HGTV's Mike Holmes' Choice Of Tool To Get Perfect Measurements Every Time

Anyone who's ever tried to hang a shelf or build a fence knows how tricky it can be to get everything perfectly level. A tiny error in measurement, after all, can lead to crooked edges or make your floors uneven, leading to frustration and wasted time. Even professional builders and seasoned DIYers can run into this challenge, especially when working on uneven ground or with obstacles that get in the way. This is not the case for Mike Holmes, host of HGTV shows such as "Holmes Family Rescue," since his go-to tool — a laser level — guarantees accuracy with every use, making it one of the tools every homeowner should have.

Holmes definitely knows the importance of precision as a seasoned contractor with decades of experience. He's seen the difference that the right tools can make on a project, which is why he's a big fan of the laser level, a tool that projects a laser beam onto any surface to create a straight line or plane. This offers a far more precise alternative to traditional methods, like bubble levels or string lines. "You just can't get any better than that," Holmes says in the Instagram clip below about his go-to choice for getting perfect measurements every time. 

According to Mike Holmes, the laser level is the best way to measure, particularly in tricky situations. In the video, he showcases this tool's usefulness while installing wooden posts during a construction project that's facing the challenges of uneven ground and inaccessible places. "Remember, the ground's not level. ... It's way up there. I've got braces in my way," he says, describing using a laser level to address this issue as "kids' stuff." 

If you're looking into buying a laser level, know that they come in a wide price range. Basic models, like the BLACK+Decker Laser Level, can cost less than $20 and work well for indoor tasks, as they usually have a shorter range. They're ideal for tiling or even helping you install cabinets yourself. Mid-range options, around $50 to $70, are better for larger projects. For example, the Bosch GLL50-20G has a laser visibility of up to 50 feet. High-end models are expensive but offer more accuracy, like this CIGMAN Laser Level with a range of 100 feet for $150. These come with green lasers that are up to 50 times more visible than red ones.

Choosing the right laser level depends on where and how you'll use it. Red lasers work fine indoors, but green lasers are easier to see in bright spaces or outdoor settings. A model that can project various modes –- horizontal, vertical, and cross line — can give more flexibility for big renovations. For long-distance accuracy, go for a model with an extended range. No matter the project, the right laser level makes measuring easier and results more precise.