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Cross line laser or spirit level: tile and measure truly straight
Short answer: a spirit level is enough to check a shelf, tile or rail. A cross line laser is more useful when you want to set out a whole wall, floor or kitchen straight in one go. Many people use both: the laser for the line, the level for checking each part. That prevents a small error at the start becoming a crooked joint at the end.
👷 Calling in a professional is never unnecessary. For a complete bathroom, large floor or wall with many cut-outs, a tiler or installer remains the safest choice. Especially where water and electrics share a wall, a certified installer should have the final say.
When do you choose which?
- Spirit level: a 60 cm spirit level or a long 120 cm spirit level is robust, works without a battery and is ideal for checking a tile, trim or cabinet directly.
- Cross line laser: a cross line laser with green line projects a horizontal and vertical line. With a 3D cross line laser or a 3D cross line laser with multiple lines you can also set out lines around a room or on the floor, useful for tiling and fitting cabinets.
- Distance and height: with a laser distance meter you measure a room quickly. A mount for cross laser puts the laser at height and a laser receiver helps when the line is hard to see.
What do you need?
- A tape measure with auto-lock and a carpenter pencil to transfer sizes and mark starting points.
- A multifunction wall detector before drilling into a wall for rails or cabinets.
- A rechargeable LED work lamp when working in a dark bathroom so you can see the line and joints well.
Setting out straight in steps
- Measure the room and decide where the first full tile or the centre of the wall will be.
- Place the laser firmly and let it self-level. Check that the line does not move when you walk past.
- Copy the start line onto the wall or floor so you can continue if the laser must be switched off.
- Check with the spirit level after the first row whether everything is still correct. Also read our blog on tape measures and measuring tools for basic measuring tools.
- Continue row by row and check as you go, not only at the end. In our blog on tiling a wall you can read how the wall is tiled next.
Working safely
Never look directly into a laser beam and wear safety goggles if you drill or grind at the same time. work gloves with nitrile coating protect against tiles and sharp edges and knee pads make floor work more comfortable. Place a laser so nobody walks into it and mark where the tripod stands.
Is a green laser better than a red one?
A green line is easier for many people to see indoors, especially in brighter light. More important is that the laser fits the distance and the job.
Can a laser replace a spirit level?
Not completely. A laser sets out a line over distance, a spirit level checks a part itself. Together they give the most confidence.
Read also: Measuring tools: tape measures and folding rules, How to tile a floor and How to tile a wall
Where can you find everything for this job?
At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.
- Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
- Create a customer account and order easily.
- Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
- Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
- Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.
In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.
Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.
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