How to use a laser level

Layout of planes is an ordinary task in construction. With inaccurate measurements, this kind of work goes badly. Therefore, you need to forget about the rail and plumb line right away! Let’s talk about levels , a must-have in the category of measurement systems. Building with such a device is a pleasure.

Floor screed, foundation excavation, construction of partitions are not the easiest tasks. The result of such work depends on the specifics of the operation of the equipment. When it comes to a laser device, the correct setting is of particular importance. Therefore, let’s figure out how this system is built.

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Laser level operation

Levels quickly and accurately determine the reference plane, slope and other surface parameters. Thanks to the head (projection beam), builders achieve high precision in any finish. The coverage is also impressive. The range of good models is 500 m (diameter). Before working with a laser level, it is important to understand the principles of operation of such systems. The specifics depend on the type of device:

Point This is the simplest piece of equipment that can only draw dots. This functionality is sufficient for marking shelf mountings or wallpapering walls.
Linear system This is a professional level applicable at all stages of construction or renovation: furniture assembly, tile finishing, door installation. The system is often referred to as a crossliner.
Rotary The advanced system is not cheap and is capable of 360 ° markings (instead of the standard 180 °). The multi-prong device is used by professionals to set a vertical or horizontal reference point on any surface
Combined Have characteristics of different types of devices (plot points and lines)

Laser levels have an uncomplicated design, which includes a metal or plastic frame, a laser beam generator, and additional accessories.

Most devices consist of a tripod, leveling rod and laser generator. The main element of the kit is a movable head. More expensive analogs are equipped with a screen the size of a matchbox. This panel displays basic information about the configuration and operating modes of the equipment.

Novice masters do not know the principles of operation of a particular device. As a result, they forget to calibrate the laser level or charge the battery, immediately starting measurements. As a result, you have to redo everything or put off work. Therefore, there is no need to rush, first of all we read the instructions . This will avoid “dancing with a tambourine.”

Setting up the laser level

Crossliner / level manufacturers try to vary between sophisticated functional fixtures and ease of use. Simple devices have several buttons (3-4). Advanced models like Bosch and Skil are equipped with an additional panel for starting the device, setting the head rotation speed, locking the compensator or switching modes of operation.

In any case, you need to configure first. Before using the level, take into account several nuances of the device:

  1. Choose a good location for the device
    Make sure there are no unwanted obstacles in the path of the laser that “break” the line.
  2. Install the device on flat horizontal surfaces
    Using a tripod or holders, the device must be fixed rigidly.
  3. The level is corrected relative to the horizon.
    For this, a bubble level is used if there is no self-correction function.

The use of a level simplifies routine tasks when decorating indoor, indoor and outdoor. With such a device, builders take measurements along the visible line formed on the walls. The equipment is indispensable for installing fence posts, decorating walls and structural elements, installing suspended ceilings and more. In each case, the device is used in a different way and with a different set of accessories. Therefore, before buying, it is worth checking the complete set: level, receiver, target, rail, instruction.

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Application of the laser level

The laser level replaces most construction tools. A team of 5-7 people no longer needs to painstakingly unfasten the ropes to show the excavator operator the excavation line, look for a rail and a pencil for drawing.

Electronics greatly speeds up work. Although the problem of correctness of the settings is still relevant. Incorrectly set parameters are a common cause of potential delays at the construction site. Therefore, those who choose a laser level should consider:

  1. Construction type.
  2. The accuracy of the instrument.
  3. Laser range.
  4. Working temperature.
  5. Rotation capabilities.
  6. Self-leveling ability.

The level will come in handy for a variety of installation work: replacing pipelines, modernizing balconies and staircases, and arranging power grids. In the first case, the sensor is used to measure the degree of inclination, because before connecting the heating systems, engineers must ensure that the water flows naturally. The same applies to those who decide to install a beacon for floor screed or wall decoration. Further details about the specifics of the application in each of these cases.

When leveling walls

You can work with a special detector. A small attachment attached to the control rod receives the laser signal, detecting the deviation. Such a system (by means of diodes or sound signals) informs the operator about the correct determination of the height and deviation. This works in three cases:

  • cladding and alignment,
  • plastering of walls,
  • design of design elements.

For accurate measurements, it is necessary to observe the rules of operation of the device and take into account the specifics of the application. In the case of a stationary level and interior wall decoration, an assistant is always required. Master – calibrates the device and reads the result. Assistant – holds the staff. For a rotary model, everything is simpler: you need to put the laser level parallel to the wall and measure the deviation with a ruler in each area.

For leveling the floor

If earlier a tape measure and a spirit level were used for screed , now they find an alternative. With a level like Bosch GLL or DeWalt DW088K, even a beginner can cope with this task. If accuracy is critical, you will need to use a laser level to level the floor. Otherwise, screed or concreting will end in a lot of problems. The work is carried out according to the following algorithm:

  1. Setting up a tripod and attaching the head to it.
  2. Calibration of equipment. For this, adjusting screws and a box-type element with an air bubble are used.
  3. Turning on the level in the horizontal plane drawing mode.
  4. Floor screed with a rail on which a horizontal line is drawn, which draws a laser.

Before measuring, experienced craftsmen recommend providing conditions for accurate reading of parameters. First of all, it is necessary to check the stability of the structure, having previously found a good site. Most levels are mounted on a tripod on a flat surface. This lightweight support (usually made of aluminum) is resistant to changing weather conditions, can be transported without problems, but adjusted in different ways.

When working with tiles

In this case, a rotary laser such as Ryobi RBCLLR1 or Bosch GCL 2-15 G is most effective . The device is used in a constant rotation mode. The head rotates 360˚ periodically and creates a visible line on the object or forms a reference plane. The rotation speed can be manually adjusted up to 1200 rpm on some models. This parameter determines how clear the line will be. The height of the tripod is adjusted for each subsequent row of tiles.

Regardless of whether the tiles are laid on the wall or on the floor, the precision instrument helps with the patterns. In cross plane mode, the device draws lines at any angle, not just parallel to the walls and floor. This means that almost any mosaic can be implemented.

Inclined planes

Ramp planes are a separate type of rotary level. The system is mounted on a pendulum suspension. Additional capacity is achieved by blocking the compensator. The angle is set by tilting the body of the level on a tripod or holder.

Depending on the class of the tool and model, the slope can be in one or two planes: from -10% to + 40%. The level will also help with determining the elevation difference for the selected points. The device is used to check the initially selected values ​​at a later stage of operation.

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For wallpapering and decorative finishing

The small rotating laser is the ideal companion for interior decoration. With the help of such equipment, you can mark the points and lines necessary for hanging photographs or paintings on one straight line. The same goes for wallpapering surfaces. In this case, the device draws perfectly flat horizontal / vertical landmarks, which will help to correctly align the sheets.

The laser beam is capable of setting landmarks with millimeter precision. For those who wish to draw decorative stripes on the wall, cut off the ceiling or determine the line for the beginning of clapboard sheathing, this is the main assistant. If the wall is decorated with photo wallpaper, the level will align the picture exactly horizontally.

For pipe laying and wiring

Installation work on any construction site must be carried out as accurately as possible. When it comes to the arrangement of heating systems, not only the question of aesthetics is affected, but, above all, safety. In this case, the angle of 5˚ and 6˚ are not the same! To be sure that the vertical and slope are correct, you will have to use the appropriate measuring equipment. The DeWalt DCE089D1G model is optimal for such tasks. Its use when installing radiator batteries or installing pipes is carried out according to the following algorithm:

  1. Set the level to plane projection mode.
  2. Before using the laser level to draw lines on the walls, set the desired angle of inclination.
  3. Turn on the generator, and carry out the work at a given reference point.

When installing electrical equipment, the use of a level ensures minimal damage to the interior. It allows you to preview how the cable lines will run. Draw a straight line with a laser and mark with a pencil the points to make holes in the walls. The same applies to the marking of the junction boxes.

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Installation of partitions

This is a specific task that only an experienced craftsman can do. At the slightest inaccuracy, any aesthetics ceases to be possible. The laser emitter helps out with such work. The device is indispensable for marking fasteners and determining dimensions.

When installing partitions, the algorithm is as follows:

  1. The master makes an initial mark, from which the projection on the floor, walls, ceiling will be built.
  2. The level (vertical mode) draws lines to define the orientation of the partition.
  3. The points where the guides should be attached are marked on the laser landmark.
  4. Make installation.
  5. After installing the frame, the accuracy of the work is determined by control measurement.

For furniture installation

For such a mission, you will need cross levels that quickly and accurately determine the orientation of furniture in space. Such systems emit several beams at the same time (two or more), which allows precise alignment of corners when attaching shelves, assembling cabinets.

To do this, select the “cross” or “cross projection” mode to fix any suspended and floor structures. The accuracy will be down to the millimeter! It is a pleasure to install a bed, sofas, refrigerator and electric stove with a laser level.

The rotating laser level, contrary to popular belief about its outdoor use, is a universal measuring device. It is indispensable for interior decoration: when installing brackets, landscaping, marking lighthouses. These are waterproof and dustproof devices. This means that the weather does not in any way affect the efficiency of the device. These systems are mounted on excavators, bulldozers, graders or asphalt pavers. The level will help to increase the productivity of each such machine several times

by Abdullah Sam
I’m a teacher, researcher and writer. I write about study subjects to improve the learning of college and university students. I write top Quality study notes Mostly, Tech, Games, Education, And Solutions/Tips and Tricks. I am a person who helps students to acquire knowledge, competence or virtue.

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