Ladders are an unavoidable inclusion both in a domestic as well as in an industrial setting. Owing to their excelling utility, ladders are also offered in an extensive variety and are manufactured using different material. Selecting from a vast range of ladders isn’t always easy but is the choice rests between Aluminium and Fiberglass, this article will help you make a choice. Since both materials have their respective benefits and drawbacks, choosing the ladder in specific material will solely depend on your needs and budget.
- Aesthetics: Fiberglass laddersare open to be manufactured to any height but their weight increases with height, therefore making it difficult to be handled by one person alone. This is why fiberglass is typically used in designing step ladders. Aluminium is comparatively lighter and easier to transport which makes it an ideal choice in terms of utility.
- Strength: Fiberglass ladders are considered as much stronger and rigid as compared to aluminum ladders. These heavy-duty models offer support to a maximum of 375 pounds. On the contrary, aluminum ladders have the capacity to support up to 500 pounds, which can also extend support to more than one person. One can choose to install a fixed ladder fall arrest system which will provide extra protection and complete safety to the workers.
- Long Lasting: Fiberglass even though it is heavier and lesser mobile stands much more durable and long-lasting than aluminum ladders. Owing to the superior weather-resistant nature of fiberglass, these ladders can be exposed to sun or rain for days on end without worrying about rusting or losing its strength. Having said that, aluminum might come across as this durable, but it can have long lifespans if these are properly maintained. One can team these up with aluminum guardrails or a handrail system to have these servicing for years.
- Mobility:Since ladders are expected to be moved around to handle jobs in different areas on a site or within a house, fiberglass ladders are considered quite heavier as compared to aluminium ladders. Thus, as far as portability is concerned, aluminium ladders are clear winners.
- Price: Pricing of aluminum ladders is typically lesser than fiberglass ladders. Considered fiberglass ladder vs aluminum ladder, aluminium is a superior option that can be use outdoors within controlled settings.
- Safety: Fiberglass ladders are regarded as safer than their aluminum counterparts owing to their resistance to heat and electricity. Even though rubber stand-offs along with other insulation methods have imparted some extent of safety to aluminum ladders, these are highly risky when used near electrical wires. Also, aluminum ladders can bend when exposed to heat, making these a risky pick for high temperature settings.
Fiberglass Ladder vs Aluminum Ladder: Conclusion
In a nutshell, aluminum ladders are considered great for industrial, construction, and other industries wherein the temperature is viable and one needs to higher heights. On the other hand, fiberglass models are used as step ladders which are suitable to perform smaller jobs such as painting, cleaning gutters, hedge trimming, or carrying out fence or roof repairs. Since not every work setting is identical, it is wise to consult a ladder manufacturer’s ratings and recommendations, along with keeping a look out for as OSHA guidelines, while considering a choice between these two material options.