In a previous post we discussed how the ladders used in the Middle Ages were designed to overcome hurdles faced in battle. Today ladders are still designed to overcome common problems experienced by consumers, although none seem quite as large as having to scale a mediaeval castle wall whilst angry men pour boiling tar down on you! One problem that users often face today is that solid ladders tend to take up an awful lot of space, making them impractical for people who do not have a vast amount of storage space. Telescopic ladders, which are also referred to as extension ladders and collapsible ladders, are the perfect solution to this problem because they are designed to be collapsible to less than 3 ft in length. For the majority of home owners who need a ladder for odd jobs like decorating, moving house or reaching the attic space, a telescopic ladder is more convenient and practical for them to use. Rather than lugging around an aluminium ladder or step ladder that they may only need to use a couple of times per year, a telescopic ladder is a more sensible option, being simple to store and to manoeuvre around the house.

Not only does their compact size make them far more practical to store, but they are also more portable than a standard ladder. This is certainly an advantage for professions that involve using a ladder on a day to day basis, such as decorators, workers in the building trade and even estate agents. Telescopic ladders are easily carried in the hand, which is preferable to regularly lifting a heavy ladder over your shoulder which can lead to back and neck pain. Furthermore, in the average sized car or a small van it would be impossible to transport a normal ladder to a job; however a telescopic ladder will fit neatly into the boot of a car or even on to the back seat.

How to Use a Telescopic Ladder

Telescopic ladders are designed so that each section of the ladder collapses down onto the following section, meaning that each rung is locked securely into the next one. It is therefore possible to use the ladder without having to fully extend it, meaning that you can extend it to the exact height you require at the time. The majority of telescopic ladders are designed to have a single set of rungs and therefore it is necessary to lean them against a wall or solid surface for support. Check that the ground you are placing the ladder on is smooth and even to ensure that the ladder will safely support you. Extend the ladder by unlocking each rung, starting with the top one, until the ladder has reached the height you desire. Once you have completed the job you should ensure that you only attempt to collapse the ladder again once you have descended and your feet are firmly on the ground! Unlock each rung, one at a time, from bottom to top and then click them back into place. To be absolutely safe it is important to remember to check the load capacity before purchasing a telescopic ladder. You will easily be able to find this information under the specifications of the ladder.

Telescopic Ladder Maintenance

Proper maintenance of a telescopic ladder is essential for safety and longevity of the ladder. It is advisable to check the manufacturers instructions with regards to cleaning and maintaining your ladder, as they may differ with the materials that the ladder is constructed from. The majority of telescopic ladders are constructed from aluminium or have an aluminium finish, for these types of ladder we have some basic care and maintenance tips. To remove any dirt from the ladder you should wipe it down using a damp cloth and then dry it off using a dry cloth. If your ladder has become extremely wet then dry it as best you can using a cloth and then spray it with a silicone spray which should dry the rest out. If the rungs of the ladder become stuck or difficult to smoothly manoeuvre up and down then do not be tempted to use a lubricant such as WD40 as these can actually escalate the problem. Instead apply a silicone based furniture polish to the stiles which will leave a waxy coating to keep the movements smooth.

Reviews of Quality Telescopic Ladders

Titan 3.8 m (12ft6) Telescopic Ladder

The titan is constructed from aircraft grade polished aluminium with large solid rubber feet for excellent grip in all weather conditions. The heavily serrated, flat top rungs ensure maximum safety precautions in addition to a comfortable ascent. At a mere 90cm (36 inch) when closed it will easily fit in the boot of the car and be stored away in a cupboard. It fully extends in only 11 clicks and reaches a maximum height of 3.8m (12ft6). The titan balances quality with affordability at a very reasonable price of £99 making it an excellent choice for those looking for a ladder they can trust that does not cost the earth. Each purchase comes with a free heavy duty carry bag, making it easy to transport but also helping to maintain the ladder by ensuring it stays dry.

Titan Specifications:

• EN131 European Trade & Industrial compliant
• Each ladder supplied with full operating instructions
• 150kg Load Rating (23.5st)
• Polished aluminium finish
• Only 90cm tall when closed (36in)
• Extends to 3.8m (12ft6) and everything in between
• Width – 48cm (19in)
• Weighs only 12kg (26lbs)

Xtend and Climb PRO 3.8m (12ft6)

The Xtend and Climb PRO is probably the most popular telescopic ladder available, with millions already sold worldwide. The American designed ladder is unsurpassable in quality and reliability, which is why it is chosen by tradesmen time and time again. It folds away to a tiny 81 cm (32 inch) making it one of the most compact extendable ladders of this size. You can extend it rung by rung to the exact height you require at each job, with a maximum extension of 3.8m (12ft6) This kind of quality and innovation doesn't come cheap at £149 making it a more expensive option to the Titan, but if you want the absolute top of the range model on the market then the Xtend and Climb PRO is for you.

Xtend and Climb PRO Specifications:

• EN131 European Trade & Industrial Rating
• 150kg Load Rating (23.5st)
• Clean Anodised aluminium finish
• Only 81cm tall when closed
• Extends to 3.8m (12ft6) and everything in between
• Width – 48cm (19in)
• Weighs only 13.7kg (30lbs)

To find information on the Xtend and Climb PRO, as well as an optional shoulder bag, visit -http://www.midlandladders.com//catalog/Xtend_Climb_PRO_3_8m_Telescopic_Ladder-76-1.html

Pro-User 2.9m (9ft6) Telescopic Ladder

Finally we have the Pro User Home telescopic ladder which is the smallest and cheapest option. The ergonomic design makes the ladder easy to open and close, even for users with the smallest of hands. The Pro User home is compact at only 79 cm (31 inch) when closed making it the perfect solution for the home owner looking for a cheap and practical telescopic ladder. It is only £89 which includes VAT and a 12 month warranty.

Pro User Specifications:

For information and pictures please visit – http://www.midlandladders.com//products/Pro_User_2_9m_Telescopic_Ladder-407-120.html

Telescopic ladders are an invaluable addition to any home, caravan or business. Hopefully you are now well informed on the uses of telescopic ladders and you should have a clearer idea of the telescopic ladder which will best suit your requirements.

To view all of our telescopic ladders, please visit http://www.midlandladders.com//catalog/Telescopic_Ladders-14-1.html or call us on 0300 303 22 99 to discuss your requirements further with our helpful, friendly sales team.