How to Use a Laser Level

Laser levels are essential tools in the construction and surveying industries. They project a constant red or green line onto a surface, either horizontally or vertically, serving as visual guides to ensure your work is perfectly straight and level. Laser levels come in different types, such as rotary, cross line, and self-levelling models, each suitable for specific applications.

Whether you're hanging a picture or performing professional building work, understanding how to choose and use a laser level can significantly enhance your project outcomes.

Laser levels use optical amplification to emit a laser - a highly focused beam of light. This laser projects one or more fixed lines or dots along horizontal and/or vertical axes, allowing you to align your work precisely. Some laser levels combine both lines and dots for added versatility.

What is a Laser Level Used For?

Laser levels are invaluable for tasks requiring a straight and level reference point over a large surface area. Common uses include:

• Indoor Applications: Hanging picture frames, installing shelves, fitting dado rails, and aligning tiles
• Outdoor Applications: Grading land, laying foundations, and aligning fences

Cross Line Laser

• Function: Uses a prism to project a laser in approximately 180 degrees, creating vertical, horizontal, or both types of lines
• Uses: Ideal for indoor tasks like aligning cabinets, tiles, and picture frames

Rotary Laser

• Function: Spins the laser beam to create a 360-degree horizontal or vertical plane
• Uses: Suitable for large-scale outdoor projects like grading and site layout

Self-Levelling Laser

• Function: Automatically finds and maintains a level within a specified range
• Uses: Offers the highest accuracy for various levelling and plumbing tasks

Using a laser level is straightforward, but it requires careful setup to ensure accurate results. Follow these steps for optimal performance:

1. Attach to a Tripod: If using a tripod, attach the laser level securely. Adjust the tripod legs and use the built-in levelling bubble to ensure stability
2. Turn On and Calibrate: Turn on the laser level. If it’s a manual model, adjust the thumbscrews to level it using the bubble vials. For self-levelling models, allow the device to self-calibrate
3. Project the Beam: Identify your target surface and project the laser beam. The beam can be a dot, a line, or a combination, depending on the model
4. Use a Laser Detector (If Needed): For outdoor use, attach a laser detector to a levelling rod. Slide the detector until it beeps, indicating it has found the beam. Secure the detector and make your measurements

• Use a laser detector in bright lighting conditions where the beam might not be visible
• Green lasers are more visible in daylight compared to red lasers. Find out more about this in our blog 'Red and Green Lasers - What's the Difference and Which is Best?'.
• Manual levels are cost-effective but require more setup time, while self-levelling models offer higher accuracy and ease of use