Measuring and marking tools blog | lines and levels
Measuring and marking tools guides for UK DIY: builders' line sag, fence posts, drain fall, vial checks, chalk lines, prices and rights when a level fails.
Drain fall 1 in 40: why a centred bubble is wrong
A drain fall 1 in 40 spirit level check is made by a calculated drop, not by simply centring the bubble. A normal centred vial means zero fall. 1:40 m
Builders line vs chalk line: choose the right one
You have marked both ends of a wall, stretched a line between them and now need to decide whether to leave it in place or lift and snap it. That choic
How often to check a spirit level: practical triggers
How often to check a spirit level depends on what has happened to it, not on a fixed monthly date. Check every line level when the pack arrives, after
Builders line sag: how to keep your line true
You pull the cord tight between two pins, step back and it looks straight. Then the middle of the brick course rises towards it, or a line level gives
Builders line care for nylon cord and its vials
A builders line can look serviceable on the reel yet behave badly as soon as you pull it across a course of brick. The cord grows furry, the reel rele
String line fence posts UK: keep every post straight
The awkward moment comes after several holes have been dug: each post is only slightly out, but the complete fence bows across the garden. For string
String line level price UK: what to budget for
You can spend about £5 on a string line level, clip it to a taut builders' line and set out a fence or patio edge the same afternoon. You can also spe
When not to use a line level: choose the right tool
You have pulled the string tight, clipped on the little vial and centred the bubble. That proves only that the short part of the line beneath the vial
Line levels not reading the same: test the pack
You clip two new line levels onto the same taut string, and one bubble sits between its marks while the other leans towards an end line. That is not a
Consumer Rights Act faulty goods: your 30-day rights
You set a new level on a shelf, turn it end for end and watch the bubble move to a different position. If the tool cannot agree with itself, you need