Laser levels are cool gadgets.
They can make construction easy and when they are accompanied with additional tools, work becomes quicker.
Let’s look at some of the most common laser level accessories that every laser level owner should have to make the most of your laser level.
1. Laser Level Detector
When you are using a laser level in areas where the distance or lighting conditions make it difficult for you to pick up the laser beam, a laser detector comes handy.
Laser detectors, also called laser receivers, are built to withstand harsh environment which means they are construction tough.
They also provide high accuracy so that professionals and home users can rely on it.
Types of Laser Level Detectors
Laser detectors are built to work with red, green and infrared beams. They are available for both rotary laser level and line laser level (which supports pulse mode to use with detector).
Laser detectors come with a lot of accuracy settings which can help you set the device according to the needs of your job site.
It comes to different types of displays, channels, sizes and even a memory function which will allow you to locate the last signal recorded by the detector.
Factors to Consider When Buying A Laser Level Detector
- Compatibility – Laser detectors are specific to the wavelength of light that they can detect. While there are a few that are universal, you must ensure that the detector you are buying is compatible with your laser level.
- Settings – The settings on laser detectors allow you to reach precision in the detection of the laser beams. The more settings your laser detector has, the more expensive it gets.
- Indicators – Laser levels come with two types of indicators to tell you when the right grade has been reached, there are audio and visual indicators. Depending on what suits your job best, choose one that can help you get accurate detection.
- Detecting Range – One of the most important factors to consider when buying the laser level detector is its detecting range. If you have to measure long distances, then you should choose a laser level detector that has a high detecting range.
2. Laser Level Tripod
All laser levels require a tripod to maximize their efficiency.
This three legged stand can help you set your laser level on it so that you can shoot beams of the laser from a height.
Types Of Laser Level Tripods
Tripods come in two kinds: The adjustable leg tripod and the fixed leg tripod.
The former one is used more commonly because of its flexibility to match the convenience of the owner.
On the other hand, fixed leg tripods, as the name suggests, cannot be adjusted and are mainly for home use.
Factors To Consider When Buying A Tripod
Tripods have one thing that matters the most, the adjustability of the tripod.
To choose the right tripod for your laser level, you must first determine the place where you want to use it.
If you use the tripod on outdoor locations a lot where you may end up with uneven surfaces, it is best to have a tripod that has an adjustable leg.
Professionals or DIYers who work indoors can choose the fixed leg tripod. You must also look for a tripod with wooden legs if you belong to a place where it gets freezing.
By now, you may have already figured out that it is always better to choose an adjustable leg tripod over the one with a fixed leg.
Besides, you must consider whether themounting threads of the tripod is compatible with the one on your laser level.
While some tripods are only adaptable with one thread size, the others include an adapter that converts threads from 5/8-inch x 11 to 1/4-inch x 20.
How To Use Tripod With A Laser Level
To begin with, you must assemble the tripod with the help of the user manual. Then place the tripod on a flat surface and mount the laser level on the tripod head.
You will notice that the tripod has a bubble just like your laser level does. Make sure that both the bubbles are aligned on the same line before you proceed with using the laser level.
This is the most common way to attach the laser level but because there are many models of laser levels, a few steps may be added or removed.
You must check the user’s manual of the tripod for this. Many laser levels come with their own tripod which makes setting them up for use a lot easier.
Tripod Care
Tripod are easy to use without a long list of instructions to ensure it is used correctly.
Always clean the tripod to avoid damage or corrosion. Always check the user’s manual if you are in doubt about a particular part of the tripod which may not be functioning properly.
They can be knocked off very easily so keep tripods away from children who may end up damaging the product and hurting themselves if they hit the tripod.
3. Grade Rod
Grade rods are also called leveling rods. It is a graduated rod used to check the differences in elevation.
While they can be used in different ways by architects, engineers and contractors, one of its most common applications is to detect laser beams if you are using a laser level to find out elevations.
Types of Grade Rods
Grade rods can be made of wood, plastic or fiberglass. Either grade rods can be a single piece or they may have adjusting segments to alter the length of the rod.
Depending on your job, you can choose grade rods that have specific graduations like feet/inches, fractions, tenths/hundreds, meters and centimeters.
The three different types of grade rods are:
- Engineer’s Rod
- Builder’s Rod also known as Architect’s Rod
- Direct Elevation Rod
Factors To Consider When Buying A Grade Rod
- Graduations
The graduations on a grade rod vary and depending on the measurements that your job requires, you must choose a grade rod with the right graduations.
Some grade rods are graduated on just one side while others have markings on both the sides.
You will notice that some grade rods use the same measuring units on both the sides while others vary the units for diversity.
- Length
How long a grade rod do you need according to your job’s requirement? While some grade rods can adjust their length, others have telescopic sections. Look for a grade rod that is tall enough to complete your job without problems.
How To Use Grade Rods With The Laser Level
Grade rods are usually used along with laser levels for grading construction sites before the foundation is laid. Here are some simple steps to setting grade with a laser level:
- Firstly, secure the laser level on the tripod and turn it on.
- Choose the grade that you want and place the bottom of the grade rod at your desired height.
- Shoot the laser beam to that point.
- Move the laser detector up and down to connect with the laser beam. Secure the detector when it catches the laser beam.
- Now move the grade rod to different parts of the area you are working to check the grade. Sometimes the grade rod may have to be dug into the ground while at other times you may have to lift it up so that you can get the original reading.
While reading the grade rods you must keep in mind that lower numbers are at the bottom and they increase as they grow up.
Complete foot marks are red while the tenth of a foot is marked in black.
Caring For Grade Rods
- Grade rods should be maintained properly because you may end up damaging or scratching the numbers that are etched on them.
- If you end up wetting grade rod, use a dry cloth to dry it quickly.
- Depending on the area you work, you should be careful of chemicals that can corrode the grade rod.
- Do not drag the rod when you are moving it around.
4. Laser Safety Glasses
The pulse of a laser is so quick that it can cause a noticeable amount of damage to your eye.
To help protect eyes from harmful effects of the laser beam, the lens of safety glasses are designed to reduce the transmission of most of the light transmitted on a different wavelength.
Besides, safety glasses (or safety goggles) also have an advantage for those who work in an environment where there may be a lot of dust or if there is potential hazard like an explosion.
So when you are working with or are near a laser level, put on safety glasses to protect your eyes.
Factors To Consider When Buying Laser Safety Glasses
Laser safety glasses can protect your eyes from damage only if you have chosen the right pair.
There are certain factors you must keep in mind to ensure that your safety glasses render the right protection to you.
- Wavelengths
Laser glasses are built for specific wavelengths. Look for the one that matches your laser level’s wavelength so it can protect you properly.
- Optical Density
Another thing that you must look for is the optical density of the glasses you are buying.
Higher optical density gives you more protection. You will find the optical density that is required for every wavelength.
The user manual of your laser level will help you determine some of the detailed requirements for buying the right pair of glasses for yourself.
Some laser levels have safety goggles included with the tool otherwise you may have to buy it separately.
Caring For Safety Glasses
You should take care of your safety glasses because they can be fragile. Clean it regularly and wear it only for use while operating the laser.
Make sure you buy a safety glasses that fits you snugly. Avoid scratches on the goggles by keeping them in a case whenever they are not in use. They must be kept in a clean and dry place.
Remember to replace bent or broken glasses so that they do not interfere with your vision. Broken glasses can’t provide protection to your eyes any longer.
Always go to the original manufacturer of the goggles to change their broken parts.
Conclusion
These accessories can make the laser level better at its work and ensure that you do not reduce your efficiency either.
Most of the laser level owners buy these tools outright when they are buying the product while others come to collect it after that, usually, when the time arises for it.
