Leveling

Leveling is one of the most precise geodetic methods for height determination. The method is based on using a horizontal line of sight to measure height differences between points.

Types of leveling:

• Geometric leveling - highest precision, uses level and rod
• Trigonometric leveling - uses total station, lower precision but greater distance
• Barometric leveling - atmospheric pressure measurements, low precision
• Hydrostatic leveling - communicating vessels, high precision in special conditions

Leveling precision classes:

• Class I - highest precision (±0.5 mm/km), state leveling network
• Class II - high precision (±2 mm/km)
• Class III - technical leveling (±5 mm/km)
• Class IV - engineering leveling (±10 mm/km)

When is leveling needed?

• Construction - placing buildings and structures at correct height
• Road construction - creating vertical profile of route
• Drainage - designing drainage systems
• Deformation monitoring - measuring building settlement
• Topographic surveying - determining precise heights

Leveling process:

1. Setting up level between two points
2. Taking reading on backsight point
3. Taking reading on foresight point
4. Calculating height difference
5. Moving to next setup

Latvian leveling network:

Latvia has a state leveling network with more than 6,000 benchmarks. The network provides a high-precision height reference system throughout the country and is regularly updated.