Distance Measures

About Distance Measures

Distance measures, also known as laser measures or laser distance meters, use advanced laser technology to provide instant, accurate measurements for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range from trusted brands including Bosch Professional, Makita, DeWalt, Stanley, and Stabila, with models spanning from compact entry-level devices to professional-grade instruments featuring Bluetooth connectivity and green laser technology. These digital measuring tools have transformed how professionals work on site, delivering precise distance, area, and volume calculations with accuracies of ±1.5mm to ±3mm, eliminating the errors and inefficiencies associated with traditional tape measures.

Modern laser distance measures cater to every application and budget, from the straightforward Bosch ZAMO 4 for simple room measurements through to advanced models like the Bosch GLM 150-27 C Professional with 150-metre range, colour displays, and smartphone integration. Whether measuring cable runs, calculating floor areas for material orders, or preparing detailed site surveys, the distance measures available at MyToolShed.co.uk combine reliability, durability, and functionality to streamline workflows and improve measurement accuracy across construction, renovation, and surveying projects.

Applications

Distance measures are essential tools across numerous trades and applications:

• Builders and general contractors – site measurements, room dimensions, and material quantity calculations
• Electricians – cable run measurements, fixture positioning, and lighting layout planning
• Plumbers and heating engineers – pipe runs and room volume calculations for system sizing
• Carpenters and joiners – precise measurements for bespoke furniture and fitted kitchens
• Decorators and painters – wall area calculations for paint and wallpaper quantities
• Tilers and flooring specialists – accurate floor and wall measurements for material ordering
• Estate agents and surveyors – professional property measurements and documentation
• Interior designers – space planning and furniture placement
• Scaffolders – height measurements for safe scaffold planning
• DIY enthusiasts – home improvement projects and renovation planning

Choosing The Right Distance Measures

Maximum range: Entry-level models offer 20-30 metre ranges suitable for domestic use, whilst mid-range options provide 50-100 metres for typical trade applications. Professional surveyors and large site work require 150-metre models like the Bosch GLM 150-27 C Professional.

Accuracy requirements: Basic models typically deliver ±3mm accuracy, adequate for general building work. Professional applications demanding precision—fitted furniture, surveying, quality control—require ±1.5mm accuracy found in Bosch Professional, Makita, and DeWalt premium models.

Functions needed: Essential features include distance measurement, area and volume calculation, continuous measurement mode, and memory storage. Professional users benefit from Pythagoras functions for indirect measurements, integrated spirit levels, Bluetooth connectivity, and colour displays for improved visibility.

Durability and conditions: Look for minimum IP54 rating for dust and splash protection, with IP65 preferred for exterior work. Rubber overmoulding protects against drops on active sites.

Laser colour: Red lasers suit indoor applications economically. Green laser technology, available on models like the Bosch GLM 50-27 CG, offers superior visibility outdoors and in bright conditions—worth the premium for exterior work.

Safety Information

Distance measures typically use Class 2 lasers, safe for brief accidental viewing but never deliberately point at eyes, people, or animals. Always follow manufacturer safety instructions. On construction sites, wear appropriate PPE including safety footwear, hard hats, and high-visibility clothing where required. Be aware of surroundings when measuring, particularly near moving machinery or on uneven ground, scaffolding, or ladders. Laser measures should not replace physical barriers when working at height—always follow HSE guidelines and site-specific safety protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can laser distance measures be used outdoors?

Yes, though red lasers can be difficult to see in bright sunlight. Green laser models like the Bosch GLM 50-25 G offer up to four times better visibility outdoors. For best results in bright conditions, use a target plate or choose a model with IP54 minimum rating for weather protection, IP65 for robust outdoor use.

How accurate are laser measures compared to tape measures?

Professional laser measures offer ±1.5mm accuracy over distances up to 150 metres, significantly more accurate than manual tape measures which are prone to sagging, misreading, and human error, particularly over longer distances. Laser measures provide faster, more reliable measurements with consistent accuracy.

What's the difference between Bosch DIY and Bosch Professional models?

Bosch Professional models feature superior accuracy (±1.5mm vs ±3mm), longer range, robust construction with higher IP ratings, and advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and colour displays for daily commercial use. DIY models like the ZAMO 4 offer excellent value for occasional use with good accuracy and reliability but fewer professional features.