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A laser level is an essential tool for ensuring proper alignment in the construction industry. But it isn’t only commercial users that can make the most of these tools, hobbyists and domestic users will find a laser level to be one of the most indispensable devices they own.
But if you haven’t used this type of equipment before, you may find your options a little intimidating. That’s why we have put together this handy buyer’s guide, telling you everything you need to know about the types of laser level and what to expect from your tool.
What Are Laser Levels Used For?
A laser level will come in useful for a variety of applications. They are primarily used to align and level applications either vertically, horizontally, at an angle, squared or a grading slope as well as for point transfer. These tools are widely used for things like drywall installation, installing ceiling joists, flooring and tiling. You may also see them commonly used in the installation of doors and windows, so as you can see, they’re pretty versatile!
The laser level is very commonly used in masonry for plumbing walls as well as to ensure that laid blocks are level. In the garden, landscapers can be seen using a laser level for things like retaining walls and terraces.
How Do Laser Levels Work?
The laser level is not a new tool but it has only been in recent years that they have become more common in the workplace. In fact, the concept behind these tools has been around for more than 40 years having first been used in the 1970s.
These tools use a projector which, as the name may suggest, projects a laser onto the working surface. This laser shows as one or more fixed dots or lines along the chosen axis. This allows the user to ensure correct alignment through the use of these projected markings.
Types Of Laser Level
There are different types of laser level and when you’re shopping for one, it’s imperative to know the difference between each one. This will help you to choose the correct tool for the job.
Line Laser Level
A line laser level projects a beam, or a line, at a 180-degree angle either horizontally or vertically. That said, there are some that allow for a 360-degree projection but these are less common. When you have a small project that requires horizontal or vertical alignment, this is the best piece of equipment to use.
These laser levels must be set up on a flat surface for them to be effective or can be used with a tripod.
Dot/Spot Laser Level
You will notice that a spot laser level, sometimes called a spot laser level works in a very similar way to the line laser level. The only real difference being that the dot level projects dots instead of a line. They can be used in the same way and multiple dots may show giving you perfect angles.
Cross Hair Laser Level
Again, the cross-hair laser level is similar to the line laser level only it is a much more evolved version of this tool. The laser projected is in the form of a line but the device has a built-in optical lens which means they can project two lasers at once; one will be vertical while the other is horizontal. You have the option to display one or both at the same time.
Rotary Laser Level
The rotary laser level projects a 360ºspinning beam of light that creates a levelling line from which you can work. These types of laser levels are particularly good for things like tiling or levelling floors as well as plumbing walls and hanging kitchen cabinets.
Tile Laser Level
When working with tiles, some types of laser level may not provide you with the best visibility but a tile laser level is perfectly designed for this application. They create a much more visible beam of light that can be easily seen on the tiles as well as other types of flooring.
What To Look For When Buying A Laser Level
As well as understanding the best type of laser level for your needs, there are several other things you will need to consider. Let’s take a brief look at some of the most important features to look for when choosing your laser level.
- Does the laser level come with a remote control? This will allow you to change the settings or alignment without having to touch the tool itself.
- Some laser levels come with a tripod which is useful for making sure that the laser level remains on a flat surface, therefore, giving you greater accuracy.
- Where batteries are concerned, you should check the running time to ensure that you will get the most out of your tool. Some of the best laser level batteries offer up to 48 hours of continuous use. This is imperative in a commercial setting. Moreover, you should make sure that the charger is portable and convenient.
- When choosing your laser level, always make sure that the accuracy is spot on. These tools are much more accurate than things like a spirit level but different brands do offer varying performances.
- Some laser levels are self-levelling which essentially means they do most of the work for you and are much better at lessening inaccuracies. Using a manual laser will be less precise but they won’t stop running if they are disturbed which is the case for the automatic laser level.
It’s also important to think about the colour of the beam. Some come with a green beam which is brighter and easier to see as opposed to a red beam, This makes them more suitable to larger projects, especially those being done indoors. In addition to this, there are some laser levels that are more suited to indoor or outdoor use so be sure to factor this into your decision.
How To Use A Laser Level
Using a laser level doesn’t take much getting used to and once set up, you can feel confident that your work will be accurate and level. Here’s a simple step by step guide on getting the most out of your equipment.
- If you are using a tripod, begin by attaching your laser level to this. Place the tripod somewhere that it won’t get knocked over and ensure that the levelling bubble shows that you have placed it on an even surface.
- Next, turn on your laser level, checking that the bubble is properly aligned inside the vial. This only applies if you are not using a self-levelling laser.
- You’ll now see a beam of light projected onto your working surface. Locate your desired spot and point the laser toward this.
- You might wish to use a laser detector, in which case, you’ll need to attach and secure this to a levelling rod. As you slide the detector along the rod, it will beep when it has found the beam. You’ll need to fasten the detector before making any measurements.
Recommended Laser Levels
We’ve been checking out many different laser levels and there are a lot of excellent products on the market. However, we felt that the following laser levels really stood out from the crowd!
Best Professional – Bosch Professional Laser Level GLL 3-80 G
Features and Benefits:
The laser level can be mounted on a tripod and has two different fittings for more versatile use. The tool boasts an IP54 rating making it resistant to dust and moisture and therefore suitable for use in various conditions.
What’s great about this one is that it can be angled to create diagonal lines as well as the standard horizontal and vertical ones.
Pros and Cons:
- Self levelling professional quality laser level
- Projects for up to 30 metres
- 360º beam
- Great visibility
- Supplied with 4 batteries and a carry case
- Gets through batteries quickly
- Laser beam is quite wide
- UP TO x4 BETTER VISIBILITY: With green laser...
- SIMULTANEOUS HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL LEVELLING:...
- SELF-LEVELLING: To reduce the need for manual...
- PRECISE RESULTS: For highly accurate measuring,...
- ITEMS INCLUDED: Laser level GLL 3-80 G, 4x AA...
Best mid-range – Bosch Professional Laser Level GLL 2-15 G
Features and Benefits:
One of the major selling points of this laser level is how robust it is. If you’re working on-site, you need something that is going to stand up to the demands and this does so perfectly. That said, it is lightweight and very easy to use so you get the best of both worlds.
Pros and Cons:
- 15 metre range
- Comes with batteries
- Dust and splash proof
- Simple controls
- Great visibility
- Makes horizontal and vertical lines
- Not suited to outdoor use due to lack of visibility
- Case supplied is too small
- HIGHLY ROBUST: The laser level is jobsite-ready,...
- EASY-TO-USE INTERFACE: The line laser has a...
- HIGH VISIBILITY: The GLL 2-15 G line level offers...
- ACCURATE RESULTS AND SELF-LEVELLING: The laser...
- ITEMS INCLUDED: Laser level GLL 2-15 G, 4x AA...
Best budget model – Huepar BOX-1G Green Laser Level
Features and Benefits:
The accuracy of the Huepar laser level is second to none and with a huge 45-metre range, you’ll retain this accuracy even when outdoors. This excellent visibility is coupled with a choice of either self-levelling or manual mode so this tool can be used in many versatile ways.
Pros and Cons:
- Comes with a case and magnetic bracket
- Horizontal, vertical and cross lines
- Excellent accuracy
- Power saving mode
- Water and dustproof
- 45m range
- A bright beam even outdoors
- Battery life is only four hours
- 【RUGGED FOR OUTDOOR USE】：Full-time pulse...
- 【 OSRAM Laser Diode 】: Huepar laser level is...
- 【H&V SWITCHABLE】：One button operation makes...
- 【HIGH ACCURACY】：+/- 1/13 Inch at 33 feet,...
- 【150°+ LARGE FAN ANGLE FOR VERTICAL...
Conclusion
For perfectly aligned and accurate work, it is essential to have a guide and your laser level will provide you with exactly that. While these tools have only recently come to the forefront in both commercial and domestic situations, more and more people are releasing their importance and how they can seriously aid your work.
