How to Choose the Right Ladder for Your Project

Ladders can be very useful tools when it comes to home repair. There will be times where you can't reach something and you need assistance. A ladder gives you the ability to increase your reach, and as long as it's used properly, it will prove to be a sturdy anchor to help avoid any unfortunate accidents.

Determine what size ladder you will need. Ladders can range in almost any size. Having a ladder too small will be of no use, while having a ladder too large can be extremely hard to use (with only one person) and store. Most often you will find you are using your ladder to clean out the gutters of your home. This is a good length to use as the size of your ladder. Measure the distance from your gutter to the ground, then add at least two feet. This is because your ladder will be placed on an angle when being used and you will want extra room on top, so if your ladder slips slightly it will not fall.

Think about what you will be using the ladder for. Will you need the ladder to simply stay straight so you can lean it against the object you need to fix (such as the gutter or wall), or will leaning it against an object not be possible (its difficult to lean a ladder against an overhead light in the middle of the room)? In that case, you will need a ladder that can fold at the middle and create its own support (when in use it will look like an upside down "V").

Make sure the ladder you buy is metal and not wood. Wood ladders may look nicer, but they do not age as well and are more prone to breaking, especially if they have been exposed to harsh outside elements. Metal ladders are far stronger and can hold more weight. They will hold up better in water, but it is not recommended to leave them out in the rain or other conditions, because they can eventually rust.

Look to see if the folding ladders have spreaders. If you are purchasing a folding ladder, you will want it to have spreaders, which are small attachments that will help sturdy the ladder when it is fully spread. There is one on each side of the ladder and will connect the two sides when unfolded. These spreaders will help make sure the ladder does not fold back up on itself.