Optical Levels

About Optical Levels

Optical levels are precision surveying instruments that establish perfectly horizontal sightlines across construction sites using an internal lens system and compensator mechanism. Unlike laser levels which can struggle in bright sunlight, optical levels require the operator to sight through a telescope onto a graduated levelling staff, making them exceptionally reliable for outdoor groundworks, drainage projects, and site surveying. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional optical levels from leading manufacturers including Bosch Professional, DeWalt, and Stabila, offering magnification ranging from 20x to 32x with accuracy typically within 1.5mm to 2.5mm over 30 metres.

These robust instruments remain the backbone of professional site levelling thanks to their independence from batteries or electronics, making them virtually maintenance-free and immune to power issues on busy sites. Available as complete kits with tripods and levelling staffs or as body-only units, optical levels at MyToolShed.co.uk suit everyone from professional surveyors requiring precision equipment to landscapers and groundworkers needing dependable levelling solutions for daily site work.

Applications

Optical levels are essential equipment for a wide range of construction and surveying professionals:

• Groundworkers and civil engineers - establishing site levels, setting out foundations, drainage falls, and road profiles
• Surveyors and setting-out engineers - conducting topographical surveys and transferring bench marks across construction sites
• Landscapers and garden designers - creating level patios, terraces, and establishing drainage gradients
• Bricklayers and masons - ensuring consistent course heights and level building platforms
• Drainage contractors - calculating falls for foul and surface water systems with compliant gradients
• Builders and general contractors - checking floor levels, setting datum points, and verifying site levels
• Fencing contractors - establishing consistent post heights across sloping terrain

Choosing The Right Optical Levels

Accuracy Requirements: Most groundworks, drainage, and landscaping applications require accuracy of ±2.5mm at 30m. Precision surveying work demands tighter tolerances of ±1.5mm, which professional-grade models like the Bosch GOL 26D or Stabila OLS 26 can deliver.

Magnification Power: A 20x magnification suits most building and landscaping work up to 60 metres. For longer sightlines or detailed survey work, 26x or 32x magnification provides clearer staff readings at extended distances, though with a narrower field of view.

Complete Kits vs Body Only: Complete kits like the DeWalt DW096PK or Bosch GOL 20D sets include the levelling staff, tripod, and protective case - everything needed to start work immediately. This typically offers better value than purchasing components separately.

Build Quality: Prioritise instruments with robust housings and sealed optics (IP54 rating or better) to prevent dust and moisture ingress. Professional brands are engineered for daily site use with shock-mounted compensators for durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between an optical level and a laser level?

Optical levels use a telescope and require someone to read a levelling staff, whilst laser levels project a visible beam. Optical levels excel in bright outdoor conditions where lasers become difficult to see, require no batteries, and are generally more economical. For external groundworks and surveying, optical levels remain the professional's choice.

How often does an optical level need calibrating?

Professional users should have their optical levels checked and calibrated annually, or immediately after any significant impact. The compensator mechanism can drift out of adjustment over time. Many manufacturers and surveying equipment suppliers offer calibration services with certification.

Can optical levels be used in the rain?

Most professional optical levels have weather-resistant housings and can tolerate light rain, though prolonged heavy rain exposure isn't advisable. The main limitation is visibility through the telescope, as raindrops reduce clarity. Always dry the instrument thoroughly after use in damp conditions.