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Sometimes when we do routine things around the home or in the workshop, we don't realize that they are potentially dangerous. For example, when you want to lift something down from a high shelf, you might just use a chair or a stool. But do you always check to make sure that it is completely stable? This exact scenario is actually the cause of lots of domestic accidents. A folding ladder is really handy to have around the home, to prevent these types of mishaps happening to you and your family.
Apart from helping you avoid accidents at home, a folding ladder is useful in lots of other ways. Not only will it allow you to safely reach items that are stored up high, but also when you have some DIY tasks you need to get done. Need to hang a picture or paint the walls of your home? You will be glad you decided to buy a folding ladder. So you can find the model that is best for you, we have prepared this buying guide.
Contents
- 1 Weekly newsletter with the best personal finance tips
- 2 Key Facts
- 3 Our Selection: The Best Folding Ladders
- 4 Shopping Guide: Everything You Should Know About Folding Ladders
- 4.1 What is a folding ladder?
- 4.2 How is a folding ladder used?
- 4.3 What are the distinctive parts of a folding ladder?
- 4.4 How much weight can a folding ladder support?
- 4.5 How many steps should a folding ladder have?
- 4.6 Are there different ladders designed for domestic and industrial use?
- 4.7 What height can ladders reach?
- 4.8 What are the advantages and disadvantages of folding ladders?
- 5 Shopping Criteria
- 6 Summary
Key Facts
- There is a wide-range of folding ladders currently available on the market. You need to be aware of the benefits each of the best models offer, so that you can find the one that best suits your needs.
- We began this article highlighting safety and we will continue to do so. It is important that you verify that the ladder you are planning on purchasing complies with all the relevant safety regulations, so that you can use it without the risk of injury.
- You must check the overall height of the ladder, which will let you know how it can be used. If you only plan to use at home you probably won't need a folding ladder that has an extended reach.
Our Selection: The Best Folding Ladders
In the following section, we present you with the four best folding ladders currently available on the market in different categories. This will allow you to better understand the different features offered by different types of ladders, so that you can find the model that best suits your needs. All our featured products are top-sellers, that offer great value for money. So simply choose the one that you like best, and you can't go wrong.
Shopping Guide: Everything You Should Know About Folding Ladders
After checking out the products we reviewed in the previous section, you now have a good idea about the best folding ladders available on the market. You have surely found out about some important features offered by different models. You have also seen the type of prices these high-rated products usually cost. Before making your final decision, there are a several additional factors you should take into consideration.
(Source: Dolgachov: 34057408/ 123rf.com)
What is a folding ladder?
The best folding ladders are be manufactured using high-quality materials and also have nice finishes. The steps and support platforms should be non-slip to prevent accidents.
How is a folding ladder used?
Another important thing to check is that you have unfolded the ladder completely, otherwise it might collapse as soon as you step onto it. Always begin climbing from the front. There should never be more than one person on the ladder at a time. Try to avoid using the ladder while you are alone. If you happen to have an accident, it is important that someone else is around in case you need assistance.
What are the distinctive parts of a folding ladder?
| Part | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Stabilizing platform | Located near the top of the ladder, and can also hold any tools you need on hand. |
| Handrail | The handle that is located on the top of the ladder, that you can grip for support. |
| Crossbars | The bars situated in between the steps, which stabilize the a ladder. |
| Joint mechanism | Rotatable joint connectors found in larger ladders, that lock the ladder securely in predetermined positions. |
| Steps | Used to reach different heights, should be covered with a non-slip coating. |
| Rubber feet | Made from highly-resistant material, used to help the base of the ladder grip more securely to the surface it is placed on. |
How much weight can a folding ladder support?
Even if the combined weight of both people is below the maximum weight a ladder can support, it is still not advisable to attempt this type of use. It is true that the ladder will support the weight, however it is highly likely that it will become unbalanced. The people using the ladder may also trip over each other, potentially causing an accident.
How many steps should a folding ladder have?
All rungs and steps must be slip resistant, and the top step and caps of stepladders must not used as steps. Before use, always check that the rubber stoppers on the base of the ladder, and the steps themselves are clean and in good working order.
(Source: Sema Srinouljan: 123551488/ 123rf.com)
Are there different ladders designed for domestic and industrial use?
| Domestic folding ladder | Industrial folding ladder |
|---|---|
| The steps are most commonly attached using rivets. | The steps are most commonly welded to the frame and are most robust. |
| The ladder will most commonly have two or three steps. | The ladder will usually have more than five steps. |
| The ladder will possibly have a stabilizing platform. | The ladder will definitely have a stabilizing platform. |
What height can ladders reach?
| Steps | Height in feet |
|---|---|
| 2 | 8 |
| 3 | 10 |
| 4 | 13 |
| 5 | 16 |
| 6 | 19.5 |
| 7 | 23 |
| 8 | 26 |
| 9 or more | 30 or more |
What are the advantages and disadvantages of folding ladders?
Shopping Criteria
In order to find the model that best suits your needs, there are several criteria you should keep in mind when making your purchase. Here are the most important factors you need to consider when buying a new folding ladder:
Folding System
It is important to choose a ladder that has a folding system that is easy to use and not overly complicated. You need to be clear about whether you can set the ladder up by yourself, or if you will need help. Always make sure you have correctly unfolded the ladder to the fullest possible extent before use.
Dimensions
We have already dedicated an entire section to this subject, but it is important to emphasize that it is definitely one of the most important factors to keep in mind. You need to make sure that the overall height of the folding ladder is suitable for the type work you plan to do with it. Also check the dimensions of the ladder when it is folded up, so that it will fit wherever you plan to store it in your home or workshop.
Materials
The materials used in the construction of the folding ladder must also be taken into consideration. You want a ladder made from durable materials, so that it can handle the work you use it for. It also needs to be light, so you can easily move it around, and transport it from one place to another without difficulty. The better the build quality of the ladder you buy, the longer it will last.
Safety
Safety is the most important factor to consider whenever using a folding ladder. If you do not use it properly, according to the manufacturer's recommendations, it can be dangerous and you run the risk of a potentially serious injury. It is very important that you make sure that the model you have decided to purchase complies with all the relevant safety regulations. Never risk your safety by buying a cheap ladder, just to save some money.
(Source: Zerbor: 75174867/ 123rf.com)
Use
The most important factor to consider when purchasing a new folding ladder is the way in which you plan to use it. Don't waste money buying a 20 foot ladder with lots of features, if you only need a smaller one to use around the house. If you just want something to use occasionally, you can choose a more basic model. If you plan on using it daily, you should invest in one that offers additional functions.
Summary
Having a folding ladder available is very handy in most homes and businesses. It allows you and your family or coworkers to reach high places safely. If you just want a ladder to use in your pantry, or a tool for more serious DIY work, keep in mind how you plan to use it for before making your choice. You should spend more on a folding ladder, if you intend to use it frequently.
You need to make sure you are buying a ladder that is completely safe to use, by being certain that it complies with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for safe use.
We hope you have found this guide useful, and that it has helped you to find the folding ladder that is perfect for you. Please be sure to leave us a comment below, and share this article with your family and friends, so that they can learn all about these handy tools.
(Source of featured image: Berezhnoy: 135315948/ 123rf.com)
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