Surveying
Traverse
A series of connected survey lines used to establish horizontal control across a project site, with each line's length and direction measured.
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In the Field
A closed traverse starts and ends at the same point (or two known points), allowing the surveyor to check for closure error. If the traverse doesn't close within tolerance, the measurements are redone. GPS has replaced traditional traverses for many projects but is still limited near buildings.
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Rule of Thumb
Closure error tolerance for construction traverses is typically 1:5,000 to 1:10,000 (0.02–0.01 feet per 100 feet). For high-precision work like tunnels, tighter tolerances are required.