A step stool and step ladder are great pieces of equipment to have around your home or work that help make several jobs safer and more efficient. But what's the difference between a step ladder and a step stool and which is right for you?

In this blog we take a look at what sets a step ladder and step stool apart, listing the key differences and which you need to choose for the job at hand. 

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According to figures from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 43% of fatal falls involve a ladder. That's a very high number, especially considering that individuals who use ladders in the workplace are supposed to receive basic ladder safety training first.

Health and safety experts would point out that the majority of these accidents involve complacency - but if that many falls are occurring when people have received basic training, how many are happening at home, in a domestic environment, with no training at all?

Thankfully, the risks involved with using a ladder can be dramatically reduced with a few key safety precautions. In this blog post, we're going take a look at how to tie off a ladder in order to reduce the chances of a fall occurring.

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While we're all grateful for the roofs over our heads, we don't always look after them in the way we should. One of the first steps you need to take to keep your roof functioning properly is to perform a roof inspection to identify potential problems. You might not be very confident about climbing on the roof, but with the right equipment and know-how, you can keep your roof in tip-top condition for years to come

Why do I need to inspect my roof?

Here in the UK, our winters can be very damaging to roofs and other exposed areas of your home. Your roof takes the brunt of the harsh weather and can be damaged by rain, snow, or even wind. With this in mind, it's vital that you carry out a roof inspection before and after winter to ensure that any developing problems are dealt with quickly. It's much easier to resolve a minor problem before a major one occurs.

How can I get on my roof safely?

Climbing on the roof can be dangerous, but if you have the right equipment and you know how to use it, then you should be able to carry out a ladder inspection, no problem. Here at Ladders UK Direct, we offer a wide range of roof ladders that are designed to help you access your roof safely. 

This Super-Trade Double Section Roof Ladder is one of our best sellers because it features heavy-duty galvanised steel hooks and an aluminium crossbar that provide strength without being too heavy. This roof ladder is perfect for carrying out a roof inspection several times a year and is built to last. 

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What am I looking for during my roof inspection?

Whether you have roof tiles or roof slates, the general things to look out for during a roof inspection are the same. Here's a checklist of things for you to consider while you're assessing your roof:

• Can you see any general wear and tear?

• Do you see any loose materials that could potentially fall on passers-by?

• Can you see any tiles or slates that are missing?

• Do you see signs of algae/moss that could indicate it's damp under the tiles?

• Is your guttering damaged or leaking?

• Can you see pooling water?

All of these things indicate that your roof (or parts of the roof) are damaged. You should seek to have these repaired/dealt with quickly to ensure your roof remains functional and doesn't damage the inside of the house. 

So, to answer the question "how often should you have your roof inspected" the answer is, often! Investing in a roof ladder from Ladders UK Direct will help ensure you can carry out roof inspections for years to come.

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Need a bit of extra height while working? A ladder isn't always the most practical solution - sometimes, it's both quicker and safer to use a hop-up work platform.

When trying to complete a task or access an item that’s just out of reach, sometimes a ladder isn’t always the best option. Hop-up steps are quick and easy to use, and give you the boost you need to get your task done quickly and efficiently.

There are a variety of different designs when it comes to hop-up steps, so no matter what the task at hand is, there’s a hop up step suited to you and your needs. Hop-up steps are undoubtedly a handy reaching tool, but how do you know which hop-up step is right for you?

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Are you thinking about starting your own window cleaning company? If the answer is yes, you're in the right place! Today we're going to answer the question "can window cleaners use ladders?" so that you know whether you should purchase your very own set before you get started. 

Window cleaning ladders and the law

If you're working at height, there are a set of rules, guidelines, and regulations that you have to follow that are set out by the Health and Safety Executive (or HSE). Their overarching message is that working from height should be avoided wherever possible. Equipment like water fed poles can be used from the ground to clean hard-to-reach windows, but there are also some flaws with this method. 

• There might not be a suitable water source for the equipment at every house/location
• The water-fed pole may not be long enough to reach the windows you need to clean
• The quality of work might be lower because you can't see the dirt on the windows up-close

In some scenarios, cleaning windows on a ladder is the best option. Here's what the HSE advises if you do need to clean windows at height:

"Where window cleaning at height cannot be avoided, you must first consider using an existing place of work that is already safe for example, cleaning from inside windows or from a balcony.

If you cannot find an existing safe place, to work from, you must provide suitable access equipment. Where the risk of falling is not eliminated by either of these means, you must take additional measures to minimise the distance and consequences of any fall by using the right type of fall arrest equipment."

So, yes - window cleaners can use ladders to reach windows on the second or third storey, but it's important that you invest in good-quality equipment and work as safely as you possibly can. That's where we come in!

Best ladder for cleaning windows

At Ladders UK Direct, we offer a wide range of ladders that are perfect for window cleaning. From sturdy single-section ladders to versatile combination ladders - we have it all! Here are some of our top picks if you're looking for the best ladder for cleaning windows.

Domestic Double Extension Ladder

If you're only planning to do window cleaning jobs around your own home, this Domestic Double Extension Ladder is ideal!

It's made of lightweight aluminium, can carry loads up to 150kg and meets the new improved strength and slip tests. While this ladder can't be used by professional window cleaners, it certainly is a great option for homeowners who want their windows to sparkle.

LFI Super-Trade PLUS Triple Extension Ladder

For those of you looking to clean windows professionally, this Triple Extension Ladder from LFI is an excellent choice. This ladder comes in a range of lengths from 4 metres to 10 metres, so you'll have no problem reaching the windows on the tallest of buildings. 

It's certified for trade use, features comfortable 'D' shaped rungs and secure non-slip grip with PVC feet. For added slip protection, you should take a look at our ladder pads and our ladder mats. 

Zarges Combi-Master DX

If you're looking for a great all-round ladder that you can use for cleaning windows - even without a supporting wall, then the Zarges Combi-Master DX is the ladder for you. 

This innovative combination ladder can be used as a two-section push-up ladder or a ladder with double-sided access. It features high-strength Perlon straps and sturdy triangular rungs which made it comfortable to work on.

With this combination ladder in your arsenal, there'll be very few windows that you cannot reach. 

If none of these ladders looks like the right window cleaning solution for you - take a look at our full range of window cleaning ladders by clicking the button below. As always, you can email us at sales@laddersukdirect.co.uk if you have any questions.

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Read More: Can You Put a Ladder Against a Window?