What is it? Concrete Laser Screed

What is a laser screed, and why you should care? Are you looking to get your concrete work done quickly with superior results? A laser screed is a way to go.

What is a Laser Screed?

It is a stand-alone machine used in the laydown process to help spread, level, and smooth poured concrete surfaces, such as flatwork, parking lots, building foundations, and more.

How it works

A laser screed is operated by one person with a wireless remote control. The laser screed moves under its own power with an onboard diesel motor, four wheels, and four corner braces that extend downward to lift and level the unit.

The "laser" portion of the machine consists of a level laser set up at a fixed point in the workspace. The laser is spinning at 900 revolutions per minute, giving a very accurate reading. When leveling, there are two modes - 2D for most flatwork and 3D when a slope is needed, such as drainage for a parking lot.

The laser screed head includes some important pieces. First, the two laser poles on each head-end pick up and read the wall-mounted laser and automatically level the head. GPS is also built-in.

Second, the head has a built screed or level with a straight edge, this is used to help smooth the concrete surface.

The third is the vibratory head that assists in leveling and "shaking" the concrete into a settled position.

When ready, the laser screed is driven into position. The four corner braces extended down, lifting and leveling the unit. Then, the head booms out from the machine is leveled automatically, then lowered and pulled back over the poured concrete by the operator, smoothing and leveling the surface as it goes.

Where is it used?

The laser screed shines on any flatwork. A laser screed is a perfect tool for outstanding results, from new building foundations to parking lots with specific drainage needs. Most good hand crews can get you an even surface but even doesn't mean level. A laser screed is the best option when you need a level floor for forklifts or heavy precision manufacturing machinery. See our Trussbilt 100,000 square foot expansion.

When used in pouring a parking lot, this machine can nail tolerances as close as 1mm. Our lots have no puddles. See exactly how accurate this machine is in our USD Parking Lot project overview.

Customer Benefits

Customers who hire a team with a laser screed see three major benefits. One, the project will get done quicker, sometimes as much as 2x the speed, keeping the production schedule on track.

Two, cost savings, with less need for a huge crew, and fast turn-arounds, laser screeds save time and money.

Third and maybe most important is superior quality. Laser screeds are incredibly accurate and the surface finish is fantastic.

Fun Facts

  • 2x pour speed, when used with a steady flow of concrete, nothing matches the speed of a laser screed

  • Perfectly level, within 1mm.

  • Less crew - keep things economic with smaller crews

  • Better quality

Conclusion

When you hire your new concrete contractor, consider a team with a laser screed. The benefits and great and you'll be happy with your decision. --- Raeco Builders is a General Contractor based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, but we can build anywhere. Learn More about Raeco Builders how they can bring your project to life. Contact us today for a free consult.

Jake Peterson