Best way to level/line up Steel Beams
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bob_5795
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Best way to level/line up Steel Beams

Post by bob_5795 » Thu Jun 28, 2012 8:20 pm

I'm starting a loft conversion.

I have 5 floor steels to bear on concrete lintels (used as padtones).

The house is a brick built 1930's semi.

What is the best method for ensuring all lintels/steels are level.

Thanks.

welsh brickie
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Re: Best way to level/line up Steel Beams

Post by welsh brickie » Fri Jun 29, 2012 8:16 am

use a string line to line them up, and a long straight edge (4x2 or similar) with a spirit level to check for level.

bob_5795
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Re: Best way to level/line up Steel Beams

Post by bob_5795 » Fri Jun 29, 2012 3:04 pm

I've tried using a string line when laying blocks, found it a very awkward and finicky way to work.

I have a cheap laser level, but again find it difficult to work with, how can you trust the bubble in the level is going to be accurate over the 6 metre span I have to work with.

I have thought about using a thin see through flexible pipe and using water inside, however its placed one end should in theory level up with the other ... anyone had any experiences ?

welsh brickie
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Re: Best way to level/line up Steel Beams

Post by welsh brickie » Fri Jun 29, 2012 6:22 pm

a water level can be used and is accurate.

bob_5795
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Re: Best way to level/line up Steel Beams

Post by bob_5795 » Thu Jul 05, 2012 8:57 am

Thanks.
I'm just wondering what the pro's would use.
Looking at this product:
http://www.screwfix.com/p/water-level-kit-10m/18133
It appears that its impossible to use as is for low level work - like paving stones, this would also apply to my job as the bottom of the padstone is just 75mm above the lowest level I can work at. I guess a work around would be to attach the top of the level to a piece of wood and mark it with a scale going down, so the top of the level can sit above the work area.

Seems crude, but should get mm accurate - I guess a floor thats with a few mm in each corner is pretty good.

welsh brickie
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Re: Best way to level/line up Steel Beams

Post by welsh brickie » Thu Jul 05, 2012 8:17 pm

hire a rotary laser if your conserned about accuracy.The laserbeam can mark a level line on the wall and you can measure up to the steel.

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