Telescoping Ladders
Telescoping ladders are a special
type of extension ladder that consists of short lengths of concentric
tubing that can be slid inside each other for easy and compact storage.
Ladders are useful in a myriad of places even though they are clumsy difficult
items to store and carry. Since the traditional extension ladder is always
going to be at least 8 feet long, it makes it difficult and clumsy to
use indoors. They can also be too tall for some jobs and will extend past
the work height. Telescoping ladders are an innovative solution. Because
they open and lock by the foot, you only need to open as many steps as
you need. This makes it deal for inside work or working outdoors. Out
of the box, these ladders can be stored anywhere, but you won't believe
your eyes once it extends to 12-1/2 feet from its closed height of 30
inches. Telescoping ladders can be used as a step ladder and are a great
ladder for builders, remodelers and painters.
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Space
Saving Telescoping Ladder from Global Industrial Equipment.
This high quality Type 1 telescoping ladder is 250-lb. rated, retracts
to a compact 30" and easily extends to 12-1/2'. It is adjustable
at 1' increments. It comes with stainless steel spring loaded bolts
that automatically engage for positive locking. High-grade aluminum
rungs feature a rounded surface and serrated tread for safe, comfortable
climbing. Molded conical feet and bumpers protect surfaces and prevent
telescoping ladder from slipping. Provides the climbing height of
16' extension ladders. Lightweight telescoping ladder weighs only
22 lbs.
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Selecting a Ladder
Selecting the right ladder for your job involves four things: choosing
the style, height, load capacity, material of construction and versatility.
Style
When it comes to choosing the right style of ladder, there are about as
many styles as there are applications. Designed for a particular application,
a style of ladder is chosen to ensure the highest safety and productivity.
Most people are aware of the step and extension ladders. Other less known
styles include the platform, telescoping and tripod ladders.
Height
Choosing the right height of ladder depends on what you might use it for
and what style it is. Extension ladders, for instance, should at least
be 7 to 10 feet longer than the highest point of contact between the ladder
and whatever it is leaning against, i.e., wall or roof. This will allow
enough length for proper setup, overlap of ladder sections, height restrictions
of the highest standing level, and where appropriate, the extension of
the ladder above the roof line. The highest standing level is four rungs
down from the top. The highest permitted standing level on a stepladder
is two steps down from the top. Any higher is not safe. A person's maximum
safe reaching height is approximately 4 feet higher than the height of
the ladder. For example, a typical person can safely reach an 8 foot ceiling
on a 4 foot ladder.
Load Capacity
Ladders are typically designed to hold a specific amount of weight. Ladders
are usually rated in terms of the maximum amount of weight that it can
handle. In fact some ladder manufacturers rate their ladders in terms
of how much weight a single rung on the ladder can bear. A good rule of
thumb is to make sure that a ladder's load capacity is greater than a
person's fully clothed weight plus the weight of any tools and materials
that are carried onto the ladder. Ladders are also designed to handle
the demands of various applications. For example, a ladder used frequently
on a construction site should be stronger and have a corresponding higher
load capacity than a ladder used by a lighter person in a warehouse.
Material
There are really only two ladder materials to choose between: fiberglass
and aluminum. Each material has characteristics which make it best for
certain applications, or one material may simply fit the personal preferences
of the user. Both materials are light making it easy to carry or move
a ladder around. Fiberglass ladders are usually recommended if there is
a remote chance that you will be working with electrical wires, or in
a hostile environment such as exposure to certain chemicals.

Versatility
Its hard to go wrong with a ladder that can be used for a variety
of applications. Versatility, therefore, has to be something to look for
in a ladder. Some of the most popular brand name ladders include Werner,
Little Giant and Cotterman. The Little
Giant Ladder Systems are safe and extremely strong. Made from 6005-T5
aluminum, the same material used in aerospace construction, their ladders
are super strong. Its their versatility, however, that is a real selling
point. Capable of many different configurations, a single ladder combines
24 different ladders into one convenient system.
Ladder Accessories
Ladder Stabilizers: help to steady your ladder in those awkward
locations.
Ladder Platforms: fits on top ladder rung for supporting anything
from paint to people.
Ladder Leg Levelers: helps to balance uneven legs.
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