String lines vs. lasers: Why I'm sticking with the old way
Everyone seems to think laser levels are the best thing for bricklaying. I get that they're quick to set up. But I've had too many issues with them on sunny days or when power runs out. For example, on a recent project, the laser failed and we lost a whole morning fixing mistakes. With string lines, you always have a physical guide that doesn't depend on batteries. It might take extra minutes to set, but it's reliable. I believe we should focus more on skill than just speed.
Totally agree! I've seen a laser get knocked out of level by a gust of wind and ruin a whole course. The extra five minutes with string saves you hours fixing mistakes later.
Wait, lasers can just die in the middle of working? That's actually terrifying. I never really thought about that part. So you're just up on a ladder and it quietly quits on you? That makes @jade_reed's point about the wind even worse. You've got two ways for the fancy tool to fail you before you even know it. Maybe the old string does have one big thing going for it: it can't just turn off and leave you.