subject: Home Help Hints – Buying a Step-Ladder [print this page] Home Help Hints Buying a Step-Ladder Home Help Hints Buying a Step-Ladder
Perhaps the most useful tool for any householder, tradesman and even gardener is the step-ladder. No other ladder or tool is as versatile or used for so many different types of jobs as a step of steps. The tasks that step ladders are used for every day is almost endless.
From changing bulbs and painting the ceiling to tiling and pruning the trees a good set of ladders should be in everyone's garage, under the stairs, or back of the van.
But how do you find a decent step ladder and what makes a good set of steps?
Aluminium step ladders
When it comes to buying stepladders, normally there is no alternative material to aluminium. It is light, strong, durable and cheap to manufacture. There is only one downside to aluminium, however; it's a conductor. Electricians often have to buy fibre glass or wooden alternatives as standing on aluminium can be hazardous whilst working with electricity.
However, in most circumstance aluminium stepladders are by far the most useful but there are a whole range of sizes and types to choose from so selecting the correct set of aluminium step-ladders can be tricky.
Choosing Step-ladders
The most important factor when it comes to selecting stepladders is the size. For home use, when they will be resting under the stairs for most of their life, you don't want a set of step ladders that are too large. The best way to judge the size of stepladder is to count the treads or rungs.
For normal household use there will be no need to buy anything over five treads. And, if you live in a flat or apartment you may find just a small two tread step ladder sufficient for most jobs around the home this will be easier to store too.
Small ladders for a flat or apartment
For tradesmen, a good seven or eight tread step ladder would be a better size. This will be flexible enough to allow you to work indoors whilst also useful for exterior work. However, remember the number of treads will result in a heavier and taller ladder so ensure you have the right sized van for it. Also, if you plan to carry heavy equipment and tools up the step-ladder you need to consider the load the ladder will hold.
