What a ladder is made of will factor into several aspects of your buying decision including cost and typical use. That’s why it’s important to think about the types of projects where having a ladder is handy or essential. Today, we’d like to introduce several materials which are using to manufacture ladders.

1. Aluminum Ladder

Aluminum stands out as an excellent material for several types of ladders for many reasons. First, it’s strong. It can take a lot of punishment and stay intact. Second, it’s lightweight. That will make a big difference when you’re hauling one back and forth. Finally, it’s affordable.

However, aluminum has one glaring downside. Since it’s a metal, it can conduct electricity. It’s a no-go if you’re going to use it near electrical equipment or wires. The risk isn’t worth it. Other materials offer better choices.

2. Wood Ladder

Wood is probably the most common and popular choice of the types of ladders. It shares many of the advantages of aluminum. It is an affordable option that is easy to find at any home improvement or hardware store retailer. It does conduct electricity so that you can use it safely anywhere you need a better reach.

On the downside, it’s heavy. Depending on the type, it can weight twice as much as a comparable aluminum ladder. Then, there’s the longevity of the product. A wood ladder will deteriorate if left out in the elements. That is something that must not happen.

On a side note, they cannot have any kind of opaque coating except for appropriate labeling as per regulations. It goes back to safety. It needs to be apparent what it is made of to avoid its use where it would be hazardous.

3. Fiberglass Ladder

Fiberglass offers a nice compromise to some of the disadvantages of using the other models. It’s strong and can take rough handling. It doesn’t conduct electricity like aluminum. It’s durable and will last the distance. It is a bit more expensive than the other types, but the benefits may outweigh the added cost.

This material has another standout feature that makes it worth considering, especially if you do outdoor work. Aluminum ladders will reflect the ambient temperature. It won’t be pleasant grabbing onto a metal ladder in the middle of winter or a hot summer day. Another to bear in mind is the length. After 25 feet, these ladders start to get unwieldy.

4. Steel Ladder

Steel ladders are not a typical choice for the DIYer. Rather, they are something you’d see in a warehouse. They offer several advantages. They are resilient and can handle heavy loads which makes them a practical option. While they are strong, they’re also heavy. Proper storage is imperative to prevent rusting.

5. Plastic Ladder

You may also find plastic ladders made of polyester resin with glass-fiber reinforcement. They offer a cheaper alternative that may be suitable for some situations. The construction of these ladders is subject to similar regulation as other materials which we’ll discuss later.