As a professional deck builder I have tried every post level available on the market and had high hopes for this post level. The unique folding design eliminates the weakest point of the other posts (they all fold in half), but since it doesn't have a "lock" feature, the spirit level isn't very accurate. When you tighten the strap, the level will try to close and will not show plumb in any direction. failure This post tier includes an elastic band that is much better than the elastic that almost all other post tiers come with. Yes, the tape wears out and needs to be replaced. The same applies to all other job levels; Try hard twists as a substitute for tape. If they added a 90 degree lock this level would be awesome. As it is, it cannot be used as a spirit level without hands.