Know the Right Ladder Height With the Ladder Height Chart & Calculator

Using a ladder with the proper height for the job is important. It can help you do the job efficiently. And at the same time, it’s safer and may prevent any untoward incidents. 

But do you know what height your ladder should be? It’s not a 1:1 ratio. A 26 ft height doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s suitable for structures up to 26 feet.

It can be confusing, especially for first time DIYers. That’s why we’re here to help you out. Let’s explore a bit on the ladder height chart so that you would be able to compute the exact height of the ladders to use.

It’s not as hard as it looks! So let’s get started.

Ladder Height Chart for Step Ladders

Different types of ladders may have different computations. Let’s start with one of the most basic ladders, the step ladder.

A common mistake of most is that they maximize the steps of the ladder. And this can be pretty dangerous and it can cause imbalance. Thus, tipping over is very likely to happen.

The safest highest step that you can stand on a step ladder is 3-4 steps from the top. Anything less than this is an invitation for accidents.

So let’s see the height chart below for step ladders.

Ladder height	Maximum reach
4 ft	8 ft
6 ft	10 ft
7 ft	11 ft
8 ft	11 ft
10 ft	14 ft
12 ft	16 ft
14 ft	18 ft
16 ft	20 ft
18 ft	21 ft
26 ft	23 ft

Ladder Height Chart for Extension Ladders

Extension ladders are very versatile and used for a lot of applications. But using this type of ladder requires caution since it’s not stable on its own. Hence, you have to use the right height for the job. You’re going to be several feet away from the ground. So maximizing the steps of the ladder is a sure way to land in a hospital bed.

So let’s see the height chart for extension ladders.

Factors to consider in calculating required height for a ladder for any application

In computing the required height for any job, there are also some factors to be considered. 

• Especially for extension ladders, these ladders have an overlap. For instance, a 14 ft ladder has an overall of 1-2 inches between the base and fly section. So the maximum working height is 12-13 feet.
• Extension ladder sizes may range from 16-40 feet. They should extend 3 feet past the edge of the surface that you’re working on. But it should not be more than 4 feet. 
• The angle is also one aspect that you have to consider since you won’t place the ladder in an upright position.
• The highest safe level is a few rungs from the top of the ladder.
• You shouldn’t stand on the top few rungs.
• If you’re using a ladder on top of the roof, you need the ladder to extend at least 3 feet from the top.

Ladder height	Maximum reach
16 ft	15 ft
20 ft	19 ft
25 ft	23 ft
28 ft	27 ft
32 ft	31 ft
36 ft	34 ft
40 ft	37 ft
44 ft	41 ft
48 ft	45 ft
60 ft	49 ft

So using the ladder height calculator, let’s compute what ladder height you’d need to reach a maximum of 25 feet. Let’s see again the chart: 

Ladder height	Maximum reach	Height to gutter
16 ft	15 ft	9 ft
20 ft	19 ft	9-13 ft
24 ft	23 ft	13-27 ft
28 ft	27 ft	17-21 ft

Different Types of Ladders and Their Uses

Different types of ladders ]correspond to a specific use. And ladders have their specific limitations. So it’s important to use the right ladder for the job.

We are going to list several types of ladders and their intended use:

1. Extension ladders

Extension ladders are popular and versatile too. There are different types of extension ladders. And these ladders are used for reaching higher heights.

Extension ladders consist of two sections, the base, and the fly. This makes it possible for this type of ladder to extend to a higher reach. These are also perfect for painting ceiling, fixing your roof, and are often used in industrial and warehouse settings.

 Let’s see some pros and cons.

Pros

• Can be used for higher heights such as roofs
• Ideal for outdoor work
• Portable

Cons

• Needs proper setup to be used safely
• Can only be used by one person at a time

2. Step ladder

These ladders are a staple in everyone’s home. These are perfect for reaching out hard to access cabinets. They can also be used for cleaning windows in your homes. It consists of an A-frame structure and is available with one or two-step ladders.

Pros

• Self-supporting and stable
• Can be used by two people ( for two-sided step ladders )
• Portable
• Ideal for almost all types of surfaces

Cons

• Have height limitations

3. Multipurpose ladders

Multipurpose ladders are a combination of 4-5 ladders in one. And this type of ladder is perfect for the seasoned DIYer

Pros

• Can save you on the cost of buying multiple ladders
• Versatile and can be used on almost all applications
• Reduced storage since it replaces the need for multiple ladders

Cons

• Higher upfront cost

Safety Tips When Working with Heights

Working a few feet from the ground is serious. That’s why there are several guidelines that you need to follow to not end up paying for hospital bills.

1. Though the best brands have slip-resistant rungs, it’s still advisable to wear slip-resistant shoes. 
2. Don’t use the ladder in extreme weather conditions.
3. Do not overreach or extend your arms out to either side of the ladder.
4. Maintain 3 points of contact all the time.
5. For working near powerlines, use only fiberglass ladders. Avoid metal and aluminum ladders as they can conduct electricity.
6. Do not overload the ladder
7. Always face the ladder when climbing.
8. Check the ladder first before using it. It should be free from dents, rusting, and chips. And the lock should be in place in case of an extension ladder.
9. Don’t carry tools in our hands. A tool belt is there for a reason.

You may also like: Types of Ladders

FAQ’s:

Conclusion

To avoid any accidents, you must use the proper ladder height for the surface that you’re going to work on. Failure to do so can make accidents more inevitable. Our ladder height chart and calculator would provide you with simple guidelines and computation on what ladder height you should use.