Stabila

To check horizontal and vertical surfaces you use standard, torpedo or pocket spirit levels, chosen according to the length and the contact surface. Long levels, such as the sets of 183 or 122 centimetres, are more practical on large surfaces, while pocket levels are used in tight spots. Check that the vial or the display is readable, and check the level from time to time against a reference surface.

The rotating laser level projects a horizontal reference plane over the whole work area, which is useful for floors and foundations. The multi-line laser, such as the model with three 360-degree lines and a green beam, projects several lines to align walls and ceilings. The TECH 196 DL electronic level shows the inclination on the display and is used for single measurements. The choice depends on the job and on the distance to be covered.

Stabila tripods support lasers and levelling instruments. The model with an elevating column, such as the BST-K, allows you to raise or lower the instrument without changing the base. The BST-S and ST-K-S models are simpler. The choice depends on the maximum height reached, the weight of the instrument and the stability of the ground. Place the tripod on a flat surface and secure the instrument before measuring.

The folding rule, in plastic or wood, is used for short, precise measurements, such as the internal dimensions of rooms or furniture. Steel tape measures cover longer distances, which is useful for floors, external walls and setting out. For very long measurements an open-frame tape is better, being more stable than a loose tape. Check that the hook is intact and that the graduation is readable.

Levelling staffs are used to read, on a graduated scale, the point of the laser at a distance. The TNL telescopic staff extends for various uses, while the NL staff has a simpler shape. The staff must be held vertical, because any inclination makes the reading wrong. For longer distances a laser receiver is used, such as the REC 500 RG model, which signals the point on the staff.

The SUB 10 universal mount fixes a level or an accessory onto several types of base. The SR 100 stake mount is driven into the ground to mount a receiver or a staff outdoors. The SWB 10 wall mount fixes the instrument to the wall in a stable position. The choice depends on the surface you are working on and on the weight of the accessory. Before every measurement check the fixing, because a mount that moves makes the result wrong.

The laser distance meter with a declared range of 200 metres and a colour display measures distances without touching the surface. It is useful for heights, large rooms and spaces that are difficult to reach. The real range depends on the conditions: on dark surfaces or in strong sunlight the reading may be reduced. For critical measurements it is advisable to check the result with a tape measure and to follow the laser class instructions given in the manual.