Laser distance meter is a powerful tool that does much more than just take simple length measurements. By leveraging its built-in functions and a little basic math, you can quickly and accurately calculate area and volume, saving you immense time on projects ranging from home renovation to professional construction and real estate.
This guide will walk you through the steps, from the basic principles to the advanced features of your device.
Understanding the Basics: What Your Laser Distance Meter Can Do
Most modern laser measures come with dedicated modes for area and volume calculation. The device works by taking individual distance measurements and then using its internal processor to perform the calculations automatically.
The fundamental formulas it uses are:
Area = Length x Width
Volume = Length x Width x Height
Method 1: Using the Built-In Area Calculation Mode
This is the quickest and most error-free method.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1.Switch Modes: Turn on your laser meter and press the “Mode” or “Function” button until the area symbol (often an icon of a square or “Area”) appears on the display.
2.Take the First Measurement: Position the device at one end of the space and shoot the laser to the opposite wall to measure the Length. Press the button to store this measurement. The display will typically indicate it’s ready for the next dimension.
3.Take the Second Measurement: Now, without changing the device’s position on the first axis, pivot to measure the Width of the room. Shoot the laser to the adjacent wall and press the button again.
4.Get the Result: Instantly, the display will show the total calculated area. The unit (e.g., sq ft, m²) will be shown alongside the number.
Practical Applications:
● Calculating floor space for new carpet or flooring.
● Determining how much paint is needed for walls or ceilings.
● Measuring a room for furniture layout.
Method 2: Using the Built-In Volume Calculation Mode
For tasks involving three-dimensional space, the volume function is indispensable.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1.Switch Modes: Cycle through the modes until you see the volume symbol (often an icon of a cube or “Vol”).
2.Take the First Measurement (Length): Measure the length of the room as described above and store it.
3.Take the Second Measurement (Width): Pivot and measure the width, storing it as the second value.
4.Take the Third Measurement (Height): Finally, point the laser straight up to the ceiling to measure the Height. Store this third measurement.
5.Get the Result: Your laser meter will now display the total volume.
Practical Applications:
● Calculating the capacity of a storage unit or room.
● Determining the volume of a space for HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) requirements.
● Estimating the amount of insulation needed for an attic.
Method 3: The Manual Calculation Method (For Simple Shapes)
Even if your laser meter is a basic model without these advanced modes, you can still easily calculate area and volume manually.
1.Take Individual Measurements: Use the standard measuring mode to record the Length, Width, and (for volume) Height individually. Write these numbers down.
2.Perform the Calculation:
● For Area: Multiply Length x Width.
● For Volume: Multiply Length x Width x Height.
Example:
You measure a room and find:
● Length = 5 meters
● Width = 4 meters
● Height = 2.5 meters
● Area = 5 m x 4 m = 20 square meters (m²)
● Volume = 5 m x 4 m x 2.5 m = 50 cubic meters (m³)
Pro Tips for Maximum Accuracy
● Steady Your Hand: For the most precise reading, keep the laser meter as steady as possible. Using a tripod is ideal for professional work.
● Mind the Target: The laser needs a solid, opaque surface to reflect from. Avoid shooting at glass or shiny surfaces, as this can cause errors. If necessary, place a solid object (like a piece of wood) at the target point.
● Check for Obstructions: Ensure the laser path is clear of obstructions like hanging lights or furniture.
● Know Your Device’s Reference Point: Most laser meters measure from the back, front, or tripod mount. Check your user manual to understand your device’s reference point and hold it consistently. This is crucial for accuracy.
● Use Indirect Measurement for Tricky Spots: Many advanced meters have a Pythagoras function (e.g., Trapezoid, Min/Max) that allows you to calculate heights and distances without a direct line of sight—perfect for measuring over obstacles.
Beyond the Rectangle: Irregular Shapes
For rooms that are L-shaped or have alcoves, the process is simple: break the space down into regular rectangles.
1. Measure and calculate the area of each rectangular section separately using one of the methods above.
2. Add all the individual areas together to get the total area.
Conclusion
Unlocking the area and volume functions of your laser distance meter transforms it from a simple measuring device into a powerful project management tool. By automating basic geometry, it drastically reduces human error and saves valuable time. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, mastering these features will make your next measuring task faster, easier, and more accurate than ever before.
