Stepladder, extension or telescopic ladder: which one to choose?

The stepladder is for working on a free surface without leaning on anything: it opens out and stands up by itself. The extension ladder and the multi-section ladder lean against a wall or an edge and reach higher. The telescopic ladder shortens for transport and extends to several heights. The combination ladder combines several configurations. In the collection you find maximum heights from under 2 m to over 11 m and capacities from 100 to 150 kg, with one model up to 350 kg.

The types

• Stepladder (A-frame): two sections that open out like a pair of compasses, with or without a work platform. It must be used fully open and with the spreaders taut.
• Single or leaning ladder: a single section, to be leaned against a wall. It must extend beyond the landing point.
• Extension ladder (multi-section): two or three sliding sections that extend. Like the 3-section ladder V3E 100% fibreglass Svelt.
• Telescopic ladder: compact when closed, adjustable in height. For those who often carry it in the van, like the telescopic step platform Svelt.
• Combination ladder: used in several ways, as a stepladder, leaning, or with platforms. An example is the variable-incline ladder Optima Svelt.
• Household ladder: designed for occasional use at home, with simpler capacity and equipment than a professional ladder.
• Spare parts: support feet and other components to keep a ladder you already own in good order.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

• Maximum height and closed height: the first tells you where you can reach, the second whether the ladder fits in the vehicle or in the room where you store it. In the collection the closed height ranges from just over 1 m to over 4 m.
• Number of steps: from 2-3 steps for small jobs to 12 and over for the tallest ladders. More steps mean more height, but also more weight.
• Capacity: 100, 120 or 150 kg for most models. The total weight counts, tools and material included.
• Ladder weight: from about 4 to 19 kg in the models listed. If you use it on your own and carry it up stairs, it is worth saving a few kilos.
• Material: aluminium for lightness, fibreglass for working near live parts, steel for strength.
• Standards: EN 131 is the standard for portable ladders; certifications include TÜV tests. Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008 art. 113 also lays down rules of use. The warranty varies from 1 to 15 years.

Common mistakes

• Using the stepladder closed, leaning it like a single ladder.
• Standing on the top step or on the top of the ladder: you always need at least three points of contact and something to hold on to.
• Leaning the extension ladder at the wrong angle or without it extending beyond the landing point.
• Choosing an aluminium ladder to work near electrical installations.
• Moving the ladder with a person on it, or not checking the feet and locks before use.

Frequently asked questions

Aluminium or fibreglass: which is better?

Aluminium is lighter and is the most common choice. Fibreglass is heavier but does not conduct electricity: it is the one to prefer if you work close to electrical installations.

What angle should a leaning ladder be set at?

The distance from the wall to the base should be about a quarter of the height, and the ladder must extend beyond the landing point.

Is a household ladder fine on a building site?

No. On a building site or in a workshop you need a professional ladder compliant with EN 131 and suited to daily use, with a sturdier capacity and construction.

How tall should the ladder be?

Measure the height at which you need to work and choose a ladder that lets you work without having to climb onto the top steps or the top of the ladder.

You will find all the models in the Professional ladders: stepladders, extension and telescopic ladders collection; to choose height and material for your job, request a quote or ask the AMES technicians for advice.