Ladders come in different forms and use.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer looking for the right ladder to get the job done, or an experienced professional needing an upgrade, this guide will help you choose the best ladder for your needs. We’ll look at different types of ladders, their features and benefits, and how to find the perfect ladder for your project.
Types of Ladders
The two most common types of ladders are step ladders and extension ladders. Step ladders are great for basic indoor uses like reaching high shelves or changing lightbulbs. Extension ladders are great for outdoor use, such as painting a house or cleaning gutters. Here are some more details on each type of ladder:
Step Ladders – Step ladders are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for indoor use. They come with either three or four steps, depending on their height. Some also have folding tops that can hold tools or supplies while you work. Step ladders are typically designed to be used against a wall or other flat surface for support.
Extension Ladders – Extension ladders are made up of two sections that slide together to create one long ladder. They come in various heights and can reach up to 40 feet. Extension ladders have locking mechanisms to keep them securely extended while in use and prevent them from accidentally collapsing while climbing down. They also have wide steps that give users more stability when climbing up and down the ladder.
Multi-Position Ladders – Multi-position ladders offer the versatility of adjusting into various shapes and sizes depending on your needs. They can be used as straight ladders, stairway ladders, extension ladders, and scaffolding systems—the endless possibilities! Multi-position ladders are perfect for those needing a versatile ladder that can handle multiple tasks without wasting too much space when stored away.
Step Stools
Step stools are small, lightweight ladders ideal for those quick jobs that don’t require a lot of height. They come in two types: folding and non-folding. Folding step stools are great because they fold into a compact size that makes them easy to store and transport. Non-folding step stools are slightly more stable than their folding counterparts but take up more space when not used.
Other Types – There are many other types of specialty ladders available as well, including A-frame ladders, telescoping/multi-position ladders, platform/workbench ladders, combination/ladder systems, articulating/telescoping combination/ladder towers, attic access/attic stairway systems, etc. Depending on your needs and the type of work, one of these specialty models may be the best option.
No matter what type of ladder you’re looking for—step ladder or extension ladder—you’ll want to ensure it is strong enough to safely support your weight and any additional tools or equipment you may need during your project. Doing some research ahead of time will help ensure that you get exactly what you need at a price that fits your budget. With this ultimate buying guide in hand (or underfoot), you should be ready to choose the perfect ladder for your next project!
