Ladders are made from different materials and in a multitude of designs to be used in a variety of circumstances. The main options are listed here.

The aluminium alloys used in modern ladders are allow for lighter weight and greater strength and so stand up to day-to-day wear and tear well. They will dent and not chip or crack when subjected to severe impact. They do not need a protective finish as they will not dry out or weather with age or sunlight exposure. The worst that happens with age is a slow oxidizing of the surface, which is easily polished off.

However, they do conduct electricity and heat with obvious drwabacks.

Fibre glass ladders do not conduct electricity, as long as they are not wet. Fibre glass ladders tend to be used for electrical applications. They withstand the elements well and do not need treatments if left outside and can safely be stored near heat sources.

These ladders tend to be heavier than aluminium ladders and unlike aluminium, fibre glass can crack under a heavy impact, such as dropping them onto a solid surface.

Timber ladders tend to be made of a combination of dense hardwoods and soft wood, such as fir or hemlock. Hardwoods are naturally very strong and timber ladders do not conduct electricity.

However, timber ladders age more quickly than aluminium or fibre glass ladders and need protective finishes, such as varnishes, to preserve the life of the ladders.

Before ordering ladders, please ensure your size, type etc is correct.