When most people think of ladders, an extension ladder is probably one of the first designs that comes to mind.

Simple, versatile and capable of providing substantial working height, extension ladders are used every day by homeowners, builders, decorators, roofers, maintenance teams and countless other tradespeople.

But what makes extension ladders so useful, and when should you choose an extension ladder instead of another type of ladder?

If you need to reach gutters, windows, roofs or other high areas, an extension ladder is often one of the most practical options. But once you've decided that an extension ladder is right for the job, there's another question to answer: should you choose a double or triple extension ladder?

Both types of ladder can provide impressive working heights, and both are widely used by homeowners and professional tradespeople. The main differences are how the ladder extends, how compact it is when stored and how easy it is to handle.