Video:How to Choose and Use a Level

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Transcript:How to Choose and Use a Level

Hey, Steve Crider here for About.com Home and Garden. Maybe the two most important words in the construction dictionary are plumb and level. Without those two words the whole world my look something like this.

Definition of Plumb and Level

Plumb simply means up and down or perfectly vertical. Level on the other hand means perfectly horizontal or side to side. You check these two measurements with a plumb stick, otherwise known as a level.

Choosing a Level

Levels come in all shapes and sizes. It seems like there is almost a different level for every job. A good all purpose level to have around the house is a 24 inch or two foot level. A two-foot level is perfect for household just like leveling a shelf, plumbing a window jamb or installing mini blinds. The trick is learning how to use the tool.

How to Read a Level

Reading a level is a simple concept. What you want to do is adjust your work until you get that bubble centered between the two lines. Out of level. Perfectly level. Level and Plumb. Simple concepts, but knowing how to use a level can get you professional results on your do-it-yourself projects just like on this shelf.

Hey, thanks for watching all about levels. To learn more visit us on the Web at homegarden.about.com.