Infographic Transcript
Despite ladders being one of the most widely used apparatus around the house and for many professions and businesses, many people do not know what the various parts of a ladder are called or what their functions are. Well, thanks to the team here at Ladders UK Direct and our handy infographic, you are now able to easily identify all the parts of both a step ladder and extension ladder; the two most commonly used ladders anywhere in the world!
Step Ladder
Top Cap
Since its introduction, the top cap has grown in its practicality. Primarily used to assist in securing the step ladder together, many top caps are now available as a tray-like part that holds various items including nails, tools, screws and other smaller items at the top of the ladder.
Rear Side Rail
This part of the step ladder in one of two ‘legs’ that make it possible for the ladder to stand upright without the need to lean against a stable object.
Steps
Steps more or less speak for themselves. These are used to climb to the top(ish) of the step ladder. Some particular brands may add anti-slip surfaces to the steps to provide additional grip as well as some steps extending to the rear side rail, offering a longer tray.
Spreaders
Spreaders are used to keep the rails of the ladder from splitting apart in addition to locking the ladder into position when it's extended to keep the ladder from falling inward.
Feet
The primary use of ladder feet is simple, to prevent the ladder from moving and slipping while you are on it. Feet come in different materials but anti-slip feet are the ones you want.
Extension Ladder
Fly Section
This section of the ladder is what provides the extended height when you need to reach higher positions. Here the fly slides up and down which almost doubles the height of the extension ladder.
Base Section
The base section of the ladder always remains static, it does not move up or down. This section interlocks with the fly section so that the two sections function similar to a rail-type system.
Rope & Pulley Section
The rope & pulley section of the ladder enables the fly section to go up and down. To elevate the fly section, you will need to pull the rope.
Rungs & Rung Locks
Rungs serve the same function as steps on a step ladder. The only difference between rungs on an extension ladder and step ladder is that rungs on an extension ladder are half as deep to allow the fly section to slide up and down. Rung locks serve to lock the fly section into place so that it doesn’t collapse. In order to drop the fly section, the rung locks hinge upward so they slide over the base rungs.
And there you have it! The sections of a step ladder and extension explained. If you require quality, reliable step and extension ladders, be sure to browse our extensive collections at www.laddersukdirect.co.uk. For more information on step, extension or any type of ladder, be sure to get in touch with Ladders UK Direct today.
