For woodworkers and construction contractors, the level should be a constant companion while on the job. The integrity of a project hinges on the correctness of your level, yet most have no idea how to properly maintain their level for accuracy. Avoid warranty breaches, and most of all, the early retirement of your measuring companion; test yourself by comparing our tips for spirit level care:
How do I test the accuracy of my level?
The level-making experts at Stabila have your answer. Although it’s common practice, they don’t recommend testing a level’s accuracy by stacking one on top of another. To properly test the accuracy on any spirit level (aka the carpenter’s level), they advise following these easy steps, found at the bottom of their warranty page.
To check horizontal accuracy:
1. Place the level on a horizontal surface; make a mark on the surface at one end of the level.
2. Take a bubble reading and remember where it is.
3. Turn the level 180 degrees and place the other end of level at the mark you made earlier.
4. Read the level.
5. If the bubble returns to the same place, the level is accurate; if not, it is not accurate.
6. Repeat again to validate.
To check vertical (or plumb) accuracy:
1. Place the level vertically against a wall; make a mark at one end of the level on the wall.
2. Repeat steps 2 – 6 above, but keep the level vertical instead of horizontal.
What would cause my level to fall out of warranty?
Again, using Stabila as a reference, they explain that damage caused by the user is not covered under their specific warranty. For example, if the vials are melted due to excessive heat (when used near welding areas or similar), or if the frame becomes bent or damaged through use, you will most likely void the warranty.
It’s also important to note that when a level’s frame becomes bent, or is no longer perfectly straight, accuracy will be skewed – even if the damage is minimal.
How do I properly care for my level, to get the most out of it?
Stabila’s spirit levels are coated with an electrostatic enamel finish, which means that water and a brush are all that’s needed for cleaning. A reinforced aluminum body, as seen in the 48” Stabila 38648 Type 96M Magnetic Level, is resistant to rusting. However, it is good practice to always store these levels in a secure, protected location.
As for other types of levels, such as wood levels, they may need a little extra protection from the elements. If a wood level gets wet, allow it to completely dry out, as this helps prevent warping, swelling and wood separation – all leading causes for measuring inaccuracy. It’s also important to note that the chemicals in cement can eat away at wood levels. If you plan to work with cement, consider upgrading to a Stabila mason’s level, which is designed specifically for use setting brick, block or stone.
Now that you’ve read up on accuracy and maintenance, are you ready to level up?
~ The Team at Nail Gun Depot