When you take on any type of carpentry project, you will certainly want to know how to use manual levels. Being able to properly use this important tool ensures that you are building things (i.e. a shelf) straight and that one side is not slouching.

Laser levels may be the latest in the evolution of this tool, but there is no substitute for manual levels. While laser levels can help you layout lines where your objects are going to go, only manual labels are able to test whether what you have built is level or not.

How Does A Manual Level Work?

The beauty of a manual level is the fact that it is ultra simple to read and understand. All levels have at least one (many have more) vial of water with two lines painted on it. Inside the water is an air bubble.

You lay the level down on the surface you are measuring. If the bubble lands safely within the middle of the two lines, that indicates the surface is level. If the bubble falls partly outside of the lines or even touches one of the lines, that means the surface is slightly sloped in one direction.

Checking The Accuracy Of Your Level

Before you use manual levels, it certainly does not hurt to make sure it is providing accurate readings. Even though there is no electronic component, there is always a chance that the level might be damaged and not properly measuring the standard of level.

Set the level on a surface you know is flat and make sure the bubble falls within the two lines. Turn the level around and test it again. If the bubble does not give a consistent measurement, you can look into replacing the measurement vial.

Need Help With A Project?

It might be easy to use manual levels, but that doesn’t mean your project will be easy. For any building project, you can always call in the assistance of a local professional. You might not even know where to start when it comes to finding help.

Luckily, TalkLocal does. Tell us about your service professional needs and we’ll connect you with someone who can help immediately.