Tripods & Poles

About Tripods & Poles

Tripods and poles are essential mounting accessories for laser levels and optical levelling equipment, providing stable, adjustable platforms that ensure accuracy across a wide range of site and workshop applications. Whether you're setting out foundations on a construction site, installing suspended ceilings, aligning wall fixtures, or carrying out drainage work, the right tripod or telescopic pole transforms your laser level into a versatile, hands-free measuring tool that delivers consistent results throughout the working day.

Our range includes heavy-duty construction tripods built to withstand demanding site conditions, lightweight adjustable tripods ideal for interior fitting work, and telescopic poles that allow precise positioning at varying heights without the footprint of a traditional tripod. With models from industry-leading manufacturers including Bosch, DeWalt, Stabila, and Stanley, you'll find mounting solutions engineered to support everything from compact dot lasers to professional rotary laser levels. Most tripods feature adjustable legs with secure locking mechanisms, universal thread mounts (typically 1/4" or 5/8"), and working heights ranging from around 1 metre to over 3 metres when fully extended.

The build quality and stability of your tripod or pole directly impacts measurement accuracy, particularly when working outdoors or on uneven ground. Professional-grade models incorporate features such as reinforced leg braces, pointed feet for secure ground penetration, adjustable centre columns, and quick-release mechanisms for rapid height adjustment. Telescopic poles offer a compact alternative where floor space is limited or when working in confined areas such as corridors, bathrooms, or between existing structures.

Jargon Buster

• 5/8" Thread: The standard thread size used on most professional laser levels and survey equipment. This BSW (British Standard Whitworth) thread ensures secure attachment and compatibility across different manufacturers' products.
• Elevating Tripod: A tripod with an adjustable centre column that allows fine height adjustment without needing to reposition the legs, essential for achieving precise working heights and maintaining level accuracy.
• Working Height: The range of heights at which the tripod head (where your laser level mounts) can be positioned, typically measured from ground level to the mounting platform when legs are fully extended or retracted.
• Leg Lock Mechanism: The clamping system that secures telescopic tripod legs at the desired extension length. Common types include twist locks, flip locks, and lever clamps, each offering different balances of speed and security.
• Telescopic Pole: An extendable vertical mounting pole that provides an alternative to traditional tripods, particularly useful in confined spaces or when working against walls and in corners where tripod legs would be obstructive.
• Pointed Feet: Replaceable metal tips on tripod legs designed to penetrate soft ground for secure positioning on construction sites, gardens, or unpaved surfaces, preventing movement during use.

Who Uses Tripods & Poles?

Tripods and poles are indispensable tools across numerous trades and applications:

• Groundworkers and Civil Engineers: Setting out levels for foundations, drainage runs, kerb lines, and site gradients
• Bricklayers and Blocklayers: Establishing consistent course heights and maintaining level runs across long wall sections
• Carpenters and Joiners: Aligning wall plates, setting out stud work, and ensuring level installation of fixtures and fittings
• Ceiling Fixers and Dry Liners: Installing suspended ceiling systems and ensuring consistent ceiling heights throughout large spaces
• Electricians: Positioning cable runs at consistent heights and aligning multiple outlet positions across rooms
• Plumbers: Setting gradients for drainage and waste pipes, aligning radiator heights, and positioning sanitary ware
• Tilers: Establishing level datum lines for wall and floor tiling projects
• Landscapers: Creating level patios, setting out decking frames, and establishing garden terraces
• Shop Fitters and Interior Designers: Precise alignment of shelving systems, display units, and interior features
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects including decking, paving, interior decoration, and garden construction

How to Choose the Right Tripods & Poles

Selecting the appropriate tripod or pole depends on several key factors that affect both performance and value:

Compatibility and Thread Size: First verify that your laser level's mounting thread matches the tripod head. Most professional lasers use a 5/8" thread, while compact and DIY models often feature 1/4" camera-style threads. Some tripods include adapters or adjustable heads to accommodate both standards, providing flexibility if you use multiple laser levels.

Working Height Requirements: Consider the typical ceiling heights and applications you'll encounter. Standard tripods generally extend from around 1 metre to 1.6 metres, suitable for most interior work and ground-level site tasks. Professional models like the Bosch BT 300 HD or Stabila BST-K-L reach heights of 2.9 to 3 metres, essential for commercial ceiling work or when establishing high datum points. Telescopic poles can extend even further whilst occupying minimal floor space.

Stability and Build Quality: Heavy-duty construction tripods feature robust leg sections, reinforced joints, and substantial weight capacity to support larger rotary lasers whilst remaining stable in breezy outdoor conditions. Look for models with wide leg spreads, adjustable pointed or rubber feet, and secure locking mechanisms. The DeWalt DE0735 and Bosch BT 170 HD exemplify professional-grade stability suitable for demanding site work.

Portability and Weight: If you frequently move between jobs or work from ladders and scaffolding, lightweight aluminium tripods like the Bosch BT 150 or DeWalt DE0881T mini tripod offer easier transportation without compromising stability for compact laser levels. Consider whether you need a model that collapses compactly for van storage.

Adjustment Features: Quick-release leg locks speed up setup, whilst elevating centre columns provide fine height adjustment without repositioning legs. Some models include adjustable heads for precise levelling on sloped ground, and built-in bubble vials to confirm the tripod itself is reasonably level before mounting your laser.

Indoor vs Outdoor Use: For predominantly outdoor work, prioritise weather-resistant construction, pointed feet for ground penetration, and robust leg locks that won't clog with site debris. Indoor specialists might prefer lighter models with rubber feet that won't damage finished floors.

Popular Accessories

• Laser Levels: The primary tools these tripods support, from simple line lasers for picture hanging through to professional rotary lasers for setting out and site levelling work
• Laser Receivers and Detectors: Extend the working range of your laser level outdoors or in bright conditions, particularly useful when using tripod-mounted rotary lasers over long distances
• Tripod Carry Cases: Protect your investment during transportation and storage, particularly important for professional-grade models with precision adjustment mechanisms
• Thread Adapters: Convert between 1/4" and 5/8" threads, allowing one tripod to support multiple laser levels with different mounting standards
• Replacement Feet: Swap between pointed feet for outdoor ground penetration and rubber feet for use on finished floors and delicate surfaces
• Laser Glasses: Essential for seeing laser lines in bright conditions, particularly when working outdoors with tripod-mounted equipment
• Wall and Ceiling Mounts: Alternative mounting options for lasers in situations where tripods or poles cannot be positioned effectively

Safety Information

Whilst tripods and poles present minimal direct safety hazards, proper use ensures both personal safety and measurement accuracy:

Stability and Positioning: Always ensure tripod legs are fully extended and locked before mounting equipment. On uneven ground, adjust individual leg lengths to achieve a level platform and maximum stability. Position tripods away from thoroughfares where they might be knocked or become trip hazards on busy sites. Use warning tape or barriers around tripods in high-traffic areas.

Load Capacity: Never exceed the manufacturer's specified weight capacity. Whilst most laser levels are relatively light, attaching additional accessories or using makeshift adaptations can compromise stability and potentially damage both the tripod and expensive laser equipment.

Weather Considerations: In windy conditions, consider additional stabilisation such as hanging weight from the centre column or using tie-down straps. High winds can topple even heavy-duty tripods, potentially damaging expensive laser levels. If working near overhead power lines, maintain safe clearances when extending poles and tripods.

Laser Safety: When using tripod-mounted laser levels, be aware that the beam projects at eye level over considerable distances. Follow the laser manufacturer's safety guidelines regarding laser class ratings and avoid directing beams towards people, vehicles, or aircraft.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a tripod and a telescopic pole for laser levels?

Tripods provide a stable three-legged platform ideal for general use on open ground and most job sites, offering excellent stability and adjustable height. Telescopic poles are vertical extending poles that work well in confined spaces, corners, and against walls where tripod legs would be obstructive. Poles typically require bracing against floor and ceiling or fixing to a vertical surface, making them perfect for interior work but less versatile outdoors. Many professionals keep both options available for different situations.

Will any tripod work with my laser level?

Most professional laser levels use a standard 5/8" BSW thread mount, which fits the majority of construction-grade tripods. However, many compact and DIY laser levels use a 1/4" camera-style thread instead. Always check your laser level's mounting thread specification before purchasing a tripod, or choose a model with an adjustable head or adapter to accommodate both thread sizes. The product specifications will clearly state which thread size the tripod supports.

How tall a tripod do I need for general construction work?

For typical domestic and light commercial work with ceiling heights up to 2.4 metres, a standard tripod extending to around 1.5-1.6 metres is usually sufficient when combined with the laser level's own height. For commercial buildings, warehouses, or when you need to project level lines near ceiling height, consider professional models that extend to 2.9-3 metres such as the Bosch BT 300 HD or DeWalt DE0735. If you regularly work at varying heights, an elevating tripod with adjustable centre column provides maximum flexibility.

Can I use a camera tripod for my laser level?

Basic camera tripods with 1/4" threads can work with compact laser levels for light DIY use, but they're not recommended for professional applications. Camera tripods typically lack the stability, height range, and robust construction needed for construction site conditions. They may not remain sufficiently stable for accurate levelling work, particularly outdoors or on uneven ground. Purpose-built laser level tripods provide better value and reliability for trade use.

What's the advantage of heavy-duty tripods over standard models?

Heavy-duty tripods like the Bosch BT 170 HD or Stabila BST-K-L feature reinforced construction, wider leg spreads, and more substantial locking mechanisms that provide superior stability for larger rotary laser levels and challenging outdoor conditions. They're essential when working in windy environments, on sloped or soft ground, or when maximum accuracy is critical over long distances. The increased stability minimises vibration and movement that could affect level accuracy. For demanding site work and professional applications, the investment in a heavy-duty tripod protects expensive laser equipment and ensures consistent results.