How to Choose the Right Combination Ladder

Are you looking to buy a combination ladder? There's no denying the fact that combination ladders are versatile. You can use them as a step ladder or an extension ladder. Combination ladders live up to their namesake by combining these two common types of ladders into a single product.

While all combination ladders can be converted from a step ladder to an extension ladder and vise versa, though, not all of them are the same. There are different types of combination ladders. When shopping for a combination ladder, you should consider the following tips to choose the right one.

Consider the Material

You can find combination ladders in different materials. Some of them are made of aluminum, for instance. Aluminum combination ladders are lightweight, durable and relatively inexpensive. Other combination ladders are made of fiberglass. Fiberglass combination ladders offer many of the same benefits as aluminum combination ladders. Fiberglass, though, is typically stronger than aluminum, making it a popular material for combination ladders.

Maximum Height

Don't forget to consider the maximum height when choosing a combination ladder. When used as an extension ladder, combination ladders can be extended. You can make them taller, for instance, to reach a specific working surface, such as a roof. Nonetheless, all combination ladders have a maximum height to which they can be extended. You'll need to choose a combination ladder that's capable of reaching the working surface for which you intend to use it.

Strong Rivets

You should choose a combination ladder that's made with strong rivets. Rivets are fasteners that hold the ladder's parts together. Some combination ladders have aluminum rivets, whereas others have steel rivets. Steel rivets are about 30% stronger than aluminum rivets.

Locking Mechanism

Another feature to look for in a combination ladder is a locking mechanism. You should be able to lock the combination ladder in place after extending it. All combination ladders should feature some type of locking mechanism. The locking mechanism should provide a secure extension so that it the combination ladder doesn't fall during use.

Load Capacity

Finally, you should consider the load capacity when choosing a combination ladder. Also known as the duty rating, it's the maximum amount of weight that the combination ladder can safely support. Load capacity isn't the weight of the combination ladder itself. Rather, it's a measurement of how much weight you can place on the combination ladder without it potentially breaking or failing.