There are far more uses for a level than just woodworking. While you can certainly use a wood level for a lot of different uses, there are some circumstances when it might not be an ideal solution. When it comes to working in building and construction settings, you are better off using the best masonry level as opposed to a wood level.
In masonry, a building must be level and plumb in order for it to be of good quality. There is a lot that goes into this process and accuracy is absolutely essential. The best level for masonry will be accurate, have good grips, will be a good size, and will be durable. No doubt, they will go through the ringer on the work site.
There are additional qualities that can make the best level for masonry stand apart. That’s what we are here for. We’ve searched and scoured the market to find the best top rated masonry levels out there and we’re here to share each of them with you in masonry level reviews.
Stick with us to learn about the best level for masonry and more.
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Table of Contents
Top Rated Masonry Level Review
In this part of our guide, we will walk you through all of the best level options for masonry. Whether you want a level set, a spirit level, or just reliable accuracy and durability, we’ve got you covered. At the end of the day, you need to make sure your menu is taken care of with a masonry level that you can depend on.
Each of these reviews will provide you with valuable insight so that you can make an informed decision when you’re ready.
Let’s get started on the reviews, shall we?
1. Best Overall: Stabila 36448 48-Inch Mason Level
This first masonry level is the best overall pick from Stabila 36448 48-Inch Mason Level. Stabila is a highly recommended level and every construction site seems to be a fan of this Stabila box level. This particular Stabila option is one for the books. It offers hand holds, accuracy, stability, and all of the things that masons rely on. The price isn’t bad for this 48 inch option considering the quality.
Stabila levels creates heavy duty solutions. This Stabila one offers blow shields so even bricklayers can enjoy the structure and material integrity without a problem. This Stabila review has a lot to say about Stabila and you can’t go wrong with this type for any construction site use. The box levels are stainless steel and made in Germany.
You get a wider frame that will allow you to add visibility for the vials. The Stabila dead blow shields make this thing unbreakable on the line of construction, compared to many other tools. You have visibility angle versatility and undeniable vial accuracy from plumb vials you can rely on. With Stabila, your hand grips simplify the quality but those are just a bonus for mason work.
Whether you’re a bricklayer, mason, or simply working in construction jobs, This Stabila level is reliable and the review simply details that. Stabila levels are yellow and red in color and are permanently calibrated for life with epoxy locked vials that are easy to read in any way of light or set up.
- Vial bubble is accurate and simple
- Every engineer or worker can appreciate the Stabila stability of this tool
- Stabila is great for all jobs and work, whether you use a trowel, water, or have worrisome strike zones
- Permanent calibration you can depend on
- Dead blow shield can handle more than just a tap on the frame
- The liquid in the vial is easy to see and has a good visibility angle
- Some reviews say this Stabila level is not quite as sturdy as others
- One review individual mentions that the Stabila yellow vial bubble can be a challenge from some angles and light
Why We Like It
We know Stabila to be a good and reliable tool brand built for sturdy use. You can use this level for all things, including construction and other type of work use. This thing is made to withstand strike zones and more so it provides you with one level that you can depend on.
2. Budget Pick: Empire 3-Piece Level Set
Next up, we have a budget option set of levels from Empire that is a pretty reliable choice.
This one might not work for some of the toughest jobs because the protective factors are fairly minimal but it’s easy to read and reliable as far as levels go. The mason and bricklayer can enjoy this level and do it for less. The set is only missing a carry case plus you get a torpedo level, spirit level, and 48 inch level in the pack. This lets you do it all your way!
These levels from Empire have grips that make them easy to use for just about any type of work. The frames are made with high quality aluminum structures so you can use them wherever. They are not very heavy so might not be great in strike zones.
With Empire levels, you always have a clear view of the vial no matter which angle you are working from, which can be very helpful in construction. That liquid bubble in the vial can make or break whatever thing you are working on so visibility is absolutely essential.
These levels do have rubber end caps or grips so they can handle some banging around and shock with the material and work. Your vials are one of the best assets of these levels and the price is certainly right when you don’t want to spend Stabila prices for a decent level.
- Liquid vials are simple and have high visibility
- You can do a lot with a set that includes spirit levels, box level, torpedo levels, and more
- Levels include hand grips for stability
- This one is budget friendly
- Reliable and intuitive design
- These Empire levels might not be the best for extreme heavy-duty use
- There are no measurement lines on these levels to work with
Why We Like It
We like this bunch of levels from Empire because it gives you some versatility, particularly if you need solutions on a budget. Whether you’re a fan of simplicity or you just want options – or maybe even just a case – this one has your back!
3. Crick Tool 42-Inch Wooden Level
Next up, we have Crick. This is a unique levels brand because the levels are made of wood. This type of material is not quite the same as stainless steel and other tool type structures. It’s odd to think that wood could be a way to withstand construction or be reliable for the bricklayer but it really is a great option.
This is a 42 inch level from Crick so it falls between spirit levels and the traditional box line. Crick made these to be durable and sturdy overall and this review says a lot about the line. You get suitable hand holds and masonry style vials in this Crick level. It’s easy to read and makes a great masonry level for accurate readings.
These levels are not your average spirit level. They are made in the USA and are accurate within .015. The size is nice compared to your normal spirit level or other type of levels. It can handle the tap of working in a box level but may not be great for extreme drops or blunt force.
- Crick offers a unique size larger than a spirit level but shorter than traditional box level length
- Made with wood and the vials are masonry quality
- Each review mentions high quality from the Crick brand
- This tool is made in the USA
- Crick levels and vials are precise and accurate
- The wood color of the Crick tool sometimes makes the light reflect oddly on the vials
- This Crick type is able to crack or break since the material is wooden
Why We Like It
We chose to use the Crick level in our review because the masonry vials are incredibly accurate compared to some other type options out there. The vial is readable and reliable and created to get eh most precise read that a bricklayer could possibly need in any way.
Best 4 Foot Level – Reviews & Buyers Guide
Looking for a 4 foot level? We’ve sifted through the market to try to find the very best 4 ft level options for you! Click below to learn more.
Buyer’s Guide
Now that we’ve covered our top level choices to bring you the best options, let’s discuss what might make a level the best one overall. Whether you are looking for a spirit level or a box level, there are certain qualities that you might want to specifically look for or consider.
When it comes to a masonry option, the thing you have to keep in mind the most is that the job needs to be accurate and precise above all else. While you do have to work around all sorts of environments and material qualities, all of your leveling needs to be as close to perfect as possible.
Understand all of the details from grips, material, type color of vials, and even the construction. Hand grips are probably an essential in this level world.
Durability
You will notice rather quickly that your level (even if it is just a spirit level) needs to be able to withstand the demands of the workplace.
Let’s be honest, in construction, that level is going to get tossed around, dropped, hit with various debris and more. Of course, not every site is like that and there are times a lesser level will be just fine. Then, there are times that that sort of level simply won’t work at all or won’t last long.
Keep your worksite and the surroundings in mind so that you don’t end up spending more having to replace your level more often.
Accurate Readings
Next up the vials and the vial design are incredibly important in a level. This particular material might just be one of the most important features. Most level selections are rated for accurate measurements with a scale. You might see Something like .5mm. This is a pretty standard reading for vial precision and something to look for. Unless the level is inverted, you don’t want your number to be any bigger than that.
The vials matter in more ways than one. You need to be able to easily see the vial and identify the reading from various viewpoints. Your vials should be clear to read and see and it’s really nice if you don’t have to squint or move around to get an accurate reading.
Look for vials that have a reliable color to them that will stand out. Some are clear and others are neon, while True Blue gives you more of a blue reading. The color can vary and is not overly important unless you know you will be in a predicament that the vial color might be hard to see.
Don’t let the vial combination and vial design get past you. Accurate readings are essential.
Sizing
There are all sorts of sizes in the level industry. We always prefer to go with length when it comes to masonry work but you can certainly choose whatever you think will meet your needs the best. It’s not a bad idea to have several different sizes on hand and available as there are some tasks where length won’t work and other tasks where you need the extra length.
You should definitely plan to have a large level always available and then you can mix in some smaller sizes to give yourself some versatility. It’s better to be prepared with plenty of options than to not have the level you need when you really need it, right?
Easy to Clean
When it comes to masonry, your level is going to get dirty, and probably fast. This is perhaps a consideration that many people don’t think about when they are looking. You always look for the size, the vial indicators, the stability, the reliability, and so on. Let’s not forget that you need to be able to clean the level off easily.
You will subject it to dust and other debris and materials. You can look for something smooth that doesn’t have a lot of texture and grooves. This could be quite helpful. If they have too many grooves, cracks, or nooks and crannies, you will spend a lot of time cleaning and getting frustrated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Most Accurate Level?
True Blue is pretty neat when it comes to knowing your level is accurate. They have a high reputation for accurate readings.
Why do Masons Use Wood Levels?
They like this style of level most typically because they can rely on it to be stable and accurate where so many different options out there are built for durability rather than accurate reading solutions.
What are Mason Levels?
You might be surprised to find that a lot of level options might not specifically be labeled as a mason level. You will find that the majority of level choices are designed to be more universal, although you certainly find masonry as part of the description.
What is the Best Brand of Level?
Our top pick in this instance was Stabila. There are a lot of really great brands out there so don’t feel like you absolutely have to stick to this brand in order to get a quality level option.
Conclusion
We hope that find this guide to choose a good level for mason work to be a valuable resource. We tried to narrow down the market, taking into consideration things like hand grips, stability, and knowing it will be as accurate as possible. There’s bound to be a reliable option here for you!
Expert Tip
Be sure you get a level that is easy to clean. The more grooves, indentions, lines, cracks, and fancy work there is on the level, the harder your job will be when you have to regularly wipe it down so you can see what you are doing!
Did You Know?
A little level can help create some of the most amazing structural locations. Many of the greatest architectural achievements used mason work to create the result.
Amazon Recommends:
- Solid acrylic vials
- Level with Case, 48 In, 24 In, and Torpedo
- EASY-TO-READ - 3 ply masonry level green vials.
- SIZED RIGHT - 42” in length.
- ACCURATE - Accurate to .015” in length of level.
- DURABLE - Strong and durable material.
- MADE IN USA - Manufactured in the United States.