The spirit level has been one of the most important construction tools for centuries. What do you need to know about this type of modern equipment?
Precise determination of level and plumb is a key aspect in many jobs – from the simplest, such as installing a shelf, to the most demanding tasks, including modernizing installations or cutting holes. Spirit levels have been used for this purpose for centuries. Traditional, vial spirit levels with a bubble trapped in the liquid have rather limited functionality. Fortunately, manufacturers offer a wide range of measuring devices. We discuss the most important of them in a new entry.
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Characteristics of the laser level
Laser levels are improved versions of traditional measuring tools. Their operation is based on the projection of a single line or a grid of lines onto a given surface. Levels of this type can be used on both vertical and horizontal surfaces. Compared to standard tools, laser versions are not only more convenient to use, but also much more precise.
Laser levels, depending on the version and purpose, can consist of different parts. The most important is of course the laser itself placed on the leveling base. The second element can be placed on the floor or mounted on a wall or any other surface. The base is equipped with a display that allows precise setting of the line, and often also with elements improving its stability and mounting to a tripod.
Spirit levels of this type come in many variants, the most important of which are:
with a rangefinder (additionally, they enable distance measurement);
cross (displays a grid of lines intersecting at right angles on the surface);
360 degrees (emits lines on more than one plane, covering the entire room);
self-leveling (thanks to the magnetic compensator, it does not require manual adjustment. It is often also equipped with an audible signal informing about leveling).
Advantages of a traditional spirit level
Despite the popularity of laser models and their decreasing prices, traditional spirit levels have not disappeared from the market. Of course, this is not without reason. These construction tools still have many advantages, making them a good alternative or complement to more modern solutions. Their most important advantage is certainly their affordable price - at Onninen you can buy them for a few dozen zlotys. Due to their simple design, they are also more reliable. Another big advantage is their portability. A traditional spirit level can be easily put in a pocket or bag and taken with you anywhere, without worrying about the battery running out.
Check out the spirit levels at the Onninen wholesaler
How does a water level work?
A specific type of "analog" measuring tool is a water level with a hose construction. It consists of a set of measuring cups with scales and a flexible hose connecting it. It works on the principle of a system of communicating vessels. If both measuring cups are at the same height, the water level in each of them is the same. Like standard levels, hose models have a simple construction, which affects their low price, and at the same time allows for maintaining higher precision than in the case of laser devices.
The most important application of hose water levels is taking measurements at points that are far apart from each other – their range, depending on the model, is from a few to several dozen meters (the Onninen installation wholesaler offers high-quality Cellfast tools with a hose length of 15, 20 and 25 meters). Unlike laser devices, they allow you to determine points located even in separate rooms
When does the protractor come into play?
Sometimes the functionality of a spirit level (both laser, snake and bubble level) turns out to be too limited. This is primarily the case when it is necessary to determine an angle other than a straight line. An electronic angle meter will help with this task. The best devices of this type, such as the TECH 700 DA available in our offer, are equipped with a bubble level that allows for leveling construction elements and a lock, thanks to which the measured angle can be quickly and conveniently transferred to another place.
The variety, functionality and, most importantly, accuracy of modern measuring devices allow you to select the right tools for construction, finishing or assembly work. In case of doubts, you can count on the help of our store staff. Because we only cooperate with proven manufacturers, we can guarantee the high quality of the products we deliver.