Ladder Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Ladder for Every Task

When it comes to home improvement and DIY projects, the right ladder isn’t just a convenience—it’s a safety essential. Whether you’re cleaning gutters, painting walls, repairing a roof, or simply hanging a picture, choosing the correct ladder for the height, surface, and nature of your task can save you time and prevent accidents.

In this comprehensive ladder buying guide, we’ll explore the different ladder types—including step ladders, roof ladders, combination ladders, and work platforms—and explain how to choose the safest, most efficient option for your next project.

Safety First: What to Look for Before You Buy

No matter which ladder you choose, safety should always come first.

• Standards: Only buy ladders that conform to British or European safety standards. Look for clear labeling showing the maximum load capacity.

• Condition: If you hire or borrow a ladder, check for dents, splits, and worn or damaged non-slip feet.

• Angle: The safest leaning angle is one measure out from the wall for every four measures of wall height. For example, if you want to reach a 5.2m roof eave, place the ladder’s base 1.3m from the wall. A quick test is to stand with your toes touching the ladder’s feet—if you can grab the rung at shoulder height, the angle is correct.

Step Ladders – The Indoor & Light Outdoor Essential

Step ladders are ideal for everyday home maintenance and light outdoor work, such as cleaning windows or hanging decorations. Most step ladders reach up to 3 metres, making them perfect for ceilings and ground-floor windows.

Tips for safe use:

• Always face the work area to maintain stability.

• Use on firm, level ground—place a board under the feet on soft surfaces.

• Never stand on the top platform; use a taller ladder if needed.

• Keep one hand on the guard rail and both feet on the treads.

If you only need to work just above head height, consider a step-up—a smaller, steady platform, often with a handle for extra balance.

Standard Ladders – For Greater Reach

When a step ladder won’t reach, it’s time to consider a standard ladder. If you’re working on uneven ground, stabilisers are essential to prevent rocking. Avoid leaning ladders directly on guttering—use a stand-off bracket to keep the ladder secure and protect your home.

Roof Ladders – A Must for Roof Repairs

A roof ladder is essential for any roof-related work. Designed with wheels on one side and hooks on the other, roof ladders roll up the slope and hook securely over ridge tiles. This setup prevents tile damage and keeps you safe.

Never walk directly on roof tiles—they can break and cause you to slip. For bigger roof jobs, scaffolding is a legal requirement.

Extension Ladders – Flexible Height Solutions

For outdoor projects at varying heights, an extension ladder is a practical choice.

• Design: Usually in two or three sliding sections, allowing for easy storage in a garage or shed.

• Height guide: Choose a ladder that extends at least 1 metre beyond your working point. For example, a 7–8 metre ladder is suitable for most two-storey homes.

• Tip: If storage is limited, opt for a triple-extension model for maximum reach in a compact size.

Combination Ladders – One Ladder, Many Uses

A combination ladder offers multiple configurations: step ladder, extension ladder, stairwell ladder, or low-level work platform. This makes them perfect for frequent DIY tasks like painting, decorating, and cleaning.

When using on stairs, secure the ladder and, if possible, clamp wooden strips across stair treads to prevent slipping.

Work Platforms & Scaffold Towers – Large-Scale Access

For bigger jobs like painting a high ceiling or repairing walls up to 9 metres, a work platform or scaffold tower is the safest choice. These lightweight, alloy-framed structures feature guard rails, lockable wheels, and stabilisers for secure use.

Benefits:

• Cover a large work area without moving equipment constantly.

• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor home improvement projects.

• Portable and easy to assemble.

Final Thoughts

From simple step ladders for quick indoor jobs to roof ladders for safe rooftop access, the right ladder can make any project more efficient and much safer. Always consider the task, working height, and surface before choosing from the many ladder types available. And remember: no matter how good your ladder is, using it correctly is the most important step in ensuring your safety during any home improvement project.