3 Types of Ladders and Their Parts

by Kevin Smith Author

Ladders - they’re equipment that let someone reach or climb higher. While everyone is most likely familiar with them, not many people know that there are more than 1 type. Learn more about them and ladder parts in Marietta, GA so you can find the right kind.

Step Ladder

When people think of a ladder, this type is usually what comes to mind. It's foldable, portable, and has flat steps. Because it's self-supporting, a person can safely use it by themselves to change light bulbs on ceilings, reach shelves, or hang the star on the top of a Christmas tree.

The following are its parts:

· Side Rails: These are the legs that allow the ladder to stand on its own.

· Steps: These flat blocks between the legs are arranged knees-length apart, which is the ideal distance for climbing.

· Cap: This is the topmost platform of the ladder.

· Shoes: Meanwhile, these are the bottom grip supports at the end.

· Spreaders: These are the supports that lock the side rails into position and prevent them from splitting apart.

Step Stool

This is the step ladder's "younger cousin." It's short, stout, and has a fixed shape. Its sturdiness comes in handy for household tasks, like reaching for items in the cupboard and hanging laundry on the clothesline. As for its parts, it's similar to its "older cousin" just much shorter - a pair of side rails, two steps, shoes, and spreaders.

Extension Ladder

If you want to be on even higher ground, this one is for you. Unlike the previous types mentioned, the extension ladder needs external support, like a wall, to lean on. The reason for its name is its original height doubles when extended. It’s ideal for cleaning your gutters, repairing your roof, reconnecting wires on a post, or saving your cat from a tall tree.

This ladder is comprised of:

· Base: This is the section that doesn't move.

· Fly: This part slides up or down and is connected to the base.

· Rungs: Instead of broad and flat, these steps are round with thin footings. This shape allows the ladder's two main sections (the base and the fly) to be light and unobstructed.

· Rope and Pulley: This is the mechanism that moves the fly.

· Locks: These are hinges in the rungs that hold the fly in position.

The step, extension, and step stool are the most common ladders you can find. They can be used to reach your cupboard, ceiling, or even your roof. If you're looking for the right ladder for the job, you can buy any one of these or augment yours using new ladder parts in Marietta, GA.