Laser levels are necessary for professional projects in the field and at home. A laser level can be used in several ways, from wall tiling, decking installation, and many more. But how do professionals use laser levels for framing? In this article, we will look at how to use a laser level for framing and also examine why a laser level is an ideal option that guarantees results and optimum productivity.
Why Is a Laser Level Essential For Your Projects?
Projects requiring surveying and construction require laser levels to serve as control tools that can be mounted on a tripod stand with the capacity to house rotating laser beams. The laser level’s accuracy is determined by its leveling. You can use the device to project laser beams to a horizontal or vertical plane axis.
Types Of Laser Levels
Various laser-level options are available today, and each can perform multiple functions.
1. Line Laser Levels
This point-to-point laser level is capable of projecting various horizontal and vertical lines with different LEDs through a 70 – 100 ft distance. They are specially made for indoor purposes. The line laser level can plumb up and plumb down. Though recently, manufacturers have begun to produce new models that include a light pulsing feature that operates together with a light detector. These capabilities make it possible for the line laser level to be used in bright light conditions and for outdoor purposes.
2. Point Generator Level
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use laser level, the point generator level is the exact definition of simplicity. It has spirit levels capable of projecting a laser dot. In most cases, the point generator level can include a line generator situated in the front of the beam. The line that goes from the level to the surface can be seen.
3. Rotary Laser Level
The Rotary Laser Level is a type of laser level capable of projecting a rotating dot and can produce a line that is 360 degrees. Reading the lines across a wide range can be made possible with the help of a detector. Various types available have a single line generator, plumb up, and plumb down. Rotary Laser Levels excel greatly at outdoor purposes, especially construction-related projects.
They are the most accurate and expensive laser level you will find in the market today. This type of laser level comes in two models: manual and self-leveling. One Interesting fact about the rotary laser level is that it works remotely. Rotary laser level types also excel greatly in large-scale construction and foundation activities. Their sizes are big, so they are often placed on a tractor.
4. Dot Laser Level
The Dot laser level is a straightforward and easy-to-use level. The dot laser is used in projecting a single point such as a square, plumb, or level. There are different models available. You can make use of the ones less costly for indoor purposes. However, the high-end ones can be used for outdoor purposes.
Vital Tips and Guide on How To Use a Laser Level For Framing
Laser Level can be used for framing, but not everyone has the expertise and know-how to do this. Let’s look at vital tips to help you use a laser level for framing:
1. Ground Levelling
Before using your laser level for framing, the first thing is to set the laser level on solid ground. This is because laser levels are used to project straight light beams. The ground needs to be firm and level for the light beam to be straight. If the ground is not solid and level, you will get a crocked light beam instead of a straight light beam.
If the light beam is not straight, it will affect your measurement, which will lead to inaccuracy. Inaccuracy, however, is not something you would want in your measurements as it could even ruin your entire project.
However, most of the laser levels today made by industrial manufacturers have self-leveling abilities. These self-leveling abilities ensure that the laser level detects and corrects a problem. If the laser-level device you’re using is small, it would be best to ensure that the ground is well leveled and firm before proceeding to use it.
2. Look for Low and High Spots
When framing the wall in a project, ensure the ground supporting the wall framing is leveled. The best way to ensure that the ground is level is to position the laser level at an angle that enables it to project a light beam horizontally. It should be done across the room where you are carrying out your wall framing.
Once ready, ensure that you use a tape to measure the distance between the beam and the floor. In doing so, ensure that you note the areas with low and high spots. Once you have taken note of the areas with low and high spots, you should consider leveling the spots before you begin your wall framing.
3. Framing the Wall
When you are using a laser level for wall framing, set it up in a way that it can project a laser beam vertically. The laser should be positioned where you want the wall to be located. Since the laser level is positioned vertically, it should release a laser beam from the floor to the ceiling. With this laser beam, you will be able to build the bottom plates and top plates of the wall. Alternatively, you can opt to make a benchmark where the line is located. The best laser level option for framing walls is a self-leveling laser level.
4. Inspect Your Work
Use a laser level to inspect your work while the project is ongoing. It can be done during wall framing by positioning the laser level and shooting from a vertical angle through your work. Once this is done, the distance from your laser beam to the framework gives you a take on the wall.
You can know whether the wall is straight or falling backward. Once you have made these findings, you can make the required adjustments to get the right results. At this point, you should also know that using a laser level that projects a green laser beam or red laser beam will help you see the laser line better. It will help you get a more accurate layout.
How to Choose the Right Laser Level for Framing
There are different types of laser levels available on the market. You can see that from some of the options you’ve explored in this article. However, when you want to use a laser level for framing, there are considerations you’ll have to make before choosing one. These are:
1. Outdoor or Indoor Purposes
The various types of laser levels come with different laser intensities. These different laser intensities are meant to suit either outdoor or indoor purposes. The outdoor laser levels can project a high laser beam, while the indoor laser level projects a dim or low laser beam.
2. Auto or Manual Laser
The self-leveling laser falls into the automatic laser category. It is an automatic laser because it does almost all the work. Auto lasers can automatically correct any work to ensure a highly accurate result. Manual lasers, on the other hand, don’t produce highly accurate results like an automatic laser.
If any mistake occurs while they are running, they won’t stop to make corrections; rather, they will continue to produce a less accurate result in the end. You will need to put in more effort with manual lasers to ensure they give the correct result. It’s the reason why they are best suited for smaller projects.
3. Red Laser Beams or Green Laser Beams
Though they are both excellent, the green laser beams provide more visibility than the red laser beam. The green laser beam is most utilized for large-scale projects carried out indoors. When carrying out an indoor project, projected lasers need to be seen. The green laser beams are much brighter, and you wouldn’t need a laser detector to help detect the laser line.
Final Thoughts
Laser levels are essential for various types of projects. The uses of laser levels over the years have played a vital role in framing and new wall constructions. It is essential in all aspects of framing to ensure that all measurements are taken accurately. The tips in this article will undoubtedly help you use a laser level more effectively in your framing projects!
