How to choose a ladder

Choosing the right ladder involves considering various factors, and the material of the ladder is a crucial aspect. Different materials offer varying levels of strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.

man removing packages from shelf while standing part way up ladder

Step 1. Consider the Ladder Material

  • Powder-coated steel ladders are corrosion-resistant and work well in dry areas, with load capacities ranging from 450 to 800 lbs. They are component-based and replaceable parts.
  • Aluminum ladders are lightweight, suitable for indoor and outdoor use, but not around electricity. They have a 350 lbs. load capacity.
  • Hybrid ladders combine aluminum and powder-coated steel for lightweight maneuverability and strength, with a 450 lbs. weight capacity.
  • Stainless steel ladders are durable and corrosion-resistant, ideal for various environments, including food and marine. They're easy to clean and maintain, with replaceable parts.
color of ladder material types

Step 2. Tread Types

  • Perforated Step Tread: Economical and provides excellent slip resistance. This tread is used extensively in retail and storeroom applications. Available in Steel, Aluminum (Tri-Arc and Hybrid Ladders), and Stainless Steel (Ballymore).
  • Expanded Metal Step Tread: This aggressive tread is ideal for warehouse or retail applications. This design is self-cleaning, allowing foot debris to fall through the tread. Available in Steel Only (Ballymore)
  • Serrated Grating Tread: This is the most aggressive tread and is designed for the shop floor or any industrial application where maximum slip resistance is required. Available in Steel, Aluminum (Tri-Arc), and Stainless Steel (Ballymore)
  • Abrasive Mat Tread: A solid steel step with a Non-Skid Abrasive Mat. Ideal for retail applications. Available in Steel Only
  • Ribbed Tread: Economical aluminum tread. Available in Aluminum Only.
patterns of all tread types

Step 3. Specialty and Custom Ladders

We offer specialty solutions to meet your specific requirements. Standard options include deep top steps, all-Directional capability, Employee Only signage, exits on the ladder (front or rear), custom colors (Ballymore only), etc. If these options do not align with your specific needs, please feel free to contact us for further assistance with a custom order.

assorted additions to different ladders

Step 4. Platform Height

Determine both your working and platform height dimensions, so you are able to figure the number of steps you will need. Select platform height based on operations to be performed or weight and bulk of object to be carried. The maximum convenient working height is generally 5 - 6 feet above the top step or platform.

top step height and height at person's waist while standing on top step

Step 5. Ceiling Height

Also consider the ceiling height. Minimum ceiling height should be 6 - 7 feet above the top step or platform.

ladder well below ceiling height

Step 6. Step Width

This will depend on your surroundings. Is this being used outdoors? In a warehouse? In a manufacturing facility? Standard widths are 16”, 24” and 36”. In larger ladders, choose a wide ladder over a narrow one if space permits. For very bulky loads, consider a stairway slope ladder and/or deeper top steps.

distance between runners on side of ladder

Step 7. Aisle Space and Other Obstructions

Ask yourself: Will people pass the ladder in an aisle? Where will it be stored when not in use and is there enough space to accommodate? Always consider limitations on ladder dimensions imposed by doorways, overhead obstructions, corners to be turned, etc.

plenty of clearance in aisle when turning ladder

Step 8. Locking Mechanisms

  • Lift Assist Lockstep (Patented Ballymore only)
    Safest and most durable lock step on the market today. Apply weight to the steps and the ladder automatically drops the front feet to the ground securing the ladder for safe climbing.
  • Weight Actuated Lockstep (Patented Ballymore only)
    This Patented state of the art lock step automatically actuates when weight is applied to the stair section.
  • Standard Lockstep
    Ideal for applications over 5 steps. These ladders are raised into the rolling position when the lift bar is depressed. To release the lock step, step on the release bar in front of the first step.
  • Spring Loaded Casters
    Ideal for shorter ladders 5 steps and below. On this style ladder, the wheels retract under the user’s weight securing the ladder to the floor.
various locking mechanisms at base of ladder
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