Title: Determine whether surfaces are level or plumb.
Course: Building Trades I (17009-I) > Section: Carpentry: Using Basic Carpentry Skills

Determination should include

- checking that horizontal surfaces are level
- checking that vertical surfaces are plumb
- reading a level.

IRC: Chapters 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 (https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2018) (throughout the chapters) describe the materials used in residential construction. These chapters elaborate on tolerances and the importance of plumb and level for the material to meet or exceed the minimum code requirements.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What is the difference between level and plumb?
- What are the different lengths of levels used?
- What are the possible consequences of failing to determine whether surfaces are level or plumb?

NCCER Standards:

Carpentry Fundamentals: Level 1

- 27101-06 Orientation to the Trade
- 27104-06 Reading Plans and Elevations