Answers to the questions we are asked most about our ladders.
Which ladder do I need to reach my gutters?
On a typical two-storey house, gutters are about 5m to 6m high, but measure your own house first. Choose a ladder whose reach up the wall (in the specification tables) is a little more than the height you need. See Which ladder do I need?
How do I measure the height of my house?
- Measure the height of one brick course and multiply by the number of courses up to where you need to reach, or
- add together the floor-to-ceiling heights of each floor, plus a little extra for the floor between them.
How far from the wall should the base be?
Use the 1-in-4 rule: 1m out from the wall for every 4m up. This sets the ladder at about 75°.
What do "extended height" and "free-standing height" mean?
Extended height (or open length) is the ladder's full length when used as a leaning ladder. Free-standing height is how tall it stands when used as a step ladder (A-frame).
Is the stabiliser bar removable?
Yes, for storage and transport. Always refit it before use. On stair combination ladders, remove the white protective bungs before fitting the stabiliser bar.
Can I take a section off and use it as a single ladder?
- Trade Master Pro 3 Section extension ladders: the top section comes off on models up to 6.26m. On 7.11m and 7.96m models it can't.
- Trade Master Pro and Stair 3 Section combination ladders: the top section comes off on models up to 10 rung.
- 2-section ladders: no. The sections are joined by a safety strap.
Which ladders can I use on stairs?
The 2 and 3 Section Stair Combination, the 3 Way Combi Stair Ladder and the Multi Purpose ladders. Trade Master Pro combination ladders are not for stairs. To choose a stair ladder, measure vertically from where the feet will sit on the stairs to the height you need and compare it with the free-standing height.
Is it safe to stand on the top of a platform step ladder?
Yes, on platform step ladders, because the platform has a knee rail for support. On ordinary step ladders, never stand on the top step or tray.
How high can I reach from a platform step ladder?
Add your height to the platform height. The working heights in the tables assume a typical adult.
Can I use a tripod ladder on slopes or hard ground?
- 1 Leg and 3 Leg Trade Master tripods: yes, the legs adjust for slopes and have auto-locking clips. Free rubber feet are supplied for hard ground.
- Home Master Fixed Tripod: level ground only. It has a ground claw and rubber foot.
What roof pitch do roof ladders work on?
The 2 Section Professional Roof Ladder works on pitches from 25° to 45°. It arrives with the hooks unfitted, to avoid damage in transit; fit them with the fixings supplied.
Can wooden pole ladders be cut to size?
Yes. Cut through the stiles. They are treated with two coats of preservative, certified to BS2037 and rated 175kg.
Can I store my ladder outside?
Yes. Aluminium ladders won't rust, but a cover will help keep them in good condition.
Do you sell spare parts for ladders?
Yes. See Ladder accessories and spare parts, or How to order a spare part.
Related articles
- Extension ladders: models, sizes and specifications
- Combination, stair and multi-purpose ladders
- Step ladders: models, sizes and specifications
- Tripod ladders: models, sizes and specifications
- Roof, conservatory, surveyor and pole ladders
- Using your ladder safely
Still need help?
Call 0333 006 9776 (Mon–Fri 9am–4.30pm, Sat–Sun 10am–2pm) or send us a request.