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Ladders UK Direct Ltd
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23 Sep 2020

Most of the step ladders we sell here at Ladders UK Direct are made of either aluminium or fibreglass. Both of these materials have their respective benefits and drawbacks - the right choice for you will depend on how you intend to use your ladder.

Aluminium vs fibreglass ladders

LEFT: Professional Swingback Aluminium Step Ladder
RIGHT: Super-Trade Swingback Fibreglass Step Ladder

To help you make an informed buying decision, let's take a quick look at the pros and cons of aluminium ladders, glass fibre ladders, and steel ladders...

 

Aluminium Ladders

Aluminium step ladders are very popular because they're lightweight yet durable, and because they don't cost very much. The one big disadvantage is that aluminium conducts heat and electricity, so you can't use an aluminium ladder when working near electrical hazards or in a very hot environment.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to transport
  • Inexpensive
  • Suitable for most jobs
  • Aluminium doesn't rust or corrode

Cons:

  • Aluminium conducts heat and electricity
  • Not safe for electrical work

 

Fibreglass Ladders

Fibreglass step ladders tend to cost more than their aluminium counterparts, but they're worth the extra cost. A heavy-duty fibreglass ladder can be used for all sorts of different jobs, and because fibreglass doesn't conduct electricity, these ladders are ideal for electrical jobs that would be too dangerous on aluminium steps.

Pros:

  • Fibreglass doesn't conduct electricity
  • Safer for electrical work
  • Very sturdy and durable

Cons:

  • Heavier than aluminium ladders
  • Generally more expensive

 

Steel Ladders

While steel ladders are far less popular than aluminium and fibreglass ladders, they do have a place on the market. Here at Ladders UK Direct, the steel ladder that we offer is actually a single-section ladder that's designed for use in high-pressure, industrial environments. The ladder itself features a steel core, but is coated with a special aluminium and zinc coating - to make it highly durable and weather resistant. But why would you choose steel over aluminium or fibreglass? Let's take a look at the pros and cons of steel ladders.

Pros:

  • Can be used for heavy-duty work
  • Usually more affordable than aluminium or fibreglass ladders
  • Resistant to rot

Cons:

  • Can be vulnerable to moisture, corrosion and rusting without a suitable coating
  • Heavier to transport
  • Can't be used around electrical hazards

Here at Ladders UK Direct, you'll find a comprehensive selection of ladders in aluminium, fibreglass, and steel to suit your requirements. Browse and buy online today - we offer FREE delivery on all orders!

Aluminium Step Ladders   Fibreglass Step Ladders   Steel Ladder

We also sell a wide range of aluminium and fibreglass extension ladders for situations that require a leaning ladder.