How to Use a Laser Level Outdoors | Engineer Supply - EngineerSupply

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How to Use a Laser Level Outdoors

How to Use a Laser Level Outdoors



Levels are one of the most essential tools in any engineer, builder, or construction manager’s toolbox. A regular level will detect the degree to which a surface is horizontally or vertically oriented. A laser level accomplishes this same task but does so with greater accuracy and the ability to project straight lines onto a surface. This feature makes the laser level an indispensable tool for many craftsmen, but if you’re not sure how to use one — especially outside — you aren’t alone. This guide will answer all your questions about how to use a laser level outdoors.

Set Up Your Laser Level and Tripod

Correctly setting up your laser level is the key to getting accurate results. There are several steps to follow to ensure it is assembled the right way:
  • Place tripod on dry and firm ground
  • Extend tripod to necessary height
  • Place laser level on tripod
  • Turn on level and allow it to self-level
These steps will prepare your laser level for measurement and projection so you can use it for whatever project you have in store.

How to Use a Laser Level Outdoors

Level the Ground It Is Placed On

Once your tripod and laser level have been assembled and set up, you need to level the ground that it is placed on. In order to do so, you should first identify the desired height — what point on the ground is the ideal height placement for your level? After identifying this point, you should follow these steps:
  • Attach the measuring rod to the laser detector and place the rod at the height point you identified
  • Adjust the laser detector vertically until you hear beeping from the device. This means you’ve found a level line
  • Tighten the pole to the detector
  • Find another point where the laser and detector intersect, and mark this height
  • Repeat until you have enough reference points to fill and level the area
Once the ground that the laser level is set on is leveled, you can proceed to use it with confidence, knowing that your measurements will be accurate!

Setting Grade Outdoors With a Laser Level

Perhaps the most common outdoor use of laser levels is setting grade. Setting grade means that you are adjusting a slope or elevation before building. You can do this once you have set up the laser level and leveled the ground it is set on. To set grade, you must:
  • Identify the grade’s initial height. The pitch will slope down from this point
  • Place the leveling rod at the point of desired height
  • Adjust the laser detector vertically until you hear a beep. Tighten the pole to the detector
  • Identify the degree of fall from the top to the bottom of the grade — for example, five inches
  • Move the laser detector up vertically this same distance and tighten it
  • Use the laser detector to find the level point. You may have to dig into the ground or lift the rod to do so
  • The leveling rod’s bottom will indicate the bottom of the grade
Mark the spot and proceed to grade the surface.

SHOP LASER LEVELS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best tool for setting grade?

A laser level is typically the most accurate and efficient tool for setting grade.

What kind of tripod should I use with my laser level?

How to Use a Laser Level Outdoors

The answer to this question depends on what kind of job you’re working on and what height you require. Check to ensure that the laser level tripod you choose is compatible with your device.

Can I use my laser level in the daylight?

Because lasers are a light source, it can be difficult to see a laser project beyond a few feet when it is broad daylight.

Is a laser level safe to use in wet conditions?

Most laser levels are safe to use in the rain, but long-term exposure to moisture and humidity can damage the device.

How important is a laser level’s accuracy rating?

You will see that different laser levels have different accuracy ratings. It is up to you to determine how precise you need your measurements to be.

Laser Levels for Indoor and Outdoor Use

If you’re looking for the best laser level, there are many options to choose from. Engineer Supply has the levels, tripods, and other supplies you need for your construction or engineering project. Call 800-591-8907 to place an order or learn more about available inventory.


Best Laser Levels

#1: Topcon RL-200 2S Dual Slope Rotary Laser Level Pro Package

best laser levels PI 314920782 This laser level is perfect for doing exterior work, and it comes with the following accessories:

  • Rechargeable battery kit.
  • LS-100D laser detector with the Holder 6 rod clamp.
  • RC-400 remote control.
  • Hard carrying case.
The unit itself has the following specifications:
  • Red laser beam.
  • 2 AA batteries as a power supply.
  • Low battery indicator.
  • IP66 Rating.
If you’re looking for the best laser level for your specific needs, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply today!

#2: Topcon RL-H5A DB Alkaline Horizontal Laser Level with LS-80L Receiver

best laser levels PI 1021200 07 This laser level and receiver has the following features:

  • Operating range of up 800 meters.
  • Smart long-range receiver.
  • Rotation speed of 600 RPM.
  • Simple and intuitive manual slope capability.
  • Horizontal accuracy of up to 10 arc seconds.
  • Self-leveling range of up to 5 degrees.
  • Up to 100 hours of battery life.
  • IP66 Rating for protection against dust, sudden showers, and torrential rainfall.
If you’re looking for the best laser level for establishing a horizontal line reference with an incredible degree of accuracy, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply today!

#3: Topcon RL-SV2S Multi-Purpose Rotary Laser Level Pro Package

best laser levels PI 313990772 This Topcon laser level package is great for horizontal, multi-slope, and vertical applications. It also includes the following accessories:

  • Rechargeable battery kit.
  • LS-100D laser detector with the Holder 6 rod clamp.
  • RC-60 remote control.
  • Hard carrying case.
The tool itself has the following specifications:
  • Red laser beam.
  • Operating range of 800 meters in diameter with a laser detector.
  • Accuracy of 1/16 of an inch for every 100 feet.
  • 300/600 RPM rotation speed.
  • IP66 Rating for protection against dust and heavy jet spray.
If you’re looking for one of the best laser levels for a number of construction applications, be sure pick yours up at Engineer Supply today!

#4: Leica 810945 - Rugby 610 Series Rotary Laser Level

best laser levels PI Leica 810945 Like many other laser levels in this series, this tool is a professional solution with an excellent balance of quality and price. It will allow you to perform quick leveling and alignments for general construction and interior applications. Its housing is extremely durable, so it can perform according to the highest standard in even the harshest of job conditions. It will also work with all Leica Rod Eye Receivers, which will extend its working range up to 2,000 feet (600 meters).

#5: Leica 790363 - Rugby 640 Series Rotary Laser Level

best laser levels PI 790363 Like many other models within this series, this is the best laser level for someone who needs a professional solution with an excellent price-to-quality ratio. With this tool, you’ll be able to do any kind of construction job that requires quick leveling and aligning while eliminating costly errors, rework, and downtime. Because of its rugged housing that’s both dust and water proof, this laser level is built for the construction site. It will perform according to the highest standards in all kinds of job conditions, which is why this series of laser levels is perfect for any construction professional.

#6: Johnson Level Self-Leveling Rotary Laser Level with GreenBrite Technology

best laser levels PI 40 6543 This dual-slope rotary laser level with Greenbrite Technology is the perfect tool for indoor construction projects. It’s a great tool for contractors, finish carpenters, and builders because of the visibility and accuracy it provides. The electronic self-leveling will work on both the horizontal and vertical planes. And because of its green laser beam, it will be 400% more visible than a red-beam laser level (which will make leveling tasks faster and more accurate).

It’s the best laser level for a number of indoor applications, which can include but may not be limited to:

  • The layout of interior walls.
  • Checking door and window height.
  • Installing acoustical and drop ceilings.
  • Developing a layout for warehouse racking.
  • Room additions.
  • Drywall installations.
Be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply today!

#7: Johnson Level Self-Leveling Rotary Laser Level

best laser levels PI 40 6515 This self-leveling rotary laser level has a locking mechanism that protects the inner pendulum while it’s being transported from one place to another. It also has visual and audible alarms when it goes beyond its leveling range. The unit is powered by four AA batteries, and it comes with tinted glasses as well as a soft-sided carrying case. The laser level also has the following specifications:

  • Pendulum self-leveling method.
  • Red Class IIIa laser beam.
  • Accuracy of 1/8 of an inch for every 50 feet.
  • Interior range of up to 200 feet in diameter (depending on lighting conditions).
  • Exterior range of up to 800 feet in diameter with a detector.
  • Self-leveling range of up to 3 degrees.
  • Approximately 20 hours of battery life with a rechargeable battery pack.
  • Approximately 24 hours of battery life with alkaline batteries.
If you’re looking for one of the best laser levels on the market, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.

#8: Futtura LT-850 - Self-Leveling Single Slope Rotary Laser

best laser levels PI Futtura LT 850 This self-leveling single-slope laser is as rugged, reliable, and accurate as it is affordable. And it’s the best laser level for any kind of level or sloped applications. This tool comes with a number of features, which include:

  • Fully automatic self-leveling.
  • Height of Instrument (HI) alert.
  • Operating radius of 2,000 feet.
  • Machine Control Compatible.
  • Accuracy of 10 arc seconds.
It also comes with a standard CR3 Laser Detector, so be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.

#9: Leica 790381 - Rugby 680 Series Rotary Laser Level

best laser levels PI 790381 Like all other laser levels in the Rugby Series, this tool is the perfect professional solution for someone who is looking for a good balance of quality and price. Not only will it allow you to perform quick level operations in general construction and interior applications, but it will also help you to eliminate costly errors. Because of its rugged housing, this tool is built for the construction site. It can perform at the highest level in even the worst job conditions. So if you’re looking for the best laser level for your next construction project, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.

#10: Johnson Level Electronic Self Leveling Horizontal & Vertical Rotary Laser Level Kit

best laser levels PI 40 6543 This laser level has a vertical mount and is great for both indoor and outdoor construction applications. Carpenters, plumbers, and electricians will love using this tool, because it’s as versatile as it is accurate. The self-leveling mechanism will work on both the horizontal and vertical planes. It can also be useful in the following applications:

  • Leveling.
  • Checking cut and fill.
  • Setting foundations and footings.
  • Septic tank and basement excavations.
  • Acoustical ceiling and drywall installations.
  • Aligning and plumbing walls.
  • Contour framing.
If you’re looking for the best laser level for your specific needs, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.
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