I need a ladder
Author
Discussion

Shaolin

Original Poster:

2,955 posts

220 months

Saturday 18th June 2011
quotequote all
I need to get to the eaves to deal with the guttering and probably other stuff I'll find needs attention when I get up there. It's 5m above the ground.

It'll get some use but not loads, stability is important as I'm not totally happy up bouncy ladders, weight less important as I won't be moving it around much and collapsibility also not so important. What length should I get? Is it worth getting one of those stand-off things for the top (not sure what they're called), any safety stuff I should be aware of? Any recommendations?

Any help gratefully recieved.

GKP

15,099 posts

272 months

Saturday 18th June 2011
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Rent a tower?

Meeja

8,290 posts

279 months

Saturday 18th June 2011
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A tower is one option but reliant on a decent level surface to sit on.

A decent set on class 1 or EN131 (or class 2 in old money) aluminium ladders will be fit for purpose, won't bounce around and will give you flexibility.

The stand-offs can be useful for gutter work, as you can still rest the ladders on the wall rather than the gutter, and still get a decent working area.

Make sure when you use them that you have them footed properly, weight the base significantly, or tie them off.

Zarges are the preferred weapon of choice, but pricey.

Mr GrimNasty

8,172 posts

201 months

Saturday 18th June 2011
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I've got a couple of http://www.lyteladders.co.uk/c/7/i/3/ and they're sturdy enough for heavy DIY use, but still light enough for a weakling like me to handle. Working off a ladder for more than a quick job is very tiring though, and not health and safety conscious these days.

Skyedriver

23,648 posts

313 months

Saturday 18th June 2011
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Recently bought one of those folding things that reaches 5 metres from BPS access solutions or whatever that were advertising on here. Principle is good, there is a wide cross piece that acts as a foot to keep it stable. Doewnside is its heavy - 25kg, and ungainly when extended. The catches that need to be released to hinge it are ridiculously tight, needing a clout with a screw driver. Hopefully they slacken with time. Cost just over £100 plus another £24 for a clip on platform thing.