Ladders and stepladders: types, characteristics, how to choose

Functionality ladders based on typical design features, and the material from which they are made.

Types of ladders

Stairs

According to another Soviet GOST 24258-88, a staircase - a device "for moving people in height." For determination awkward hidden design of the two vertical supports interconnected by horizontal bridges - stages.

There are the following varieties:

• freestanding;
• inclined ladders;
• attachments;
• vertical ladders.

There are still marching appearance, but it has nothing to do with domestic flats and construction needs. For all varieties is set surface load (regulatory) - 2000 (200) Pa (kgf / m).

Ladder

Stepladders - type with specific structural features in the form of "L" or the letter "A". Both options are unfolded form stable isosceles triangle. His hand - the usual ladder and support frame. For greater stability to the feet worn rubber tips. Alternative design - stairs on both sides.

Features:

• For stability of the structure equipped with the upper platform stepladder or harnesses ribbons centered (sometimes in the form of belts).
• The legs can be fitted with a spreader beam - wide strip, fixing them in pairs in a single plane.

Mini stepladder

Mini version is also called ladder-chair or stool.

Features:

• you can work sitting or standing;
• often this species has 3 stages, but there are options with 5 jumpers;
• the standard height of a ladder - 90 cm.

This type is often used in everyday life, but there are variations in construction.

Rack with platform

It represents a fixed ladder with top platform for working and a reference block. In most cases, this construction is presented in a mobile form. As the front and the supporting part can be fitted with castors.

Features:

• professional model made of aluminum or stainless steel;
• rippled platform is used as a work platform or tool storage location.

design

Structural types can be combined depending on the model.

One-sided stepladder rasstavnaya

This type of structure is inherent ladders. It occurs in a platform racks.

Features:

• stage disposed on only one side, the opposite portion serving as a reference block;
• These models weigh less than counterparts with double filling;
• structure suitable for steam operation;
• less stable than the two-sided model due to uneven weight distribution.

This type of ladders is one of the budget, since its production requires less material. Lightweight construction suitable for transport by hand.

Double-sided stepladder rasstavnaya

Bilateral embodiment differs from the preceding only in the presence of steps at the opposite side. This has several advantages:

• Time-consuming process, requiring third-party support, it is possible to perform together, while at the same time on a stepladder from the different parties.
• Load side often replaces the device to the instrument - for example, during wallpapering stages are used for hanging various types of rollers.
• Reversible rasstavnoy type - the most stable variant design.

It occurs in all models of ladders, racks and ladders, Transformers.

Extension ladder

Structurally it consists of two supporting beams (rail) and stairs. Models designed for a greater height, equipped with pads or handrails. Depending on the type of folding it can be provided.

Features:

• Complete stability is achieved only by attaching the elements of buildings or other support surfaces.
• Work permissible standing at a height of at least 1 m from the top.
• The total length of the construction of models of household is less than 5 m.

This type is often complemented by accessories, because the base set is not suitable for comfortable work.

sliding ladder

Sliding models can be used as ladders or one- and two-section ladder. Have at least one further block which extends completely or partly depending on the model.

Features:

• suitable for work at high altitudes;
• quick adjustment 1-2 is pressed;
• the upper unit is often fitted with rollers for folding along the wall;
• section is allowed to use as an independent staircase.

And fastening the clips to prevent disbonding samozahvatyvayuschimsya hook blocks.

hinged ladder

Joint universal type, adapted to the conditions of work. It can be used as rasstavnaya design. Popular variety - a ladder-transformer, which is used as a platform.

Features:

• When working on the construction of a platform on top of the edges of steps for easy and safe to install flooring, usually made of wood.
• Assembling and change of shape performed after unclamping the locking elements - structure in the form of dogs or keys near the hinges.

In most cases, it provides for labeling of red / green color or inscription «Lock / Unlock».

telescopic ladder

Retractable or telescopic ladders are used for work at height. They consist of two or three overlapping parts which can be shifted from each other to provide a desired height adjustment.

Features:

• structure can be moved apart completely, turning to the variation of attached type;
• assembled ladder is compact, easy to carry and store;
• typically represented in the form of sections 2-3, the length of which ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 m.

Two-piece extension ladder can be moved apart to a length of about 8 meters. In models, consisting of three or more sections, standard overall length is 10 meters.

mobile ladder

Mobile type resembles in appearance sided rasstavnoy. Their functionality is identical. These ladders are equipped with small wheels on the part of the support.

Features:

• In the basic position the wheels are fixed for stability.
• Lock is removed when you want to move the ladder.
• Additionally raised front (without commercials) part of the structure.

It provides mobility. If necessary, additional helical ladder fixed stops, which can be stationary or in a collapsible form. Often the models provided space.

Characteristics and Features

Maximum height stepladder

This option is most often interpreted incorrectly. It is assumed that he means the length of the ladder from the ground to the last step. In fact, the maximum height is considered to be a person to rise to the shoulders, adding to the size of the stairs.

European producers ladders calculate the parameter by adding to the level of the upper stage 120 cm - the average rise to shoulders. The maximum height is not more likely to indicate in labeling.

Guide, steps, tabs

• The minimum width between the side guides at the top of the stairs is 11.5 inches or 29.21 cm by European standards.

• Each ladder must be equipped with a metal spacer or a locking device of sufficient size and strength to reliably hold the sections in open position.

• Steps may be made only of non-slip material or corrugated.

• The width of the platform is allowed from 45 cm.

• Sliding models equipped with fixation devices in order to avoid inadvertent disconnection ladders when working.

• Models with wheels complement the clamps lock type, avoid driving rollers during operation.

The number of ladder sections

The height of some stair is adjustable sections. Each of them - a separate unit. Used in full assembly or as individual structures.

Features:

• Required for operation height is adjusted by adding or removing sections involved.

• They are interconnected by bolts or special clamps.

• Short sections facilitate transportation, allow the ladder to make the desired length.

• Ladders typically 7-10 m long are supplied with focusing and binding. These accessories enhance the rigidity and stability of the construction.

Simplex ladder

A small number of sections is less weight and greater mobility. As a rule, their height is no more than 4 meters - this is often not enough for household repairs in Stalin's homes.

Features:

• The distance between the side rails of the ladder direct one-section or any part of its internal lines should be at least 30 cm.
• For private homes are also preferred embodiments with variable number of sections.

Simplex model used as ladders, their location is often fixed in a vertical plane. For transporting such ladders are inconvenient.

two-section ladder

This type comprises two sections with steps.

Features:

• Design with swivel transformed into a two-way ladder when folded in half.
• Telescopic type involves Extending the sections in a plane - along another one unit.
• The upper section can be raised or lowered.

If you want to increase the working height, two-section ladder is expanded in the plane. Individual blocks fixed with special fixing clamps. It suffices to rotate the pawl to unlock the back section. It is therefore important to check whether the lock snapped.

Three-section ladder

Universal models with the most flexible adjustment. By such a staircase structure represents three complementary section, with a system of hinged fastenings.

Three-section combined models consist of blocks that can be arranged in various configurations.

Are used:

• as a ladder;
• as a stepladder;
• as a two-sided stepladder with the console.

Fixing takes place by means of standard clamps.

According to European and American standards:

• Two-section variation must not exceed 14 meters in length;
• model consisting of two or more sections, must not exceed 18 meters in length.
• most manufacturers prefer to set the stage in increments of 30 cm.
• width bars at from 30 to 35 cm.

accessories

For convenience and safety install additional devices on ladders. It is reasonable to buy accessories made itself a ladder manufacturer to conform to special design.

• Suspension marketplace platform - typically to withstand a load of 150 kg. It is used as a storage space for tools, paint or other items that may be required during operation. Options with a side more convenient if you use parts that could slide or fall. Check whether the platform is compatible with the type and model of the existing stairs.

• Extensions for racks (string) - are set into the ground to work at a higher altitude.

• Lateral traverse - additional support that extends the area of ​​the ladder legs. It does not allow it to slip, providing stability.

• Shoes for feet, string or traverse - slip, protect against damage ladder profile.

• Wall Prop - connection of the accessory to an upper part of the staircase structure retains a few centimeters away from a vertical surface. Additional emphasis stabilizes the ladder even when working at high altitudes.

Stabilizer

Also known as ladder levelers or leveler legs. The apparatus can align the level of the ladder in the horizontal plane during operation on uneven surfaces.

Features:

• mainly intended for use with aluminum and fiberglass models of long or retractable stairs;
• occasionally there are levelers suitable for wood;
• stabilizer optimal size in the range of 20-40 cm;
• leveler and stairs must be from the same manufacturer.

How to use: simply screw on to the ladder with a set of fasteners from the kit. Then set the desired length and fix it.

What materials do ladders

Conditions of use ladders (work with electricity, temperature extremes, negative atmospheric effects) determine the preferred material from which it is made.

aluminum ladders

Stepladders made of this material are durable, keeps its shape even under constant load, but the legs and the crossbar sag over time.

Features:

• Aluminum is lighter than other materials;
• ladders made of aluminum, do not rust.

When working with electricity, aluminum ladders used with caution. There is a risk of electric shock.

steel ladders

Models of the steel reliable and have stable bearing support. Overall Constructions heavy and even disassembled or folded form. Supports with steps are welded. Permissible and bolting.

Features:

• electrical conductivity;
• tendency to rust;
• a lot of weight.

International requirements:

• no rough edges and structural defects;
• stage exposed knurled or ribbed to improve slip resistance;
• the distance between the stages is not more than 30 cm.

Russian standards indicate that the presence of metal unacceptable cracks and sharp edges.

wooden ladders

For the manufacture of ladders used solid wood with no sharp edges and chips. If visual inspection does not stand swings material irregularities, twigs, bundles or other weaknesses.

Features:

• responsive to variations of temperature conditions, subject to delamination;
• seldom allowable load of 100 kg.

GOST requirements include limiting the length - 5 meters.

Stage and other elements must adhere to the grooves. Step 2 meter bowstring bolted. Presence unacceptable longitudinal cracks dimensions of 100 5 mm.

When cracks with dimensions less than the above, operation is acceptable. The weakening of the string or stages fasteners, sealing cracks putty are not permitted.

fiberglass

Plastic ladder thermosetting polyester resin, reinforced with glass fiber reinforcement.

If a fiberglass ladder rungs is aluminum, the side guides and the space between the steps to prevent electrical shock.

Features:

• electrical safety;
• durability;
• insensitivity to moisture.

Fiberglass is resistant to kinking under normal pressure.

Benefits

The advantages of this or that ladder depends on the type of material from which it is made.

• Wooden - low thermal conductivity, resistance, environmental friendliness. Possibility of independent replacement of defective parts.

• Aluminum - lightweight, easy to operate and transport. Accessibility and design options for any task.

• Steel - can withstand severe loads, not shaken.

• Fiberglass - light weight and low thermal conductivity. Durability, applicability in all weather conditions.

disadvantages

Disadvantages ladders are also based on the properties of materials. Structural deficiencies found difficult.

wood

• The material is subject to fissuring and rot over time there are deep cracks. These properties determine the relative short term of service stairs made of wood.
• Places fasteners and grooves are worn and bumped at constant operation.
• Require protection impregnation or lacquer.
• Withstand the load of not more than 100 kg.
• The tree imposes design constraints. For example, a ladder-transformer from this material meet unlikely.

aluminum

• Section deformed with small bumps and dips more than the design of other materials. Distorted site restored to original form will not work.
• The electrical conductivity of aluminum - its main disadvantage.
• Joints joints and other places exposed to abrasion, lose reliability relatively quickly due to metal fatigue. These places become brittle, it is necessary to monitor the connection status, make lubrication and strengthening attachments if necessary.
• In industrial environments, aluminum design keeps the load worse than analogues of other materials. However, household operation metal stand.

Of steel

Large structural weight and inconvenience arising during transportation - an obvious drawback. Besides:

• Susceptibility to corrosion - preventive maintenance labor and time consuming.
• No finishing antivibration steel ladder noisy materials - during lifting or transporting them to hear a metallic clank.
• Unsightly welds.
• The complexity of coloring - it periodically need to update pre-scraping old paint and corrosion.

Steel structures are slippery and dangerous in winter.

How to choose a stepladder or ladder

Step 1. Where it will be used? Indoors, in the air, or both?

Indoors you can use any type, for outdoor use preferred moisture resistant construction.

step 2. For what work you need a ladder? Are there any plans among them an electrician?

Metal stairs without isothermal lining on the legs are not suitable for electrical work.

step 3.Do frequent movement design required? What obstacles will meet on the way?

If the Move, choose the model of light materials or mobile portable designs.

Step 4.What is the maximum height, which is required to achieve?

To calculate the length, mark the highest point in which to work. Stairs should be above this point, at least three steps. Remember that the legs move apart from wall models set aside a quarter length of the structure, so the working height will be less as a result.

Step 5:Work rate: how much weight should maintain a stepladder?

To weight clad adult added mass of all the instruments, solutions and components that will be present simultaneously on the steps in operation.

In Russia, such a rating is not. There is only the previously mentioned Soviet GOST, which does not provide such a gradation. But if you select the products of Western countries, the majority will focus on OSHA rating.

types OSHA

• IAA Type - heavy-duty industrial class with a working rating of 170 kg, for frequent use.
• IA type - heavy industrial class, reyting136 kg. Suitable for use in the construction and finishing works.
• Type I - average commercial-duty class rating 113 kg. Suitable for office, home, maintenance with easy tools.
• Type II - a commercial grade, rating 102 kg. The use in offices and home everyday.
• Type III - a light-duty class, household ladder with a rating of 90 kg, for domestic use.

what better

Pay attention to these aspects:

• Fixing the work site, the joints with the steps - there should be no loosening of screws, version with rivets on the racks is not very reliable.
• Safety belts in order to prevent unexpected folding.
• From the width of the steps it depends on whether it is possible to keep your balance on the ladder than they are wider - the better.
• The presence of cross-arms, the rubber caps on legs for stability.
• Distance between the stages - preferably less than 25 cm.
• Chips, cracks, visual defects are not allowed.
• Embossed or rubberized surface steps - both options prevent sliding, but the second additional protection against electric shock.
• Features folding - unclamping clamps on the moving parts: rollers, hinges should not require physical strength.
• Stage embedded in the grooves of the rack, is more difficult to break.

Additionally verified stability and mobility of the structure.

Operation ladders

Safe use of ladders boils down to three points:

1. design type matching characteristics of the work;
2. inspection before use, to ensure purity and lack of defects;
3. accommodation ladder so that the support were securely fastened.

rules

• Place the base on a solid, flat, dry surface. If this is not possible - to fix the base on the surface, using handy tools or special stabilizers. This will protect the structure from slipping and with stability problems.
• Do not install on boxes, bricks, barrels or other unstable surfaces in order to increase the height.
• Locate the ladder so that the angle to keep a safe stop. The larger the database is moved from this position, the greater the risk of instability.

Care and Maintenance

wooden - focuses on the protection of wood and timely replacement of wearing parts. Joints, grooves and the pulleys are treated with protective compounds. Stairs with defects should not be used in the form of rot and bundles.

steel - before work and after construction tilts check for damage: dents or bends, loose rivets. It should be kept clean so as not to occur lubrication and rust from occurring.

aluminum - fasteners and hinges must be free to slide and snap. It is necessary to regularly check their condition, because the metal friction reduces the strength of the material over time.

Stairs made of fiberglass do not require special service.

Guarantee

Ladders and stepladders in Russia are not subject to mandatory certification. Some manufacturers offer a guarantee on the products, implying the repair of defective parts or the complete replacement of the product.

Most limited to two points:

1. manufacturing defects;
2. low quality material.

Failures caused during self improper use or assembly, does not apply.

Repairs

Faults often arise in the course of incorrect operation - blows, exceeding the allowable load. In the case of factory defects that led to the failure, repair occurs under warranty. In other cases - when a fee or on their own.

Frequent faults:

1. steps scrapped - it often exposed wooden variation;
2. eversion mounts and brackets;
3. deflection and pressing in impact or excess load;
4. wear a safety cable.

Independent repair is reduced to replacement of the damaged element with a new. Purchase parts and fasteners can be individually.

Often replace the broken steps counterparts from scrap materials, which are produced on their own. In this case, the difficulty is only an imitation of the trapezoidal side slopes stage, but most do without it.

Replacing reduced torsional defective part, the new installation and subsequent fixation fasteners provided View - bolts, screws, fittings.

manufacturers

Manufacturers from the list, in addition to the factory "New Height" did not specify the terms of the warranty.

ALUMET - Factory "Alyumet" produces different types of ladders. Household and professional design of anodized aluminum. The number of sections - three. Website: alumet.ru

Dogrular - Turkish company ladder - only part of the specialization of this manufacturer of aluminum technology. Budget models ladders for domestic and industrial type. Website: dogrular.com.tr

FIT - Russian manufacturer. Specialization - budget power tools. Steel and aluminum are presented to the model number of sections to three. Provides wholesale and retail. Website: www.fit-instrument.ru

Nika - manufacturer of household aluminum ladders with powder coating supported load up to 100 kg. Website: nika-foryou.ru

novaja Vysota - stepladder tall plant designs. Professional and household type aluminum ladders and accessories to choose from. The company voluntarily been certified for compliance with GOST on ladders warranty. Term of the individual depending on the model. Website: ru.zavodnv.ru

Zubr - the manufacturer of the budget tool, offers a universal type aluminum construction. Ladders range is small, but the lineup is worthy of attention. Included belt harnesses and stabilizers. Website: zubr-instrument.ru