The Spirit Level - a quick history

Posted in: CMT Group Blog

Bricklayers, surveyors, carpenters; just a few of the professions who use different types of spirit level as an essential part of their toolkit. Used to ascertain whether a surface is level on a horizontal surface or plumb, or for vertical accuracy, the history of the spirit level is thought to date back as far as the early 15th Century. The spirit level was invented by Melchisedech Thevenot. Melchisedech was a wealthy Frenchman and although known as a royal librarian for King Louis XIV, was in fact an amateur mathematician and scientist. He noticed how, in order for a bubble in a tube of water (or spirit) to be positioned centrally, it required the tube be mounted on a surface that was exactly horizontal. From these early findings circa. 1661, further developments were made. However, it was not until the early 18th Century that the spirit level is thought to have widespread use. From such an early concept, a number of different types of spirit level have been created to suit a variety of requirements using that same initial principal:

Surveyor's Levelling Instrument

Otherwise known as a dumpy level, this professional leveling tool is available in different choices of accuracy. In order to accurately measure height differences over large distances, this optical instrument uses a spirit level and telescope. From the simple model used in the 1700s, the overall concept has changed very little to those used by today’s surveyors and builders although today’s versions include electronic and self levelling features.

Carpenters Level

The closest version to the original invention, a carpenter's level, is a level manufactured from wood or metal with up to 4 spirit levels built into the length. These can vary from small pocket sized versions for basic home improvements to professional spirit levels up to around 72 inches long. Digital versions, favoured by those that require a high level of accuracy, may also utilise a laser for an even higher degree of precision. history of the spirit level

Boat Level

The boat level, so named for its shape, contains 3 bubble chambers to give precise accuracy when checking horizontal, vertical and 45 degree angle surfaces. Chosen over its counterparts for shorter level requirements, the boat level can be used to check precision in both small DIY jobs and also for professional requirements. spirit levels - the history

From early beginnings, the spirit level has evolved and expanded to suit a number of requirements in today’s building industry. With a large number of options available from Economy through to professional digital and laser options, at CMT we have a range of spirit levels to suit any budget. With delivery available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and VIP 2 hour options for the London and South-East area, we can delivery your supplies to site, fast! For more information on any of our products or delivery choices, contact us today.

Comments

Keith Pearson

Hi again,they don't all have 3 bubbles, the older ones circa 1900 only have have 2 .I have many examples of John Rabone and Sons leaves from the 1780s the very first ones Stamped John Rabone and Son,manufacturer. If you want photos just ask. Stay safe and lucky kindest, Keith.

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