Ladder to Heaven: Everything You Need to Know

Ladders come in all shapes and sizes. Each ladder style serves a unique purpose, and any job needing vertical assistance is made better with the proper ladder. If you have ever worked for too long overhead or didn’t have quite enough reach to finish a job, you know how important it is to have a ladder. 

Working on roofs, exterior painting, and other jobs around the house require the use of ladders. Just like any tool, the proper fitment and application make your life easier when dealing with ladders. 

When choosing the right ladder for the job, the options are seemingly endless. The construction, materials, and accessories all vary with each type of ladder — so take a look at the different options available and choose the one that fits your needs! 

Extension Ladders  

Have you ever needed to get on the roof to clean gutters or remove debris? If you didn’t have an extension ladder to reach it, the transition from the ladder to the roof probably didn’t go so well.  

Extension ladders lean against the wall or other flat surfaces. Extension ladders are composed of two pieces that slide within each other. When appropriately used, extension ladders make it easier to reach heights that would be impossible otherwise. A few examples of jobs suited to extension ladders are: 

  • Exterior painting 
  • Cleaning gutters 
  • Siding and roofing repair 

When choosing an extension ladder, pay attention to how they are built. If you want a ladder that is easy to transport and set up, you may want to consider a fiberglass ladder which is heavier but necessary around power lines. 

Step Ladders 

When a lightbulb burns out in the house and you can’t reach it — reach for a step ladder. They are perfect for helping you work overhead. 

Step ladders are shaped like an upside-down “V” and provide a stable platform for work. Generally, step ladders are better suited for indoor use because they need a level surface to support all four feet. These are jobs that are perfect for step ladders: 

  • Interior painting 
  • Wallboard installation 
  • Overhead lighting maintenance 

Step ladders come in multiple heights, and some even have articulated joints in the uprights that allow you to convert the step ladder into various configurations. Be sure that you don’t choose a ladder that is too tall for your job when selecting the right step ladder. 

Trestle Ladders 

In areas where you need the height of an extension ladder but don’t have a wall to lean it against, you need a trestle ladder. These handy ladders make it possible to reach high ceilings with ease. 

Trestle ladders have the traditional step ladder shape, with an extension out of the top. This design gives you a sturdy base to confidently reach areas a little too tall for step ladders. Trestles are great for: 

  • Reaching heights greater than 20 feet 
  • Painting vaulted ceilings 
  • Installing decorations at high points around the house 

Another benefit of trestle ladders is that both sides of the ladder can be used at once. This functionality makes it possible for two people to work on the ladder simultaneously and finish jobs otherwise out of reach. 

Ladder Safety 

Every tool has a set of rules for operation — ladders are no exception. Always use caution when climbing ladders, and follow these basic rules to stay safe: 

  • Inspect the ladder for damage or defects 
  • Do not work alone (especially with extension ladders) 
  • Choose the right size ladder for the job 
  • Make sure the ladder is level 
  • Do not climb if you feel tired or dizzy 

With the right preparation and proper use, nothing will be out of reach for you. Remember that every ladder performs a specific purpose, so choose the right one the next time you need a leg up. 

At Northside Tool Rental, we know it’s impossible to own every tool under the sun. That’s why we have your back when you need the right tools for the job. 

Be sure to give us a call or stop by the next time you need to reach something that’s just a little too high. We would love to help you finish the job at a fraction of the cost of purchasing tools outright. Plus, instead of finding a spot to store a ladder, you can bring it back once you’re finished (and maybe even grab some tools for your next job).