Spirit Levels

What is a spirit level?

A spirit level is a sealed tube partially filled with liquid and an air bubble. It indicates the highest point if a surface is level or plumb. This tool ensures precision and accuracy in construction and DIY projects. It saves time and effort by quickly determining if a surface is level or plumb, resulting in high-quality work.

What to consider when buying a spirit level?

Length: Choose a size that suits your projects, considering smaller handheld levels and longer ones for larger surfaces.
Material: Look for durable materials in the frame, such as aluminium or reinforced plastic, for longevity and accuracy.
Accuracy: Check the level's accuracy rating, often measured in millimetres per metre or fractions of an inch per foot. Higher accuracy is essential for precise work.
Number of Vials: Consider the number of vials the level has. Standard levels have one for horizontal (level) and one for vertical (plumb). Some may have additional vials for more specialised measurements.
Visibility: Opt for a level with easy-to-read vials and contrasting colours, especially if working in low-light conditions.
Ease of Use: Look for features like comfortable hand grips and easy-to-read markings to enhance usability during extended use.
Type: Choose between traditional spirit levels and digital levels based on your preference and the nature of your projects.
Brand Reputation: Consider reputable brands that produce accurate and reliable measuring tools.
Price: Compare prices and features to balance your budget and the quality you need for your projects.

How to read a spirit level?

Reading at a spirit level is a straightforward process. Here's an essential guide on how to read a spirit level:

Position the Level:

Place the spirit level on the surface you want to check.
Ensure the level is clean and free from any debris that could affect the accuracy.

Check the Vials:

Most spirit levels have one or more vials, transparent tubes partially filled with liquid (usually alcohol) and with an air bubble inside.
The vials are often marked with lines or markings to indicate the level or plumb position.

Center the Bubble:

On a horizontal level, you want to centre the bubble between the two lines on the horizontal vial.
At a vertical level, centre the bubble between the lines on the vertical vial.

Read the Markings:

The bubble's position relative to the markings indicates the deviation from the level or plumb.
If the bubble is centred, the surface is level or plumb. If it's off-centre, note the direction and the distance from the centre to determine the degree of deviation.

Adjust if Necessary:

If the bubble is not centred, make adjustments to the surface until the bubble is in the desired position.
For example, if you're levelling a shelf, adjust the shelf's position until the bubble is centred.

Repeat as Needed:

Check multiple points on the surface to ensure consistency, especially for longer levels.

Remember, achieving a centred bubble for an accurate level or plumb reading is key.

When was the spirit level invented?

The modern spirit level was developed in the 17th century, and improvements have been made since then. Today, they are made from various materials, including aluminium, plastic, and carbon fibre, and some have digital displays.

Who invented the spirit level?

The invention of the spirit level is attributed to multiple individuals over time, and it evolved gradually rather than being the result of a single invention. One of the earliest references to a levelling instrument using a liquid-filled tube is associated with the Dutch scientist and mathematician Jan van der Heiden in the late 17th century.

However, the modern design of the spirit level, with a sealed tube and precise measurements, continued to develop over the years with contributions from various inventors. It's challenging to pinpoint a single person as the sole inventor, as the concept evolved through collaborative efforts and improvements by different individuals in science and engineering.

Why is a spirit level called spirit level?

The term "spirit level" originates from using a spirit or liquid (typically alcohol) inside the levelling tool. The liquid establishes a horizontal or vertical reference by creating a bubble within the tube. This bubble moves to the highest point when the level is not perfectly horizontal or vertical.

In this context, " spirit " refers to the alcohol or other liquid used in the tube. Historically, "spirit" describes various alcohols or volatile liquids. A spirit level essentially uses a spirit or liquid to determine the levelness or plumpness of a surface.