Building a Deck - Need Measuring Tool Recommendations

Hey all, I'm planning to build a 12x16 deck in my backyard. I've got basic tools but need to invest in some decent measuring tools. I want something accurate for layout and leveling. Budget is around $150 for all. Any recommendations?

For a deck, you can get by with a good tape measure (Stanley or DeWalt) and a 4-ft level. But if you want laser level, you can get a self-leveling cross-line laser for like $60-80. That'll help a lot with setting posts and joists. Don't overspend on fancy stuff unless you'll use it again.

I'd second the laser level, but also get a good speed square and a chalk line. A long tape is essential (25 ft min). But if you want precise layout, a laser distance measurer can be handy, though not necessary. My advice: spend on a quality level - a 6-ft level is great for checking joists and posts. You can get a decent one for about $30.

I've built decks for 20 years. My go-to is a 25-ft tape, a 4-ft level, and a rotary laser if you're doing it alone. But the key is marking layout lines - get a good chalk line and a construction calculator if you're doing angles. For your budget, I'd get a stabila 6-ft level (around $50) and a Bosch laser level (around $80). That leaves you $20 for chalk and tape. And remember, measure twice cut once!

Thanks for the tips! I'll check out the Stabila level and Bosch laser. I think I'll skip the distance measurer for now. One more question: should I get a 6-ft level or a 4-ft? I'm leaning toward 4-ft for storage, but if 6-ft is better, I'll make room.