As a homeowner the need for some type of ladder will eventually be realized. With many types of ladders available in various heights, choosing a ladder can become a time-consuming research project. For safety sake the proper size and type of ladder should be chosen for each job. The National Safety Council advises "Risky projects, like installing siding, gutters or roofs, are best left to professionals. Saving money isn't worth risking a debilitating or fatal fall." However, some homeowners may prefer to do less extensive jobs themselves such as clearing gutters, washing windows or hanging holiday lights which will require a ladder. In those cases, they can help to avoid falls and other injuries by choosing the right ladder for the job and following the manufacturer's guidelines for use.

Step ladder

A step ladder is defined by the American Ladder Institute (ALI) as the following: "The Step ladder is a self-supporting portable ladder that is non-adjustable in length, with flat steps and a hinged design for ease of storage. It is intended for use by one person. Stepladders range in size from 4 ft. to 20 ft. in length along the side rail. Stepladders shorter than 4 ft. are considered Step Stools." Step ladders are extremely handy to have around the house for changing lightbulbs in ceiling light fixtures, changing batteries in smoke detectors, hanging decorations along doorframes, hanging window treatments and many other household tasks.

Straight ladder

A straight or single ladder consists of one rigid ladder section of a fixed height. Straight ladders are not adjustable and are sold in a variety of different heights. To determine what size ladder is needed for a particular job the height of the structure where the top of the ladder will rest needs to be measured. The American Ladder Institute explains, "Selection of proper Single Ladder size requires knowledge of the height of the top support point. In the event the top support point is a roof eave, the top of the Single Ladder must extend one to three feet above the roof eave if the climbers' intent is to access the roof." If there will be occurrences of having to reach various heights around the house, an extension ladder might be a better choice.

Extension ladder

An extension ladder is a useful tool for homes with different levels that need to be accessed for painting, clearing gutters or roof work. ALI describes an extension ladder: "The Extension Ladder is a non-self-supporting portable ladder that is adjustable in length. It consists of two or more sections that travel in guides or brackets so arranged so as to permit length adjustment. It is intended for use by one person." Although the ladder should be used by only one person at a time, it's useful to have a helper around to help extend and retract the ladder as needed for the job.

Telescoping ladder

Telescoping ladders can be used for household tasks such as painting the house, cleaning gutters, washing windows and other tasks also accomplished with other types of portable ladders. However, telescoping ladders can be extended and retracted for easy transport and storage. Glenda Taylor writing for BobVila.com says, "Made from durable aluminum, they extend up to 10 feet or more, and then retract to a size small enough to carry under one arm." Homeowners short on storage space might benefit from choosing a telescoping ladder rather than a straight ladder.

Articulated ladder

According to the American National Safety Institute (ANSI), "Articulated ladders are portable, with one or more pairs of locking hinges, and are useful in a variety of situations. They can be used as a single or extension ladder depending on the locking of the hinges, a stepladder, or a scaffold/worktable." If used safely and within manufacturer guidelines, an articulated ladder is a tool that can be used for many more homeowner tasks than a standard step ladder or straight ladder. Walls and ceilings along staircases and other uneven surfaces can be safely accessed with an articulated ladder designed for those purposes.

Combination ladder

A combination ladder can be used as a step ladder, a straight ladder or an extension ladder. Some combination ladders are designed to also be used as a stairwell ladder. Depending on the model, a combination ladder can be used for a variety of the same jobs as an articulated ladder. However, a combination ladder consists of straight fixed sections that can be converted from a step ladder to a straight or extension ladder while an articulated ladder is constructed with several pairs of hinges that allow it to be manipulated into a variety of positions.

Tripod ladder

Unlike a step ladder or a straight ladder, a tripod ladder is a specialty ladder used for very specific jobs. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Organization (OSHA) "A tripod orchard ladder is a portable, self-supporting ladder used in orchards and landscape maintenance, for tasks such as pruning and fruit harvesting." Therefore, tripod ladders are commonly used by agricultural and landscape workers. However, homeowners may be interested in owning one to trim large hedges or trees. The ladder is designed with one central leg that supports the ladder steps which are wide and sometimes flare out at the bottom to create stability on soft, uneven ground. Because of the tripod design, the ladder can be stood very close to a tree or hedge for easier access to the foliage.

There is a lot of professional information available online regarding choosing the right ladder and the safe usage and maintenance of ladders. Research should be done before choosing and using a ladder for any task to safely achieve the thrill of a job well done.