Ladders

Do you know that ladders are an ancient technological tool? The very first item is featured in a Mesolithic rock painting that is a minimum of 10,000 years old. This painting depicts two human figures using it to deal with a wild honeybee nest.

Constructively speaking a ladder is a vertical or inclines set of steps or rungs. There are generally two types that you can find in the market today. The rigid products are self-supporting or are the ones that may lean against a vertical surface like walls. Whereas the other type includes rollable types like the one made of aluminium or rope and they can be hung from the top. The vertical members of a rigid ladder are called rails, stringers, or stiles. The rigid styles are generally portable, but we do have times when they are permanently fixed to any equipment, building or structure. They are generally made of metal, fibreglass, or wood.

Types of ladders available in market

Before we head to discuss the types you can buy, let me mention an important point that the right kind can make your work much safer and more comfortable. And by learning about different types, you can develop an understanding of which of the possible options will meet your needs the most. In the core, you need to know the maximum height of the product you may need for most of your work. Besides height, it is also essential to consider the load capacity and other factors that we will discuss in a later section of the articles. For now, let us have a look at the types you may need to have a look into while making a choice.

The step ladders

They have an A-frame design with spreaders that lock to hold the two sizes in the correct position. General the steps run-up only on one side. But you can also find a twin step ladder that allows you are using both sides at the same time. They are a good choice if you do not have any nearby surface that can support an extension style. They are more beneficial in indoor projects like painting, cleaning, or installing ceilings, lights, fans etc. At the same time, they are also available in a variety of sizes generally made in metal.

Extension or folding ladders

The extension style comes with a base and one or two upper sections that slide up and down to allow you to reach different heights. The locking mechanism keeps it extended to any desired height. Larger sizes also include a rope and pulley system to carry loads and manage them easily. There are different designs available in extension styles; it also includes telescoping ladders. You can also fold them together for easy transportation and storage. At the same time, straight styles are much similar to the extension style but have only one section.

Multi-position ladders

These are also known as combination or articulating ladders and give you added versatility. They can be an ideal investment if you have varying needs. Moreover, depending on the model, a multi-position style can also serve as a single- or two-sided step style. Furthermore, an extension style can also be used as a portable staircase. With the ease of use and high-level portability, they are a common item we can find in most homes today. You can also find some models with the ability to work in pairs as support for scaffolding.

Attic and library ladders

Now you can reclaim your attic for storage just by adding a set of pull-down stairs otherwise known as attic ladder. Not only that they are an economical solution for your storage problem, but they can practically be installed in just a day. All you need is some skills, knowledge of the product with basic tools and materials. But be mindful that there will be some awkward heavy lifting involved, so having a helping hand should be on the list. But on entirely another side, a rolling library ladder makes a definite statement. You can also use them in pantries, kitchens, lofts and any place you want to reach upward.