How to Choose a Pool Ladder

The correct pool ladder adds safety and stable access to your pool. A poorly constructed ladder or a ladder that is not appropriate for your pool can cause accidents and injuries. Spending a little extra money to ensure pool safety can pay off in the long run.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pool ladder
• Measuring tape

Choosing a Ladder for an Above Ground Pool

1. Measure the distance from the ground to the top edge of the pool in the area that you want to place the ladder.

2. Decide which type of ladder to purchase. Ladder style steps or staircase style steps? Free-standing or installed on a deck? Stainless steel or plastic?

3. Purchase a ladder that is no more than 1 foot higher than the pool edge. A ladder that is too high is a safety concern and can tip.

Choosing a Ladder for an In-Ground Pool

4. Determine if your pool was built with ladder anchors. For pools without ladder anchors, go to Step 4.

5. Measure the distance between ladder anchors to determine how wide the ladder should be. Average pool ladders are around 18 inches wide.

6. Measure the distance from the top of the pool to the bottom of the pool. Purchase a ladder that will fit within this dimension and provide a comfortable step out of the water.

7. For pools without ladder anchors, purchase a drop-in staircase ladder.

Tips & Warnings

• Many ladders today include a gate to prevent children from accessing the pool. Consider it money well spent.
• If you have a ladder without a locking gate, remove the pool ladder when not in use.
• Purchase a ladder that can handle the weight of the pool participants.

Resources

• Learn About Pools

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