Aluminum Extension Ladders
Aluminum extension ladders have several key advantages over either wood or fiberglass variants; you may want to consider getting an aluminium ladder in several situations. Aluminum is a great, proven material that is both light and cheap. If you are worried about extension ladders safety, rest assured that despite its extremely light weight, aluminum is more then strong enough for usual ladder use (always check maximum allowed weight though, every ladder is different) and does not easily crack.
However, you might want to look into fiberglass extension ladders if you are going to be working by a source of significant heat or could potentially be exposed to electric current: unlike fiberglass, aluminum conducts heat and electicity extremely well, and usually to your detriment. Be warned that when heated, aluminum ladder extensions allow the heat to spread throughout the ladder quickly and could potentially, given enough heat, weaken the ladder to the point of collapse. The same applies to open electric current in the vicinity of your aluminum ladder: the material will conduct it and can even give you a nasty shock.
However, if you are not working next to sources of extreme heat or open electrical current, an aluminum extension ladder could be perfect for you! For example, if you need a ladder for work around your own home, you will greatly appreciate the lightness of the metal, as well as its low price and resistance to cracking. Aluminum extension ladders are great for home use, as they are light to carry and can be easily and neatly folded and stored in your attic or garage. For even more flexibility in storage, you can disassemble your ladder and store all extension ladder parts separately where space allows, perhaps even in your closet.
If you are looking for the cheapest high quality extension ladder, you might want to look into established home improvement stores and proven brands. Stores such as Home Depot and Lowes carry good aluminum extension ladders, as well as related items such as extension ladder stabilizers. For specific brands, you might consider looking into well established companies such as Werner: Werner aluminum extension ladders are known for their reliability. Finally, if you are looking to get the same ladders even cheaper, you should visit online stores dealing in ladders. Cheap aluminum extension ladders do not neccessarely mean a compromise in quality: often, online stores can offer the same brands and models of ladder for a lower price then their real world competitors.
To sum up, if you are going to use your ladder in areas not exposed to significant heat or electrical hazards, you will find the light, cheap and durable aluminum a great material for your folding extension ladder. Be sure to check online stores for the best deals and discounts on your future aluminum extension ladders.
