So, are you doing any outdoor work today or shortly? It’s amazing… Precisely what construction job are you going to do in the future? Decking? Landscaping? If you’re doing any of these jobs outside, a laser level will help you be more precise and efficient.
This article will cover six tried-and-true laser levels for decking projects, both do-it-yourself and professional. Continue reading to find out more.
The Best Laser Levels to Consider for Decking Projects
1. The DW0825LG DEWALT 12V MAX Green Cross Line Laser
This DEWALT DW0825LG Line Laser model will be the best choice for your construction projects if you’re casting, laying bricks, or aligning decking boards.
This DeWalt laser model uses a 12V lithium portable battery to project green cross-sectional beamlines. Because of this powerful feature, this laser has a very long life and can quickly recharge its inbuilt battery.
With this DeWalt model, horizontal and vertical lines are projected automatically (self-leveling) onto the target surface. Based on its laser technology, its green beamlines are four times more visible than red laser models.
With an accuracy rate of 1/8 in, it has a spot range of around 150 feet and a cross-sectional line range of 165 feet. Although this DEWALT model is a class 2 laser product, it only has an output power rating of less than one mW and a wavelength range of 510 to 530 nm.
It includes a 12V optimal Li-Ion Battery Pack, a 12V/20V Multi-Voltage Charger, a Target Card, a TSTAK Case, Enhancement Glasses, and a Ceiling Bracket, and a built-in magnetic bracket that enables mounting the device to steel and metal track.
Due to the 1/4 inch and 5/8 inch threads on its magnetic bracket, installation is quick and secure. However, this laser device won’t break if it falls from 2 meters. This is due to its heavy-duty casing and IP65 “water and dust” resistance.
Pros
- Its 12V optimal, 2.0AH batteries will result in a longer operational time.
- It supports locking the pendulum to protect the internal parts.
- It projects bold beamlines
- Simple to use
Cons
- The instruction manual could use some more detail. Not enough instructions are provided.
2. The DW089K DEWALT Self Leveling Three Beam Line Laser
The DEWALT DW089K laser level is an excellent outdoor leveling tool. On Amazon, it has received over 900 reviews, so that must be significant. Especially considering how recently this model has been available.
The DW089LG Laser model is the best choice for building and home repair professionals because it has an optimal 12V rechargeable Li-Ion battery, intelligent green beam laser technology, a heavy-duty case, and an IP65 rating for dust and waterproof.
This model of DeWalt laser model has a built-in magnetic bracket, a durable case that protects against “water and debris” (IP65), and the ability to mount the device on steel and metal track. It also has a 12V rechargeable Li-ion battery for maximum and long-lasting power.
It has an accuracy rating of ±1/8 inches at 30 feet. However, this outstanding laser model has an output power of less than or equal to 1.50 mW. It falls within the classification of a class 2 laser too.
Pros
- The pendulum system in this laser device can be locked to guard against harming internal parts.
- Due to the technology’s use of green laser beams, it has excellent visibility.
- Power supply failures are no longer a concern. A 12V DeWalt battery is included.
- It has a highly robust structure.
Cons
- The hard case is enormous. This could make it challenging to keep your laser level organized.
3. The Huepar 3D Cross Line Self-Leveling Laser Level
With one 360-degree horizontal and two 360-degree vertical axes of operation, the Huepar 3D laser model has an accuracy rating of ±1/9 inch at 33 feet which enables users to cover the deck, wall, and ceiling of the entire building or room. Depending on the needs of the job, each of the three laser lines can be chosen. This laser-level device self-levels and signals an out-of-level state using its clever pendulum mechanism while the pendulum is unlocked. After locking, the pendulum goes into manual mode, and the locking lines can be used at any angle.
The Huepar B03CG Laser model runs for up to eight hours on a battery with a 3.7 V and a 5200mAh capacity. The lithium battery has a Type-C charging port that can be used for additional charging. The laser tool can be plugged in at the task site after removing the batteries. Four battery indicators on the LCD screen mounted on this laser device let users know how much power the battery has left. However, its charging protection feature keeps the battery from being overcharged.
This cross-sectional line laser uses an Osram green laser system that is brilliant, stable, and temperature resistant.
The 1/4-inch by 20 thread on this laser level allows it to be mounted on a laser mounting pole or a typical mount. The laser tool’s magnetic pivoting base will enable it to be turned to the desired angle. Users can function well in dangerous working settings thanks to IP54 water and dust resistance. The target plate, Li-ion battery with a type-C charging connector, magnetic bracket, power adapter, laser level, and user manual are all included in the kit.
Pros
- According to job site demands, each of its three built-in laser lines can be chosen separately.
- It uses two powerful magnets to enable adhesion to steel and metal track.
- Its TPR soft rubber covering adds a nice touch and more protection.
Cons
- It’s possible that sometimes the beam intensity isn’t strong enough.
4. The GLL3-330CG Bosch 360-Degree 3-Plane Line Laser
The 12V Max GLL3-330CG Bosch laser level offers a complete leveling and work surface adjustment for a do-it-yourself work setup. This Bosch laser model produces one parallel and two perpendicular (horizontal and vertical) green-beamlines in 360-degree laser planes. Thanks to its Bluetooth connection support, professionals may use their smartphones and the free Bosch Leveling Remote System to control the laser setup covering the deck area. This Bosch laser model features dual power technology, allowing users to choose between using the Bosch 12V Li-ion battery that comes with it or four AA alkaline batteries for shorter runtime. With an accuracy rate of about 3/32 inches at 30 feet, the laser has an operating range of up to 200 feet in diameter. When operating in pulse mode, this range can be increased to about 330 feet with an optional “LR8 receiver”. This laser has CAL Guard to ensure it is calibrated correctly, VisiMax Technology to make the line as clear and visible as possible, and a solid heavy-duty design to withstand dusty or wet job site conditions.
With this outstanding Bosch laser model, you get a 12V optimal Li-Ion 2.0 Ah Battery and its adapter, a BM-1 Alignment Device, a Laser Target, an AA1 Alkaline Battery Adapter, and a Hard Carrying Case.
Pros
- Its bright green-beam lines have an operating range of up to 200 feet and are up to four times more luminous than typical red beams.
- Its built-in VisiMax technology helps keep an eye on how much power is being used so that the line can be seen better and the battery lasts longer.
- Users can control the laser across the deck or room with a smartphone and a separate Bosch alignment remote system. This is made possible by the laser’s Bluetooth capability.
Cons
- Its beamlines could be challenging to see, mainly when used in an operation range above 200 feet.
5. The Huepar Outdoor Self-leveling Green Cross-sectional Line Laser Level
The Huepar Box-1G 150ft/45m laser model has super-intelligent green beamlines with 1/13 inch accuracy at 33 feet. For various leveling and alignment applications, it projects a 130-degree horizontal and another 150-degree vertical beamline. This Huepar laser model is also ideal for laying tile, hanging wall arts, installing doors and windows, and decking projects, among other things.
Users can choose a cross, horizontal, or vertical plane with a single button press—this laser device auto-levels and signals an out-of-level situation. At the same time, the rotary system (pendulum) can be unlocked—thanks to a sophisticated pendulum. The rotary system (pendulum) shifts to manual mode after locking, locking lines for orientation at any angle. In direct sunlight or outside settings, pulse mode increases the operational range of the Huepar laser receiver by up to 150 feet.
This Huepar laser type operates with 4 AA alkaline batteries for an extended operating period. When all the beamlines on all three planes are activated, the laser model will run for five hours on brand-new batteries. The small design and TPR soft rubber enclosure make the laser device more portable and robust. It comes with a one-year guarantee that can be increased to two years if you register as a royal client.
Pros
- It is perfect for tiling projects, building furniture, installing doors and windows, and decking boards alignment.
- It is dependable and portable thanks to its TPR soft rubber housing and small size.
- The operational range is increased by 150 feet in its pulse mode.
Cons
- The power button occasionally does not work properly.
6. The 40-6184 Johnson Level & Tool Three-Beam Magnetic Torpedo Laser Dot
The Johnson Torpedo three-beam line laser level is a highly flexible leveling tool that saves time and money while providing greater accuracy and long-lasting quality. The frame is made of precisely machined, anodized aluminum. Working on metal or wood construction sites is easy and hands-free because of the lower edge body’s V-groove and two powerful magnets. The base section of this Johnson laser model has a 1/4 by 20-inch thread, which brings stability to the device when placed on a mount or rail.
This Johnson torpedo laser model has four bubble vials, three showing plumb, level, and 45-degree reference angle. The fourth is a cross-sectional beam vial that gives a second level indicator at 90 degrees from the long axis plane. However, the three 90-degree beamlines give out level, plumb, and square points at the same time.
Metalworkers and woodworkers can benefit from the Johnson Torpedo Laser model. A leveling base, three “AA” alkaline batteries, an instruction book with a warranty card, and a soft-sided carrying pouch are all included. Depending on the beam intensity, the beams can reach up to 100 feet indoors and have an accuracy of 1/8 inch at 50 feet.
Pros
- It is easy to use.
- It’s portable.
- Compared to other models of a similar nature, it has a high level of accuracy.
Cons
- It is not sturdy enough for outdoor work.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Laser Level for Your Decking Project
There are many different laser levels and other conventional tools on the market that may be presumed to be the best for decking tasks, so there are many factors to consider while attempting to select the best laser level for your decking jobs. What laser level is best for you, then? Here are a few things to consider:
Accuracy
The laser levels listed in this article are more accurate than other instruments like spirit levels. Always verify the laser level’s accuracy rating to see if it will provide you with the best results for your particular work. For example, a laser level with an accuracy of 1/13 inch at 33 feet is better than one with an accuracy of 1/8 inch at 50 feet.
Auto-leveling or Manual leveling
Self-leveling lasers, commonly called “auto-lasers,” are significantly easier to use. Once its installation is completed, self-leveling lasers will eventually provide you with a genuine level beamline at a top accuracy level. Additionally, if disturbed, it will stop, so there won’t be any errors—that’s if they are appropriately set up. However, manual lasers are just as accurate as automatic lasers. They are better for smaller jobs than auto-lasers. It requires strict monitoring to ensure that the leveling depth is met.
Color of the Beam
Green beams are easier to notice when comparing green and red lasers since they seem to be considerably brighter. They are primarily used for broader outdoor range projects and even indoor projects where the beamline must be seen without a laser-level detector.
Size of the Line Beam or Point Beam
The thinner the projected beamlines or dot beams, the more precise and easy it is to calibrate. Professionals find it easy to mark a track in the middle of the line whenever it needs to be calibrated. The likelihood that the designated focused target is accurately leveled erroneously increases with line thickness.
FAQs About the Best Laser Levels for Decking Projects
1. How Does a Laser Level Function?
A laser leveling device produces either a red or green light. The laser is an intensely concentrated and intensified light beam produced by an LED. The characteristics of the LED and the degree of light intensity determine its thickness, and the thinner it is, the better; an ultra-thin beamline provides maximum leveling accuracy and reduces possible errors to practically zero, even over very long ranges of the order of 30 to 80 meters.
A laser level functions best by projecting beamlines on the target surfaces. This beamline helps detect if the target surface is level or not.
For outdoor projects like decking buildings, green lasers are more suitable than red lasers because of their visibility strength.
Each laser level’s photoelectric adjuster stabilized magnetic base and push button are its brain. Most models carry out the same function: to auto-level the target surfaces while moving within the manufacturer’s stipulated range of freedom. Many models will use sound or visual cues to indicate their incapacity to level if the permitted tilt margin is exceeded. However, some spirit levels now have what is called “digital flash suppressors,” electronic level sensors built into the device.
2. Is a Laser Level Necessary?
Even though leveling is the essential characteristic of a deck builder, other functionalities like a vertical wall alignment or the capacity to square an edge could make the difference between one laser and another.
3. What is the Proper Technique for Using Laser Levels?
Step 1: Place the laser level on a mount or any level surface.
Step 2: Check that the bubble vials indicate the level if it’s a manual level. Find the little screws located near the vial. As soon as the bubble vials indicate the level, adjust them.
Step 3: Turn the laser level on.
Step 4: Give the self-leveling model, if it has one, some time to level itself.
Step 5: Either on a wall surface or all around an exterior workspace, the device produces beam lines to illustrate the level (this is dependent on the type and model of laser level; it could be a dot, multiple lines, or a rotary laser showing level at 360 degrees parallel or perpendicular axes).
Step 6: If there isn’t a wall to project the beamlines onto, you can use a laser detector (primarily relevant for outdoor projects).
Step 7: Connect a measuring rod to the detector.
Step 8: Move the detector upward and downward the rod until it starts to beep. It follows that the detector has located the laser.
Step 9: You’ve discovered a level. Make the appropriate measurements after securing the detector on the rod.
Conclusion
Laser levels are replacing spirit levels and other conventional leveling instruments. Because they consistently provide a beam alignment in the appropriate plane for leveling the surface, they serve as the primary basis for their use. Exceptional laser levels with unique and customizable functions are hard to come by. Still, you should be able to finish your deck alignment projects with the help of the information in this article.
