Leveling Like A Boss

Using a level seems like a simple task. However, if it’s your first time, here are some useful tips for leveling like a boss. When the bubble is in the center everything is good. A few common mistakes that can cause an inaccurate reading sometimes cause and end disastrously. The first thing is to ensure that your level is accurate. They can become damaged or sometimes they're not accurate from the factory. Most modern levels will either have a finished metal surface or a magnetic surface on one side.

When checking the vial, that's the tube that's filled with liquid, make sure that the finished edge of the level is clean. Next place the level on a clean flat surface. When taking a reading from a vial don't look at it from an angle. It's good practice to line your eye up directly with the vial and close one eye. If the bubble is centered, turn the level 180 degrees and put it in the exact same location. Mark the initial location with a pencil and the reading should be identical to the first reading. If it isn't, then the horizontal vial is bad.

A couple of key things to keep in mind while using a level. For our fences, use at least a 4-ft level. You want it centered on the object that you're trying to level and you also want to use the appropriate size level for the object that you're trying to level. Ideally, you'd like the level to be close to the length of the object that you're trying to measure. The longer the object you are trying to measure, the longer level you'll need.  That's because if the object is wavy or has an irregular pattern like our concrete fences, a small level could be placed in a valley or a hill and you'll get an inaccurate reading or a slight error will be compounded at the end of a long run.

Hilltop Concrete's crews use levels every step of the way when installing our precast fence systems. Whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned expert, make sure to use these tips to keep your fence line straight. Hilltop Concrete is happy to give advice or answer the questions of our customers. Please reach out to us today at hello@hilltopconcreteco.com or call us at 903-630-5465. We look forward to hearing from you, and we are excited to tell you how Hilltop Concrete can become your trusted concrete fence contractor.