Types of Ladders Buying Guide

There are many types of ladders to choose from, and it’s important to find one that’s the right size and length for your project. Be sure you know your average reach height when shopping for your ladder. Using a ladder that’s too short or tall can hamper the safety and efficiency of your work.

• Stand no higher than two steps down from the top of a step ladder. Typically, this means a 5-1/2-foot person with a vertical 1-foot reach can safely access a point 4 feet beyond the length of the ladder.
• An extension ladder needs to be several feet taller than the height you need to reach.
• The highest standing level that’s safe is four rungs from the top of the ladder.
• The sections must overlap at least 3 feet on ladders up to 36 feet in length and as much as 5 feet on longer ladders.
  
• The ladder should be at the correct angle, with the base 1 foot out from the surface it rests against for every 4 feet of height to that point.
• When the ladder rests against a surface, such as a roofline, it needs to extend 3 feet beyond the top support point.
  
• All these factors combined mean you should look for an extension ladder 7 to 10 feet longer than the highest point it’ll rest against.
  
• Make sure you keep three points of contact on the ladder when climbing, descending or working. This means you need to keep two hands and one foot, or one hand and two feet, on the ladder at all times. Read more on Portable Ladder Safety.
  

Load capacity, or duty rating, indicates the weight a ladder can handle. You may also see this referred to as a performance rating. To determine the load capacity, include the weight of the user plus the weight of any tools and materials that’ll be on the ladder. Look for the following ladder ratings.

• Type IAA ladders have a load capacity of 375 pounds.
• Type IA ladders have a load capacity of 300 pounds.
• Type I ladders have a load capacity of 250 pounds.
• Type II ladders have a load capacity of 225 pounds.
• Type III ladders have a load capacity of 200 pounds.

Ladder ratings are provided by the American National Standards Institute.

Aluminum ladders are corrosion-resistant, strong and lightweight, making them a durable choice that's easy to maneuver and carry. Aluminum ladders also conduct electricity, however, so don’t use them when working on electrical projects or near electrical lines.

Fiberglass ladders are strong and durable. When clean and dry, they don’t conduct electricity and are the right choice for electrical projects and work near electrical lines.

Other materials, such as steel, wood and plastic, are often available with step stools, which are smaller than standard ladders and designed for tasks that don’t require a lot of reaching.

Reclaim your empty attic for storage space by adding an attic ladder. They’re an economical solution to your storage problems, and you can also usually install them in a day using basic tools and materials. There’s some heavy and awkward lifting involved, so plan to have a helper for this project. The mechanism is usually the folding type, but scissor and sliding types are available. The materials are aluminum, steel or wood.

It’s very important to know the weight capacity and height (number of steps) you need. You must also measure the opening carefully since you’ll need to build a frame in the roof joists to support the ladder.

A rolling library ladder makes a definite style statement. In addition to libraries, these also work well in kitchens, pantries, lofts or anywhere you need to reach upward. Look for kits that include the wooden components, rollers, rails (curved rails for corners are available) and hardware to attach the unit.

A platform or folding work shelf on some step ladders lets you keep tools and materials within easy reach. You can also purchase trays, platforms, buckets and paint cups that work with some models.

Some step ladders have notches and holes to hold tools and compatible accessories. Bungee loops for holding tools are also available.

A leveling system on some extension ladders means you can adjust the ladder to accommodate uneven surfaces. Some ladders have a built-in bubble level you can use to check the adjustments. You can also purchase levelers to attach to compatible ladders that don’t have the built-in system.

Some extension ladders have feet with serrated edges you can drive into the ground for added stability.

A stabilizer is an accessory that attaches to the top of an extension ladder. It extends the support points of the ladder outward and, depending on the size, can span across a window.

End covers are foam add-ons for the top of extension ladders. They help prevent the ladder from damaging a wall.

Carrying cases are available for telescoping ladders. A case protects the ladder and makes it easier to transport.

Look for storage hooks or hangers designed to hold ladders and keep them up and out of your way. You can use ladder jacks — supports that attach to an extension ladder — to construct a temporary scaffolding stage. This requires two jacks and two ladders.

A ladder for scaffolding is best suited for construction and building maintenance. Buy sections or individual components to create a system to suit your needs. A scaffolding system includes the frame plus planks and stages.

Rolling and portable scaffolds, which consist of a frame and one or more platforms for standing, are a good choice for people who change positions frequently.

When working at high levels, add-ons such as guard rails and outriggers provide security and stability. While safety requirements vary with the type of equipment you have, below are a few general tips to keep in mind when using scaffolding. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and safety.

• Don’t exceed the equipment’s restrictions for height, weight or number of people using the equipment. Factor in the user’s weight, clothes and gear, and any tools and materials that’ll be on the equipment.
• Inspect all scaffold and ladder components for damage. Don’t use damaged equipment.
• Keep work surfaces clear of clutter and debris.