Ladder materials play a vital role in picking the right ladder for the job.
Undoubtedly, a ladder is a must-have asset to anyone who works with ladders. Different types of ladders are available today. But do you know what the different types of materials ladder made from are?
Modern ladders come in various designs and are made of different materials. When selecting a ladder for your job, it’s essential to know the benefits of each type.
So, we like to inform our readers of different types of ladder materials and their merits and of course demerits (if any).
Read Along!
Types Of Ladder Materials- Advantages & Disadvantages
The four most popular materials for ladder include:
- Timber/ Wood
- Aluminum
- Fiberglass
- Steel
*** There are also ladders made from plastics and ropes.
#Timber/ Wood
Timber/wood is one of the most common materials used for making ladders. As wood is a readily available and inexpensive material, wood ladders are by far the most affordable next to ropes and plastic ladders. For this reason, wooden ladders are among the popular choices for small business owners and homeowners.
Some timber ladders are heavier than other types of ladders made from other materials. In fact, this makes them safer and sturdier for those tough jobs. The natural durability of wood provides this type of ladder an impressively long lifespan as long as you take proper care of them.
Although wood ladders are non-conductive, some may feature metal fasteners. These make them not perfect for electrical work.
Advantages
- Non-conductive of electricity
- Resistant to heat (obviously not to open flame)
- Disadvantages of timber
- Not perfect for industrial or commercial applications
- Prone to rot and warp
Disadvantages
- Not perfect for industrial or commercial applications
- Prone to rot and warp
Wood Vs. Fiberglass
| Timber Ladders | Fiberglass ladders |
|---|---|
| Cheaper than fiberglass | Somewhat pricier than timber |
| Lighter than fiberglass ladder | Heavier than timber ladders |
#Aluminum
Aluminum ladder is the best option for those quick little DIY fixes. This type of ladder is also highly versatile from the construction point of view.
Aluminum ladders come with many advantages. They are lighter than fiberglass and timber counterparts. So, this type of ladder is easier and safer to handle for a single person.
Aluminum ladders are durable, rust and adverse weather resistant. So, you can store them outdoors with no adverse effects. Finally, they are affordable.
Advantages
- Lightweight and practical
- Easy to transport
- Corrosion- and moisture resistant
- Non-magnetic
Disadvantages
- Electricity and heat conductive
- Not safe to use near any electrical sources
- Prone to bend under heavy pressure
- Not ideal for very heavy-duty weighted projects
Fiberglass vs Aluminum Ladder
| Aluminum | Fiberglass |
|---|---|
| Cheaper than fiberglass ladders | Somewhat pricier than aluminum ladders |
| More lightweight than fiberglass ladders | Slight heavier than aluminum ladders |
| Are less likely prone to crack in comparison with fiberglass ladders | More prone to crack than aluminum ladder |
| More likely to bend in comparison with fiberglass ladders | Less likely to bend in comparison with aluminum ladders |
| Less stronger than fiberglass counterpart | Stronger than aluminum counterpart |
| Less weather resistant than aluminum | More weather resistant |
| Not electrical shocks resistant | Electricity and electrical shocks resistant |
| Less flame resistant than fiberglass ladders | More flame resistant than aluminum ladders |
#Fiberglass
Fiberglass is the newest material in ladder manufacturing industries. This type of ladder features some distinctive features. This ladder type is considered to be the safest option.
In some cases, fiberglass ladders are stronger than aluminum ladders. In addition, unlike aluminum, fiberglass ladders are less likely to weaken or bend in hot temperatures.
Advantages
- Moisture and corrosion resistant
- Non-conductors of heat and electricity
- Built to last many years
- Safer option for jobs that involve electricity
- Perfect to use in commercial or industrial purposes
Disadvantages
- Heavier than other types of ladder
- Difficult to handle by one person
- Under excess pressure, this type of ladder may snap
- Not well-suited for heavy-duty weighted projects
- More expensive
#Steel
Steel ladders compete with fiberglass and aluminum ladders for lightweight honors. Steel is the most durable material for ladders. And ladder made with steel is very safe to use even in the rough environment of constructions and warehouses. That’s why steel ladders are the all-time favorite of most professionals who need ladders in their work. But this type of ladder is not an ideal choice for the DIYer.
Advantages
- Well-suited to heavy-duty weighted projects
- Resilient and more robust than aluminum and fiberglass ladders
- Affordable than fiberglass and aluminum ladders
Disadvantages
- Conductors of both heat and electricity
- Not moisture or corrosion-resistant
- Prone to rusting
- Heavier than aluminum and fiberglass counterpart
Hope, this article has provided you a bit of insight into some key differences among a few most common ladder materials.
Remember!
A ladder made with different types of materials has its particular value on the job. And materials influences not only ladder safety and durability but also ladder price.
So, choose wisely!
My brother would like to buy a ladder that he may place in his loft because this will suit its aesthetic look. Well, thank you for sharing here that some of its materials may include steel, fiberglass, Timber, and Aluminum. It’s great to learn that wood is resistant to heat.
Thanks