Using a ladder that's too short can put stress on your back as well as expose you to the danger of toppling. Always choose a ladder that allows you to reach your work area safely.
Familiarize yourself with the ladder's load capacity. Light-duty ladders are designed to hold 200 lbs.; medium-duty ladders hold 225 lbs.; heavy-duty ladders hold up to 250 lbs.; and extra-heavy-duty ladders hold weights of up to 300 lbs.
2
Use a stepladder for most household purposes. This type of ladder is available in heights of 4 to 16 feet and has a hand foldout shelf on the side opposite the rungs.
3
Use an extension ladder outdoors to reach high branches or the roof. These are made to reach 20 to 40 feet.
4
Try an articulated or multipurpose ladder for a variety of uses. This aluminum alloy ladder can be a stepladder or straight ladder or act as a scaffold, and comes in lengths of 12 to 16 feet.
Tips & Warnings
Step- and extension ladders are made of wood, aluminum or Fiberglas. Fiberglas is the best since it's lighter than wood and doesn't conduct electricity like aluminum does.
