision.
• Suitable for checking slopes in different rooms at the same time.
• As a rule, they require pair work.

To bring the device into working condition, it is enough to fill it with water so that the upper meniscus of the liquid reaches the middle of both flasks, and no air bubbles remain in the tube.

Bubble building levels

Regardless of the size and design features, the principle of the device is the same. At least two flasks are built into the level body, where small air bubbles "float" in the liquid. Focusing on them, they check if there is a slope of the planes.

Peculiarities:

• The liquid in most cases will be technical alcohol. Allows measurements with an accuracy of 1 mm / m - this is the industry standard.
• Hard acrylic air bubbles offer greater precision. Accuracy 0.5 mm / m.

Some of the models of bubble levels are equipped with flasks on a rotating base. This allows you to work with inclined planes. Profile shapes are in the form of a box, a trapezoid and with one measuring plane, cast Shark (shark). Part of the tool is equipped with end elements that prevent breakage in case of falls.

Laser building levels

The convenience of this equipment lies in its non-contact use and in a large area of ​​coverage with markings.

Peculiarities:

• The device pendulum is leveled after unlocking. It is advisable to set the plane of the base horizontally.
• Manufacturers offer an additional mounting tripod, but its dimensions are not enough for marking at a height. In this case, a bar is used, which is fixed between the floor and another horizontal surface. The platform on which the tool is installed moves along it.
• In bright light, the laser beam is not visible to the naked eye. To resolve the issue, glasses with glasses in the red color range are used.

Some of the laser levels produce static vertical and horizontal lines in a limited sector. The alternative, using a running point in a circle, allows you to make markings simultaneously from all sides.

Magnetic building levels

Magnetic levels are visually indistinguishable from bubble levels. The difference is noticeable only at the bottom ends. This option is equipped with magnets for easy handling of metal surfaces.

Peculiarities:

• Strip magnets are more commonly used in polymer levels, in combination with a V-notch for ease of handling on pipelines.
• Ceramic magnets or ferrites have been the industry standard in levels up until recent years.
• Rare Earth - Most aluminum models now come with this type of magnet. They are up to 10 times stronger than ceramic.

This type of level is more often used for work related to the installation of frames for drywall, as it is conveniently mounted on ceiling and rack profiles, leaving your hands free.

Optical building levels

An optical level or level is used in industrial facilities or in the construction of houses. The kit includes a special tripod, without which the use of the tool is unproductive. Installation comes down to mounting, focusing and centering.

Peculiarities:

• Centering is needed for point-to-point measurements. It is carried out using a plumb bob attached to the bottom of the tripod.
• Focusing - the telescope is aimed at the staff, the clarity is adjusted with the help of the adjusting screw. The eyepiece defines the reticle.

After setting, the survey of heights is performed. The captured data are summed up, their arithmetic mean is calculated. It will be the base mark from the instrument horizon.

Advantages

Each type has its own set of advantages:

• Hydro levels ... They support measurements in different rooms when the initial level is hidden by partitions or heavy structures. This functionality is not provided in other models.
• Bubble ... Easy to install and use, light weight and dimensions. Can be used to measure the level and simultaneously check the plane of the wall or floor.
• Magnetic ... Do not require additional fixation when working with metal. Enjoy the full benefits of bubble models.
• Laser ... Supports simultaneous vertical and horizontal measurements. Longer coverage than any handheld model. Automation of routine processes.
• Optical ... Applicability in open spaces, in the construction of roads and large facilities. Functionality, time and labor savings. When measuring at a distance, the accuracy is not degraded.

Problems

Disadvantages and inconveniences also depend on the type of instrument:

• Hydro. M is understandable and difficult to operate. The routine processes of filling, draining, unwinding and expelling bubbles are time-consuming. Not suitable for vertical surfaces.
• Bubble ... Often it gets lost, adjustment is often unavailable. Not suitable for working over long distances and areas. In adjacent rooms, the correct level cannot be determined.
• Magnetic ... The same disadvantages as the bubble. Magnets often protrude out of the plane of the rib - when measuring, fresh paint or putty can be damaged. Some models are less stable than bubble ones. Frequent breakdown of magnets is also a disadvantage.
• Laser ... Requires a flat surface. The pendulum often breaks down during transportation. The beam diameter increases with distance, which affects accuracy. Measurements of planes can only be carried out using additional accessories.
• Optic ... Adjustment is time consuming and requires skill. For domestic purposes, functionality is redundant - neither time costs nor costs are justified.

How to choose a building level

For most types of levels, accuracy will be the defining indicator, so it is important to check its correctness.

Bubble and magnetic

The same design also implies uniform methods for assessing the correctness of readings.

To check a horizontal flask, you need:

1. Place the tool on a flat surface.
2. Make two marks: at the end of the level and along - near the horizontal ampoule.
3. Remember the position of the air bubble.
4. Turn the spirit level by 180 ° and set in the same place in accordance with the previously made marks.
5. Check the position of the air bubble. Any differences in its position before and after flipping the level indicate an inaccuracy of the instrument.
6. Repeat the test, even if the readings are the same.

To check the vertical flask, set the level on a door frame or flat wall, further steps - by analogy with horizontal measurements.

Hydro

In this type of measuring instruments, there are no structural parts responsible for the accuracy of measurements, but there are nuances that should be considered when choosing:

• The length of the hose - you should not choose it in reserve, because the expulsion of air bubbles and the straightening of the tubes can turn this advantage into a problem.
• Pay attention to the tightness of the protective caps. Water should not be poured out - this will interfere with work.
• It is worth checking the integrity of the tube and the joints with the flasks.

An additional parameter is the flexibility of the hose, but it is difficult to assess it without experience with this type of level.

Laser

The choice of a laser level implies a comparison of a number of indicators:

• Measurement error - should not exceed 3 mm by 10 meters.
• Self-leveling - test multiple models. The preferred option is the pendulum of which aligns faster than in analogues.
• Range - marked as a radius or diameter. To avoid confusion, specify what type of distance is indicated. The laser is also responsible for the same parameter. A 532nM green beam will do most measurements.

Additionally, the integrity of the tool and the absence of mechanical damage are checked.

Optic

You need to choose a level taking into account the challenges and features of future use. They are divided into three classes: precision, basic and technical.

Peculiarities:

• An air damper is suitable for outdoor conditions, and operation in vibration mode requires the use of a magnetic version.
• To perform tasks in a confined space, the determining parameter should be the smallest sighting distance. For large objects, models with the maximum telescope magnification range are preferred.
• Leveling of the I or II class on construction sites is usually not required, but it should be borne in mind that only high-precision instruments can perform it.
• It is easier to prepare a tool with a compensator for work due to self-alignment of the sighting axis.

Which is better

The answers to these questions will help you choose the best type of tool for your current task.

What basic functions should the level perform?

• The functionality of the bubble level will cover all the problems of household tiling, but it is impossible for them to correctly measure the level of ceilings in different rooms.
• Laser - saves hours of work marking the walls for frames and wallpaper, but is not suitable for determining the correctness of the level of the planes.
• Optical - will support accurate calculations for laying routes, leveling surfaces, but it will not work to hang the shelves inside the kitchen cabinet with it.
• Hydro - will help to carry out a uniform marking of ceilings, but for the installation of wall frames, it is useless.

Where will it be used? Indoors, outdoors, or both?

• Most electronic models are not designed for outdoor use or in aggressive environments (rain, snow).
• Please note that in addition to the laser level, you will need a detector for outdoor use, as the rays will not be visible in daylight.

What is the required measurement accuracy?

Industrial lasers and levels have mechanical or digital counters, there is support for recording the angle of inclination with a step of 0.01%. For less accurate measurements, basic models of hand tools are selected.

Are you looking for additional features?

Professional-grade tools, accessories necessary for comfortable work. But the functionality of household and industrial models may not differ significantly.

How to use the building level

Features of use depend on the type of tool. There are no uniform operating methods.

How to use the hydro level

1. Carefully unfold the tubes and fill the instrument with clean running water through one of the flasks, while holding the other above. Try to fill non-stop to avoid unnecessary air gaps.
2. Check that the filling is correct - the tubes must be uniformly convex. Slightly clicks the remaining air bubbles to the flasks until they come out completely. If done correctly, the risks will rise to the same height when measured. This can be checked by placing the flasks close to each other.
3. Secure the caps.
4. Further, it is supposed to work together. One person holds the flask, and the second goes with a hose to a place or room, the level of which must be compared with the current one.
5. When both are in place, the caps are removed from the flasks. It is important to do everything at the same time and at approximately the same height - otherwise there will be overflows.
6. One person holds the flask against a predetermined mark, making sure to match the center of the water meniscus.
7. The partner gently raises or lowers the flask, thereby adjusting the level of water filling.
8. When everything is aligned, a level mark is made by the second participant.

Precautions: avoid kinking and mechanical damage to the hose.

How to use bubble and magnetic level

• Place the tool on the surface of the object to be checked for horizontal alignment.
• If the air bubble is to the right of the line, the object is tilted down to the left.
• If the bubble is to the left of the line, the object is tilted down to the right.

The vertical level is found by analogy.

Maintenance and care consists in the timely cleaning of the tool, especially after measurements on wet plaster surfaces.

Precautions are taken to protect the instrument from impacts and falls.

How to use the laser level

• Place the instrument on a tripod or flat surface.
• If the model is manually adjusted, check that the bubbles indicate a level. Otherwise, find the screws on the side and adjust them to the required correctness. Self-leveling - After installation, allow the tool to self-level, usually 30 seconds.
• Turn on the device. The device will emit a beam that is reflected on the surfaces. Depending on the type of laser level, it can be a point, a line, or multiple horizontal or vertical intersections.

If the device has not been used for a long time or has been dropped, calibration will be required. Installation on a rail or tripod is done using a clamp or clamps from the kit.

Precautionary measures:

• do not look at the beam itself, do not direct it at children or animals;
• do not use the tool in the rain;
• do not carry with an unlocked pendulum - many models warn about this with a sound signal or blinking of the laser.

How to use the optical level

Check the stability of the tripod before use. Tighten the mount with the tool. Make sure the leveling screws are not too tight on the base plate.

Alignment:

• While grasping the adjusting screws between your thumb and forefinger, turn them in opposite directions at the same time. While doing this, observe the movement in the graduated flask.
• The air bubble should be centered on the circular level window.
• Point centering is performed with a plumb line mounted on the tripod screw. Then the level is shifted over the head.
• Centering is complete when the plumb line is above the target point.

Focusing:

• Aim the telescope at a piece of paper or other light object.
• Twist the eyepiece until the desired sharpness appears - the sight should be clear.
• With the tube pointing at the supplied rail, adjust the focus using the knob.
• If the alignment is correct, the leveling rod scale and the crosshair of the target do not move one after the other.
• After focusing, hold the level on a specific target.

Use the focus knob to add sharpness.

Precautions are the same as for laser models, but extra careful handling of the lens is required.

Guarantee

The standard warranty excludes mechanical damage.

Bubble, magnetic and hydro - refer to hand tools. They rarely have a warranty over 12 months. Most manufacturers do not specify detailed conditions for these types of tools.

Laser - depending on the manufacturer and the category of the tool (household or professional), a warranty of 1 to 3 years is provided.

Optical - standard warranty period from one year. But the narrowness of the niche forces manufacturers to go for tricks. Some give a tool warranty for up to 25 years.

The warranty period can be counted from the date of purchase or shipment. In the second case, it is appropriate to clarify whether the instrument spent a lot of time in the warehouse.

Malfunctions and repairs

The weak links are different parts - their set depends on the type of tool.

Bubble and magnetic

The main problem is associated with the loss of correctness of measurements.

1. A flask with a bubble is knocked down - the readings will no longer be accurate, the error can reach several cm per meter. In budget models, flask adjustment is not provided - the tool is unusable with this malfunction. In other cases, tightening the screws or fixing clamps will return the level to the correct reading. During setup, a calibration is performed in the same way as when selecting a tool.
2. Profile bent - this happens when you hit and fall. The tool cannot be repaired, it will no longer give accurate readings.
3. Crack in the protective glass of the flask - in models of a collapsible type, the part is changed to an analogue. In this case, one-piece cast levels cannot be repaired.

Minor problems: breakage of protective pads and handles, falling off of magnets are corrected by replacing an obsolete part with a new one.

Hydro levels

Hydro-level faults are of three types:

1. Hose burst or cracked ... It occurs as a result of mechanical damage or freezing of a tool filled with water. As a temporary measure, you can seal it with a layer of nail polish and wrap it with electrical tape. Complete repair and replacement of the hose is often unprofitable - the costs are comparable to the purchase of a new hydraulic level.
2. Cracked flasks - temporary measures are similar to those presented in the previous paragraph, but instead of electrical tape, there must be transparent material in order to see the risks. Replacement may not be necessary in mild cases. In serious cases, it is imperative to change, since the defect will affect the accuracy of the instrument.
3. Broken or lost protective caps - the simplest case. They can be replaced with plastic soda lids.

Laser

The correction is often impossible to carry out on your own due to the need for a special tool.

1. Pendulum shift - the instrument does not work correctly, with deviations in horizontal and vertical measurements. This happens after the device has been dropped or moved with an unlocked pendulum. Reconstruction will require an offset correction. Such damage is not covered by the warranty.
2. The beam is off - the malfunction is caused by a break in the wiring or incorrect operation of the batteries. In the first case, you will need to remove the cover of the device and replace the flexible wiring going to the pendulum. In the second case, it is more often enough to open and clean the contacts or change the batteries. Both options lend themselves to self-repair.
3. Instability of readings - as a rule, it will be necessary to change the suspension bearing. The case is rare, but guaranteed in the absence of mechanical damage.
4. Buttons do not work - there are several breakdown options, of which only clogging of the contacts lends itself to self-repair. The keyboard may not work as a result of frequent use in dusty environments. Clogged contacts will need to be mechanically cleaned. The procedure is feasible in a domestic environment.

In difficult cases, a keyboard replacement will be required. When the coating is membrane, it will not be possible to repair the device without special skills.

Optical

Optical level problems are solved systemically or by replacing parts. Repair with an improvised tool is often inapplicable.

• Compensator sticking - to solve the problem, the standard calibration procedure is performed several times. In case of gross errors, service of the tool will be required.
• Lens or mirror cracked ... The purchase of a similar part is required. The optical lens can be replaced by yourself.
• The regulation is out of order - it will be necessary to adjust the device. The screw fasteners are loosened, the plate with the mesh is aligned. To do this, the horizontal thread is placed perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the tool, and the vertical one is set along a plumb line.

Problems in the operation of electronics, serious mechanical damage, repair of the platform or hauling of torsion bars will require the intervention of specialists.

Manufacturers

Manufacturers are represented in different price categories. The correlation between prices and quality is often insignificant.

ADA - manufacturer of diagnostic and measuring equipment. The company is multinational. Digital and shockproof level types, professional tool. No warranty claims are specified. Website: rus.adainstruments.com.

Bosch is a German manufacturer of machinery. Rotary, line and point lasers, digital levels. The instrument is presented in professional (blue) and consumer (green) formats. Standard warranty. Valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. Additionally, a long-term promotion is underway, within the framework of which warranty cases with mechanical confirmation of the instrument are recognized. Website: www.bosch-professional.com.

Fit - a low-cost manufacturer of power tools. Torpedo and laser levels are available in the minimum configuration. The tool is certified, a network of service centers. Warranty terms are not announced. Website: www.fit-instrument.ru.

Kapro is an international manufacturer from Israel specializing in measuring instruments. Digital, magnetic, aluminum levels with an ergonomic design, comply with Russian standards, and are certified. The warranty period is 12 months. Website: kapro.com.

KRAFTOOL - manufacturer of professional hand tools. Models available with magnet, digital, folding and box. No warranty or certification declared. Website: kraftool-instrument.ru.

Stabila - manufacturer from Germany. The company specializes in measuring instruments. The assortment includes 120 construction, including telescopic and special models. No warranty is provided. Website: www.stabila.com.

Stanley - manual and power tools, including measuring ones. Average price category. Certification is provided. Simple and magnetic models are available. No warranty specified. Website: www.stanleyrussia.com.

Zubr - a budget manufacturer of household and professional tools, but measuring devices are presented in the middle price category. Basic and heavy-duty models. No warranty claimed. Website: zubr-instrument.ru.

Carrying out repairs requires a large number of different tools from the master, including marking and measuring. In order to perfectly evenly make a screed on the floor or plaster a wall, it is imperative to use a level. In this rating, we have included the best building levels that will help you complete all work efficiently, quickly and comfortably.

Products of European brands are popular among professionals, and for those who want to save money, goods from domestic manufacturers are also suitable. The list of leaders in this area includes the following firms:

• Stabila- the history of the brand began in Germany in 1889, its specialization is the creation of a measuring instrument for accurate, prompt and comfortable use by both novice craftsmen and professionals.
• Bison- a leading Russian manufacturer of electrical, gasoline, auto, painting and locksmith tools, heating and welding equipment. The company has its own testing laboratory, a well-developed dealer network and numerous customer services.
• Matrix- has been producing hand and power tools since 2003. The main office is located in Germany, the brand is well represented in Europe, Asia, America. Buyers are provided with a 1-2 year warranty for all goods.
• Kapro- the company has been on the market for over 30 years, all its products comply with ISO9001, 14001 and SA8000 standards.
• Stanley- the tool of this company began to be used at construction sites in the United States at the end of the 19th century. The key to the company's success is a flexible pricing policy, the use of advanced technologies and a good marketing plan.

Most of the building levels are available in the assortment of the international company Kapro.

Ranking of the best building levels

The winners were determined based on the opinions of users, and the duration of their experience with a particular tool was taken into account. The country of manufacture and user complaints about the compliance of the price and quality of the product, the convenience of its use were taken into account. The frequency of breakdowns, the availability of purchase and service were also important points.

The selection criteria were the following characteristics:

• Purpose;
• Product type (bubble, magnetic, digital, laser);
• Dimensions and weight of the tool;
• Design features;
• Build quality;
• Material (plastic or metal);
• Length;
• Accuracy of readings;
• Number of capsules;
• The presence of plugs at the ends;
• Additional amenities - magnetic strip, backlight, liquid color.

The popularity of the product and the number of positive reviews about it also influenced the choice.

Best building levels

Only those products that are accurate, comfortable, simple and convenient to use can be called so. They should not weigh too much (no more than 400-500 g). It is very important to have a handle inside and protective rubber pads. The rating included constructions of bubble, water, digital, laser and magnetic types.

Best Bubble Building Level

Stabila Type 30 cm- this is a good choice for those who need to mark the wall, for its alignment due to its short length, this option is not very relevant. The spirit level is very light, weighing only 100 g, so it can be easily held overhead.

Conveniently, with its help, it is possible to fix both horizontal and vertical deviations thanks to special ampoules, which are available here in 2 pieces.

The profile is made of aluminum, smooth and non-slip. The reading accuracy is 0.5 mm / m. Although it is metallic, it is not afraid of corrosion. A pleasant plus is the ability to store the tool in a suspended state due to the presence of a special hole in the case for this.

Advantages:

• Low weight;
• Thin;
• Smooth surface;
• German quality;
• Wear-resistant.

Disadvantages:

• Short length;
• In contact with abrasive compounds, the paint may peel off;
• The price is above average.

Before choosing a specific option, you should familiarize yourself in more detail with the different types of levels and their advantages, you can do this in the following video:

The most reliable water tool

Bison "Master" 10 m long- This is a reliable hydro level, which has found application when laying bricks, pouring a foundation, creating a floor screed. Measurement is carried out only in the horizontal plane, it is also possible to use a tool for marking the surface.

The hose here is very thin (its diameter does not exceed 8 mm), and flexible, so it is convenient to work with it. To determine the readings on the ruler, there are two special plastic flasks with five-point measurement scales.

Advantages:

• Does not leak water;
• You can fill in any water;
• Does not break;
• Reliable plugs;
• Several areas of application.

Disadvantages:

• Not very strong plastic flasks;
• High weight when filled with water.

Best laser building level

Matrix 1 line Is a compact level that facilitates the measurement process thanks to its special design with built-in diodes. It is powered by batteries, which can be simply replaced at the end of the charge. The alignment is done manually using bubble levels.

The only drawback of this model is that its beam has only a horizontal direction. You should not expect too large a scan angle here, it does not exceed 90 degrees. The body of the product is made of plastic, it is protected from dust getting inside. The accuracy class is quite high - the second.

Advantages:

• Large radius of action;
• Simple operation;
• Low level of error;
• Convenient to use;
• Requires no preparation for work.

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than other models in the rating;
• Chinese production;
• Heavy (390 g).

Best digital (electronic) building level

Kapro 985D Digiman- one of the few models available in different sizes. The devices are available in three lengths - 25 cm, 60 cm and 120 cm.The product is protected from shock, dust and moisture. It is convenient to use due to the presence of handles-staples, an illuminated display and the ability to rotate the tool by 180º.

In this section of the Skladom online store you can buy a building level at a low price! Our catalog contains a wide range of models. The assortment includes tools made in Russia and abroad. A wide choice allows you to find the best option in terms of cost and functionality, allowing you to solve problems of any complexity.

Types of building levels

You can buy a building level from us:

• Bubble. A special rectangular tool with installed transparent flasks filled with liquid. By the location of the bubble, it is easy to determine whether the surface corresponds to a horizontal or vertical plane. The presence of the third flask makes it possible to measure the degree of deviation from the specified parameters of the horizon. The catalog contains levels of various lengths and body designs: "Profile", "Rail", etc.

• The water one is a special construction tool. The level is designed to determine the horizontal location of structures or remote objects. Two graduated flasks at the ends of the hose filled with water allow you to quickly and accurately beat off the horizontal level of the foundation, screed, floor, etc.

The photos accompanying each model, as well as an informative description, will help you choose the right level. It is enough to go to the website page and you can find out everything about the capabilities, advantages and distinctive features of this or that model.

Depending on the type of tool, manufacturer and individual characteristics, the price for the construction level may be different. Along with professional, more expensive products, we also have budget models that compare favorably with affordable cost and high quality.

For accurate and fast measurement, buy building levels from Skladom!