Building my first deck - what measuring tools do I really need?

Hey everyone! I'm finally tackling my backyard deck project this spring - about 12x16 feet. I've got my circular saw and drill ready, but I'm confused about measuring tools. Do I need a fancy laser measure or will my old tape measure work? What else should I get to make sure everything's square and level? Budget is flexible but don't want to overbuy!

Welcome to the deck club! I built mine last summer. Honestly, you don't need anything crazy. A good 25ft tape measure is essential - I like the Stanley FatMax. Get a 4ft level too, and a speed square for marking cuts. I wasted money on a laser level and barely used it. The old string-and-chalk method works fine for layout. Just make sure your posts are plumb!

Tim's right about basics, but for precision woodworking (even decks), I'd add a combination square. Great for checking 90° angles on your framing. Also consider a digital angle finder if you have any tricky angles. And don't forget a good marking knife instead of pencils - cleaner lines. My deck came out 1/8" off over 16ft and it bugs me every time I see it!

Restoration perspective here: Think long-term. That deck will shift over seasons. Invest in a quality torpedo level with magnetic base (sticks to metal framing), and get a moisture meter if using treated lumber - improper drying causes warping. For layout, I use a story pole (marked stick) instead of measuring each time - reduces cumulative errors. And ALWAYS measure twice, cut once!

Thanks all! This is super helpful. So my shopping list: upgrade to FatMax tape, get a 4ft level, speed square, and maybe a combo square. Will skip the laser for now. Wendy - never heard of a story pole but that makes sense! Any brand recommendations for the squares? Excited to get started!