Laser Measuring Tools

It sends a beam of light to a point and calculates the distance based on the time it takes for the light to bounce back. This way, you can measure rooms, heights and distances yourself in a matter of seconds, without having to unroll a tape measure and without needing a second person to hold the other end. You point, press the button and the measurement appears on the screen.

In instruments of this category, the deviation is in the order of a few millimetres across the entire measuring range, which is much smaller than what you would achieve with a tape measure over a long distance. To ensure an accurate reading, hold the instrument steady and aim it at a flat surface, not an angle or polished metal. This way, the reading will be consistent every time.

The 30 metres are more than enough for flats, offices and most indoor jobs. You’ll need the 50-metre range for warehouses, industrial premises and outdoor measurements, where distances are greater. It’s a good idea to choose a device with a slightly longer range than you’d normally encounter, to give you a bit of leeway.

Sunlight is much brighter than a laser beam, so the eye cannot distinguish it beyond a few metres. That is why, when working outdoors, you use a laser receiver, which detects the beam and indicates where it is landing, either with a sound or a visual signal. The receiver is considered essential equipment on a building site.

It means that the instrument automatically finds the level within a small range of inclination, usually around three to four degrees. You simply place it on a flat surface and it takes care of the adjustment. If you set it at too steep an angle, it stops and alerts you rather than giving you an incorrect reading.

Rechargeable batteries are handy if you work every day, as you don’t have to go looking for batteries and they last a whole shift on a single charge. Standard batteries have the advantage that you can change them on the spot, wherever you are. If the tool stays in the car and you only take it out occasionally, standard batteries work just fine.

The distance measurer gives you a figure: how far away the point you’re marking is. The multi-line level doesn’t measure, but draws straight lines on the walls to help you position tiles, cupboards or plasterboard. One tells you how far, the other shows you where. They are two different tasks, and most tradespeople end up having both.

Not for quick measurements by hand. However, as soon as you need a reference line that will remain stable whilst you’re working, a tripod is essential, because the slightest movement shifts the line. The tripod, which extends from 66 to 180 centimetres, covers everything from low positions right up to eye level and can be set up in seconds.

Keep the exit lens clean with a soft cloth, as dust scatters the beam. Keep it in its case and don’t leave it in the sun inside the car, as the heat can affect the electronics. After a fall, test it at a familiar distance before relying on it again.

From Geosantro. You’ll find 30- and 50-metre distance measuring devices, green line lasers, multi-line lasers, a rotating laser level and a tripod, with free delivery throughout Cyprus on orders over 50 euros. Let us know whether you’re working indoors or outdoors and we’ll recommend the right model for you.