Whats a zip level?
A zip level is an excellent tool pressurized system that measures the weight of proprietary liquid sealed in a cord. The zip level works much like an aircraft altimeter. The zip level is a high precision altimeter that provides horizontal and vertical elevation measurements. It can measure horizontal 200′ and up to 40′ vertical.
Why would a Zip level be used?
Anywhere the need to level or check the levelness is needed. Planning different elevations that need to be precise. Help to layout foundation footers to measuring the foundation for levelness. Checking the slope of a property to make sure the grading is correct. Pool construction, concrete, or stone steps or stairs construction can benefit from using a Foundation level. There are many uses for a zip level. I have one, and it’s one of my favorite tools.
Who uses zip levels
Anywhere the need to level or check the levelness is needed. Planning different elevations that need to be precise. Help to layout foundation footers to measuring the foundation for levelness. Checking the slope of a property to make sure the grading is correct. Pool construction, concrete, or stone steps or stairs construction can benefit from using a digital altimiter level. There are many uses for a zip level. I have one, and it’s one of my favorite tools.
Why would a home inspector use a Zip Level?
The best reason is to add additional value that benefits the client. Taking slab elevation measurements gives your Houston home inspection company extra information about the foundation. The Digital foundation level measurements provide a more detailed inspection of the foundation. Rolling a marble around to show you how unlevel a foundation does not offer much information concerning how unlevel the foundation may be. Foundation measuring can offer more evidence of differential movement. Home inspectors offering this service give their clients more information than just a visual inspection.
Home inspectors, who offer Zip level measurements charge more for there services?
Yes, most home inspectors charge more for Measuring the foundation ranging from $100 – $150 for this service. There are a few home inspection companies that do not charge extra. I include these services with every home inspection I perform. That’s an excellent value for you as a home buyer. That’s right; I include foundation measuring service at no additional cost.
What would be the difference in measurement that is within tolerance for a foundation?
In Texas, the allowable difference is 1/4″ in 10′. A home that only showed a difference of 1/4″ in in 10′ would not be as concerning if other foundation signs of movement were not present than a home that showed a 2″ difference would be more concerning. When I see movement of 2″ or more I recommend a structural engineer to evaluate the foundation. A home inspector rolling a ball or marble will never know this information. Be sure to hire a home inspector that utilizes Digital altimeter level measurements and better yet, hire me and receive them for free with your purchase of a general home inspection.
Has the zip level helped me in evaluating foundations?
Sometimes a foundation appears to be borderline, meaning it is close to needing additional evaluations or work performed. The measurements can complete the picture for you, so you know which direction to recommend for your client.
How’s it compare to a digital water level?
I used to have a digital water level to perform that evaluation measurement of the foundation. I love the Zip level because it’s much easier to use. One of the advantages is when getting a zero reference point. You can set it just holding down a button instead of manually setting it on a digital water level. The other issue I had with the digital water level was bubbled, forming in the cord and causing inaccurate measurements. The digital water level was a real hassle because I would have to drain the reservoir’s antifreeze and line every time I used it. Now with the zip level, it’s incredible to use no hassle and very accurate.
Would you recommend this for home-buyers inspections?
Absolutely without question or hesitation. I would recommend that a home buyer seek out a home inspector that utilizes this technology. I would also recommend it for home inspectors. I believe that any home inspector would truly be impressed with the accuracy of the equipment along with the ease of operation.
Thanks for stopping by and see precisely how the Zip level can provide extra value in your home inspection service.
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