Thursday, August 20, 2009

Aluminium Ladders

Aluminium ladder can be one of the most essential items in any handyman’s toolbox. Everyone from do-it-yourself home project enthusiasts to commercial construction workers can recall at least one instance where a ladder came in handy to get the job done. Selecting a ladder is not something to be done quickly. There are a few pieces of information to keep in mind before selecting a ladder off the shelf and heading off to the jobsite.

It is virtually imperative that one stops to consider the task at hand when purchasing a ladder. There are three main classifications of a ladder and each is determined by the size and scope of a job. The highest grade classification is an industrial strength ladder that safely handles up to 250 pounds of weight. Following this is the commercial grade ladder classification handling up to 225 pounds of weight safely. Regular need to access a roof or other high surface can be accommodated with this ladder type. The most commonly used ladder is a household ladder.

Many normal household tasks such as gutter cleaning or outside light fixture repairs can be handled safely with weight requirements extending up to 200 pounds.

Once the appropriate ladder for a job has been selected, there are a few more informational facts to keep in mind. Always look for a UL safety seal from the Underwriter’s Laboratory. This is a guarantee that the ladder has undergone safety checks and is ready for use. There are three basic materials utilized to construct a ladder. These are aluminum, wood and fiberglass with aluminium ladders being the most popular. This is due in large part to the durability factor present in aluminum materials.

Safety is of the utmost importance when using a Aluminium ladder. First make sure that the ladder type matches the job at hand. Before using the ladder for each job, take a few minutes to review the surface and rungs for damages or cracks that may need repair. Always place a ladder on a flat, stable surface before climbing or descending and remain facing the ladder at all times. When using a ladder to climb onto another surface, extend its length at least three feet past the other surface. Finally, never stand on the paint shelf. This is not designed for a great deal of weight and will crumble under the pressure causing injury.

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