Precision is the key when it comes to construction projects. Without getting the things placed at the right height and proper level, the structures will not get the correct level of stability.
Without the appropriate stability, your project will not last for a long time, and it will not be safe for short-term use. The same thing goes for deck projects.
Now, the laser level plays a crucial role in making the structures gain the right stability or balance. However, if you do not know how to use a laser for deck posts, your project will not get its best form, no matter how good of a laser level you got.
But the good news is that you have come to the right place to learn the process. We have worked on multiple deck projects with laser levels, and we can simplify the entire process.
How to Properly Use Laser Level for Deck Posts
So, most of the guides will make the process of using the laser level for deck projects seem a bit hard. But in reality, using it properly is pretty straightforward. Can you not believe that? Go through these steps and find it out yourself:
Step 1: Set the Laser Level
Before anything else, you would need to set the laser level up. As the laser level will level the deck posts with the ground, it needs to be on stable ground as well. Many will utilize different holders and keep the laser level somewhat balanced, but we recommend getting a How To Use A Laser Level For Deck Posts. It will work the best.
Notice that we have stated that the device needs to be on stable ground. If you can set the laser on stable ground, it will not have a tough time trying to self-level itself. So, to make things easier for the tool, set the tripod up on stable ground first, then mount the device on the top.
Step 2: Turn the Device on and Self-Level It
Once you got the tool set up on the tripod, switch it on and wait for a while. It will self-level itself. Now, if the ground is too slanted, the device might fall off, which could damage the tool. So, you can see why we emphasized stable ground in the previous step.
That said, it might take about a minute or so to self-level. Do not interrupt the process, or else the end results will not be correct.
Step 3: Identify a Point on the Ground
To ensure that you are pointing at the right place, you need to figure out a point on the ground. This point should go hand in hand with the height you plan to work with the deck posts. Attach the laser to the measuring rod and place the rod on the ground.
Step 4: Adjust the Detector
At this point, you would need to adjust the laser. To do so, bring it up and down until you hear a beep. The beep will ensure that you have found the right level. If you do not hear the beep after adjusting it for quite a while, you might want to get the device checked. It might be malfunctioning.
Step 5: Work on the Height
As we mentioned above, the beep will ensure that you have found the right level. After hearing the beep, tighten the laser detector to the pole. Your desired ground height would align with the bottom of the rod. Now, find another spot on the ground and identify where the laser is intercepting with the detector.
Mark the spot using a marker. You can even build a pile of dirt to that height if you do not have a marker.
Step 6: Repeat the Process for Other Reference Points
Now, you should repeat the entire process to get enough reference points. The number of reference points is something that we can state. Get enough until you are confident that you can properly set the deck posts.
How to Choose the Correct Laser Level
Getting the right laser level is as essential as knowing how to use it. Now, there are different types of these laser devices for construction projects or works. Here are the factors that can help you choose the right one:
- Line lasers and rotary lasers with detector or pulse features are the right picks for outdoor projects. These work well with long distances and on uneven surfaces.
- Multiple line projects will offer you the best results for indoor projects, such as aligning pictures and kitchen cabinets. However, if you are thinking about masonry and tile projects, you will need to use a laser square.
- Before you choose a laser for any of the projects, consider the room distance or size, and check the laser travel rating.
Usually, laser levels that have a low RPM are highly visible and bright. But they do not travel that far. On the other hand, high RPM devices are comparatively faint, but they do go far.
- Consider the type of wall you want to work with. Laser levels do attach with suction cups and pins. However, you would want to stay away from the pushpin devices if you were to secure the device to wallpaper or paneling.
- Factor in the stability of the project. Usually, manual devices are better for indoor projects. For outdoor projects, you should get something that has a self-leveling mechanism, which came in handy for the process we just talked about above.
If you were to carry out the deck project with manual ones, you would need to do a lot of work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What laser level should you use for deck posts?
For the most accurate result, opt for the outdoor laser level. Also, outdoor devices have extra functionality, which will make the task a piece of cake.
u003cstrongu003eGreen vs red laser level, which one is better?u003c/strongu003e
Green lasers are usually efficient. Also, they are more visible in areas with broad sunlight. So, we would recommend getting a green laser level over red.
Can you use a laser level without a tripod?
Although not recommended, it is possible to use a laser level without a tripod. You just need to ensure that that device is on a leveled surface.
Final Words
See? It is not that hard to learn how to use a laser level for deck posts. All you need to do is ensure that you are using the suitable laser and follow the steps correctly. If you check these two criteria, we can assure you that the end results will be how you expected them to be.
