Single & Extension Ladders

About Single & Extension Ladders

Single and extension ladders are essential access equipment for professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts who need safe, reliable height access for a wide range of tasks. Unlike stepladders that are freestanding, single ladders are straight ladders designed to lean against a wall or structure, whilst extension ladders feature two or more sections that slide to adjust the working height. Both types are manufactured from lightweight yet robust materials such as aluminium or fibreglass, providing the perfect balance between portability and strength for site work, building maintenance, and construction projects.

Professional-grade single and extension ladders available from Tooled-Up.com are engineered to meet rigorous British and European safety standards, including EN 131, which governs occupational use of ladders. These ladders typically feature load ratings of 150kg or higher, anti-slip feet for stable positioning, and reinforced connections between rungs and stiles. Extension ladders incorporate secure locking mechanisms and rope-and-pulley systems that allow users to safely extend the ladder to the required height, making them indispensable for roofers, window fitters, painters, and maintenance contractors who regularly work at height.

The versatility of single and extension ladders makes them a staple on construction sites, in warehouses, and for property maintenance work across the UK. Modern designs prioritise user safety with features such as D-shaped rungs for improved foot comfort, triple-formed connections for enhanced structural integrity, and replaceable end caps that prevent slipping whilst protecting the ladder stiles from damage. Whether you're accessing guttering, working on exterior cladding, or reaching high shelving in commercial premises, investing in a quality ladder from a trusted brand like Zarges ensures compliance with HSE guidelines and provides years of reliable service.

Jargon Buster

• EN 131 Standard: The European safety standard that specifies requirements for portable ladders used in occupational and professional settings. Ladders meeting EN 131 have been tested for strength, stability, and durability, ensuring they're safe for trade use.
• Stiles: The vertical side rails of a ladder that provide the main structural support. High-quality ladders use extruded aluminium stiles that offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios whilst resisting corrosion.
• Load Rating: The maximum weight capacity a ladder is designed to support safely, including the user and any tools or materials. Professional ladders typically have ratings of 150kg (Class 1 Industrial) or 175kg (Class EN131 Professional).
• Working Height: The maximum safe height at which a person can comfortably work whilst standing on a ladder, typically calculated as the ladder's extended height plus the user's reach, minus safe distances from the top rungs.
• Triple-Formed Connection: A manufacturing technique where rungs are connected to stiles using three separate forming operations, creating an exceptionally strong joint that won't loosen over time, even with heavy professional use.
• Extension Ratio: On extension ladders, this refers to the relationship between closed and extended lengths. A 2-section extension ladder typically extends to approximately twice its closed length, whilst 3-section models offer even greater reach.

Who Uses Single & Extension Ladders?

• Roofers and tilers requiring safe access to pitched roofs, chimneys, and guttering systems
• Painters and decorators working on exterior walls, soffits, and high interior spaces
• Window fitters and glaziers installing or repairing windows at height on residential and commercial properties
• Builders and general contractors needing versatile access equipment for various construction tasks
• Electricians accessing overhead cable runs, exterior lighting, and electrical installations
• Maintenance engineers servicing building systems, signage, and industrial equipment
• Facilities managers responsible for building upkeep and routine maintenance programmes
• Tree surgeons and landscapers requiring stable access for pruning and exterior work
• Warehouse operatives accessing high-level storage and racking systems
• DIY enthusiasts undertaking home improvement projects requiring safe height access

How to Choose the Right Single & Extension Ladders

Determine Your Maximum Working Height: Calculate the highest point you'll need to reach regularly, then select a ladder with appropriate extended length. Remember that you shouldn't stand on the top three rungs, so factor this into your calculations. Extension ladders are ideal when you need variable working heights across different jobs.

Consider Load Rating and Duty Classification: For professional trade use, choose ladders with a minimum 150kg load rating conforming to EN 131 Class 1 (Industrial) standards. If you regularly carry heavy tools or materials up the ladder, opt for higher ratings. The load rating must accommodate your body weight plus any equipment you'll be carrying.

Material Selection: Aluminium ladders offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios, making them easy to transport and manoeuvre whilst providing robust durability. They're the preferred choice for most trades. However, if you'll be working near electrical installations, consider fibreglass ladders which provide electrical insulation for added safety.

Storage and Transportation: Single ladders are compact and straightforward to store, whilst extension ladders can be collapsed to a manageable size. Consider your vehicle capacity and storage space. Professional tradespeople often opt for extension ladders as they offer versatility whilst remaining relatively portable when retracted.

Safety Features: Look for ladders with stabiliser bars or feet for secure positioning, anti-slip rung surfaces for better grip in wet conditions, and replaceable end caps that protect both the ladder and the surface it rests against. Quality brands incorporate features like D-shaped rungs for improved comfort during extended use.

Build Quality and Brand Reputation: Invest in established manufacturers with proven track records in professional access equipment. Brands like Zarges are renowned for engineering excellence, using techniques such as triple-formed connections between rungs and stiles that ensure long-term reliability even under demanding site conditions.

Popular Accessories

• Ladder Stabilisers: Attachments that increase the ladder's footprint against the wall, providing enhanced stability and spanning across windows
• Ladder Standoff Brackets: Keep the ladder away from walls and guttering, protecting surfaces and providing better working clearance
• Ladder Stays: V-shaped brackets that prevent the ladder from slipping sideways when positioned against a wall
• Replacement End Caps: Spare rubber or plastic feet to maintain optimal grip and protect stiles from damage
• Ladder Storage Hooks: Wall-mounted brackets for safe, space-efficient storage in workshops, garages, or vans
• Ladder Mitts: Protective covers that cushion the ladder top against delicate surfaces such as uPVC window frames
• Tool Trays and Holsters: Attachable platforms for keeping tools and materials within reach whilst working at height
• Anti-Slip Ladder Mats: Rubber mats placed beneath ladder feet to prevent slipping on smooth surfaces
• Ladder Roof Hooks: Allow secure attachment over ridge tiles for roof work, converting extension ladders into roof ladders

Safety Information

Positioning and Angle: Always position ladders at the correct angle – approximately 75 degrees or following the 1:4 rule (one unit out for every four units up). Ensure the ladder extends at least 1 metre above the stepping-off point. Never overreach; move the ladder instead of stretching to the side, which can cause dangerous instability.

Pre-Use Inspection: Before each use, inspect the ladder for damage including bent stiles, worn or loose rungs, damaged feet, and compromised locking mechanisms on extension ladders. Never use damaged equipment – defective ladders should be taken out of service immediately and either repaired by a competent person or replaced.

HSE Compliance: The Health and Safety Executive provides clear guidance on ladder safety under the Work at Height Regulations 2005. For professional use, ladders should only be used for short-duration work or where a risk assessment demonstrates that other access equipment is not justified due to the low risk and short duration of the task.

Three Points of Contact: Maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times (two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot). Face the ladder when climbing and descending. Avoid carrying heavy or bulky items up ladders – use a tool belt or hoist materials up separately.

Weather Conditions: Never use ladders in high winds or adverse weather conditions. Ensure ladder feet are positioned on firm, level ground, and be particularly cautious on wet or icy surfaces. If working outdoors, secure the ladder at the top or have someone foot the ladder to prevent movement.

Electrical Hazards: Exercise extreme caution when working near overhead power lines or electrical installations. If there's any possibility of contact with live electrical equipment, use fibreglass ladders rather than conductive aluminium models, and always isolate power supplies where possible before commencing work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a Class 1 and Class EN131 ladder?

Class 1 (Industrial) ladders have a maximum load rating of 150kg and are designed for heavy-duty industrial use. Class EN131 Professional ladders typically have a 175kg load rating and meet enhanced strength requirements. Both are suitable for professional trade use, but EN131 offers an additional safety margin for users carrying heavy tools or working in demanding conditions.

How do I calculate what length extension ladder I need?

Measure the maximum height you need to reach, then add approximately 1 metre for safe overlap above the stepping-off point. Remember that you shouldn't stand on the top three rungs. For general guidance, a 2-section extension ladder typically reaches working heights of 4-7 metres depending on its extended length, whilst 3-section models can reach 8 metres or more.

Can I use an aluminium ladder for electrical work?

Whilst aluminium ladders can be used by electricians, you must ensure all electrical supplies are properly isolated before working. For live electrical work or situations where isolation isn't possible, fibreglass ladders are the safer choice as they don't conduct electricity. Always follow your company's risk assessment procedures and relevant HSE guidance.

How often should professional ladders be inspected?

Users should perform a visual inspection before every use, checking for obvious damage, wear, or defects. For professional and commercial settings, formal inspections should be conducted at regular intervals based on usage frequency – typically every three to six months for frequently used ladders. Keep records of all inspections as required by HSE regulations.

What's the best way to store single and extension ladders?

Store ladders horizontally on wall-mounted brackets or ladder racks to prevent warping and damage. Keep them in a dry location away from excessive heat or moisture, and ensure they're supported at several points along their length. For extension ladders, store them in the closed position with locking mechanisms engaged. Never hang ladders by the rungs, as this can distort the stiles over time.