Keeping things straight from the beginning is important in any construction job, whether it be large or small.

We’ve all tried to take a few steps back and try to guess what looks even, but that can lead to awful results.

Like many projects, it is all about having the right tools at the right time!

Owning a bubble level or a laser level is important, but how do you know which one to choose? Keep reading to find out more about the different types of levels and using the right one at the right time.

Getting to Know These Types of Levels

Now you might think all levels are created equal. That is where you’d be wrong!

There are many types of levels out there that can be used for a variety of projects. For instance, a torpedo level is much different and specific than a carpenter level. These levels are used for different types of jobs.

Two of the types of levels, bubble levels and laser levels, are commonly used to get large and small jobs completed. These are the two types of levels that will be mentioned in this article, but feel free to do a little research on the other types as well.

Both the bubble level and the laser level have pros and cons, so making sure you have the right levels in your bag will ensure you are fully prepared for anything.

Choosing a Bubble Level

When you think of a level, the bubble level is likely the one that pops into your head. They come in a variety of sizes, so you can have one as small as your pocket or one that is much larger.

Also called a spirit level, the bubble level is made of a tube filled with coloured liquid.

It is not filled all the way, which is what creates the bubble so that you can use it as a level. When it is sealed, there is a small air bubble left behind that can freely move around the cylinder.

If the cylinder is placed on a level surface, the bubble will line up in the middle of the cylinder. Being straightforward, but also easy to use, is what makes this a common and cheaper level.

Small single bubble levels are mostly a thing of the past. In today’s world, there are options for larger levels to sit on longer objects and often have multiple bubble levels built in. This way you can check multiple positions at the same time.

Although this level works for many types of jobs, it is not perfect. There are drawbacks to certain things about the bubble level that other levels may not have. For this reason, you also may be interested in the laser level.

What About the Laser Level?

The laser level is a little more accurate than the bubble level and is much more modern.

This tool projects a light with a laser onto the surface that you are trying to level out. Using this light, you can see whether or not everything is aligned.

Some laser levels will have the ability to project a light horizontally and vertically, which is excellent for certain types of jobs that require levelling on multiple sides.

At the inception of the laser level, they were less powerful and could only work for indoor projects. With the technology that has been enhanced and is available today, the laser is much stronger and can be used almost anywhere.

This makes it much more versatile for modern construction, landscaping, or other handy jobs.

Bubble or Laser Level Calibration

One thing to mention is that both of these types of levels should be calibrated regularly. This ensures that they are performing to the best of their ability and are not giving you faulty readings.

It is quite simple to calibrate a bubble level. You set it on a flat surface, see if the bubble is centred, flip it over, read it again, and that’s all.

If it is in the centre each time you flip it, the level is calibrated! If not, there are steps you can take to calibrate the lever using a screw.

For the laser level, the calibration is a little different. It is mostly about marking where the laser hits, rotating it and marking again, then repeating. You are trying to see if it is hitting in the same spot or not.

For more information about level calibration, be sure to consult a professional to get a little extra help.

What Should You Choose for Your Next Job?

Unfortunately, the answer is not really that simple. The level you want will always depend on the job you’re trying to complete! Both of these levels are excellent options, but the size and type will depend on other factors.

A bubble level is more versatile, but not always as accurate as a laser level. Both have their areas where they are better or worse for a particular project.

Having both with you on your next construction site gives you the best opportunity to be able to accomplish the task at hand. Both are durable and can last for a long time, so these tools do not give out as long as they are well-cared for.

If you’d like to get some more information about the types of bubble levels or laser levels we offer, be sure to check out our products. We would love to answer questions or give you more information about what we can offer.