If you’re a beginner, this might be a conundrum when peeking into a tool shed. A builder’s level and a transit level look very alike, and you may be confused as to their purpose. Do they do the same job or do they have separate functions? Relax, no more sleepless nights, we have the answer for you right here. Additionally, if you’re really into levels, check out our blog, What’s The Difference Between The Lengths of Spirit Levels.
What Is A Builder’s Level?
Let’s start with the builder’s level. It is a fairly simple instrument, basically a small telescope which sits on a leveling block which itself is mounted on a sturdy tripod.
The level can be adjusted to be level through 360 degrees. In essence, this means that you can turn the builder’s level in a full circle, and it will remain level at all times.
The builder’s level is set by using the four level adjusters while moving the telescope around, which help to measure vertical angles and horizontal angles.
However, this is not an optical instrument that can be used by one person. You will need someone to hold a measuring rod at a location some distance away. This will allow you to pinpoint a measurement at that location which is then compared to others at different locations.
Parts Of A Builder’s Level
To better understand how the builder’s level works we should take a look at the different parts.
First of all there is the telescope on top. Of course, the telescope is used to magnify objects at a distance. It can do this while moving in a horizontal, graduated circle, one degree at a time around the whole 360 degrees.
Next, there is the level vial or spirit level. The graduated level is used to ensure that the instrument is level when it is being set up on its base. Now, this works in just the same way as a traditional spirit level.
Finally, there is the base plate. This is where the builder’s level attaches to the tripod that supports it.
How To Use A Builder’s Level
Now that we are familiar with the parts of the builder’s level we can actually have a look at how to use it.
Before you start, you will need to make sure that the device is level and this is done by adjusting the four leveling screws which involves tightening and loosening the screws until the vial shows that it is completely level.
You should adjust the two opposite screws until the bubble is in the center of the level’s vial. Then do the same thing with the other two opposite screws.
On that note, you may need to go back and repeat a few times between the two pairs of opposite screws before the bubble rests exactly in the middle of the vial.
Once you’re ready to go, you can use the telescope’s eyepiece to bring the crosshairs into focus by turning the knob. In there you’ll find the horizontal graduated circle which is of course used for measuring horizontal levels.
And since now you’re an expert in using the builder’s level, let’s move onto transit levels.
What Is A Transit Level?
A transit level is a tool used in surveying and construction to measure levels and elevations. Like the builder’s level, the transit level consists of the actual level mounted on a tripod, and it also employs a telescopic sight with a spirit level incorporated into it.
This is a very precise instrument and can establish a reference line, determine the relative position of objects and provide exact measurements of angles.
The level is adjusted via the leveling screws at the base to make sure that it is completely level at all 360 degrees of a horizontal circle. There are many components to a transit level and this allows multiple functions and precise measurements.
However, and here lies the difference, unlike the builder’s level, the transit level can move in a vertical direction with the vertical tangent knob, which is locked into place with the lock knob.
Parts Of A Transit Level
There are many parts to a transit level, and yet again, we’re starting with the telescope. It has locking levers to maintain positions under all circumstances, phew.
Just like its friend the builder’s level, the transit level has a graduated horizontal circle which is marked in degrees and used for setting and measuring horizontal elevations. There is a clamp screw to hold the level in the horizontal position. The horizontal tangent screw allows the level to move left or right horizontally.
As we mentioned above, contrastingly to the builder’s level, the transit level has vertical movement and for this it has a graduated vertical circle, also marked in degrees. It also has horizontal and vertical vernier scales which allow movement around the main scale to determine angular readings.
How To Use A Transit Level
Similarly to all other levels, the transit level will need to be leveled and it must be on firm ground. Only then should the process begin.
Position the telescope over a pair of the leveling screws. Using these two screws center the level’s bubble in the spirit vial by turning the screws in opposite directions.
Once the bubble is centered, move the telescope 90 degrees and repeat the process until the bubble is once again in the center of the vial. You may need to move the telescope back to the original position and check that it is still level. Then move it through the different degrees of the graduated horizontal circle to check it is level at each point.
Lo and behold, your transit level is now ready to use.
To get going, look through the eyepiece and focus the crosshairs on a distant object. With a partner holding a measuring rod vertically you can make a reference line.
The transit level and the measuring rod are used to accurately measure elevations on site surveys and during construction.
Difference Between Builder’s Level And Transit Level
To sum it up, builder’s levels and transit levels are very similar and at first glance may look like the same device. However, as we repeatedly pointed out, there is an important difference between the two.
A builder’s level is only capable of taking measurements on the horizontal plane. A transit level can take measurements from both the horizontal and vertical planes.
Essentially, when the telescope of a transit level is locked in place it can be used in exactly the same way as a builder’s level. However, when it is not locked in place it can tilt only vertically while a builder’s level can move in a complete circle. And now you know.
Finally… Which Is Better, A Builder’s Level Or A Transit Level?
Ok, we discussed the differences between a builder’s level and a transit level, but is one better than the other? Well… That’s relative to the purpose that you are employing one or the other of these tools for.
If you only need to measure elevations then a builder’s level is sufficient, and good news, it will cost less than a transit level.
However, if you need to measure elevations and angles, then a transit level would be better suited, and surprise surprise, you will also have to fork out a bit more to bag this versatile tool, but of course it will be worth it in the end.
Have fun leveling.