How to choose a laser self-leveling level

Even the simplest repairs will not do without the use of a construction level. Previously, in the old-fashioned way, all kinds of hand-made plumb lines, stretched threads, water bottles were used. Now the need for such applied creativity has completely disappeared, because laser levels have appeared on the construction market. These are unique devices that allow you to carry out any construction work with high accuracy. How to choose a laser self-leveling level? What characteristics should I pay attention to first? We need to figure it out.

Laser level: Design and operation features

In order to understand how to choose a laser self-leveling level, you need to understand its device and the principle of operation. A standard laser device consists of several systems working together. These include:

• emitters;
• focus adjustment system;
• power unit;
• the mechanism of leveling and maintaining the level;
• the control unit.

Emitters

Laser–level light sources are quite powerful LEDs. They generate monochromatic light. Usually, in professional and amateur devices, the rays are red or green, which are visible quite clearly at a distance of more than 40 meters. Installed LEDs do not heat up, use a minimum of electrical energy and do not shine worse over time.

Useful advice! The green beam is brighter, it is better visible when working during the day, especially at long distances without using a special receiver.

Red LED beams

Optics

Each laser level is equipped with a special lens system capable of focusing the received beam at one point. High-quality optics guarantee high accuracy during operation of the device and clear visibility. Some devices are equipped with special prisms that can scatter the beam and turn it into lines. Such equipment is more convenient to use.

Using the laser level when laying tiles

Maintaining balance

In such mechanisms, the pendulum rule is used. If the equipment is placed strictly horizontally, the built-in plumb line is stationary. With a slight deviation, the pendulum head is deflected and, when interacting with a magnetic field, generates a current, under the influence of which the system corrects the position of the level. The most accurate systems are able to respond to a deviation of tenths or hundredths of a degree per 1 m. At 10 m, the deviation cannot exceed 1 mm. Professional devices with gyroscopes and a servo drive react much faster to deviation and ensure maximum accuracy.

Control and power supply

The laser level is powered by batteries. For these purposes, manufacturers mainly use nickel-cadmium variants, which can be recharged from the mains without any problems. A high-quality battery ensures uninterrupted operation of the device for 7-10 hours with constant operation. Control on all models is very simple and is carried out with a few buttons.

Using the laser level in construction

Varieties of laser levels

To decide how to choose a laser self-leveling level, you need to know about all existing varieties. There are several types of such measuring devices. Depending on the accuracy of the measurement, additional functions can be distinguished:

• laser rangefinders;
• static simple line builders;
• rotary plane builders.

The use of a laser level for the arrangement of the floor

The laser rangefinder allows you to measure the distance to the object with high accuracy, calculating the time for which the beam will pass to the desired point. Such a device is often supplied with professional equipment.

Static builders are devices of a higher level. They allow you to get intersecting horizontal and vertical at an angle of 90 °. Can project 2-8 lines at one time. Prismatic optical system is already used in such models.

Installation of door frames using the level

Rotational levels: Laser level self-leveling 360 degrees

Rotary builders are the most powerful, high–quality and multifunctional devices. They are equipped with a head capable of rotating and creating an image of a luminous plane horizontally and vertically. Such models are often equipped with remote controls.

Due to the rotation of the light beam, the device forms a plane. With such a laser level, it is easy to check any surfaces and identify defects. An additional function in it is the ability to create a beam directed strictly to the zenith. The beam range is claimed by manufacturers to be about 50-70 m, but when using a special receiver, this figure can be increased to 300-400 m. The leveling head can rotate at a speed of 10-600 rpm. The higher the speed, the better and clearer the image.

Rotary laser level

The 360 degree laser self–leveling level is quite a powerful and easy-to-use device. Its head can rotate in almost any direction, creating both horizontal and vertical planes. The self-leveling indicator in it is small to 4 degrees. There are samples with a self-leveling index up to 60 °, but they are very expensive and their purchase may simply be unprofitable.

How to choose a laser self-leveling level. Main characteristics of the devices

There are many indicators on which the accurate and uninterrupted operation of the laser level depends. Let ‘s list the main ones:

• error rate;
• range of operation;
• type of laser;
• power class;
• battery capacity;
• self-leveling function;
• protection;
• equipment.

The use of a self-leveling level for the arrangement of the ceiling

Error is one of the important characteristics of any level. The result of the work directly depends on this indicator. Its values should not exceed 1-3 mm by 10 m. Professional devices have an error of 0.5-1 mm. When working indoors, an error of 3 mm is almost imperceptible, such equipment is perfect for use at home.

Complete set of laser self-leveling level LEICA Lino L2

The middle construction levels are equipped with Class 1 or 2 lasers. These are small and medium-sized light sources, but even they can have a detrimental effect on vision. Class 3 laser is used in professional devices.

Battery capacity is also an important indicator. Professional devices work without interruption for about 30 hours. For less powerful equipment, this figure is 10-12 hours. For home use, batteries with an average capacity, but with a high charging speed, are suitable.

Diagonal tile laying using a laser level

Useful advice! The self-leveling function in the device must be able to be switched off. This is convenient if the device needs to be placed at a certain angle.

Since 360-degree self-leveling laser levels are often used in rather unfavorable conditions, their internal parts must be reliably protected. For high-quality models, special sealed and shockproof enclosures are used. Many samples are equipped with protective glasses, a case for equipment, a tripod for greater convenience. The kit should also include a charger if the device is powered by a battery.

The laser rangefinder is able to calculate the distance to an object

Knowing all the subtleties of the device and the operation of laser construction levels, you can choose a good option for use at home. Powerful and high-precision models can be left to professional remodeling contractor.