ESSENTIAL LADDER BUYING GUIDE

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ESSENTIAL LADDER BUYING GUIDE

Your essential ladder buying guide

Make sure the ladder you are using is suitable for the job at hand. There is an average of 14 deaths a year in the UK due to ladder falls – and a staggering 48,000 people a year attend A&E as a result of a ladder accident at home.

Don’t become a statistic. Minimise risk by checking that the ladder is at the correct angle against the wall, that it is locked into place, the feet are in good condition and that you don’t exceed the maximum load.

There are several different types of ladder:

Stepladders

Stepladders are perfect for small DIY jobs like window cleaning and painting and decorating. As they are typically an ‘A frame’ design, they can be used almost anywhere as they don’t need to lean against a wall.

As long as the floor is level and sturdy, you should not encounter any problems.

The biggest danger of the humble stepladder is overstretching. Choose a stepladder which is tall enough to reach the ceiling and move it around the room as you work rather than leaning over the top of it.

 

Extendable ladders

If you need to reach higher than a stepladder will allow, it’s time to buy an extendable ladder.

An extension ladder usually has two or three parts and these slide apart and are locked into position to use. The lower section usually has feet to add stability.

When buying an extension ladder, look for one which is at least one meter taller than the highest point you will be working at. This is because the ladder will be angled against the wall – and you should not step on the top couple of steps for safety.

Never rest ladders against guttering as it is not strong enough to hold the weight. Instead, hook a metal stand-off to the top of the ladder to hold it away from the wall.

 

Combination ladders

Also known as multi-position ladders, these are great if your needs are varied. These can work as stepladders or extension ladders and are useful if you need to work on stairs – for example, when decorating a hallway – as each side of the ladders can be adjusted to the correct height.

 

Telescopic ladders

Telescopic extendable ladders are perfect when storage space is at a premium because they can compact to around a third of their maximum height. They will fit into the boot of most cars, making them ideal for jobs on the move.

Working in the same way as a telescope, the steps are pulled up to reach the desired height.

Most telescopic ladders will have anti-slip steps for safety.

 

Work platforms

If you’re going to be doing a lot of work at height, a work platform or scaffolding could be the answer. The frame simply clips together with boards on the floor and a guard rail, giving you a safe working space. The platform can then be wheeled into position as you work.

These are particularly useful for decorating jobs at height. As you have a larger area on which to work, it should speed up the job and they will, therefore, pay for themselves over time. 

Find our range of ladders online or in-store. 

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