How much does a laser level cost

Whether you’re installing new kitchen cabinets or hanging a set of picture frames, it’s important to keep everything level and straight. If you’re doing any kind of construction work or DIY project that requires an accurate level or plumb reference, you never want to eyeball it. While standard bubble levels will work fine for small jobs, more precise laser levels are needed for larger projects (such as laying out a wall of artwork or putting up shelves). The colored laser beams that are projected by these tools will give you a consistent level or plumb reference onto the surface you’re working on. And unlike bubble levels, they don’t need to be held in place. That way, you can keep both hands free while you work.

Types of Laser Levels

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Here are some of the main types of laser levels:

Rotary Lasers — They send out a 360-degree spinning laser beam that creates an extremely accurate leveling line from which you can work. The best way to set up this laser leveler is on a tripod, which you will most likely have to purchase separately.
Grade Lasers — These rotating lasers can be used in applications where you will need to measure a precise grade. There are both single and dual grade options, and they can be useful in a variety of applications.
Pipe Lasers — Also known as “utility construction lasers,” these tools are used for working on pipes (whether it’s above the ground, in manholes, or in the pipes themselves).
Line Lasers — These laser levels will allow you to establish a horizontal or vertical plane by projecting a beam (or line) of light at around 180 degrees horizontally or vertically, but there are some that can project a beam at 360 degrees.
Dot Lasers — These lasers will project a dot (or many dots) once the laser is level. While showing multiple dots, they will be seen at exactly the right angle to one another.

Before you go out and buy a laser leveler, you want to at least have a rough idea of what you’ll be using it for. Otherwise, you could end up spending hundreds of dollars on a tool you don’t need. A standard line laser will work fine for most residential DIY projects. But if you’re going to be working on any large-scale projects, you might want to invest in a 360-degree laser. If you plan to work outdoors or in harsh environments, you should choose one with an IP54 rating or above. That way, you can be sure it will stand up to most types of water and dust damage.

What to Consider While Choosing a Laser Leveler

Because there are so many on the market, there’s a lot to consider if you want to find the best laser level. Some of them include but may not be limited to:

Accuracy — Laser levels are much more accurate than other leveling tools (including spirit levels).
Manual vs. Automatic — Also known as “self-leveling lasers,” automatic lasers do most of the work for you. Once you turn it on, it will give you a true level line. It will also stop if it’s disturbed, which eliminates the chance for any inaccuracies. Manual lasers aren’t less accurate if you set them up properly, but they won’t stop working if they’re disturbed.
Green Beam vs. Red Beam — Green beam lasers are easier to see, because they’ll appear brighter. They’re also used on large-scale indoor projects, where the line needs to be identified without a laser detector.
Indoor or Outdoor Use — There are different types of laser levels that may be more suitable for indoor applications, while others may be better for outdoor projects.

If you want to find the best laser level for your specific needs, be sure to look at what we have at Engineer Supply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I never do with a laser level?

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Anyone who uses a laser leveler should take the following precautions:

Never stare into the laser beam.
If you’re wearing tinted lenses to increase the beam’s intensity, remember that they won’t protect your eyes from direct exposure.
Do not attempt to repair or disassemble the laser level, because it could lead to serious injury.
Make sure you read the instruction manual, and you should never use a laser level until you’re familiar with its operation.
Never point a laser in a direction where it can hit a vehicle with a driver, people, or pets.
Never let children play with lasers.
Always turn the laser leveler off when it’s not being used or left unattended for any period of time.
Remove the batteries when you’re storing the tool for a long period of time (more than three months) to keep it from getting damaged if they deteriorate.
Only use the original parts and accessories that were purchased from the manufacturer or an authorized dealer, because it will void the warranty.

Be sure to look at the manual or any other information from the laser’s manufacturer for more specific details on what you should and shouldn’t do while you’re operating it.

Can I use a laser level in the rain?

Many laser levels with a rating of IPX5 or higher can be left out in normal rainfall, but they need to dried off before you store them in their carry cases. If they’re wet in an air-tight environment, it will start to get humid. This humidity will get into the casing of the laser leveler and will cause damage as if it were completely submerged. Water will condense onto the internal components and circuit boards, which will lead to damage.

Can wind affect a laser level?

If you plan to use a laser leveler in high winds, there are two things you have to consider. There’s a greater chance of the tool getting blown over while it’s on the tripod, which can damage it. The wind will also blow through the tripod, which can cause vibrations that may affect the laser level’s operation. The best way to keep your laser level safe is to spread the tripod legs as far apart as possible, because it will create a more stable base that’s closer to the ground.

Can a laser level hurt my eyes?

Human eyes are very sensitive to the radiation emitted by laser beams if they’re not properly protected, so they could get damaged injured if they’re exposed. The extent of the damage will depend on the laser’s wavelength, the beam’s divergence, and how long they were exposed. But the damage can be either minor or severe, which can impair your vision temporarily or even permanently.

What should I do before I use a laser level?

Before you use a laser leveler, remember to avoid eye contact with the laser beam. You will also need to mount it on a tripod, because it will allow you to make easier and more accurate adjustments. Make sure the tripod is on relatively level ground across from the surface on which you’ll be working. If you plan to work on two surfaces, place the laser in a corner facing both walls. Some laser levels can even span across three walls if they’re placed in the center of the room.

If you want to find the best laser level for your next project, be sure to look at what we have at Engineer Supply.