A ladder is a critical piece of equipment both at home and at the workplace. We can all agree that this is one piece of equipment that has made working on raised places a lot easier. Ladders come in different styles, weights, sizes as well as materials. Picking a perfect ladder for your job can sometimes be challenging since there are several factors to consider, weight being one of them.
How much does a ladder weigh? Ladders weigh differently depending on height and material used. For example, a 48 feet aluminum ladder weighs about 141 pounds, whereas a 6 feet aluminum ladder weighs 18 pounds.
The material is a crucial determinant of a ladder’s weight. There are five types of materials used to make ladders; Aluminum, wood, plastic, steel, and fiberglass.
While ladders are handy equipment, picking the right one for your intended use is crucial; since it goes a long way in preventing accidental injuries.
There are various types of ladders designed for different purposes, each of them having its pros and cons. This article breaks down the different types of ladders and how much each weighs with respect to height.
What Are The Different Types Of Ladder?
Straight and extension ladders have been predominant for quite a long time. However, there are several other types of ladders suitable for different purposes.
To get your work done safely and efficiently, you need to have the correct ladder type. The right ladder offers you flexibility when working.
Decades ago, ladders were mainly built from wood and were straight in design; however, more robust and durable materials and designs have since been introduced with the technology change. Materials such as fiberglass are well known for their strength and durability. Aluminum, on the other hand, is known for its lightweight nature.
Let’s look at the different types of materials used for ladders in detail:
1. Aluminum Ladders
Aluminum is a popular material in the construction industry. Being a lightweight material, it does well in building portable light-duty ladders.
Aluminum ladders are used for both domestic and commercial purposes. Be cautious not to use them around electric wires.
2. Fiberglass Ladders
Undoubtedly, fiberglass is one of the strongest and durable materials available. It is expensive but worth every penny you spend on it. It gives you value for your money.
For their durability, fiberglass ladders are used at home and for industrial purposes. They make heavy-duty ladders, too, and since fiberglass is a poor conductor of electricity, it is safe to use anywhere.
3. Wooden Ladders
Wood has been in use in the ladder industry for the longest time. It is pretty heavy and can bear heavyweight too. Wood does not conduct electricity; thus, it is suitable for general use. Wood has poor durability; it can easily be damaged by water, and it is average-priced.
4. Steel Ladders
Steel is the most robust material of them all. Steel ladders can bear the heaviest weight; thus, it is most suitable for industrial and warehouse use. It is not a good choice for domestic use. Steel ladders need frequent maintenance and good storage to avoid rust.
5. Plastic Ladders
Plastic is a very delicate material. When making ladders, they are often reinforced with fiberglass to make them stronger.
However, plastic ladders are not strong enough for industrial use. They are suitable for domestic use. They are budget-friendly and designed for light work.
Duty Ratings For Different Types Of Ladders
Apart from the material used, ladders also vary with different duty ratings. This is a universal classification according to the maximum work capacity a given ladder can handle.
Ladders can be classified into five classes of duty ratings:
| Class | Duty Rating | Weight Capacity |
| IAA | Extra Heavy Duty | 375 lbs. |
| IA | Extra Heavy Duty | 300 lbs. |
| I | Heavy Duty | 250 lbs. |
| II | Medium Duty | 225 lbs. |
| III | Light Duty | 200 lbs. |
Different Types Of Ladders On Design And Purpose
As earlier stated, ladders are designed for different purposes. You need to choose a ladder that has been designed to suit your work.
The most common types of ladders in this category are:
1. Straight Ladders
They are also called single ladders. Straight ladders are non-self-standing ladders thus requiring a supporting point at the top end. They are portable but not adjustable.
2. Extension Ladders
Extension ladders are similar to their straight counterparts, but an extension section makes it possible to reach higher heights.
Extension ladders are not self-supporting; they require wall support. They are suitable for high-wall painting, live fence pruning, house roof repair, etc.
3. Telescopic Ladders
Telescopic ladders are similar to straight ladders but foldable and easily portable. These ladders slide in/out on their nodes. This feature offers excellent adjustability and flexibility to the user.
Since they fully stretch to the height of a standard extension ladder, telescopic ladders are often used for industrial purposes.
4. Podium Ladder
Podium ladders are self-supported types of ladders. As the name suggests, podium ladders have a wide area at the top, “podium,” where you can comfortably stand while you work. The podium has enough room to accommodate a toolbox, a can of paint, or anything you’re working with.
5. Multipurpose Ladders
Multipurpose ladders have a unique design and can be modified to suit a specific purpose. You can change this ladder to use as an extension ladder, step ladder, straight ladder, alternative staircase, etc.
Multipurpose ladders are self-supported and robust ladders. They are suitable for construction work, electrical work, etc.
6. Rope Ladders
Rope ladders are the most flexible ladders. These ladders are perfect for emergency cases. For example, in the event of a fire in a building, you can roll it out and escape through the window. Rope ladders are also frequently used for recreation activities such as hiking.
7. Step Stool
A step stool is a short foldable ladder that features two or three steps. Step stools are suitable for short heights, e.g., reaching for a top kitchen shelf without necessarily climbing on the counter, arranging or reaching for a store top shelf, reaching high shelves in a library, etc.
8. Warehouse Ladders
Warehouse ladders are portable and robust ladders used in factories, industries, and warehouses. They have a vast platform at the top and usually a broader base with wheels. Warehouse ladders are super strong and have high safety features.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)
How Much Does a Ladder Weigh?
As earlier stated, several factors determine the weight of a ladder. These factors include height, size, and the build material. Since ladders have different heights, their weight can range from 10 lbs. to 400 lbs.
What Is the Weight of a 6 Ft Ladder?
A 6 feet aluminum ladder with a maximum load capacity of 225 lbs. weighs about 18 lbs. whereas a 6 feet fiberglass ladder, on the other hand, weighs 10 lbs. A same height aluminum ladder with a higher load capacity, 300 lbs., weighs about 32 lbs.
On the other hand, a 6-foot step ladder made of fiberglass that can hold a maximum load of 250 lbs. weighs approximately 22 lbs.
How Much Does a 32-Foot Ladder Weigh?
A 32-foot aluminum extension ladder weighs approximately 67 lbs. with a load capacity of 300 lbs. A similar ladder built from fiberglass weighs 71.5 lbs. with a load capacity of 300 lbs. fiberglass is somehow stronger than Aluminum but heavier in weight.
How Much Does a 40 Ft Ladder Weigh?
A 40-foot aluminum extension ladder weighs about 89.5 lbs. with a load capacity of 300 lbs.
How Much Does a 48-Foot Ladder Weigh?
An aluminum extension ladder with a height of 48-foot weighs about 142 lbs. This ladder can hold up to 300 lbs. load capacity. A 250 lbs. load capacity ladder with the same height weighs about 117 lbs.
How Much Does a Wood Ladder Weigh?
Wood ladders are usually heavy. They are the heaviest amongst the three. For example, an 8-foot wooden ladder weighs approximately 40 lbs. A fiberglass ladder with the same height weighs about 26 lbs. An 8-foot Aluminum ladder is the lightest at 22 lbs.
Conclusion
If You have been reading this article, you have a detailed understanding of the different types of ladders available. We hope you are now able to pick one that suits your needs.
Aluminum ladders are light in weight, making them portable, but don’t forget they do conduct electricity thus should not be used close to electric wires.
Fiberglass makes the most robust ladders for both domestic and industrial use. Fiberglass ladders will be your best pick if your job demands lifting heavyweights.
On the other hand, wood is quite heavy and may not suit your portability needs. Steel ladders are pretty heavy and durable, making them suitable for industrial use.
If you’re looking for a light-duty home use ladder, a plastic ladder can save you some money while still delivering its purpose, or instead still consider a lightweight telescoping ladder.
