Trapezoidal Spirit Levels

Trapezoid spirit levels have a body that tapers towards the ends: they are light and easy to handle. They are used mainly in masonry to check the laying of bricks, blocks and alignments, and in general to check that a surface is level or plumb, where a quick reading is needed.

The magnetic spirit level clings to iron profiles and structures, such as studs, beams or sheet metal, and leaves your hands free while measuring. The standard version is fine on wood, masonry or plaster surfaces, where the magnet is not needed. Choose the magnetic one when working on metal, so you do not have to hold the level by hand.

Choose the length according to the span to be checked: the longer the level, the more reliable it is on extended surfaces, because a small error in positioning has less effect on the result. For small jobs short lengths are enough, while for courses and long alignments a longer level is better. FatMax MLH levels are available in several lengths.

Horizontal vials are used to check level, vertical ones to check plumb, that is, the vertical alignment of walls, studs or pillars. Some models have both, so horizontal and vertical can be checked with the same level. Before using it, check that the vials are firmly fixed and that the level is clean, because dirt affects the reading.

Place the level on a flat surface, read the bubble, then turn it through 180 degrees along the same line and read it again. If the bubble is in the same position, the level is accurate; if it changes, it needs adjusting or replacing. Also check that the bearing edges are not dented, because dents falsify the measurement.

In the catalogue the trapezoid spirit levels are from Stanley, with the FatMax MLH series and twin-base models, from Metrica, with die-cast versions with a magnetic or standard base, and from Stabila, with models 81 S and 81 SM. Choose according to the material you work on, whether you need a magnet and the length you need, rather than the brand.

The trapezoid spirit level is useful when the surface is narrow, such as the bed for laying bricks or blocks, where a larger level does not sit well. The slim shape lets you work in tight spaces without getting in the way. For checks on long walls or large surfaces, a longer, sturdier level is better.