How to Gauge a Carpenter's Level for Accuracy

A carpenter's level is a metal, plastic or wooden tool that contains bubble vials. Use a carpenter's level to determine if surfaces are level or vertically aligned. Place the level on a surface and center the bubble between the two marks on the vial to determine if a surface is level. Before you use a carpenter's level, gauge the tool's accuracy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Gauge the Accuracy of a Carpenter's Level on a Horizontal Surface

1. Place the carpenter's level on a flattened surface. The surface does not have to be completely level.

2. Check the position of the bubble inside of the bubble vial. Make a mental note of where it the bubble is located.

3. Spin the level 180-degrees and return it to the exact, same spot.

4. Check the position of the bubble inside of the vial a second time. If the bubble returned to the same position, the carpenter's level is accurate and ready to use.

Gauge the Accuracy of a Carpenter's Level on a Vertical Surface

5. Place the carpenter's level on a vertical surface.

6. Check the position of the bubble inside of the bubble vial. Make a mental note of where it the bubble is located.

7. Flip the carpenter's level and hold the opposite edge of the level against the vertical surface. The level needs to be back at the exact, same spot as in Step 2.

8. Check the position of the bubble inside of the vial a second time. If the bubble returned to the same position, the carpenter's level is accurate and ready to use.