Which Ladder is Right for you?

There is nothing more important than having the right ladder that meets your needs. Accidents and injuries can happen so it’s imperative you choose a ladder that is fit for purpose. Material plays a huge part in the type of ladder you choose, as it influences how well the ladder functions. Today, our team at Seltek Warehouse have put together an informative post to make it easier for you to choose the right ladder for your needs by going through the different materials available at our shop. Each material has a number of different characteristics and you’ll want to choose the one that is right for you. 

Timber Ladders

If you’re looking for an affordable ladder, then the most practical product is a timber ladder. This widely used material is a popular choice for small business owners. Its affordability isn’t the only benefit of these timber ladders though. Timber ladders are a popular choice for electricians because they don’t conduct an electric current that they’re reasonably heat resistant. They are a sturdy, safe choice, especially for those tougher environments. Additionally, timber is naturally durable, meaning that they have a surprisingly long lifespan, making them an easy choice for many of our customers.

Of course, a timber ladder isn’t the most suitable product for everyone. First of all, it is actually incredibly heavy when compared to other materials. This makes it difficult to move around from job to job. When speed is of the essence, timber is probably not the material for you. Additionally, while it is completely rust proof, timber ladders are vulnerable to rotting, especially during the winter. Rotting timber ladders can be dangerous if you don’t regularly carry out checks before usage. 

Aluminium Ladders

If you’re looking for a ladder that is lightweight and durable, then you will want to consider the aluminium ladder. They are far lighter than either their wooden or fibreglass counterparts. This makes it an excellent choice for those who work in lots of locations during a single day. They are also incredibly versatile, making them ideal for whatever job you might be working on. Their strength and durability; they are resistant to rust and weather, ensures that they are reliable for years to come. 

However, like with everything, it’s not all good news. Aluminium is incredibly conductive, making it super vulnerable to things like electric shocks and sudden changes of heat. So, while it’s a great choice for many different jobs, you should avoid this ladder if you’re an electrician or working with heat. 

Fibreglass Ladders

A third material for ladders is fibreglass. This is a relatively new material in the ladder building industry but it has proven itself to be incredibly popular. Fibreglass is incredibly physically strong, much stronger than either aluminium or timber, and its reistitant to heath, electricity and rot. It overcomes all of the weaknesses of the other materials discussed in this post. 

But there are some downsides as well. It is actually an incredibly heavy material, which does make it a sturdy and safe option, but it also makes it difficult to move and handle by one single person. There is also a risk that the fibreglass will crack, so it’s important that you regularly inspect your ladder for issues in the future.

Have Any Questions for Our Team?
This is not a complete list of the materials that have been used to make ladders, but these are the three that are the most common. If you have any questions about these ladders or if you’d like some advice about the right ladder for your needs, then feel free to get in touch with us today.