My outlet install fiasco and the line level wake-up call

Honestly, I figured I could lay bricks straight without a line level for every course to save time. Tbh, I was overconfident. Last month, adding an outdoor outlet to a repaired brick wall, the rows seemed fine, but drilling for the conduit showed they were off. The outlet box wouldn't sit flush because the bricks weren't level. I had to redo a part, which was a big hassle. Since that job, I make sure to use a line level, even for simple jobs. Seeing the trouble it caused drove the point home.

2 comments

2 Comments

janaa521mo ago

Our brains are real comedians, convincing us we've graduated from basic tools after a few smooth jobs. That "almost flush" fit is just the universe's way of giving a sarcastic slow clap. So much for saving time when you have to redo it all, right?

morgan.nancy1mo ago

Last month you said the rows seemed fine without the level. What was it that made you feel sure you could eyeball it that time, was it the type of brick or just being in a rhythm? I always find it interesting what tricks our brain plays to make us skip the basic steps, even when we know the tools are right there in the truck. That flush fit problem is such a specific headache you only get from stuff being almost right but not quite. It sounds like that one job really rewired your habit for good.

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