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How to Pick the Right Ladder for Your Home

There are literally hundreds of variations on the basic ladder. Ladders are designed for specific needs. There are extension ladders for reaching high floors or tall trees. There are rolling 16 foot steel step ladders for accessing shelves in a warehouse. Ladders specially designed for firescapes. Folding wood ladders to climb up to your attic and rope ladders that hang down from helicopters. The list could go on and on, but, for purposes of this article, the focus will be on the most common type of ladders for home use.

Most homeowners can get by with a three to six foot stepladder. Each step is about one foot apart and is usually attached to a folding aluminum frame. The frame extends beyond the top step and is a convenient handle if you need to maintain your balance. Like most ladders it is inadvisable to stand on the very top step because you could easily fall. If you find you can’t reach what you are working on without standing on the top step, you need a bigger ladder. You can change a light bulb in a ceiling fixture by climbing up on a step ladder. Reaching dishes in the back of a tall cabinet, painting your wall or putting up curtains are just a few of the many household chores that are suitable for a stepladder.

If you like to work around the outside of the house, chances are you will need to get an A-Frame type of ladder. A six foot and a ten foot ladder should handle almost any job around the outside of your house. The ten foot ladder will allow you to safely climb on to your one story house’s roof and sweep off the leaves. You can use the six foot ladder to paint the walls of your house or maybe wax the roof of your SUV. The heavy wood ladder of the past has been replaced by fiberglass and aluminum ladders. Both of these ladders are good choices as they are lightweight but sturdy. When you need to get higher, remember to choose the right ladder for the job.

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15y ago

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Related Questions

Where can one read about ladder safety in the home?

One can read about ladder safety in the home online on sites such as Safety at Home, This Old House, Old House Online, Step Ladder Safety Tips, and Ladder Safety. You can get ladder safety information from home improvement stores like Lowes and Home Depot.


In Smackdown vs Raw 2011 how do you lean the ladders on the rope?

Pick up the ladder, stand right next to the ropes, and press circle (ps3)/B (xbox 360).


What would happen if you found a four-leaf-clover under a ladder?

you pick it, and walk backward, so you don't walk through the ladder, you will still be lucky!


What is the tallest ladder one can get for home use?

A forty foot extension ladder is generally the largest you can find. The top of the ladder really only hits 37 feet, and obviously, you'd be standing below that at about the 30 foot mark. That's about 3 stories. The maximum height ladder is basically the biggest ladder that is available to the home owner. Generally a 40 foot ladder is the largest available for a reasonable price. This ladder is tall enough to meet most home owners needs.


Does anyone know what the price of an 35 foot extendable ladder at Home depot would cost?

Unfortunately, Home Depot do not offer a 35ft extendable ladder. However they do stock a 20 or 40ft extendable ladder. The price of a 35 foot extendable ladder from Amazon is $514.


Approximately how far should the bottom of the ladder be from the base of the wall?

1/4 the height of the ladder. (flat top on rungs should be level when ladder is placed right.


How can I safely install a ladder box for stairs in my home?

To safely install a ladder box for stairs in your home, follow these steps: Measure the dimensions of the ladder box and ensure it fits securely on the stairs. Use a level to ensure the ladder box is straight and secure. Attach the ladder box to the stairs using screws or brackets for stability. Test the ladder box by applying weight to ensure it can support the intended load. Regularly inspect and maintain the ladder box to ensure safety.


How can I install an attic ladder in my home?

To install an attic ladder in your home, you will need to measure the opening in your ceiling, purchase a suitable attic ladder kit, follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation, secure the ladder in place, and test it for safety and functionality. It is recommended to have someone assist you during the installation process for safety reasons.


How can I create a DIY wooden ladder for my home?

To create a DIY wooden ladder for your home, you will need to gather the necessary materials such as wooden planks, screws, a saw, and a drill. Measure and cut the wooden planks to the desired length for the ladder steps and sides. Assemble the ladder by attaching the steps to the sides using screws and a drill. Make sure the ladder is sturdy and secure before using it.


How can I properly install an attic ladder in my home?

To properly install an attic ladder in your home, follow these steps: Measure the opening in your ceiling to ensure the ladder will fit. Cut the opening if needed, following manufacturer's instructions. Install the ladder frame securely in the opening. Attach the ladder to the frame according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Test the ladder to ensure it is safe and functional. Finish the installation by adding any necessary trim or insulation around the opening.


How can I create a DIY ladder bookshelf for my home?

To create a DIY ladder bookshelf for your home, you will need a wooden ladder, wooden planks, screws, a drill, and a level. First, measure and cut the wooden planks to fit between the ladder rungs. Attach the planks to the ladder using screws and a drill, making sure they are level. Repeat this process for each shelf, adjusting the spacing as needed. Finally, secure the ladder bookshelf to the wall for stability.


Where is a good place to purchase a new dock ladder?

A dock ladder can be purchased in many places. You could purchase it at Amazon.com or a Home Improvement store such as Lowe's or Home Depot. For the best and most choices, a dock ladder can be purchased at a boating/pool store.