When you install your Flow Wall garage storage system, you'll have to employ a couple of tools you may not be familiar with. Don't let this intimidate you – these tools are easier to master than they look! Besides, we've got an installation guide to give step-by-step instructions. You'll notice that you need both a level and a T-square ruler to correctly hang your wall panels. When used in conjunction, these tools will help you create a perfect grid on your wall. Here's the low down on how to use both tools:
What are their functions?
Both the level and T-square have their own purposes when it comes to home design, repair, etc. Knowing what each item does individually will help you use them effectively together.
Water levels: A standard water level is a tool that comes in the form of a long bar or ruler. All water levels contain a few glass tubes with bars along them. Those tubes are filled with just enough water that they contain a small air bubble. By paying attention to the bubble's position within the tube, you can tell whether what you're hanging is level (parallel to the ground) or not. Generally, levels have three tubes: one that runs parallel to the length of the bar, one that's perpendicular to the bar and one that's set at a 45 degree angle. Each tube helps you find the correct angle on which you want to hang your wall panel. In the case of storage installation, you'll be using the parallel and perpendicular tubes the most.
T-square rules: T-squares get their name from their shape. A T-square features two rulers bolted together to create a perfectly right angle. Each ruler has markings you can use as a guide to create a grid. T-squares come in several formats. The two rulers can be the same size or not. You'll want to get one that's a yard in length to install your wall mount storage.
How to use them
First learn how to use each tool individually, then we'll share our tips for using them together to install your storage unit.
Water levels: Each tube in a water level has two lines. When the water bubble lays evenly within those lines, the bar is level. Here's how to apply that knowledge to hanging items on a wall:
- Lay the bar against whatever you're hanging.
- If the object is parallel to the ground, make sure the bar is too. Conversely, if the item runs perpendicular, lay the level against it in the same direction.
- Tilt the object until the water bubble in the appropriate tube is within the two guidelines.
- Mark the position of the object and hang it.
T-squares: You'll most likely use your T-square to create a grid with 90 degree angles. Here's how:
- Lay the square level (perpendicularly) to the ground.
- Use the top of the T to anchor the beginning point of your measurement.
- Measure down to the length you want.
- Make a mark.
Together: Whenever you're creating a grid on your wall, start with your level.
- Lay the level against the long part of the T-square and place both against the wall.
- Adjust the T-square until it's level (perpendicularly) to the ground).
- Measure the length you want using the square.
- Make a mark on the appropriate spot on your wall.
- Repeat to form a grid.