When it comes to choosing the right ladder, the right option might not be obvious right away. There are lots of different ladders out there, so it can be easy to think you need a step ladder, when in fact, an extension ladder would be the better choice. Don’t worry, if don’t have much experience with ladders or DIY, you’re in the right place. Our ladder guide will talk you through some of the common types of ladder & will explain their key features. Check out our safety reminder article for tips on how to use your ladder safely.
Extension Ladders
Extension ladders are a great choice for window cleaners, tradespeople and DIY-ers alike because they’re easily adjustable to suit your needs. They’re made of either two or three sliding sections that can be used to reach varying heights so you don’t need multiple ladders for different situations.
When you’ve finished the task at hand, they can easily be compacted down in size for easy storage or transportation. However, extension ladders aren’t ideal for everyone – they can’t be used as a freestanding ladder so can only be used in certain environments, for example, where a supporting wall is available. They can also be quite heavy to move especially if they can extend a log way so they are often not suitable for use by one person.
GRP Ladders
GRP ladders (also known as fibre glass ladders) are made of glass reinforced plastic. The main benefit of GRP ladders is that they’re non-conductive, so they can be used safely around electrical hazards. Fibre glass is also an incombustible material, so there’s a reduced risk around fires too. These ladders are most commonly used in industrial spaces but can also be handy to have around the home in case you need to work near electrical hazards.
Step Ladders
If you’re looking for a ladder that can be used around the home, on site & in all environments where a supporting wall is unavailable – a step ladder is the way to go! These super versatile ladders are a key piece of equipment in any arsenal. They can be easily erected in any location & can be easily folded away when they need to be stored or transported. Step ladders come in a range of sizes and materials, so there’s sure to be one to suit your needs.
Multi-Purpose Ladders
Multi-purpose ladders are designed to be incredibly versatile. They can be used in several different configurations, meaning you can purchase one ladder in place of three or four. Most multi-purpose ladders can be used as an extension ladder, a step ladder, and a work platform, with more sophisticated models offering even more configurations. These ladders tend to be ideal for people who need to use different ladders on a day-to-day basis, but don’t have a lot of space for equipment.
Other Ladders
There are some other types of ladders as well. Crawl ladders are designed for safe working on surfaces such as roofs. Telescopic ladders are the Russian dolls of the ladder world and are great for home use. as they retract into a neat little package. You can simply apply gentle pressure to start pulling rungs up and up – only as far as you need to go. Combination ladders are a cross between a single ladder and an extendable step ladder.
So, there you have it. We hope that this ladder guide will help you decide which ladder is right for you. If you’re still unsure, we’d recommend getting in touch with your ladder supplier for their professional advice.
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