Step Up to the Job with the Right Ladder

by DoItYourself Staff

Step Ladder

A self-supporting device used for climbing that consists of two rectangular frames hinged at the top with one side containing the rungs for climbing.

Non-adjustable in length and folds closed for storage.

Available in increments from 2’ to 12’ in height.

Steps are flat and riveted and are generally 3” or more in width. Most models include a top plastic platform on top for storing tools or loose fasteners.

Available in wood, fiberglass and aluminum construction in various duty (weight) ratings, with fiberglass considered the best construction of the three.

Quality classifications include consumer (household), commercial (mechanic) and industrial grades.

Platform Ladder

A type of aluminum stepladder with three steps for ordinary household climbing tasks.

Some models feature extra wide non-slip treads for comfort during long periods of use.

Common step heights include 10”, 20” and 30”.

Most have a 200 lb. duty rating.

Most have a platform above the steps for resting tools and materials and a high handrail.

Folds easily for convenient storage.

Extension Ladder

A non-self supporting type of ladder with two similar sections that are linked with internal guides on the bottom of base section and external guides on the top.

Sections are pulled apart to increase length.

Used for working in high areas and primarily for exterior applications.

Available in heights ranging from 16’ to 40’.

Smaller extension ladders are extended manually and secured with gravity spring lock brackets that rest on the selected rung.

Larger extension ladders are extended by means of a rope and pulley running down the side of the ladder and secured with a cleat.

Generally available in all aluminum and fiberglass with aluminum rungs.

Rungs can be round or flat and are usually serrated for enhanced slip resistance.

Ladder shoes pivot to allow full contact with ground. Shoes can also be turned up to penetrate soft ground for extra stability.

Quality classifications include consumer (household), commercial (mechanic) and industrial grades.

Attic Ladder

Folding ladder that pulls down from attic access hole to permit entry.

3 sections unfold to rest on floor, then fold back up to store on top of pull-down access door. Generally made of wood or aluminum. 90-degree wrap-around hinges allow legs to completely fold up when not in use.

Different models accommodate different floor-to-ceiling height ranges.

Steps are usually double riveted for extra durability.

Generally rated either at 250 lbs. or 300 lbs.

Articulated Ladder

Also called a combination ladder.

3-position, multi-lock hinges offer many different arrangements and combinations to become a step ladder, an extension ladder, a stairway ladder (modified step ladder) or a scaffold.

No tools needed for conversion between ladder types.

Most models extend between 12’ and 16’ and carry either a 225 lb. or a 250 lb. duty rating.

Ladder Mitts

Are attached to the top rails of extension ladders to prevent marring of the surface the ladder is leaning on.

Generally made of tear-resistant and weather resistant urethane foam.

Ladder Tool Holders

Tool holder that drapes on both sides of the top of step ladders.

Contain separate pockets to hold different hand tools and fasteners.

One pocket generally snaps off to enable it to be used with extension ladders.

Paint Pail Shelf

Attaches to step ladders to provide a tray for paint cans.

Generally constructed of molded plastic shelf with aluminum arms.

Some models automatically close when step ladder is folded for storage.

Usually contains a built-in rag rack.

Ladder Paint Tray

Similar to paint tray for step ladders but designed for extension ladders.

Can fit on aluminum or fiberglass extension ladders with round or flat rungs.

Ladder Levelers

Can be mounted to one or both legs of a ladder to allow it to remain level on uneven surfaces.

Consists of two swivel shoes that adjust between 3-1/2” and 8-1/2” (depending on the model) so that one leg can stand on the ground and one can stand on an elevated surface, such as a step.

Ladder Stabilizer