The number one question a home inspector has when it comes to tools is…what is the best ladder. That’s right, this question is asked all the time. But is there really a best ladder? Let’s stick to the most recommended ladder. And note, this is not a review of the ladders, just an informative post to share the most recommended telescoping ladders. We read through the hundreds of Facebook group posts to find this information. This post will cover the newer telescoping ladders that many home inspectors are using. A collapsible, telescoping ladder makes it easy to carry, easy to store, fits in tight spaces, harder to fall over when not in use, and can act as multiple size ladders. One ladder that can possibly do it all. Telescoping ladders provide a ton of value for the inspector and offer a lot of functional reasons to use this type of ladder. When it comes to products and tools, the inspector community provides the best input.
Some features when looking at a telescoping ladder are: Variable height, locking mechanism, duty rating, ladder feet, dimensions, and strap and case. This article is a good review of the top telescoping ladders. There are some safety steps to take when using a telescoping ladder. MAKE SURE THE STEPS ARE LOCKED PRIOR TO USE. And keep the telescoping ladder clean. And watch your fingers. If you want to read a good review on these telescopic ladders from a home inspector, read this article. And for general ladder safety, OSHA has a few words of advice.
Back to Telescoping ladders. So what does the inspector community have to say about telescoping ladders? First, don’t buy a knock off ladder, and don’t be cheap. Spend the extra money as safety should be your number one concern. And make sure to get the proper duty rated ladder for your weight.
With that said, the two brands that are consistently recommended are Xtend and Climb and Telesteps. They both have a number of models, depending on the height you want. There are other brands out there, but for the professional you are, it may be best to stick to what is tried and true by other home inspectors. Below are some of the most recommended telescoping ladders.
Xtend & Climb Contractor Series 155+/300 Aluminum Telescoping Ladder 15.5 Ft Extension Ladder Certified ANSI.
~$459.00
Xtend & Climb 770P telescoping-ladders, 12.5 Ft Extension ladder. Ladder Certified ANSI.
~$315.00
Telesteps 1800EP Fully Automatic Telescoping Ladder, with Patented One-Touch Release, OSHA Compliant, 14.5 Ft Extended Height.
~$507.00
Telesteps 1600E Fully Automatic Telescoping Ladder, with Patented One-Touch Release, OSHA Compliant 12.5 ft Extended Height
~375.00
Telesteps 1400E Fully Automatic Telescoping Ladder, with Patented One Touch Release, OSHA Compliant 10.5 ft Extended Height.
~$300.00
The FRANKLIN™ 14 ft. Aluminum Telescoping Ladder has an innovative design that extends one foot at a time for up to 14 ft. of reach. Slow-close technology makes it easy to close the ladder without pinching. Rugged aircraft grade aluminum alloy supports up to 250 lb.
~$190.00
Ohuhu Upgraded 12.5 FT Aluminum One-Button Retraction Extension Ladder ANSI Certified Retractable Collapsible Ladders, Telescopic Compact Ladder for Home RV Loft 250 Pound Capacity.
~$150.00
If a telescoping ladder is not for you, there are other choices. If you want to learn more on what type of ladder to select, this article put out by InspectorPro Insurance may provide some insights. If you have other brands/models of telescoping ladders that you recommend, leave a comment below.
Homeinspectology does not endorse or recommend any particular ladder. Make sure to follow all manufacturers directions when operating a ladder.
I have a 15 foot and 8 foot, I use a drone for roofs and drive a Toyota Corolla. I am smart about using a ladder.
Marty Goldsmith
http://www.GoldHomeInspection.com