Posted by
Easy WoodCraft on
Feb 4, 2016
While many woodworkers think of a level as a carpenter's tool, it has a place in every shop. A LEVEL particularly a torpedo level is handy for checking that shelves are LEVEL cabinets are hung plumb, and workbenches and tools are level.
Types of levels
The most common levels are 3 or 4 feet in length, with bodies made of wood, metal, or plastic. Virtually every level has multiple vials, which are curved glass or plastic tubes filled with alcohol (
hence the name "spirit" level). A bubble of air trapped in the vial will always float to the highest point on the curve. Marks on each side of the center-point indicate level or plumb. While steel I beam style levels (
center level in middle photo) are accurate and lightweight, I still prefer the warmth of the older wood and brass levels of yesteryear (
top photo).
Checking a level
Can a level go out of whack? You bet. Here's how to check to make sure your level is on the level. Place the level on a known-flat surface and mark its exact location with a pencil (
bottom drawing). Note the bubble reading on the vials with a pencil mark as well, and then flip the level end for end, aligning it with the pencil marks. Check the bubbles and then repeat by flipping the level upside down. All of the bubble readings should match. If they don't, most levels have adjustable vials to make this correction. Loosen the screws, adjust the vial positions, and repeat until all readings are the same.
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