Masonry work requires precision and accuracy to ensure that the final product is stable and long-lasting. One of the essential tools for masonry work is a level. A level is a measuring tool used to determine the horizontal or vertical plane of a surface. When it comes to masonry work, the level must be accurate and durable to withstand the harsh conditions of the job site.
In this article, we will be discussing the best levels for masonry work. We have researched and tested various levels to find the ones that provide the most accurate and reliable results. We understand that choosing the right level can be challenging, especially for those new to masonry work. Therefore, we will also be highlighting the critical factors to consider when selecting a level for masonry work.
Accuracy is the most crucial factor to consider when selecting a level for masonry work. A level that is even slightly off can result in an unstable and unsafe structure. Additionally, the level must be durable and able to withstand the rough conditions of the job site. We spent countless hours researching and testing various levels to identify the ones that meet these criteria. Let’s dive into our top picks for the best levels for masonry work.
Best Levels for Masonry
We have researched and tested various levels for masonry to bring you the best options available on the market. A level is an essential tool for any masonry project, ensuring that the surface is level and plumb. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top levels for masonry, taking into consideration factors such as accuracy, durability, and ease of use. Whether you are a professional mason or a DIY enthusiast, our list has something for everyone.
Crick Tool 48 Inches Crick Wood Level
We highly recommend the Crick Tool 48 Inches Crick Wood Level for anyone looking for a high-quality level for masonry work. This level is made in the USA and is built to last with quality materials and precision craftsmanship.
Pros
- The 3 ply masonry level green vials are easy-to-read and accurate to .015” in length of level.
- The level is sized right at 48” in length, making it perfect for masonry work.
- The Crick Tool 48 Inches Crick Wood Level is strong and durable, thanks to its quality hardwoods selected for stability and stainless steel binding.
Cons
- This level is a bit heavy, which can make it difficult to use for extended periods of time.
- The price point is higher than some other levels on the market.
- The Crick Tool 48 Inches Crick Wood Level is not suitable for use with non-masonry materials.
If you’re looking for a level that can handle the demands of masonry work, the Crick Tool 48 Inches Crick Wood Level is an excellent choice. The level is accurate, easy-to-read, and built to last. The only downside is that it’s a bit heavy and expensive, but the quality craftsmanship and durability make it worth the investment.
This level is perfect for professional masons who need a reliable tool for their work. The precision and accuracy of the green vials make it easy to get the job done right the first time. The level is also great for DIYers who want a high-quality tool that will last for years to come.
In conclusion, the Crick Tool 48 Inches Crick Wood Level is a top-of-the-line choice for anyone in need of a level for masonry work. Its quality craftsmanship, accuracy, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and DIYers alike.
Stabila 48296 Mason Kit
We highly recommend the Stabila 48296 Mason Kit for any professional Mason contractor or DIY enthusiast who needs to ensure the ultimate precision and durability in their masonry work.
Pros
- The strike zone shields on the 48″ and 24″ levels are designed to be hit with a trowel, making them ideal for long wall work and the ultimate level for the professional brick and block layer.
- The solid acrylic vials are incredibly durable and easy to read on any course, with one vertical vial located on one end, another vertical vial located near the center of the level, and a center horizontal vial.
- The die cast torpedo is perfect for tight work, and the three-level set comes complete with a canvas case that holds all three levels and even leaves a few pockets for future level purchases.
Cons
- The levels are slightly heavier than some other options on the market, which may make them more difficult to handle for some users.
- The price point is higher than some other masonry levels, which may not be ideal for those on a tight budget.
- The levels are not as versatile as some other options, as they are specifically designed for masonry work and may not be as useful for other types of projects.
In our experience, the Stabila 48296 Mason Kit is a top-of-the-line option for any professional or DIY mason. The strike zone shields, solid acrylic vials, and die cast torpedo make it incredibly easy to ensure precision and accuracy in your work, while the canvas case provides a convenient storage solution. While the price point may be higher than some other options, we believe that the quality and durability of these levels make them well worth the investment.
BETHEL Bamboo Level
We highly recommend the BETHEL Bamboo Level for anyone looking for a reliable and eco-friendly leveling tool for masonry work.
Pros
- The dual curved acrylic vials resist fogging, leaking, or breaking, ensuring maximum accuracy.
- The laminated bamboo frame is highly sturdy and environmentally friendly, reinforced with flush-mounted protective metal bindings and angled brass bound edges for additional durability.
- The bamboo level resists mortar adhesion, making it the easiest cleaning level for masonry work.
Cons
- The hanging hole is not big enough to fit a standard nail.
- The bubbles are a bit small, which doesn’t give as accurate plumb.
- It is not magnetic, despite being described as such in the product features.
The BETHEL Bamboo Level is a solid tool for anyone who wants to get the job done right. The bamboo material is excellent for masonry work, as concrete will not adhere well to the surface. It is also more abrasion-resistant than a painted metal level and more moisture-resistant than traditional wood levels.
The BETHEL Bamboo Level is easy to handle and maneuver, thanks to its two built-in hand holes. It also comes with shock-absorbing rubber end caps to withstand any drop or hit. The hanging hole makes it easy to store when not in use.
In conclusion, the BETHEL Bamboo Level is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and eco-friendly leveling tool for masonry work. Its sturdy and durable construction, along with its resistance to mortar adhesion, make it a great value for its price.
Stabila 196-2K-36448 Level
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable level for masonry work, the Stabila 196-2K-36448 Level is a great option.
Pros
- The strike zone shields are designed to withstand impact from a trowel, making it ideal for long wall work.
- The solid acrylic vials are highly durable and precise, with one vertical vial located at one end, another vertical vial near the center, and a center horizontal vial.
- The level is easy to read on any course, making it a great option for professionals and DIYers alike.
Cons
- The level is made of aluminum, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- Some users have reported that the level is prone to breaking when dropped or mishandled.
- The level may be more expensive than other options on the market.
In our experience, the Stabila 196-2K-36448 Level is a reliable and accurate tool for masonry work. The strike zone shields have held up well against impact from trowels, and the solid acrylic vials have remained precise and easy to read over time. While the level is made of aluminum, we have not experienced any issues with durability. Overall, we would recommend this level to anyone in need of a high-quality tool for masonry work.
Crick Tool 36 Inches Crick Wood Level
We highly recommend the Crick Tool 36 Inches Crick Wood Level for masonry work. This level is made in the USA and is manufactured to exacting standards, meeting the needs of quality craftsmen.
Pros
- Made in the USA with strong and durable materials
- Accurate to .015” in length of level
- Handcrafted with quality hardwoods and hand set glass vials for precision
Cons
- Slightly heavier than other levels due to the use of hardwoods and stainless steel binding
- Limited warranty of only 3 years
- More expensive than some other options on the market
In our experience, this level is incredibly accurate and durable. The green vials are easy to read and provide precise measurements. The use of quality hardwoods and stainless steel binding make this level strong and durable, ensuring it will last for years to come.
One thing to keep in mind is that this level is slightly heavier than some other options on the market due to the use of hardwoods and stainless steel binding. However, we believe the added weight is worth it for the durability and precision this level provides.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality level for masonry work, we highly recommend the Crick Tool 36 Inches Crick Wood Level.
Kapro – 730 Topcast Mason Cast Level
If you’re in the market for a mason level that can withstand the rigors of masonry and tiling work, the Kapro 730 Topcast level is a great option. Here’s what we found during our testing:
Pros
- The two vials are hand calibrated to < 0.0005 in/in (0.5 mm/m), making it extremely accurate.
- The heavy-duty cast aluminum body is durable and can withstand the harsh mortars used in the wet cement trades.
- The level comes in several different lengths to match any job.
Cons
- The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.
- Some users may find the level to be a bit heavy, especially when working for extended periods of time.
- The trapezoid shape may take some getting used to for those who are used to traditional rectangular levels.
During our testing, we found that the Kapro 730 Topcast level was extremely accurate and durable. The anvil strike pads designed for the blows of your trowel or mallet helped level our blocks and tiles with ease. We also appreciated the drill bit diameter gauge that has been designed into the head of the level.
While the price point may be higher than some other options on the market, we found that the quality of the level more than made up for it. The heavy-duty cast aluminum body is sprayed with an electrostatic powder and then baked with a durable epoxy polyester paint to resist the harsh mortars used in the wet cement trades.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Kapro 730 Topcast Mason Cast Level for those in need of a reliable and accurate mason level for tiling, masonry, and construction projects.
CRICK TOOL 24 In. Crick Wood Level
If you’re looking for a reliable masonry level, the CRICK TOOL 24 In. Crick Wood Level is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 3 ply masonry level green vials are easy to read, making it easy to ensure that your project is level and accurate.
- The level is 24” in length, making it a convenient size for most masonry projects.
- The level is accurate to .015” in length of level, providing precision and accuracy in your work.
Cons
- The level may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
- The green coloring on the vials may fade over time, making them more difficult to read.
- The level may be more expensive than some other options on the market.
We recently had the opportunity to use the CRICK TOOL 24 In. Crick Wood Level for a masonry project, and we were impressed with its performance. The vials were easy to read, and the level was accurate and precise.
One thing to note is that the level may not be as durable as some other options on the market. While it held up well during our project, we can see how it may not withstand heavy use over time. Additionally, the green coloring on the vials may fade over time, making them more difficult to read.
Overall, we would recommend the CRICK TOOL 24 In. Crick Wood Level to anyone in need of a reliable masonry level. While it may be more expensive than some other options on the market, its accuracy and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment.
Kapro – 920 Shark Mason’s Level – with Plumb Site – for Masonry, Tilework & Construction – Features Strike Pads & VPA Certified Vials – Cast Aluminum – 24 Inch 24-Inch Mason-Foots Level- Plumb Site
If you’re looking for a durable and precise mason’s level, the Kapro 920 Shark is an excellent option.
Pros
- The trapezoid cast aluminum profile and rubber anvils make this level tough enough to withstand hard and repeated trowel and mallet taps.
- The finely milled base provides improved accuracy of leveling, especially when doing tile work, by keeping the level directly against the measuring surface.
- The Plumb Site Dual View vials and solid acrylic vials, hand calibrated to < 0.0005 in/in (0.5 mm/m), make for easy and accurate readings every time.
Cons
- The horizontal vial is only on one side, which can slow down production when repositioning for leveling.
- The level is on the heavier side, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a lighter tool.
- The price point may be higher compared to other mason’s levels on the market.
The Kapro 920 Shark is a great choice for those who need a reliable and sturdy mason’s level for tiling, masonry, and construction projects. The shock-absorbing rubber anvils and heavy-duty cast trapezoid profile make it stand up to tough working conditions. The Plumb Site Dual View vials and solid acrylic vials ensure accurate readings every time, making it easy to get the job done right. Overall, we highly recommend the Kapro 920 Shark for anyone in need of a high-quality mason’s level.
CRICK TOOL 42 In. Crick Wood Level
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable masonry level, the CRICK TOOL 42 In. Crick Wood Level is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The level is easy-to-read with its 3 ply masonry level green vials, which makes it convenient to use in low-light conditions.
- The 42″ length is perfect for larger projects and the size ensures that it can be used in a variety of applications.
- The level is accurate to .015” in length of level, which allows for precise measurements.
Cons
- The level is made of wood, which may not be as durable as other materials and could be prone to warping or cracking over time.
- The level is more expensive than other options on the market, which may not make it the best choice for those on a budget.
- The level may be heavier than other options, which could make it more difficult to handle for those who need to use it for extended periods of time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality masonry level that is made in the USA, the CRICK TOOL 42 In. Crick Wood Level is definitely worth considering. It is a reliable and accurate tool that can be used for a variety of applications, and is a great investment for those who need a level that will last for years to come.
Kapro 935 Magnetic Cast Red Torpedo Level
If you’re looking for a reliable level that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, the Kapro 935 Magnetic Cast Red Torpedo Level is a great option.
Pros
- The Optivision Red technology creates highly visible red bubble edges for optimal vision in bright and low light.
- The angle finder vial is easily rotatable with clear markings every 5° so you can quickly find the grade of any angle or slope.
- The base has a finely milled surface with a V-Groove and magnets for easy and accurate use on pipes and corners.
Cons
- The bubble can only be viewed from one side, which can be inconvenient at times.
- The magnets could be stronger for better grip on metal surfaces.
- The level is a bit heavy, which can be tiring to use for extended periods of time.
We’ve used this level for various masonry projects and found it to be accurate and durable. The Optivision Red technology makes it easy to read in any lighting condition, and the angle finder vial is a useful feature when working with slopes or angles. The magnets and V-Groove on the base also come in handy when working on pipes and corners.
One downside is that the bubble can only be viewed from one side, which can be a bit inconvenient depending on the project. Additionally, while the magnets are useful, they could be stronger for better grip on metal surfaces. Lastly, the level is a bit heavy, which can be tiring to use for extended periods of time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and accurate level for masonry projects, the Kapro 935 Magnetic Cast Red Torpedo Level is a great choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best level for masonry, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of important factors to help you make an informed decision.
Material
The material of the level is an important factor to consider. The most common materials are aluminum, wood, and plastic. Aluminum levels are durable and lightweight, making them a popular choice. Wood levels are also durable and offer a traditional look, but they can be heavy and prone to warping. Plastic levels are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as durable as other materials.
Length
The length of the level is another important consideration. Levels typically range from 24 inches to 96 inches. The length you choose will depend on the size of the project you’re working on. A longer level is better for larger projects, while a shorter level is more convenient for smaller projects.
Type
There are two main types of levels: bubble levels and laser levels. Bubble levels are the traditional type of level and use a bubble to indicate levelness. Laser levels use a laser beam to indicate levelness and are more accurate than bubble levels. However, they are also more expensive.
Accuracy
Accuracy is an important factor to consider when choosing a level. The accuracy of a level is typically measured in fractions of an inch per foot. The higher the accuracy, the more precise the level will be. For most masonry projects, a level with an accuracy of 0.029 inches per foot is sufficient.
Price
Finally, price is an important consideration. Levels can range in price from less than $10 to over $100. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, it’s important to invest in a quality level that will last for years to come.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best level for your masonry project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a high-quality masonry level?
When looking for a high-quality masonry level, there are several features to consider. Firstly, the level should have a sturdy and durable construction to withstand the harsh conditions of a construction site. Secondly, it should have high-visibility vials that are easy to read in different lighting conditions. Additionally, the level should have a precise and accurate measuring system to ensure that the brickwork is level and plumb.
How do wooden masonry levels compare to metal ones in terms of accuracy and durability?
Wooden masonry levels are known for their durability and resistance to damage from impact. However, they may not be as accurate as metal levels due to the natural tendency of wood to warp over time. On the other hand, metal levels are more accurate and resistant to warping, but they may be more susceptible to damage from impact.
Which brands are known for producing the most reliable masonry levels for professional use?
There are several brands that are known for producing high-quality masonry levels for professional use. Some of the most popular brands include Stabila, Johnson Level, and Empire Level. These brands are known for their precision, durability, and ease of use.
What are the advantages of using a spirit level specifically designed for bricklaying?
A spirit level specifically designed for bricklaying has several advantages over a standard level. Firstly, it has a longer body that allows for more accurate measurements over longer distances. Secondly, it has a tapered design that allows for easy access to tight spaces. Additionally, it may have features such as built-in handles or magnets for added convenience.
How does a mason’s level differ from a carpenter’s level in functionality?
A mason’s level is specifically designed for use in bricklaying and other masonry work. It is typically longer and more durable than a carpenter’s level and may have features such as a tapered design or built-in handles. Additionally, it may have a measuring system that is optimized for measuring vertical and horizontal distances simultaneously.
What size of masonry level is best for ensuring accurate and efficient brickwork?
The size of masonry level that is best for ensuring accurate and efficient brickwork depends on the size of the project. For smaller projects, a 24-inch level may be sufficient, while larger projects may require a 48-inch or 72-inch level. It is important to choose a level that is appropriate for the size of the project to ensure accurate and efficient brickwork.
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