Is a Laser Level Waterproof?
Posted on: 19/02/2026
Would You Leave Your Laser Level In The Rain?
It’s a question we get asked all the time when someone is buying a new laser level:“Is it waterproof?”
The short answer?
No laser level is designed for complete submersion underwater— but most good exterior lasers are built to survive our Irish weather. 🌧️
Let’s explain what that actually means on site.
Are Laser Levels Waterproof?
Laser levels are water-resistant, not waterproof in the everyday sense.You shouldn’t submerge them, but most professional exterior laser levels are designed to keep working in:
• Rain
• Damp ground conditions
• Wet site environments
That protection is measured using something called an IP rating.
What Does an IP Rating Mean?
IP stands for Ingress Protection.
What Does an IP Rating Mean?It tells you how well an electronic device resists:
• Solids (dust, grit, debris)
• Liquids (rain, splashes, water jets)
An IP rating always has two digits:
• First digit = protection against solids
• Second digit = protection against water
IP Rating Explained - What IP Rating Should a Laser Level Have?
Most good-quality construction laser levels are rated:
• IP65 or
• IP66
In real terms, that means:
• Fully dust protected
• Able to handle heavy rain and site splashing
That said — common sense still applies.
You wouldn’t leave a drill lying out in the rain all weekend… so don't leave your laser out either!
| First Digit – Solids / Dust | Second Digit – Water |
|---|---|
| 0 – No protection | 0 – No protection |
| 1 – Hands (>50mm) | 1 – Dripping water |
| 2 – Fingers (>12.5mm) | 2 – Drips when tilted |
| 3 – Tools (>2.5mm) | 3 – Spraying water |
| 4 – Wires (>1mm) | 4 – Splashes from any direction |
| 5 – Dust protected (some ingress allowed) | 5 – Water jets |
| 6 – Dust tight (no dust ingress) | 6 – Powerful water jets |
| 7 – Temporary immersion (up to 1m) | |
| 8 – Continuous immersion (manufacturer-defined) | |
| 9K – High-pressure, high-temperature jets |
A Common (and Costly) Mistake After Rain
Even with a good IP rating, how you store your laser matters.Once a laser has been exposed to rain:
• Dry it thoroughly before putting it away
• Don’t seal it wet inside its carry case
Why?
Most laser cases are airtight. Any trapped moisture has nowhere to go, leading to:
• Internal condensation
• Corrosion of electronics
• Reduced lifespan or failure
Often a laser survives the rain — but dies in the box .⚰️
Why Water Can Affect Laser Accuracy
After rainfall, always:• Wipe the glass lighthouse clean
• Use a microfibre cloth (not your sleeve)
Water droplets cause the laser beam to refract — the same way light bends through glass or water. On site, that can mean:
• Levels that “look right” but aren’t
• Laser receivers bouncing or reading inconsistently
Small detail. Big consequences.
Quick Checklist: Using Laser Levels in Wet Weather
• ✔ Choose at least IP65 for exterior work
• ✔ Avoid leaving the laser exposed longer than needed
• ✔ Dry the unit before storing
• ✔ Wipe the glass after rain
• ✔ Let damp equipment air before sealing cases
