Metal ladders: what is it, how to choose and use?

A stepladder is a very useful and necessary device in the household, which simplifies the solution of many everyday tasks. Many well-known companies produce similar products.

Stepladders are special portable ladder models, which can be folded and unfolded based on the tasks assigned to them in a particular situation. The designs of these products may vary depending on their dimensions and modifications. Modern ladders are produced from various materials. Models made of metal are rightfully recognized as the strongest and most durable. Their popularity is due to excellent performance and ease of use.

Modern staircases made of steel or aluminum are in great demand. These devices are very convenient and reliable to use due to their main characteristics.

• There must be a gap between the side rails at the top of any ladder.which is 11.5 inches (or 29.21 cm) in accordance with European standards.
• All modern ladders must be equipped with strong metal spacers or reliable locking elements of suitable parameters so that all sections are well kept open.
• Steps of a metal staircase must be made of non-slip or embossed materials, otherwise the design will be unsafe.
• Platform width in such designs, from 45 cm is allowed.
• Modern sliding structures made of metal are equipped with special clamps designed to prevent arbitrary folding of stairs and stepladders during work.
• In metal models equipped with casters, there are always special locking latches that prevent the rollers from moving spontaneously.
• At the level of the lower abdomen For the user of the ladder, most designs have a special safety arc. It is needed to securely hold the ladder. Models with this part are often equipped with an additional platform.

Most often, there are metal stepladders on sale, consisting of 2-3 sections. Each of them has from 6 to 8 steps. However, experts say that it is quite possible to get by with a product equipped with 4-7 steps: this will be enough to get to the ceiling in an average apartment.

In many respects, iron ladders are ahead of wooden or plastic structures, which are not designed for frequent use, and they cannot withstand a lot of weight. Metal products have many advantages.

• Their main advantages are reliability and durability. Mechanical damage to most of these structures is not terrible, especially if they are produced by well-known companies.
• Many structures are not susceptible to rust.
• Metal models can be used regularly... With frequent use, they do not face rapid wear, they do not begin to creak and become less stable, like, for example, wood products.
• Due to the impressive weight (especially when it comes to the steel model) such structures are very stable.
• Such models can be repaired by yourself.
• These constructs can be used not only in everyday life, but also for professional work.
• The range of products is great: you can find the perfect model for any wallet.

Metal ladders also have their weaknesses.

• Due to the large weight working with them is not very convenient: moving them to a new location can be difficult.
• Aluminum structures can conduct current. In addition, sections of these products can break even with a moderate impact.
• High quality metal models, especially if they are professional, are expensive.
• Wear most often occurs at joints and additional fasteners.

Metal mobile stepladders are different. They have different characteristics depending on the material of manufacture.

Aluminum stepladders are widespread today. These options have the following differences:

• they are characterized by low weight, so they can be easily moved from place to place;
• since aluminum is coated with a natural oxide film, this material becomes more resistant to the formation of destructive corrosion;
• the designs of aluminum ladders are simple and convenient;
• models are versatile and safe.

Steel models of ladders do not differ fundamentally from their aluminum counterparts. However, they more reliable, stronger and more durable... They can withstand more weight, and they are not at all afraid of mechanical damage.

A metal ladder should be selected based on the goals for which you are going to use it. Usually, aluminum models have a higher cost than steel ones, although they are inferior to them in many respects.

• If you plan to work in conditions of small premises, it is worth purchasing an aluminum model. Such structures are easy to fold and unfold, have a low weight, which ensures their high mobility.
• If you are going to do professional work, it is better to buy a reliable steel model. It will be more stable due to the high-strength profile. The service life of this structure will be longer even with frequent use. On such a ladder, it is allowed to work with a hammer drill.
• It is advisable to purchase branded metal stepladders of a suitable size. Worth picking up them in specialized stores if you want to buy a really high-quality, stable and reliable product, safe to use.

Use the metal stepladder correctly, so that all work takes place as safely as possible.

• First you need to inspect the ladder for damage. The structure should not have defects, chips or creases. Check all fasteners: they must be reliable and strong. If there are any problems, the stairs cannot be used for safety reasons.
• Never put a stepladder next to the door leaf.
• Can't go up on a stepladder together at the same time. It is designed for one user only.
• Necessary right determine the form that will be most convenient for carrying out the planned work, and put the structure in the right position. Be sure to check that all existing sections are securely fastened.
• It is advisable to ask someone to back you up while using the ladder.

A metal stepladder requires proper care and storage. Only if all the necessary conditions are met can we talk about the durability of the structure.

• Measure the parameters of the ladder. It is recommended to store it in a dry and clean space, which will not be too narrow and cramped: nothing should put pressure on the structure so as not to provoke its deformation.
• After finishing work be sure to remove all dirt from the product.
• It is recommended to keep the ladders in place.out of reach of children and animals. Even the smallest structures weigh at least 5 kg. If dropped, they can cause serious injury.
• If the ladder is made of metal is stored not in a private house, but in an apartment, it is better to keep it in a closet, pantry, on a balcony, loggia or in a separate closet of suitable sizes.
• Keep a metal stepladder (especially if it is aluminum) as far away from salt water as possible. Under its influence, the structure can begin to rust and become more vulnerable and fragile.

The following video will tell you how to choose a metal stepladder.