The ladder is a staple item in most households nowadays but deciding on which ladder to buy in terms of size and material can make your head spin. To put it into perspective, imagine attempting to access the roof antenna with a small stool ladder or putting your party decorations away atop the wardrobe with the latest thirty two foot extension ladder.
I hope I haven’t dampened your enthusiasm in buying a ladder but it is my wish that with the following guide, you can make an informed choice when you invest in a ladder.
Aluminum Ladders
I am not sure about you but I would rather carry around a lightweight aluminum ladder and know that it will still handle my bulky weight on the rungs in any conditions Add to this that aluminum does not corrode or rust out you can rest assured your ladder will be with you for years to come.
They are a low maintenance item that needs only the hinge arrangement to have an occasional smear with an oil soaked rag etc.
Three things you should observe each time you use the ladder is to ensure the rungs are in good order, the feet have not been damaged and the non slip material on the steps is sitting snugly on the rungs. As with any ladder, you should never stand on the top 2 rungs as overbalancing could occur.
There is a varied range of ladders to including attic, folding and extension. Names synonomous with ladders are Werner, Little Giant and more.
5 Rung Step Ladders
Small step ladders are practical for around the house or office as they allow you to reach places that we use often such as changing light bulbs, getting things down from wardrobes, cleaning curtain tracks or reaching for that file box up high.
Here is a list of features a step ladder must have to ensure your safety.
1. Non skid pads on each leg of the ladder to stop it from sliding fom underneath you.
2. To prevent aching calf muscles and feet, make sure the rungs are, at the very least, four inches wide, preferably more if available.
3. A sturdy locking mechanism to stop the ladder from spreading.
4. The ladder can hold at least two hundred pounds.
I bought one of these for $52 about 6 weeks ago from an online store. Polder, Cosco and Werner are among the best rated step ladders
The leading website in ladder reviews, news and sales and customer service is Best Ladders . They analyze ladders such as the Polder Aluminum Ladder as well as having a comprehensive folding ladder review to help you.