Hot take: I used to think a 2x4 and a level was a fine screed for a small patio until I watched a guy in Phoenix use a laser and a magnesium straightedge.

Now I rent that laser for every pour over 100 square feet, but has anyone found a cheaper way to get that same kind of accuracy?

2 comments

2 Comments

noah_black24d ago

You ever see that video where the guy used a long spirit level and a 2x4 with a piece of string tied to each end? He stretched the string tight across the slab to check high spots. Seems way cheaper than a laser if you just need a straight line.

sullivan.john24d ago

Yeah, that string trick is a classic for a reason. It's basically a giant version of winding sticks for checking twist in lumber. You can get a surprisingly accurate read on flatness across a big distance for like five bucks in materials. Lasers are cool, but sometimes the old school methods just get it done.