Ladders are required by both contractors and homeowners. Traditional ladders, however, have certain drawbacks. They are bulky, heavy and require storage space slightly larger than the ladder itself. This makes them difficult to transport, store and use, especially in confined spaces like apartments and lofts.
Telescopic ladders are the new buzzword for DIY enthusiasts and tradespeople alike. A multipurpose component for both the workplace and at home; telescopic ladders are light in weight but very sturdy. A good quality telescopic ladder will last for a very long time and will require minimum maintenance. One of the biggest, if not the biggest advantage of telescopic ladders is the compactness when not extended. Thus storage space for the ladder is no longer a criterion in selecting the ladder length.
What is a telescopic ladder?
An innovative design that allows the ladder to be extended nearly four times its collapsed length, telescopic ladders are usually made of aluminum. The collapsed length usually will vary between thirty and thirty-six inches. Extended lengths vary, depending on the model. Most ladders are lightweight, making it possible to be carried by a single person.
Benefits of telescopic ladders
Telescopic ladders offer many advantages over traditional ladders. The compact nature of telescopic ladders makes them easy to store, even in an apartment. Telescopic ladders are not as vulnerable to the elements as traditional ladders. This is partly because they can be stored inside and also due to the material used in making them. Much lighter than traditional ladders, telescopic ladders are easier to carry and transport. The telescoping factor makes the ladder very versatile and a single ladder can be used to cover work at different heights. Telescopic ladders are very sturdy and thus ensure safety for the user.
Using a Telescopic Ladder Safely
Safety is of paramount importance when working with any tool. Ladders, if not used correctly can cause accidents. Telescopic ladders feature safety aspects that revolve around their moving parts, steps, and locking mechanism. However, it is important to follow some safety instructions when using telescopic ladders. Check the rungs, stiles, and feet of the ladder regularly to ensure that they are not loose. Ensure that the ladder is resting against a solid surface and check the locking mechanism to ensure that they are locked correctly before you start climbing the ladder. The angle at which the ladder rests against the support is very important. Make sure that the angle is neither too upright nor too flat. One way to ensure this is to check that the feet of the ladder are resting securely on the floor. Once you are on the ladder, try not to touch the locking mechanism. Avoid impacts when extending or closing the ladder and always store the collapsed ladder in a dry place to reduce the chances of rust.
Things to Check When Purchasing a Telescopic Ladder
Numerous companies are offering telescopic ladders – both online and in stores. The most important factor to consider when purchasing a telescopic ladder is safety. Other factors that are important include material used, locking mechanism, weight, and maximum height that the ladder can be extended to. To compare different manufacturers and ladders, you can read the details in Best Telescopic Ladder Reviews 2019 – Stay Safe, Be Smart, where several important aspects have been taken into consideration for rating the ladders available in the market.
DIY enthusiasts and contractors have their own trusted hardware shop. This could be a good place to start. A thorough inspection of the locking mechanism, rungs and feet will help ensure that you buy a ladder that meets the safety standards. However, if your trusted store does not keep telescopic ladders, you could buy them online.
Safety standards can also be ensured by purchasing telescopic ladders that are certified as having met the EN-131 standards. Although this is not a legal requirement for telescopic ladder manufacturers, it does guarantee the safety and reliability of the product. The EN-13 safety standard sets minimum precedents for the construction quality of the product, clarity of instructions for operating the ladder, load-bearing weight norms and overall performance of the product. However, since the EN-13 is not mandatory for ladder standards, a telescopic ladder without an EN-131 certification would not necessarily be sub-standard.
The Final Word
The most important factor when working with ladders – both traditional and telescopic is safety. The best ladders would not be able to prevent an accident if they are not used safely and properly.
