Ladder Materials

Ladders are constructed from a variety of different materials. Each material has benefits and drawbacks. Carefully consider which material best suits your work needs.

Wood - Wooden ladders provide a natural feel as you climb, and they provide good insulation against heat and cold. However, if the wood is untreated, it ages quickly. Wooden ladders require a protective coating of clear varnish to keep the wood from drying, splitting, and cracking. In addition, wood ladders can be quite heavy.

Aluminum - Aluminum ladders are lightweight and corrosion resistant. Unlike wood ladders, they will not chip or crack with rough handling. However, aluminum ladders do not insulate well against heat and cold. Aluminum ladders also conduct electricity. You should never use an aluminum ladder for work near energized electrical lines.

Fiberglass - Fiberglass is durable, weather-resistant, and nonconductive. It will not dry out or split like wood, and it provides better insulation against heat than aluminum. However, fiberglass ladders are heavier than wood and aluminum ladders. They can also chip or crack with rough use. Fiberglass ladders also require more maintenance, such as regular washing and waxing. As the ladder ages, the fibers may become exposed, resulting in "fiber bloom." This condition is accelerated by high humidity and exposure to sunlight. Blooming ladders can cause discomfort to the user, and they can become conductive.

To learn more about Ladder & Stairway Safety visit our Ladder & Stairway Safety Online Training web page.