Ladders and step-ladders for construction work: types and features, how to choose

On a large construction project or during the cosmetic repair of a house, you can't do without a ladder or stepladder. Quality ladders and step-ladders are stable and durable, and they can be used to perform high-altitude work for a long time. Consider the types and features of ladders for construction work.

Types and features of construction ladders

Ladders are the simplest design for climbing up. It consists of two parallel bases and crosspieces between them, which form the steps. Ladders vary in design and how they are used:

• Telescopic ladders extend on the principle of a fishing spinner. When folded, they are the most compact, but tall models are less resistant to load.
• Extension ladders are the simplest model. The upper part of the ladder rests on the wall, the lower part - put the legs on the floor.
• Folding ladders can be used as a lean-to ladder or folded into a stepladder in half or asymmetrically. It is convenient for working on the flight of stairs, where there is a difference in height.
• Three-section ladders are folded out into the stepladder and on one side extends lean-to ladder.
• Hinged ladder transformers consist of sections of several steps. They can be positioned and fixed at different angles.

Step ladders are a design that has a ladder on one side and a support on the other. Models with ladders on both sides are suitable for paired work, when craftsmen stand on the steps from different sides simultaneously.

Features of stepladders:

• for stability in the design there is a flat platform on top;
• To ensure that the ladder and the supporting side did not part from the weight of the user, they are fixed with belts or safety straps;
• the legs in pairs can be fastened with a wide strip;
• the standard length of the stepladder is 6 m.

Ladders and stepladders are made of the following materials:

• Aluminum - products made of such metal are lightweight, do not rust. They are not suitable for working with electricity.
• Steel - ladders are durable, strong, but heavy.
• Fiberglass - the material does not conduct electricity, can be used in all weathers, the weight is small.
• Wood - the material of inexpensive stairs. They can be easily repaired, but they are short-lived. Wood is mainly used to make simple lean-to or two-way ladders.

How to choose a construction ladder

Pay attention to such characteristics:

• the maximum length that can be climbed for comfortable work under a certain height;
• The maximum permissible weight load;
• How to move it - whether there are wheels with fixation or it is a portable model;
• what material is made of ladders or step-ladders;
• the thickness of the ladder profile;
• whether it will be possible to attach an additional leg to extend the support to use the ladder on the curb or step;
• whether there is an area where to place working tools and materials.

How safe the ladder or stepladder, whether there are additional safety elements - one of the key criteria for choosing. Pay attention to such signs of a reliable design:

• stability - a quality ladder does not wobble;
• The legs are equipped with plastic or rubber tips that do not let them slide and protect the floor from scratches;
• steps wide, grooved surface or with rubber mats with a pattern - such a supplement not only prevents slipping, but also does not conduct electricity;
• elements, connections should not creak and stagger.

If the ladder is only to go up, its width or size of the steps is not important. For prolonged work choose a wider model with a large area of steps so that it was comfortable to stand.