Imagine your ladder is at full height but yet you’re still just out of reach- this is where an extension ladder can help.

Extension ladders are the best working partners for all your tasks that require that extra level of height. They are practically designed useful tools to reach elevated heights safely. It can be a great asset for tasks like cleaning gutters, painting, or reaching roofs.

Below is a complete guide to extension ladders and how to use them safely.

What are Extension Ladders?

An extension ladder is a type of portable ladder that has two or more sections that can extend to provide additional height when needed, but yet compact down for easier storage. Extension ladders need to be used with a constant support structure such as a wall or roof to reach greater heights.

Extension ladders are made of two parts, the base is always firmly fixed on the ground and the fly (top) section is the extension portion making them ideal for working at multiple heights.

When buying a new extension ladder, you need to consider your priorities with factors such as maximum height requirement, usage, weight capacity, safety features, portability, material, storage, and type of rungs.

Types of Extension Ladders

Choosing the right height for an extension ladder is crucial to make sure you’re able to complete your task. Extension ladders come in various configurations to suit different requirements and applications. It varies according to the number of sections to extend.

Single Section Extension Ladder

This type of extension ladder consists of a single straight ladder section that cannot be extended or adjusted. This is generally shorter and less flexible than other extension ladders. These model ladders are compact, lightweight, and are used for low-height tasks.

Double Section Extension Ladder

As the name indicates, this style of ladder includes two sections with one ladder section that can slide upwards. This is designed to provide additional height when it is required or can telescope together for compact storage. Double section extension ladders offer greater reach than a single ladder and are an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor tasks. They are also the most popular type of ladder, as they provide a great balance between extra height, affordability, and ease of storage.

Triple Section Extension Ladder

This ladder has three sections that slide upwards for additional height or telescope together for compact storage. This is the ladder with the greatest maximum extension, ideal for safely accessing high altitudes. They are generally heavier than single or double-extension ladders, therefore, you will need to ensure proper setup for stability and safety.

Extension Ladders vs Combination Ladders

Extension ladders and combination ladders are both brilliant tools for accessing higher areas but they perform in different ways. Understanding the similarities and differences will significantly help in choosing the most suitable ladder for your needs.

Extension ladders

Extension ladders offer flexibility in adjusting height according to your tasks requirements. They are designed with two or more extendable ladder sections that slide up when needed or telescope together for compact storage. These extension ladders are commonly used to access higher elevated jobs both indoors and outdoors.

Extension ladders are generally heavier than other ladders, but they are portable when collapsed. The locking mechanism for each ladder section and other safety features make them stable on the ground and help prevent accidents. They are ideal for construction, maintenance, emergency rescue, painting, roof works, climbing a tree, cleaning gutters or windows, etc.

Combination ladders

Combination ladders are the most versatile ladders and a great choice for a variety of tasks at home. This all-rounder can operate as a step ladder, extension ladder, or stair-step ladder. The main advantage of this combination ladder is that it can offer the convenience of multiple ladders in one.

Unlike the extension ladder, these combination ladders are self-supportive and can adapt into various forms. Although these ladders are portable, the size and weight of the ladder may vary depending on the material and configuration. Combination ladders also come with good safety features, such as locking hinges and slip-resistant feet that enhance safety and stability.

Understanding Extension Ladder Measurements

Measuring up an extension ladder is important while considering a safe working height. Although the extension ladder is made up of two or three sections, you can’t take the exact length of the ladder by calculating the length of one section multiplied by the number of sections, eg. if you have three sections 5 metres in length, you cannot actually extend the ladder up to 15 metres. This is because there is overlapping between each section. If you want the exact measurement of the extension ladder, you have to fully extend the ladder and then measure it from end to end. You should be able to find this information before you buy.

Additionally, you cannot use the ladder in a fully vertical position since it needs to lean against a supporting wall. This can take up to 1 metre off the potential height you can reach. You also shouldn’t stand on the last 3 rungs of your ladder since it is not safe and you cannot stabilise yourself without the three points of contact.

Considering all these factors in mind, measure the required height and decide the length of the ladder. We recommend choosing an extension ladder 2 metres longer than your desired height. Longer is always better when it comes to ladders.

How to Use Extension Ladders Safely

Choosing the right ladder with the required height and weight capacity is the first consideration before purchasing an extension ladder. Consider the kind of tasks you have to do and choose the material for the ladder accordingly. For example, you cannot choose an aluminium ladder for electrical work, instead, go for a non-conductive material like fibreglass.

Inspect your ladder before each use for signs of damage, general wear and tear, loosened bolts, corrosion, or bends. Thoroughly check the rungs or steps have enough grip, are securely fastened, and straight. Test every sliding part of the ladder is working smoothly and the locking system is fully operational. If the ladder is working as expected, then place the ladder firmly on a stable surface.

Maintain the three points of contact while climbing the ladder. That is either keep your two hands and one foot or one hand and two feet on the ladder all the time. Additionally, face the ladder while ascending, and do not overreach or lean sideways while on it. Descend the ladder slowly facing the ladder steps and going one step at a time. For more information about how to safely use ladders, you can go through our blog ‘A Guide To Ladder Safety’.

The Extension Ladder Rule

When you are using extension ladders, there are some guidelines to use them safely and to ensure stability. This extension ladder rule is known as the 4 to 1 rule (or the 4:1 rule).

This rule states that for every 4 feet of ladder height, the base should be placed 1 foot away from the supporting wall from which it is leaning. That is, if you are using a 16-foot extension ladder, the base of the ladder should be placed 4 feet away from the supporting structure.

Always remember to take all the necessary safety precautions before each use. Never underestimate the danger and damage that an extension ladder (or any ladder at that) can cause.