Construction Level: Buying Guide
If you know much about laser levels, you know that there are many to choose from, and choosing the right one is important. When you’re looking for a
construction level, where do you start? There are a few important criteria to look for when you’re shopping for a
builders level, especially if you’re in the market for a
laser level. Consider the following five factors when you’re on the hunt for the best level so that you can be confident in the choice you make.
Accuracy
When it comes to accuracy, all laser levels are not created equal. A high quality
laser level will have an accuracy within 1/16 of an inch for every 100 feet. This is ten times as accurate as a traditional spirit level would be, which offers accuracy of only ½ an inch per every 100 feet. Generally, you can find the accuracy of any given
builders level by checking the packaging or description of the device. Accuracy will be listed with a +/- and a number.
Durability
Accuracy isn’t the only concern to take into account. You should also pay attention to the durability that a
laser level offers. One of the most important factors in determining this durability is researching the material a
laser level is made from. Look for a model that’s made with a material such as steel, aluminum, or a heavy duty plastic.
Vial Visibility
Though laser levels rely on a laser to project a level line, many do still feature a spirit level which provides additional guidance and helps users manually calibrate when necessary. In order to use this vial, though, it must be adequately visible to the user. This is an important feature for a
builders level. For full effectiveness, the vial should be visible from either the top or the bottom of the
laser level.
Usability
When comparing different laser levels, you should assess the general usability of each model. Usability, of course, is not just one single factor. It’s a combination of several features, including criteria such as the aforementioned vial visibility, ergonomic shape, lightweight construction, and overall portability. These features all determine just how usable a
construction level is, and sometimes more expensive isn’t better. Rather than looking for the fanciest level, look for the one that’s the most easily usable when you’re on the job.
Invest in the Best
While price certainly isn’t everything, it is still something to consider. Buying the most expensive
laser level might not always be the best choice, but it probably isn’t best to opt for the cheapest one, either. Some of the best laser levels on the market right now include:
The key is to invest in the best one you can find and take good care of it so that your investment lasts. This means looking for a model that’s usable, durable, accurate, and built for long days on the job.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a laser level and a spirit level?
Spirit levels — or traditional levels — rely on a solution with a mineral spirits to measure how parallel or plumb a surface is. Laser levels achieve the same objective but do so by projecting a straight laser line onto the surface.
What is the difference between a laser level and a rotary laser level?
Laser levels and rotary laser levels both utilize laser technology to project a straight line onto a surface. A rotary laser level is different, however, because it rotates continuously, thus projecting the laser in a 360 motion.
How do I use the spirit level on my laser level?
Many laser levels still contain a spirit level in addition to their laser technology. How do you use it, and why is it there? These additional mechanisms are often included in order to aid in manual calibration of the level.
What are some of the top brands for laser levels?
There are many brands that manufacture laser levels, but some of the best are Bosch, Johnson, and Klein. Tools from these manufacturers are high quality and built for performance.
Where can I find a high quality builders level?
There are many places to shop for a laser level. You should seek out a reputable retailer who specializes in tools for professionals and carries a wide variety of
laser level options.
The Best Laser Levels and Builders Levels
A good laser level can simplify your job, improve your accuracy, and save you time. This is only true if you find one that’s suited to your needs, though, and doing so might require a little research. Engineer Supply has an impressive selection of laser levels and
surveying equipment. Call (800) 591-8907 to find the right laser level for your needs.
Best Construction Level
This 26x transit level has an accuracy of 3/16 of an inch at distances of up to 150 feet, but it has a total range of 400 feet. The optics have a horizontal circle with a lock and tangent as well as a vertical arc with a lock and tangent. It also has a 5/8" x 11" thread size and a 1:100 stadia with a glass reticle. When you purchase this construction level, you will also get the following:
- Optical plummet
- Rain hood
- Objective lens cap
- Hard carrying case
If you’re ready to purchase this level, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.
This automatic level will allow surveyors and construction professionals to get accurate level, angle, height and distance measurements. The optics have a 32x magnification, a 1/32-inch accuracy, and a built-in compensator that will stabilize the line of sight (even in the presence of fine vibrations that can be caused by heavy equipment on the job site).
The telescope has a focus range of 7.9 inches and can be used in confined spaces. It also has an internal magnetic dampened compensator, which will allow you to level the line of sight within a range of 15 arc minutes at an accuracy of 0.3 arc seconds. You can even get it with the following accessories:
- Diagonal eyepiece.
- Optical micrometer.
- Light pack (which can be helpful low-light conditions).
- 40x eyepiece (which will improve accuracy and magnification).
Be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply today!
This construction level has been proven to provide both precision and durability. It also features enhanced reliability in all types of environmental conditions. Its tough and compact body has an IPx6 Rating. So, it will be resistant to damage caused by water, humidity, and dust. It also has a number of useful features, which can include but may not be limited to:
- Precise and reliable automatic compensator — It has four high-tensile suspension wires and a magnetic dampening system, which will ensure accuracy and stability (even when it’s exposed to temperature changes, vibrations, or shock).
- Superior telescope — It can provide an exceptionally bright and sharp view that will minimize eye strain. It also has an ultra-short focus of 7.9 inches (20 cm) from the end of the telescope, which makes it easier to use in confined spaces.
- Quick collimation — The two knobs of endless horizontal motion drives can be operated with either hand, which allows for faster and easier aiming.
- Horizontal angle measurement — Horizontal angles can be read in one-degree or one-gradian units, and the freely rotatable circle will allow you to perform any angle reading from zero.
The stadia lines on the reticle will allow you to perform any distance measurement, and it’s easy to adjust with one screw. The circular level vials are adjusted with two screws, but both of them are quick and easy with the provided tools.
This self-leveling, dual-slope rotary construction laser level is great for exterior applications and it includes the following:
- Rechargeable battery kit.
- LS-100D laser detector with the Holder 6 rod clamp.
- RC-400 remote control.
- Hard carrying case.
The red laser beam has an operating range of 3,600 feet in diameter with a laser detector, and it has an accuracy of 3/64 of an inch at distances of up to 100 feet.
This construction laser level has an operation range of up to 800 meters, and it comes with a smart long-range receiver. The laser has a rotation speed of 600 rpm with a self-leveling range of five degrees. The battery can last up to 100 hours, and the body has an IP66 Rating (which allows it to withstand dust, a sudden shower, or even heavy rainfall). When you purchase this laser level for construction, it will come with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty as well as the following accessories:
- Topcon LS-80L Laser Detector.
- Sensor holder.
- Carry case.
Be sure to pick yours up at
Engineer Supply today!
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