A Combination Ladder is a portable ladder capable of being used as Stepladder, or as a Single or Extension Ladder. It may also be capable of being used as a Trestle Ladder or as a Stairwell Ladder. Its components may be used as Single Ladders.
A combination ladder can be used in a number of ways. The most popular configuration of a combination ladder is a 3-in-1 combination ladder which can be used as a step ladder, an extension ladder and an a-frame.
Ladders come in a range of styles to suit the different jobs they can be used for:
- Single Pole Ladders (maximum length 9 metres)
- Extension Ladders (maximum length 15 metres)
- Step Ladders (maximum height 6.1 metres)
- Dual Purpose Ladders (stepladder hinged to provide an extension)
- Platform (podium) Ladders
A combination ladder is the ultimate piece of equipment for any homeowner, DIY enthusiast and even a wide range of tradespeople. If you are unsure what a combination ladder is, it’s pretty much exactly as it sounds. It is a portable ladder, which by the use of simple mechanisms can be transformed into a step ladder, extension ladder and even a stairway and trestle ladder. To choose the best one, you should consider the following questions.
- What Height Do You Need To Reach?
- What do you need from your combination ladder?
- Do You Need Your Combination Ladder To Work On Stairs?
- Are you likely to need your combi ladder for use on uneven ground?
A combination ladder can be used in multiple ways, some can be transformed into two ladders and some can even be used in six, yes six different ways.
Some of the key benefits of purchasing a combination ladder and help you decide which could be best for you are.
- Save Money – Buying a combination ladder means that you only need to purchase one ladder for all your jobs instead of buying them individually.
- Can Be Used On Multiple Levels – Painting a high stairwell can prove difficult at times, however, many combination ladders make it easy and most importantly safe. You must have seen people trying to paint their stairway, hanging over their bannisters, stretching out attempting not to plunge to their deaths somewhere online. With the combination ladder, you don’t need to risk your life.
- Requires Less Storage Space – As mentioned previously you would only require storage space for one ladder instead of multiple ladders which saves storage space. Also, most combination ladders fold down making them easy to store and transport.
- Adjustable Working Heights – Some combination ladders have adjustable working heights. This allows you to gain access to many different levels, again by using just one ladder.
Simply put a combination ladder is a ladder with several sections that can be assembled in several different ways depending on the job at hand. Often a job or set of jobs will call for the use of a number of different types of ladder, whether it is gardening, home renovations, decorating or routine home maintenance.
To set up a combination ladder, for use on the stairs, you should follow these steps:
- Remove the extension piece from your combination ladder and stand your ladder up with its stabiliser bar at the top of the stairway. You may need help to set up and move the ladder around.
- Now, hinge the base and mid sections so they sit in the step ladder format and refit the extension piece upside down on the back of the middle section. Checking that the rung hooks are facing upwards and outwards is a good way to ensure you’re set up correctly.
- Once complete, stand the extension piece on a step lower from the one you plan on working from and adjust until the metal locking bars are horizontal.
- Now your ladder is set up for working you need to ensure optimum health and safety. To do this, make sure the ladder’s feet are as far from the step edges as possible so they maintain good standing. If you’re working alone, it’s also a good idea to tie the ladder to a banister to keep it study and steady while in use.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing a Ladder:
- What will you be using it for?
- How tall does it need to be?
- What material should it be made of?
- How long will you be up the ladder at any particular time?
- How big is the space you have to store and transport it?
These ladders have a duty rating of 200 pounds. Type III ladders are rated for light-duty use.
Aluminium is the lightest option and least likely to corrode. This metal is among the most effective conductors of electricity; as such, aluminium ladders are not recommended for electrical work or use near electrical lines. Fiberglass, while heavier than aluminium ladders, is stronger and more versatile.
Ladders of this type are most suitable for commercial light trade work and heavy duty DIY use. Class III Ladders are only suited to occasional light domestic tasks and are definitely not suitable for use within any commercial or trade environment.