What does 'graduations in 10ths' mean and why is it important?

Graduations in 10ths means the rod is marked in decimal increments (0.10 feet) rather than inches or architectural fractions. This allows direct reading in decimal feet, which is the standard measurement system for surveying and civil engineering. It eliminates conversion calculations, reduces errors, and speeds up fieldwork since measurements can be recorded exactly as read on the rod.

How does fiberglass construction compare to aluminum or wooden grade rods?

Fiberglass offers superior durability compared to wood, which can warp, crack, or swell with moisture exposure. Unlike aluminum rods, fiberglass is non-conductive, providing an important safety advantage when working near electrical lines. Fiberglass also dampens vibration better than metal, is lighter than wood of comparable strength, and resists corrosion, making it ideal for long-term reliability in varied weather conditions.

Can this 25-foot grade rod be used with laser levels and rotating lasers?

Yes, the Seco 90004 is fully compatible with laser levels, rotating lasers, optical levels, digital levels, and total stations. For laser level applications, you can add a laser detector/receiver that clamps onto the rod, allowing you to work alone by identifying the laser beam position on the rod.

What is the advantage of the 25-foot length versus shorter grade rods?

The 25-foot length provides extended reach for deep excavations, tall formwork, and situations where the instrument setup is significantly higher or lower than measurement points. This reduces the need to relocate your level or total station, saving setup time on sites with extreme elevation changes.

Seco 90004 25-Foot Grade Rod LR-STD

Description

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Overview

The Seco 90004 25-Foot LR-STD Series Fiberglass Grade Rod represents decades of proven engineering and field-tested reliability. As the original fiberglass grade rod design, this instrument has earned its reputation among surveyors, contractors, and civil engineers who demand accuracy and durability in challenging conditions. Featuring graduations in 10ths for quick, intuitive reading, the Seco 90004 delivers the precision necessary for elevation measurements, site grading, foundation work, and construction layout.

Built with a round profile design, this grade rod minimizes weight without sacrificing structural strength—an essential balance for professionals who carry equipment across varied terrain throughout long workdays. The fiberglass construction resists warping, moisture damage, and the wear that quickly degrades wooden alternatives, making it an investment that performs consistently season after season. Whether you're establishing benchmark elevations, checking drainage slopes, or verifying excavation depths, the Seco 90004 provides the reliability your projects demand.

The 25-foot length makes this rod ideal for applications requiring extended reach, from deep excavations to elevated formwork verification. The high-visibility graduations ensure clear readings even at distance, reducing errors and improving workflow efficiency. For contractors who need a dependable measuring solution that withstands the rigors of active construction sites, the Seco 90004 has remained the industry standard for good reason.

Key Specifications

Model Number: Seco 90004
Series: LR-STD (Long Range Standard)
Length: 25 feet (7.62 meters)
Material: Premium fiberglass construction
Profile: Round, lightweight design
Graduations: 10ths scale for decimal foot measurements
Section Type: Multi-section extending design
Finish: High-visibility markings with weather-resistant coating
Weight: Lightweight for extended field use
Compatibility: Works with optical levels, digital levels, laser levels, and total stations

What's in the Kit

Seco 90004 25-foot fiberglass grade rod with 10ths graduations
Protective end cap for base section
Extension locking mechanisms (integrated)
Manufacturer's documentation and usage guidelines

Job Applications

Site Grading and Earthwork: Essential for establishing proper drainage slopes and verifying cut/fill elevations during excavation. The 25-foot reach allows measurements in deep trenches and elevated positions without repositioning equipment, saving time on large-scale grading projects.
Foundation and Concrete Work: Accurately verify formwork elevations and ensure level foundations before concrete placement. The 10ths graduations provide the precision needed to meet tight tolerances in commercial and residential foundation work, preventing costly errors that could compromise structural integrity.
Road and Highway Construction: Critical for establishing grade stakes, checking sub-base elevations, and verifying finished pavement heights. The fiberglass construction withstands the demanding conditions of roadway projects, including exposure to heavy equipment, changing weather, and repetitive use throughout project phases.
Building Layout and Elevation Control: Transfer benchmark elevations throughout construction sites and verify floor-to-floor heights in multi-story buildings. The extended 25-foot length accommodates ceiling heights and deep below-grade areas, making it versatile for vertical construction applications.
Drainage and Utility Installation: Ensure proper pipe slopes for sanitary sewers, storm drains, and water lines. The clear 10ths graduations allow quick verification that trenches maintain the required fall, preventing flow problems and ensuring code compliance in underground utility work.
Land Surveying and Topographic Mapping: Collect elevation data for boundary surveys, ALTA surveys, and topographic mapping. The proven accuracy of the Seco 90004 makes it a trusted tool for licensed surveyors establishing legal descriptions and creating site plans for development projects.

Compatible Accessories

Seco Grade Rod Carrying Case (heavy-duty nylon with shoulder strap)
Seco Grade Rod Bipod/Tripod (stabilizes rod for one-person operation)
Seco Prism Pole Clamps (for attaching prisms when using with total stations)
Seco Grade Rod Targets and Target Clamps (high-visibility sliding targets for precise readings)
Seco Grade Rod Levels (circular bubble vials to ensure plumb positioning)
Replacement End Caps and Locking Hardware
Reflective Tape Kits (for low-light and nighttime work)

Related Guides

FAQ

What does "graduations in 10ths" mean and why is it important?: Graduations in 10ths means the rod is marked in decimal increments (0.10 feet) rather than inches or architectural fractions. This allows direct reading in decimal feet, which is the standard measurement system for surveying and civil engineering. It eliminates conversion calculations, reduces errors, and speeds up fieldwork since measurements can be recorded exactly as read on the rod.
How does fiberglass construction compare to aluminum or wooden grade rods?: Fiberglass offers superior durability compared to wood, which can warp, crack, or swell with moisture exposure. Unlike aluminum rods, fiberglass is non-conductive, providing an important safety advantage when working near electrical lines. Fiberglass also dampens vibration better than metal, is lighter than wood of comparable strength, and resists corrosion, making it ideal for long-term reliability in varied weather conditions.
Can this 25-foot grade rod be used with laser levels and rotating lasers?: Yes, the Seco 90004 is fully compatible with laser levels, rotating lasers, optical levels, digital levels, and total stations. For laser level applications, you can add a laser detector/receiver that clamps onto the rod, allowing you to work alone by identifying the laser beam position on the rod. The high-contrast graduations remain visible even when using electronic detection accessories.
What is the advantage of the 25-foot length versus shorter grade rods?: The 25-foot length provides extended reach for deep excavations, tall formwork, and situations where the instrument setup is significantly higher or lower than measurement points. This reduces the need to relocate your level or total station, saving setup time on sites with extreme elevation changes. For general construction with moderate elevation differences, shorter rods (13-16 feet) may be more convenient, but the 25-foot length offers maximum versatility for challenging applications.

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