An aluminium ladder is light, does not rust and is easy to carry up a stairwell. The right type depends on the height you need, how often you use it and where you can store it.
Know the main types
Each design suits a different kind of work.
- Single ladder: simple and strong, leaned against a wall for general work.
- Step ladder: self-supporting, ideal indoors for painting and shelves.
- Telescopic ladder: slides down to a compact size for easy storage and transport.
- Multi-purpose or extension ladder: reaches higher and can be set up in several shapes.
Work out the height you need
Your working reach is your standing height plus the ladder height minus about one metre. Never stand on the top two steps. Choose a ladder tall enough that you can work from a safe step, and not from the top.
Check the load rating
Add your own weight and the weight of your tools and materials, then choose a ladder rated above that. Industrial duty ladders are built for daily site use, while light domestic ladders are meant for occasional jobs.
Set up and use it safely
Place the ladder on firm, level ground. For a leaning ladder, use the one-in-four rule: the foot sits one metre out for every four metres of height. Keep three points of contact, and never use a metal ladder near live electrical wiring.
Frequently asked questions
Is an aluminium ladder safe to use near electricity?
No. Aluminium conducts electricity. Use a fibreglass ladder near live wiring.
Which ladder is best for the home?
A step ladder for indoor jobs, or a telescopic ladder if storage space is limited.
How tall a ladder do I need for a two-storey house?
Usually an extension ladder, chosen so the top reaches about one metre above the point you are working at.
About the author
About the author
Farida Behrainwala
Content Writer, Co-Founder of Safarmarq
Farida Behrainwala is a specialised content writer and co-founder of Safarmarq, the revenue-led marketing agency behind the Golden Sword Hardware website. She turns product details and technical specifications into clear, practical guides that help buyers choose with confidence, from smart locks and power tools to safety gear and camping equipment. Alongside writing, she leads product management and social, graphic and video content, so every guide on this blog is written to be found on search, easy to follow and useful on the day you shop.
