How to Calibrate a Laser Distance Meter

At your construction or contracting business, you rely on your laser distance measurer to estimate the size of rooms and their features. Perhaps you're figuring out how much drywall to purchase for a renovation, or you're wondering how long an air duct that you need to inspect is. As you use your measure again and again, its measurements become less accurate. To avoid costly mistakes and to keep your equipment in top condition, use these five steps to check your laser measure's calibration.

1. Create Your Reference Point

Create a reference point for your laser distance meter by measuring a distance with a yardstick, metal tape measure, or another manual measuring tool. Make sure to clearly mark the point that you are measuring, and record the distance.

2. Set Up Your Laser Distance Measurer

Put your measure exactly where you put the edge of your tape measure or yardstick. Do not use your measure's tripod for this step unless you held the tape measure at the same length. Double-check that you have your measure positioned so that the side you want to calibrate is facing your target.

3. Use Your Meter To Measure the Distance

How to Calibrate a Laser Distance Meter

Once you have powered up your laser meter, send its laser to the target. Check that the laser is measuring the correct angle, and then hit your "measure" button or switch.

4. Evaluate Your Results

Compare your laser measure's results to those on the yardstick or tape measure. If they are only off by a few millimeters, then your device is still properly calibrated. Any problems that you have had with estimations are probably due to improper operation, such as not choosing the target carefully or moving the instrument as it measures.

If your distances are five millimeters or more apart, your device's calibration needs to be restored. This is a delicate process on laser measures, so rather than attempting it yourself, reach out to the manufacturer about their recalibration policies. Remember, taking apart a laser measure can lead to electric shocks, so let the experts handle this step.

5. Maintain Your Calibration

After you receive your newly calibrated laser measure, avoid dropping it to protect its calibration. Always store it in its case, and drive gently when it's in your trunk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should You Look for in a Laser Measure?

The best laser distance measurer has a long-lasting calibration that's guaranteed by the manufacturer. It also is weather-resistant so that you can take readings during a rain shower or in a damp house. Good laser measures are also highly portable so that you can easily take them around your job site.

How Do You Maintain a Laser Measure?

Keeping your laser measure clean is essential to its long-term operation. Always wipe off dust, dirt, and other debris before putting your instrument back in its case. Even if your measure is water-resistant, keep it away from water sources when possible, and dry it thoroughly before putting it away. When it needs repairs, send it to the manufacturer instead of trying it yourself.

How to Calibrate a Laser Distance Meter

Are Laser Measures Worth the Cost?

Your laser distance measurer is an excellent investment in your construction company's efficiency and time management. Instead of spending hours getting perfect measurements for every part of a house, your measure performs the same calculations in less than an hour. You also don't have to worry about accuracy when your instrument is properly calibrated, giving you peace of mind as you purchase supplies.

What Are Some Other Uses of Laser Measures?

Laser measures aren't just helpful when you're surveying a new site. They also help you accurately cut drywall, plywood, and other building materials when it's time for renovations. When you're creating plans for demolishing or building a room, you can provide precise measurements to the civil engineer who signs off on your work.

How Are Laser Measures Powered?

Most laser measures are powered by batteries, which are either rechargeable or replaceable. Battery operation allows these devices to work when you don't have an outlet or power supply. For best results, remove your instrument's batteries in between jobs so that they don't drain.

When you need an accurate and precise measuring tool for your construction company, check out Engineer Supply's selection of laser measuring tools.

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