Different Types Of Ladders And Their Respective Uses

Did you know that the estimated number of ladder-related accidents is over two million annually? Using a ladder for the wrong reason has led to quite a number of them. That’s why you need to learn the different types of ladders and when to use them. Otherwise, you might end up being part of those statistics.

You probably have to use a ladder almost every day. Wouldn’t you like to know that you are safe every time you climb it? Whether you are reaching something or fixing gutters and rooves, endangering your life isn’t an option. That’s why you need to learn about the different types of ladders. So, read on to know them and their uses.

1. Extension Ladders

As the name suggests, extension ladders give you the liberty to extend its height if a need arises. They are pretty standard in various households. It is important to note that extension ladders can’t support themselves.

Consequently, their security isn’t as great as the others. They also require a wall or tree to stand on their feet. Its main sections are the base and the fly. The former allows you to place it on the ground securely. On the other hand, the fly is the extendable part.

It comes in handy when it comes to professional uses. It is the go-to ladder for the roof, repairing the house or carrying out painting. If you are looking for the best ladder for painting your 2 story house, this review on the same is also a must-read. Check it out!

2. Multipurpose Ladders

Their other name is the folding ladders. They stand out because of their versatility. Consequently, they can do a lot of tasks depending on how you set them up. When straight, it can help you reach walls when painting. It is possible to use then when in a scaffolding position, A position. Feel free to collapse it for easy transportation or storage.

The ladders are ideal for indoor and outdoor tasks. However, they may not be a suitable choice if the heights are considerable. Working from a ladder is dangerous, especially if working on heights. A narrow scaffolding tower is a safer option because it allows you to reach higher and lower work without danger.

3. Platform Ladders

From afar, you will notice a striking resemblance between these platform ladders and the step ladders. After all, both of them are A-shaped. However, the former has platforms, whereas the latter has top rungs. Thanks to the platform, the space is usually comfortable and leveled. It is also a self-supporting and stand-alone ladder.

Some of the things you can do with this type are painting, home maintenance, hedge cutting and other gardening tasks. If you own a caravan or a motorhome, it comes in handy when cleaning its roof.

4. Flexible Ladders

The designer of these ladders made them knowing all too well that emergencies may arise. Their uses include escaping through a window in case of danger. Some are long enough to help you exit out of the 4th floor, while others can only handle the third one.

5. Step Ladders

Step ladders are A-shaped ladders, and they are pretty popular as well. They don’t need support since they are stand-alone and have anti-skid feet. As for its name, it is because of having steps. This category has two different types of ladders. The first one has rungs on one side hence referred to as simple-front. On the other hand, the twin step ladder has rungs on either side and supports two people simultaneously.

If you want to adjust the curtains, clean your windows, change the bulb or reach top shelves, this ladder is ideal.

6. Step Stool

Out of all the different types of ladders, this is the smallest. There has always been a debate as to whether it is a ladder per se. However, going by what it does and the functions of a ladder, it qualifies to be one. It is more of a mini ladder with 2 to 3 steps.

It is commonly used in closets and garages. You can also get them in attics, basements and kitchens.

7. Telescopic Ladders

This kind and the extension ladder are two different types of ladders that are often confusing. Telescopic ladders allow you to decrease the height to your convenience, but their counterpart offers extra height if a need arises. That feature brings out compactness. It makes portability and storage easy.

It comes in handy when doing light duties, including painting walls and cleaning gutters. The bottom line is it is ideal for indoor use.

8. Attic Ladders

Their other name is loft ladders. As the name suggests, they are designed for access to the attic. Buying such means getting into your attic without climbing stairs and effortlessly. It also makes the process safe and quick. Their design makes it easy to install it on your ceiling. It is also retractable if not in use. All you have to do is fix it into the attic door. They come in different sizes to cater to various ceiling heights.

It goes without sayings they are useable during attic space access.

9. Articulated Ladders

It is among the types of ladders that are versatile. Since they have an adjustable height, you can use them for various tasks. The locking hinges make them versatile. They also make them foldable, which simplifies transportation and storage. You need not worry about the hinges because they are secure. Equally important, the ladders are lightweight and occupy little space.

Their uses include changing bulbs and cleaning fans or windows.

10. Portable Ladders

These types of ladders are different from the rest since they have casters. Equally important, it is quite similar to a step ladder since their frames are somehow A-shaped. However, this type has a shape that’s to a greater extent pentagonal. Nevertheless, some of them, such as guardrail, has platforms instead of steps.

Don’t settle for it if you need a ladder for domestic uses. After all, it is quite large hence ideal in construction sites and warehouses.

FAQs on the Different Types of Ladders

These are the frequently asked questions relates to different types of ladders.

1. What are the suitable types of ladders for the various weight capacities?

When it comes to weight capacity, you should go with these duty ratings.

• Type I – up to 250 lbs
• Type II – up to 225 lbs
• Type III – up to 200 lbs
• Type IA – up to 300 lbs
• Type IAA – up to 375 lbs

2. What are the various materials for the different types of ladders?

Materials used to make ladders include steel, fibreglass, aluminium, wooden and plastic.

Final Words

The article has left no stone unturned regarding the different types of ladders. It has also exhausted the best purpose for each one of them too. Remember that choosing the right type guarantees you safety since the quality and weight capacity will be correct. Consequently, your project will become easy, and your productivity will improve.