A ladder is a collective set of steps, linked vertically via two horizontal rods. These steps are called rungs and the rods supporting them are called stiles. A ladder is commonly used for climbing at home or at work. There are two types of ladders — rigid or hard material ladders and rope ladders. Rigid ladders are generally portable, but are sometimes fixed permanently to buildings or structures.
Ladders come in variety of styles and heights. They can either be rented or purchased. Styles include stool, foldable and single length ladders. Each ladder has a defined weight that it can support and come in a choice of materials like aluminum, fiberglass, steel, wood and iron. Fiberglass ladders are the strongest and most durable. Although a bit heavier than aluminum, they do not present any risk while doing electrical work.
Rigid ladders serve a lot of purposes. They are used for attics, pools, docks, libraries, shops, etc. They are available in many styles. Besides the simple and straight fixed ladder, an extension ladder is also useful. It is divided into parts that are easily foldable or expandable to provide double the height. The stepladder is an inverted v shape and fixed from the center. Platform stepladders are a refinement of stepladders, since they have a comfortable horizontal platform at the top. Telescopic ladders are a great invention. The stiles of this type of ladder can slide inside each other for minimum storage. Ladders with a hook at the top provided for better grip are called roof ladders and hook ladders. Rope ladders are useful where storage space is very limited, or the weight has to be kept to a minimum. Rope ladders come with rigid or flexible rungs. It requires specialized skill to climb a rope ladder, since it tends to swing freely like a pendulum and is not stationary.
It is advisable to take precautions while climbing a ladder. The ladder should be placed at a calculated distance from the wall on which it is leaning. It is recommended that for best stability, this distance from the bottom of the ladder should be one quarter of the height of the ladder. It is a good practice to use ladder stabilizers. They enhance the ladder’s grip on the ground surface. To avoid unnecessary falls from the ladders, one must place it properly and wear clothes that will not get in the way of stepping. Ladders can be found in hardware shops or on the Internet.
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Library Ladders
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Libraries contain huge stock of books, periodicals and information that needs to be accessed by a great number of its members. To be able to reach items efficiently, a library ladder is a must. Library ladder help retrieve books, periodicals and magazines that would otherwise...
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Extension Ladders
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Extension ladders are ladders whose length can be extended for reaching higher areas. Generally, they can increase up to almost double their height. In an extension ladder, two ladders of the same size are combined, and then one is slid up to increase the height....
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Boat Ladders
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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A boat ladder is an essential accessory for boats. They help in climbing in and out of the boats. Boat ladders can assist in climbing in the boat from two ways; one from the deck mount and two from the side. They come in a...
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Dock Ladders
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Dock ladders are used on docks to transfer material or people from the boat to the dock. They consist of several straight, simple steps. A dock ladder needs to be permanently fixed to the docks that are wooden platforms, sea walls or stationary docks with...
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Attic Ladders
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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An attic ladder is a set of folding steps that can be accessed easily, and folded up when not in use. For homes, garages and warehouses, it is preferred to use this ladder rather than a staircase since it frees up ground space when not...
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Pool Ladders
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Pool ladders are installed in almost all swimming pools. They are used to climb in and out of the pool. There is a wide collection of ladders available for both in-ground and aboveground pools. They are available in aluminum, white vinyl, structural plastic, resin and...
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Step Ladders
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Stepladders are ladders with wide steps that are specifically designed to provide foot comfort while climbing or standing. Stepladders are mostly used for painting, repairs, industrial work and household jobs. They come in an A-shape model with either one side having steps or both sides...
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Aluminum Ladder Racks
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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There are several benefits to aluminum ladder racks. They are a third of the weight of steel, and do not burden the vehicle with extra weight. Furthermore, they are rust-free and have a relatively longer life. The following are two of the many high-quality aluminum...
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Ladder Racks For Pickup Trucks
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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A number of accessories can be fitted onto pickup trucks for carrying different items such as ladders, kayaks, canoes, and lumber. These utilities are necessary for camping activities and are commonly used by sportsmen and artisans. Sidemounted ladder racks are fitted to the side of...
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Ladder Racks
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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It is imperative for some people to have ladder racks on their vehicle. These racks carry more than mere ladders; boards, long pipes, tools and other items are easily accommodated. Rather than having your tools and other materials sliding at the back of the truck,...