How to Maneuver an Extension Ladder
Extension ladders are essential for most homeowners. Any type of work done on the side of a home will require a ladder that is tall enough to safely reach the work area. Learning how to handle an extension ladder is a skill. Because of their length and because they have a mobile center, these ladders can be at risk of contacting electrical wires, tree branches, gutters and other obstacles. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Practice lifting the extension ladder near its center of gravity to make sure you are able to carry the ladder safely. Use two people if the ladder is extra long.
-
2
Lay the ladder flat on the ground and operate the mechanism that releases the tread and allows the ladder to extend. Operate the lever a few times until you are confident that you understand how to lock the lever in place so that the ladder will stay at the length you select. Inspect the ladder to make sure it is in good working order.
-
-
3
Walk the route you need to take to carry the ladder to the location where it will be extended and used. Note any branches, overhead wires, gutters, windows, overhangs or other obstructions along this path. Keep in mind that you may need to prop gates open, and that you will need extra distance to move the long ladder around corners. Make sure you have clearance.
-
4
Open gates and clear your path of obstacles. Carry the ladder to the work location and set it down. Check the area again for dangers. Also check the ground to make sure you have a stable location for the ladder legs to sit. The legs have feet that rotate to position flat against the ground, but those feet are only as good as the surface they are placed upon. Always set your ladder so that the treads are level and the feet are on stable ground.
-
5
Position the ladder so that the feet are up against the wall. Lift the top of the ladder by bending your legs and pushing the ladder toward the wall as you lift. Walk forward holding onto each tread as the ladder goes vertical. When you move past the half way point, the force of the ladder's weight will move against you. Keep your pressure steady and a good grip.
-
6
Rest the ladder against the wall and, holding it with forward pressure, lift the feet and move the ladder back toward you. Make sure the ladder will not rest on a window or other obstruction as it moves down the wall.
-
7
Tilt the ladder back to vertical and use the rope to extend the ladder to the correct height. Allow the ladder to rest on the wall.
-
8
Move the ladder legs to seventy five degrees. Example: If the ladder is extended twenty four feet, the ladder feet need to be one fourth of that distance from the wall or, six feet from the wall. Both ladder feet must be secure and flat on a stable surface. Both ladder arms must rest flat on the wall. Always stand in the safe standing height portion of the ladder.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Wear proper footwear. Follow three points of contact and do not move your body to the side of the ladder.
Never leave extended ladders unattended.
