Land & Architectural Survey Blog

Category: Land Surveying

  • What is a laser distance meter?

    A laser distance meter is a tool that uses laser technology to measure the distance between two points. It is also known as a laser tape measure or laser measuring device. Laser distance meters are used in a variety of industries, such as construction, surveying, and forestry. Laser distance meters work by shining a laser beam from the device to the surface of the object you want to measure. The beam then reflects back to the device, and the distance is calculated based on the time it takes for the beam to travel there and back. Laser distance meters are used for a variety of purposes, such as measuring the height of a building or the width of a room. They can also be used to calculate distances in hard-to-reach places, such as when measuring the depth of a river.

    What is a laser distance meter?

    What is a laser distance meter?

    A laser distance meter is an instrument that uses a laser beam to measure distance. The laser beam is emitted from the device and reflects off of the object being measured. The reflected light is then received by a sensor in the device, which calculates the distance based on the time it took for the light to travel.

    Laser distance meters are used for a variety of applications, such as measuring the length of a room, the height of a building, or the distance between two points. They are also commonly used in construction and surveying.

    There are two main types of laser distance meters: those that emit a visible light beam, and those that emit an invisible infrared light beam. Both types function in similar ways, but visible light models are typically more accurate than infrared models.

    Leica Disto meter

    How do laser distance meters work?

    Laser distance meters are tools used to measure the distance between two points. The most common way to use a laser distance meter is to point it at an object, press the button, and then read the measurement on the display.

    Laser distance meters work by emitting a laser beam from the device. The beam then reflects off of the surface of the object you are measuring and back into the device. The device then calculates the distance based on the time it took for the beam to make the round trip.

    Applications of laser distance meters

    Laser distance meters can be used for a variety of applications, such as measuring the distance between two points, calculating the area of a space, and determining the volume of an object. Additionally, laser distance meters can be used to create topographic maps and 3D models of objects or landscapes.

    Laser Distance Meters

    Laser distance meters can be used for measuring distances, calculating areas, and determining volumes.

    Pros and Cons of Laser Distance Meters

    • Pros:
      • Quick and easy to use
      • Provides accurate measurements
      • Can be used in various situations
      • Compact and portable
    • Cons:
      • Can be expensive
      • Requires batteries or an external power source

    How to Choose a Laser Distance Meter

    When choosing a laser distance meter, consider the following factors:

    • Determine the required range
    • Consider accuracy and precision
    • Decide on additional features, such as angle measurement and Pythagorean theorem calculation
    • Compare prices and make an informed decision

    Conclusion

    A laser distance meter is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, from measuring the distance to an object to calculating the area of a room.

    Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, a laser distance meter can be a useful addition to your toolkit.

    We hope this article has helped you understand what a laser distance meter is and how it can be used.

    A laser distance meter is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, from measuring the distance to an object to calculating the area of a room.

    Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, a laser distance meter can be a useful addition to your toolkit.

    We hope this article has helped you understand what a laser distance meter is and how it can be used.

  • What is a Measured Survey?

    A Measured Survey is a detailed drawing showing the dimensions, locations, and permanent features of your property, which can be a building or land.

    This type of survey is essential for identifying the layout of your property and its permanent attributes.

    According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), measured surveys are usually drawn up to a scale of 1:100 for buildings, 1:50 for listed buildings, and 1:250 for land.

    The location of your property is determined by GPS (Global Navigation Satellite System) coordinates or can be created locally specifically for your property.

    The positions are relative to their reference points, such as GPS or the local established control points.

    The Land Registry emphasizes the importance of accurate location data, which is then used to establish the property’s boundaries and create a definitive record.

    Permanent features are a crucial aspect of a measured survey, as they define the characteristics of your property.

    • Walls
    • Windows
    • Doors
    • Beams
    • Columns
    • Built-in cabinets/wardrobes
    • Ponds
    • Trees
    • Pavement
    • Street furniture

    According to the UK’s Planning Portal, permanent features can be used to distinguish between buildings and land, and are often referenced in planning applications and insurance policies.

    As highlighted by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), measured surveys provide a detailed record of these features, allowing for accurate assessments and decision-making.

    References

  • How to carry out a measured building survey?

    Measuring buildings can be done with a laser distance meter, a handy and accurate tool.

    Laser measures come in different sizes and have various functions to suit different needs.

    These tools are used by electricians, estate agents, contractors, surveyors, insurance loss adjusters, flooring professionals, plumbers, and others for accurate measuring.

    To use a laser distance meter, line it up from the end of the measurement point, aim the laser beam at the target point, and press a button.

    The meter will display the length of the space measured on the screen. Some laser distance meters also include calculator functions.

    There are plenty of advantages to using a laser distance meter over a traditional tape measure. This digital laser technology allows you to work quickly and efficiently, without the inaccuracies caused by tape measures that aren’t straight or lined up properly. It also allows you to work alone- conventional tape measures really need two people. If you’re measuring roof height, it’s next to impossible without a digital tape measure. Reading a digital display is also easier than checking lines on a conventional tape measure, and of course the calculator function provided on some models is invaluable.

    Once you’ve got your laser distance meter and you’re confident using it, you’re ready to do your measured building survey. For this, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got paper, a clipboard, and a pen to hand, as you’ll need to write down all of your measurements really clearly and carefully. If you’re an architect, this process is second nature, but for most amateur surveyors, you will need to be careful to ensure high levels of accuracy. Some spare batteries, a camera, a traditional tape measure and work boots/a high visibility jacket might also come in handy depending on the location, too.

    It pays to look around the whole building first, if you’re not already familiar with it.

    As you come to measure each room, sketch it out first on your paper, and add your measurements to the sketches as you go.

    Working in different colours for windows, steps, and wall heights can be useful so you don’t get confused by your sketches later.

    As you carry out your measured building survey, you will need to be methodical.

    As you begin measuring, start at the door and work consistently either clockwise or anti-clockwise around the room, so you don’t miss anything.

    You will need to measure window heights, floor thickness (try around the stairs), wall thickness, elevations, and roof height and angle, too.

    Take as many measurements as you can, and then lots of photos too to help with the interpretation of your results when you’re done.

    While it’s perfectly possible to carry out your own survey for DIY purposes, when it comes to planning permits, you will need a measured building survey from a qualified and professional measured buidling surveyor.

    Architects too will require accurate technical drawings which can only be produced by a professional.

  • What do you get in a topographical survey for a property?

    A topographical survey is used to produce a detailed map of all man-made and natural features within a given area. Also known as a land survey, they are used to inform a variety of property management, development and redevelopment projects. In addition to planning purposes, a survey might also be needed for record keeping. Data collected from a survey is used in variety of plans, from standard drawings or plans on paper to advanced 3D digital models.

    Purposes of a Topographical Survey

    A survey might be needed for a variety of record and planning purposes. Surveys are then used by architects and builders to develop or redevelop the land or property on the site. They can also be used for modelling and visualisation purposes, or simply for maintaining historical records for the site. A survey might also be used to help manage and monitor a site, for example to help manage and mitigate land erosion.

    Surveys might be needed for various projects, including designing a road or highway, railway, airport, housing estate, or commercial development. Surveys may also be needed to obtain the location of neighbouring properties and boundaries when dealing with the placement of a party wall or the sale and acquisition of land. Surveys are also helpful for locating specific details about an area, such as the location of trees and tree canopies or any surface features and services that might affect a property or the development of the land.

    Surveys might be needed for various projects, including designing a road or highway, railway, airport, housing estate, or commercial development.

    Surveys may also be needed to obtain the location of neighbouring properties and boundaries when dealing with the placement of a party wall or the sale and acquisition of land.

    Surveys are also helpful for locating specific details about an area, such as the location of trees and tree canopies or any surface features and services that might affect a property or the development of the land.

    What’s Included in the Survey

    A topographical survey measures the boundary, height and features of an area of land including the area around an existing structure.

    Typically, a survey will include measurements for any existing buildings and structures on the site.

    It will also include details on the boundary of the site.

    Information on the terrain will also be included, such as a grid of levels, ground surfaces, and the position of shrubs and trees.

    A typical survey also includes all utilities and services on the site such as drainage details and the position of service covers or manholes.

    A survey may also include additional detail beyond the boundary of a site, such as the location of utilities including utility poles and manholes that might affect the site being surveyed.

    The survey might include the location of nearby trees and buildings that could also affect the project.

    Additional details can be included depending on individual needs, such as details and measurements on any features next to the site or underground services and features.

    Generally, surveys with a higher level of detail will cost more than one with less information.

    Determining the Level of Detail

    The amount of information included in a land survey often depends on individual project and client requirements.

    The details included in the survey are informed by the area that is being surveyed as well as the detail and accuracy required.

    For example, a survey based on a scale of 1:100 will be more accurate than one done to a scale of 1:200 or 1:500.

    The information that is presented in the survey will also depend on how the data will be used and how the survey relates to the pre-determined grid and datum.

    Clients should always speak with land surveyors about their requirements before the survey is undertaken, including the extent of the survey area and the level of detail required.

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