7 best contractors levels
Contractors' levels are tools commonly used in construction and various DIY projects. They fall into the category of measuring and layout tools, which are essential for ensuring accuracy and precision in construction work and home improvement tasks. Here's what you need to know about contractors' levels:
Purpose: Contractors' levels are primarily designed to measure and verify the levelness (horizontal) and plumbness (vertical) of surfaces, such as walls, floors, ceilings, and other structures. They help ensure that surfaces are flat and straight.
Types of Levels:
- Spirit Levels: These levels use a liquid-filled vial with a bubble to indicate whether a surface is level or plumb.Spirit levels are available in various lengths, including short levels for small tasks and longer levels for larger projects.
- Box Levels: Box levels are more robust and durable. They often have a box-shaped metal or aluminum frame housing the vials, making them resistant to damage.
- Digital Levels: Some modern contractors' levels have digital displays that provide precise measurements, making them suitable for tasks requiring high accuracy.
- Torpedo Levels: These compact levels are designed for tight spaces and can be easily carried in a toolbox. They are often used for plumbing tasks.
Features:
- Vials: Contractors' levels typically have one or more vials filled with liquid. The position of the bubble in the vial indicates whether a surface is level or plumb.
- Magnetic Base: Some levels have a magnetic base that allows them to adhere to metal surfaces, providing stability and convenience during measurements.
- Non-Slip Grips: Many levels have non-slip grips or handles for comfortable and secure handling.
- Measurement Scale: Some levels have measurement scales on their surfaces, making it easier to take accurate measurements while leveling.
Applications:
- Framing: Contractors' levels are often used during framing to ensure that walls, floors, and ceilings are built straight and level.
- Carpentry: Carpenters use levels to align and check the levelness of doors, windows, and other fixtures.
- Plumbing: Plumbers rely on levels to install pipes and fixtures vertically and horizontally.
- Tile Installation: Levels are essential for ensuring that tile surfaces are even and flat.
- General Home Improvement: Contractors' levels are handy tools for various DIY projects around the house.
Accuracy: The accuracy of a contractors' level can vary depending on its quality and design. High-quality levels are built to provide precise and consistent measurements.
Maintenance: To maintain accuracy, it's essential to store levels properly and protect them from rough handling and extreme temperatures. Regularly checking and calibrating the level is also recommended.
In summary, contractors' levels are vital tools in construction and home improvement projects. They come in various types and sizes to suit different tasks and offer the accuracy and precision needed to ensure that surfaces are level and plumb. Choosing the right level for your project depends on your specific requirements and the level of accuracy needed.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best contractors levels on the marketProduct description
- I-beam spirit level for determining horizontal and vertical plane as well as incline
- Injection-molded acrylic vials—one level, one plumb, and one 45° incline—resist breakage and have a sensitivity of 1 mm/m (0.001"/inch)
- Level vial and dual-view plumb vial can be read from the side and the top
- Handgrip for portability and ease of use
- Aluminum frame for light weight and corrosion resistance, and milled leveling surfaces for accuracy
Product features
Kapro I-Beam Levels
The names of the I-Beam level derives from the shape of its profile: if you cut an I-Beam level's profile in half, it will look like the letter I. Kapro offers a selection, ranging from the Professional to the value I-Beam level.
The heavy duty aluminum frame contractor.
I-beam level carries the latest features such as super accurate and bright break-proof vials, Plumb site Dual-view, rare earth magnets, two milled surfaces, ergonomic rubber handle and shock absorbing rubber end caps.
Kapro added additional features to serve different purposes such as the V-groove for easy pipe leveling and the rotating Angle finder vial, the easiest solution for reporting angles quickly and accurately.
Precision & Accuracy
The Kapro 150 I-Beam level and 170 Samson Contractor I-Beam level sport a cutting edge accuracy of <0.001 in/1in. The 170 Samson also features two precision-milled surfaces for maximum accuracy and perfect contact with surfaces.
All three I-beam levels come with 3 highly visible cylindrical vials.
Visibility & Functionality
The 170 Samson and the 150 I-Beam level feature the proprietary Plumb Site Dual-View which offers a unique front view of the plumb vial to make vertical leveling easier and more exact.
The 130’s horizontal vial is tilted at 45⁰ towards the user for more precise reading.
Features
The Rotating Angle Finder is the solution for reporting angles quickly and accurately, there is no need for complicated contraptions or calculations.
Ergonomic rubber handles are engineered for a better, more comfortable grip and are less slippery in wet conditions.
The 150 also comes with a V-Groove for easy pipe leveling.
Durability
The 170 Samson Contractor I-Beam level has a heavy-duty aluminum frame for tough working conditions.
Shock- absorbing rubber end caps as well as ABS end caps protecting levels from falls, thus maintaining its integrity and the accuracy of its vials for many years.
How to chose a level
Whether you're a professional or a DIY enthusiast, you want to choose the right level for your needs, and then get the most out of it. Here are essential things you need to check out before you buy a level:
1. Vials : Vial Accuracy and visibility - The more accurate your vial, the better. Professionals accuracy preference of I-Beam levels is < 0.001 in/in (1 mm/m). When it comes to visibility , you obviously want your vials anti-fog and UV protected so they don’t fade and yes, there are many options but the newest and best technology in the market today is Optivision Red, which creates highly visible red bubble edges. For a plumb reading that is both accurate and easily visible the Plumb Site Dual-View is the perfect solution. Kapros professional levels are certified by the rigorous VPA German standard.
2. Durability : The strength of the profile - Cast levels and reinforced aluminum profiles are the profiles of choice. Many come with rubber shockproof end caps for additional protection from falls and to best maintain the integrity of the level and the accuracy of its vials.
3. Functionality – Small details in your level can change the way you work.
Are the handles ergonomic and rubberized for a better and more comfortable grip? Do they fit large or gloved hands?
Does the level have wall grips for easily holding it against a wall with one hand while marking with the other hand?
4. Warranty – When you buy a level from a market leader you should expect them to stand by their product.
All of Kapro’s professional levels come with a lifetime warranty for the accuracy of the vials.
5. Magnets – Do you need the level to be magnetic?
If you do, make sure that the level you chose is equipped with strong Rare earth magnets for a reliable adherence, preventing unwanted movement while taking a reading.
6. Milled base – A finely milled base provides a guaranteed flat surface necessary for achieving professional accuracy. Only aluminum levels can be manufactured with a milled base.
7. V-groove – A V-groove gives you an important advantage when leveling pipes and conduits.
Kapro. Tools With Vision
For 30 years, Kapro has been making the finest quality spirit levels, laser levels, and layout tools, marking and measuring tools. Kapro has built a reputation as the industry’s foremost innovator, and is renowned for its quality products, outstanding service, added value, and cutting-edge designs.
Kapro Industries is headquartered in Kadarim, Israel. Kapro owns and operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Israel and China; which are certified compliant with ISO standards 9001, 14001, and SA8000.
The company’s U.S. subsidiary, Kapro Tools Inc., is located in Lake Mills, Wisconsin.
Kapro's Mission is to bring the world Tools with Vision, products that are market leaders in excellence, innovation, design, quality and value. Kapro strives to implement innovative and creative ideas to help find solutions to improve and enhance the world.
Kapro is committed to the health, safety and well-being of its employees and dedicated to improving conditions in the surrounding communities.
Product description
32x Contractors Automatic Level Pkg.
- 32x Automatic Level, Builders Tripod and 9ft Grade Rod
- 32x Magnification
- Leveling Accuracy 1/16" at 250ft
- Working Range 400ft
- Includes carrying case, plumb bob & manual
User questions & answers
Question: | Would this work well for re-shooting a land survey |
Answer: | It's not a level, it's the "wobble stick" that shows the measurements when you're shooting grade. I got everything pictured when I ordered mine but that was 2 years ago. |
Question: | how easy is this to use to shoot a grade for landscaping? I have never used a transit before |
Answer: | I have no clue and haven't had any issues with any part of the set . Had for a long time. |
Question: | Este nivel sirve para un patio de bricks |
Answer: | The NWI NSLP100B package comes with a 3 year warranty of manufacturer defects on the Level only. |
Question: | Que origen es |
Answer: | It should...it takes time, but what you want to do is keep the level bubble between the lines in a 360° pattern. Big adjustments make with the legs, small adjustments with the mounted levelers. If you're not familiar with setting up a transit spend a little extra on a lazer self leveler. |
Product features
NWI - NCLP32
The NCL32 Auto Level delivers 1/16 inch accuracy at 250 ft ideal for surveying and grading applications. the common uses of this instrument are:
1. Checking Elevations.
2. Measuring Horizontal Angles.
3. Measuring Distance.
Product description
32x Contractors Automatic Level.
- 32x Contractors Automatic Level
- 32x Magnification
- Leveling Accuracy 1/16" at 250ft
- Working Range 400ft
- Includes carrying case, plumb bob & manual
User questions & answers
Question: | Just out of the box and won’t focus. Seeing little change when turning focus knob |
Answer: | Get that thing LEVEL. |
Product features
NWI - NCL32
The NCL32 Auto Level delivers 1/16 inch accuracy at 250 ft ideal for surveying and grading applications. the common uses of this instrument are:
- Side view for easy vertical use
- High visibility red outlined bubble and Ruler markings on top for quick measurements (no rule markers for 72")
- Shockproof vial with 0.0005 in/inch accuracy
- Robust end caps and thick aluminum housing for extreme durability
User questions & answers
Question: | Are the end caps removable |
Answer: | /Duration -:-Loaded: 0%Stream Type LIVESeek to live, currently playing liveLIVERemaining Time -0:00 Playback Rate1xChaptersChaptersDescriptionsdescriptions off, selectedCaptionscaptions off, selectedAudio TrackFullscreenThis is a modal window. .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : none; } .noScriptNotDisplayExpander { display : none; } .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : block; } Yes they are. Check out the video for a simple way of removing them. They have a touch of adhesive on them, so after removing the pins, you'll have to give them a good nudge to break that seal. Then clean off the cured adhesive from the cap with a sharp knife or chisel. Then they'll slide right back on. These end caps … see more Yes they are. Check out the video for a simple way of removing them. They have a touch of adhesive on them, so after removing the pins, you'll have to give them a good nudge to break that seal. Then clean off the cured adhesive from the cap with a sharp knife or chisel. Then they'll slide right back on. These end caps are thick & tough, best in the industry. see less Yes they are. Check out the video for a simple way of removing them. They have a touch of adhesive on them, so after removing the pins, you'll have to give them a good nudge to break that seal. Then clean off the cured adhesive from the cap with a sharp knife or chisel. Then they'll slide right back on. These end caps are thick & tough, best in the industry. |
Question: | Is this magnetic? Ad does not say |
Answer: | Hi Kelly. This isn't magnetic. It has a milled edged bottom but we didn't install the magnets in this model so it has a nice edge. Thanks for considering the Red Edge Level. You'll love the quality and accuracy! |
Product features
High Visibility Outline Bubble + Gradients
High visibility bubble for low or high light with 1% and 2% gradients for quick and easy drainage slopes.
Side View + Rule Markings
Side view for easy vertical use and rule markings for quick measurements.
5 in/in Accuracy + Milled Bottom (24, 48 in.)
Milled Bottom with an accuracy of 0.0005 in/in for consistent and precise measurements.
Shock-Proof Vial + Robust End Caps
Shock-proof vial and thick-walled aluminum housing coupled with robust end caps, built to handle the high demands of a construction site.
Product description
To be worn with the Digital ACU pattern uniform. The genuine RFI issue fleece jacket features a full zipper-front opening backed by a wind protection flap, a high collar, raglan sleeves, two internal upper chest pockets and two outer side pockets. The jacket also hasloop fasteners to attach rank badges and name plates. Nylon reinforcements at the shoulders, collar and elbows have also been added for increased durability.
- Made in USA
- Zipper closure
- Made in the USA by Peckham or similar Military Contractor. NSN 8415-01-538-6747 Size: Large Regular
- Very Warm, genuine issue Large Polartec Cold Weather Fleece Jacket
- Pockets in front and interior. Velcro strips across chest for affixing name and branch tags.
- Traps air and retains body heat. High collar with full zipper-front .
- GEN3 GENIII L3 ECWCS (Extended Climate Warfighter System)
Product description
Savage by Swanson products are engineered and designed in the U. S. A. to meet or exceed the most stringent industry standards—the ultimate in durability, our products will provide a lifetime of accuracy. The SAVAGE by Swanson Box Beam Contractor Series Level's anodized hardened Savage strength frame delivers the ultimate in accuracy and durability. From its rubberized grips to its Diamond bumpers, this tool is just as much about comfort and ease of use as keeping your project pristine from scratches. The Gel shock end caps and durable acrylic vials ensure that this level can handle any job site condition. The Savage Box Beam Contractor Series Level is available in multiple sizes, both magnetic and non-magnetic, as well as illuminated.
- Bright-dipped, anodized finish penetrates metal to provide a more Hardened and durable product compared to traditional powder-coated finishes
- Gel shock end caps withstand severe drops thanks to soft gel inserts wrapped in high durometer rubber
- Ergonomic, rubberized grips for comfortable, easy handling
- Diamond bumpers eliminate marring
- Multi-ring vials indicate 2° and 4° grade for drainage—ideal for landscapers and plumbers
User questions & answers
Question: | Does it also have a ruler on the sides |
Answer: | I own the 24 inch as well as the 60 inch levelsNeither has rulers on them |
Question: | How long is the aluminum portion of the SVB |
Answer: | Leaving the gel caps out of the measurement of this level, the length of the aluminum frame is 15.5 inches. Hope that helps! The Swanson Team |
Question: | What is it made of |
Answer: | Hi Chris, This box beam is made of extruded boxed aluminum frames. Please let us know if we can answer any other questions! Thanks, The Swanson Team |
Question: | What does "diamond bumpers eliminate marring" mean? i have been looking for a 16" or 18" abs or similar level that will not mar painted walls |
Answer: | Hi Christopher, Great question! There are 2 molded black rubber diamonds on each end of our Savage levels (both sides too) that have a slightly higher profile than the level itself. This means only the diamonds will actually touch your painted walls, effectively preventing any marring. Hope that helps! The Swanson Team |
Question: | Does this have white or red end caps, in other words, removeable or permanent |
Answer: | They're red, and not removable. They are smaller than the typical Stabila end caps though, so you can get it closer to the wall, cabinet or whatever you're using it with. |
Question: | Does this read accurate upside down |
Answer: | The only thing I can say is that this is the best. |
Product description
Zircon has updated the industry's traditional water levels with modern electronics to ensure a new grade of accuracy. The Zircon WL 25 Pro Electronic Water Level Contractor Kit makes larger leveling projects a piece of cake for determining level reference points up to 50 feet (15 m) away. Additional hoses can also be purchased separately and can be expanded up to 100 feet. This professional Zircon Water Level Contractor Kit simplifies not only working alone but also works around corners with accurate and reliable measurements. The WL 25 Pro is great for a number of applications, including erecting fences, building decks and patios, positioning drainage, plumbing, setting forms, completing masonry work, and remodeling interiors. This water level includes a battery saving indicator that continuously blinks and beeps to remind the user that the unit has been left on. Unlike other electronic water levels, the WL 25 Pro can be used both indoor and outdoor with its easily read display, even in bright lighting situations both indoor and outdoor. The key for optimal performance? Be sure to install a new 9V battery with an extended expiration date. The WL 25 includes the leveling unit, a mounting bracket, clamp, hose brush, two hose connectors, garden hose connector, filler nozzle and two 25-foot (7.5 m each) hoses for a total of 50 ft. With the Zircon WL 25 Pro Contractor Kit, you can safely maneuver through even your most difficult project with the professional confidence that comes from owning a Zircon.
- The Zircon WL 25 Contractor Kit includes an electronic water level, 50 feet of hose, and various accesories to allow you to accurately level distances up to 50 feet - Level accurately around corners and out of sight of the electronic control unit
- Install the unit on the included mounting bracket to instal decks, fences, chair railings, drop ceilings, and more
- The easy to read display allows for both indoor and outdoor use even in bright lighting situations - The water level emits a loud (95 dB) and uninterrupted signal to indicate when the hose is level
- Additional 25 ft hoses are sold separately - the hoses can be expanded up to 100 feet for accurate results
- One fully charged 9V battery, not included, is required for the water level to run at optimal performance
User questions & answers
Question: | How much hose comes with the bonus pack |
Answer: | 50 feet |
Question: | How much hose comes with the value pack |
Answer: | Hello. The value pack comes with 50 feet of tubing. Thank you. |
Question: | Can this be used for leveling the ground for a pool |
Answer: | Sure it can........but a laser level would probably be easier. The advantage to the water level is using it around structural obstruction like around corners or walls where there is no line of sight. |
Question: | Can this be used to measure the elevation difference between two points? For example, I would like to use to analyze a house slab that settled |
Answer: | Hello Barbra. The WL25 is designed to find the level between two points so technically you could use it to find the elevation difference between two points. Just level between the two areas of the slab you are testing and then measure from the slab to the level mark at each spot and the difference in that measurement is the difference in their height. Thank you. |
Product features
Zircon WL 25 - Professional Electronic Water Level
Precision can't be approximated. That’s why Zircon updated traditional water levels with modern electronics to ensure a new grade of accuracy. With the WL 25 Electronic Water Level, one person can now quickly and accurately level over long distances up to 100 feet (30 m) away. Unlike the ever popular laser levels that have flooded the market, the Zircon WL 25 electronic water level can be used outdoors, in bright sunlight, and can even be used to level around corners. Use the WL 25 electronic water level to install decks, fences, chair rails, drop ceilings, and more. An accessory hose is available to make even the largest leveling task accessible.
The Water Level 25:
- Sounds a loud (95 db), continuous signal indicating the measurement is level- even at long distances.
- Sounds a loud pulsed tone when above level.
- Blinks and beeps to remind users that the unit is on to prevent forgetting to turn it off.
- Levels up to 100 feet away from electronic unit.
Fill the Hose and Clamp
- To begin, fill the hose with water and use the clamps to prevent the water from draining out.
- If using the WL 25 in freezing weather, a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol or vodka can be used as an anti-freeze, but do not use automotive anti-freeze.
- Do not use distilled water, the water must have some mineral content to activate the electronic pins.
Mount Steadily at Desired Level
Using the notch on the plastic at the top and nails or screws, mount the water level to a stable post at the desired elevation. Fasten the bottom using the mounting groove.
It is important that the unit does not swing or move during use.
Raise and Lower Hose Until a Steady Tone is Heard
- Release the clamps for airflow and turn the unit on.
- Slowly raise the hose and allow the water to rise in both ends of the hose. When the water is below the electronic pins, the unit is silent. When the water reaches the electronic pin the WL 25 emits a loud steady tone so it can be heard even on busy job sites. If the water goes too high, the unit will emit a pulsed tone. If this happens, slowly lower the hose until you again get a steady tone. Mark the elevation of the water at the other end of the hose. This will match the level of the notch on electronic indicator.
The Key to Success is in the Battery
A new, fully charged 9V battery is required to steadily power the integrated LCD screen in Zircon tools. Please note that, like a cell phone or any personal electronic device, the 9V batteries needed to power Zircon tools can lose power even when sitting idle. The installation of a fresh battery, with an extended expiration date, typically resolves 99% of problems seen by Zircon Customer Support.
Why Zircon?
For over 30 years, the dedicated engineers and staff at Zircon have developed and implemented patented, cutting-edge, technology for our professional and DIY lines of wall scanners and stud-finding tools. As the worldwide industry leader in the category, we take the quality of our products and our customer service seriously. Every unit coming off our production lines is calibrated and quality-tested before going to market. Because we know there's a learning curve to our technology, we back our products with a world-class customer service and tech support team.
You can call our customer support number and speak to a live expert who will be happy to answer any questions or help you work through any issues you may be experiencing with our tools. We've also published many tool and project specific videos online, in case you have questions during our off hours. Armed with our quality products and backed by our support teams, you'll know the professional confidence that comes from owning a Zircon.
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