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When you’re seeking to perform a do-it-yourself (DIY) assignment around your home, there are plenty of things to think about. You must set aside time for the task, obtain the proper materials and find all the necessary tools. If the project involves working at height, then you’ll have to secure a ladder, also. Depending on the the scope of your task, the type of ladder needed can contrast greatly. Here is a bit of information about some of the most recognized ladder styles.

Platform Step Ladder

This type of ladder is likely the most common type used for household DIY projects. The triangular contour of this ladder when opened supplies a very firm perch from which to work. Close to the top of a platform step ladder is a platform or shelf that folds down to contain tools or perhaps a can of paint. The platform causes the ladder to be very steady, since the user can lay tools or materials on the platform, and leaves the hands free. Some platform step ladders feature a handrail.

Extension Ladder

If you have to work at a greater height, an extension ladder is often the proper option. This ladder consists of two or three nesting sections with rails and rungs that are joined with a system of pulleys and ropes. When used, the sections are hoisted and locked into place to lengthen the ladder’s vertical height. Extension ladders often have wide rubber feet for greater stability. For utmost safety, be sure that there is an overlap of no fewer than 3 rungs between each and every pair of ladder sections.

Combination Ladder

A combination ladder includes the attributes of both extension ladders and step ladders. This ladder commonly has two sections and has hinges in the centre. Having a hinge allows the ladder to be crafted in a triangular stepladder shape or in a completely linear shape. Some combination ladders have 3 sections and are used as scaffolds. These ladders are easy to store because they typically fold down to the size of an everyday platform ladder.

Telescopic Ladder

If you have a limited amount of storage space, consider obtaining a ladder with sections which telescope in and out. A typical telescopic ladder elongates to over 3 metres in length and collapses to less than 1 metre, making it ideal for use in small areas. These ladders are light in weight whilst being quite strong.

Loft Ladder

To open a loft or attic, this type of ladder is permanently fixed to the hatch. These ladders can be found in a number of configurations including folding, sliding and concertina. To pick the best loft ladder you need to measure accurately the distance from the floor to the ceiling where the hatch is located, the size of the loft hatch and the vertical clearance near the hatch.

For all-around flexibility, most home owners opt for both an extension ladder and a platform step ladder. If the job requires the type of ladder you don’t have, you can either obtain a ladder for the extent of the project or acquire the services of a workman who will do the whole job and provide the necessary ladder.