Telescoping Ladder: A Lesson In Convenience
Telescoping ladders were invented for one reason, and that was to be convenient. First and foremost, they are easy to transport. Some of these ladders will fold down to as low as 2 and 1/2 feet and weigh as little as 20 lbs, a size that is easy for anyone to fit in the trunk of their car! Additionally, telescoping ladders are easy to store; keep one in your pantry, your coat closet, or leave it in your vehicle; it’s not going to take up much space. The smallest ones can even be purchased with a carrying case.
When choosing which telescoping ladder is right for your needs, there are a few things you should know. First of all, there are a couple of different styles of ladders that fall into the telescoping ladder category. One style is the kind where you have a typical looking, (A-frame) step ladder that is three or four rungs high. On these you can pull the hinge on top up to extend the ladder and give you more rungs, up to double what you started with. For easier storage and transport, of course, you leave the ladder in it’s smallest position.
Another style of telescoping ladder is one where almost all the rungs collapse down on each other with each style (sides of the ladder) between the rungs sliding down into the style below it. When collapsed, these ladders can be as short as 2.5 feet and extend up to over 12 feet, or anywhere in between as each of the styles will lock individually allowing you to choose exactly how tall you need your ladder to be.
After you’ve decided on the style of telescoping ladder that is right for you, make sure to check the weight limit on the ladders you’re looking at. Most will hold at least 250 lbs, and many up to 300 lbs, but with so many weight bearing mechanisms on each ladder, it’s a good idea to double check the capacity.
Finally, expect to spend anywhere from $100 to over $600 on the ladder you choose.