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What type of step ladder should I buy?

Should I buy a wooden, fiberglass or aluminum step ladder? Be careful of dad's old rickety wooden ladder. Many of the old wooden ladders are lightweight and unsafe above the third step. They tend to rock back and forth, making them unstable. Werner, however, makes heavy-duty wooden ladders which maintain the integrity of their form despite frequent use and therefore remain stable. I've had my 6-foot wooden Werner for twenty years, use it almost daily and couldn't feel safer. The disadvantage of a wooden ladder is that, compared to fiberglass and aluminum it is the heaviest and most cumbersome to move. A word of caution--don't leave a wooden ladder out in the elements because moisture will cause it to swell and rot. Additionally do not use wooden ladders near power lines or exposed electrical wires or outlets because although wood is not a conductor, the metal parts which bind the ladder are.

 How to Pick the Best Extension Ladder for the Job

Fiberglass ladders are the type of ladder used almost exclusively on construction sites. I, as a journeyman painter of more than 20 years, have worked in all types of settings and weather conditions and I believe fiberglass is the optimal material for a step ladder. There are many good fiberglass ladders. Ladders made of fiberglass are of medium weight and readily movable yet fiberglass is rugged and durable. A fiberglass ladder will withstand a reasonable amount of rough handling and still maintain its integrity both in terms of shape and stability. Fiberglass also has two advantages over aluminum: it does not corrode and it does not conduct electricity, making it preferable for exterior use and safer use near power lines or electrical wires and outlets during a home repair or remodel. Aluminum ladders are fine for light-duty use. My experience with aluminum step ladders, however, is that under heavy use, they bend easily and the legs tend to twist. Another concern with aluminum is that it is an excellent conductor of electricity; therefore these ladders should never be used near electrical panels or exposed wires and outlets. Duty ratings: It is always advisable when working on a ladder to adhere to OSHA's safety guidelines, even if your project seems simple and straightforward. Always remember that the maximum load referred to in these ratings includes your body weight in addition to the weight of your tools and materials:

Duty Ratings: Always remember that the maximum load referred to in these ratings includes your body weight in addition to the weight of your tools and materials.

Type III--200 pounds--Household;

Type II--225 pounds--Professional;

Type I--250 pounds--Commercial;

Type IA--300 pounds--Industrial;

Type IAA--375 pounds--Industrial