subject: Added Versatility With A Ladder Stabilizer [print this page] Ladder stabilizer increases the stability of a ladder and improves your reach when working. This is a ladder accessory with arms in wide tubular shape and skid-free pads made of rubber. A ladder stabilizer can be used in any types of extension ladders providing you a better grip on your working surface. Although ladders can greatly help in reaching higher work areas, you must remember that the higher the height of the ladder is, the more unstable it becomes. This is where ladder stabilizers become an essential accessory to keep your workstations steady and sturdy despite any height.
With the help of a ladder stabilizer, anyone can literally reach beyond his certain limitations. For instance, getting access to all sides of a wide window no longer needs going up and down to reposition the ladder or extending your arms and your body to precarious positions. Cleaning or fixing any area around the gutter has been made just as easy. Movements are no longer inhibited because the ladder is kept securely in place by a stabilizer. A ladder stabilizer even allows you to reach comfortably and work on deep soffit.
A ladder stabilizer is exactly what every ladder owner and user needs to make it a lot easier to work in heights. It is one of the ladder accessories you need to help you work safely and more efficiently. Find out which type of ladder stabilizer will serve you best. Read the following information before you start shopping.
Ladder stabilizers come in two types: fixed depth and adjustable.
Fixed depth ladder stabilizers typically measure 45 inches. When in use, they can hold the ladder by up to 10" away from the wall surface of a house. This type of stabilizer carries a workload capacity of around 300 lbs. A fixed-depth ladder stabilizer is installed to an extension ladder simply by sliding over the ladder rungs. Lock it in place using a special safety clip. You may buy a fixed-depth stabilizer in hardware stores and home centers for USD 15 to USD 30.
Adjustable ladder stabilizers provide additional versatility. Unlike the fixed-depth type, this is installed in the ladder rails using U-bolts. It can still hold the same amount of workload with the fixed depth, however, the positioning of this type can vary. It can be easily converted from a wider to a narrower width, depending on what your work will require. You have the option to rent it for USD 10 a day or purchase it at home centers for only USD 70.
Safety Reminders
- Ladder stabilizers are not to be used with folding ladders.
- Check for existing overhead power lines in your work area. Not doing so can possibly cause injuries or even death due to electrocution.
- It is a no-no to stand on the stabilizers.
- Ladder stabilizers are not used as alternative to work plank hangers in a ladder. It is intended to support and maintain the ladders stability.
- Always ensure that you are complying to the suggested workload capacity of the ladder and its stabilizer. Ladder stabilizers cannot support additional workload.
