As you know, most tradesmen need to use a spirit level at some point in the course of their job. Some will use them more often than others. But how do you choose the right one for the job at hand?
To make it easier for you, we decided to look at I-beam levels versus box beam levels and ask the age-old question, ‘what’s the difference and how to choose?’
Similarities
First thing first. Before looking at what the differences are between an I-beam level and a box beam level we should go over what features they share and what they even have in common.
Now, the purpose of a spirit or bubble level is to check that a surface is either level or plumb. A horizontal surface is checked to ensure that it is level and a vertical surface is checked to make sure that it is plumb. No surprises here.
Both types of level have a little vial embedded in the middle. Some levels will also have a vial that measures the degree of angle, such as at 45 degrees.
You may know already, but for the uninitiated, there are a variety of different types of I-beam and box beam levels which are aimed at different trades and designed for specific tasks but in general both types carry out the same function.
If you want to know more about the versatility of spirit levels, check out our other article, How Accurate Are Stabila Levels?, which is about precision and reliability.
But back to our topic. At first glance I-beam and box beam levels may look similar, but there is a difference in their overall appearance and how they are made, which can of course influence the purchase decision.
Additionally, I-beam and box levels both come in a magnetic version to use with steel frames and other ferrous materials. This allows the level to remain firmly in place while an accurate measurement is taken.
Profile
Not-so-surprisingly, I-beam levels and box beam levels take their name from the shape. The former has a straight metal frame in the shape of a capital I, while the latter has a rectangular shape similar to a box.
Now, if you were to cut them in half and look at the inside, you would be able to clearly see the shape of each. But what is the purpose of this difference?
On closer inspection, an I-beam level frame has two horizontal planes, top and bottom. These are called flanges. The vertical plane of the I-beam level is known as the web. This is similar to an I-beam used in construction.
The level is designed to be lightweight but also durable, fit for a construction site. They are typically easier to carry and use due to their shape and weight.
On the other hand, a box level has four sides, two long and two short, which create the rectangular box shape, hence the name. Box levels are typically hollow – though some have acrylic cores – to make them lightweight, again so they’re easy to use and carry.
Similarly to the I-beam, box levels are also designed to weather the days at a construction site. Additionally, box levels have recesses for hand grips, and overall they have four sides to use for measurement.
Anyway, if spirit levels are your thing, check out our article What’s The Different Spirit Level Length?, which explores the benefits of different spirit level lengths. Good read.
Construction
Most spirit levels are made from high strength aluminum, hence the strong and robust finished product, and often have reinforcing ribs along their length for extra stability.
The vials are typically made from acrylic as this is less prone to breaking. Both I-beam and box levels will normally have two vertical vials and one horizontal vial for ease of readability with an air bubble in each.
End caps are often fitted to both types of level. These are designed to protect the tool against shock and impact, such as dropping the level or knocking it against a solid object. Some are removable while others have an anti-slip material for accurate measurements.
The variety in design and quality allows for different choices when selecting your very own spirit level, that’s for sure.
Durability
While we’re here, let’s spend a few more words on durability. We can all agree that the better quality of the material is, the more long-lasting your spirit level is going to be.
Now, the shape of the I-beam level gives it a strength that a straight level wouldn’t have. It prevents the spirit level from twisting out of shape and reduces the stresses of impact on the profile.
However, it is still not as robust as a box level. You better not drop it from the second floor of your scaffolding or there will be damage.
If you’re looking for an object that you can throw off the roof and still ‘not a scratch’, turn straight to the box level aisle in your hardware store.
Uses
Both I-beam and box spirit levels have a multitude of uses around a construction site. Though if your priority is to save money, you need the I-beam.
At the end of the day, both tools do an excellent job of measuring surfaces for level and plumb accuracy, so in the case of answering the question ‘which one to choose’, well… it really is up to your personal preference.
In Conclusion
I-beam and box levels are made from quality materials and will give accurate readings for measurements, making them an essential item for any toolbox.
You should check the specifications of the types of level you are considering before making a purchase, to ensure you chose the correct one.