Safest ways to store your ladders: The garage
03/05/2016
If you want your ladder to last, proper storage is key – and of all the places to store your ladder, the garage is one of the best. While all our ladders boast durable, hard-wearing materials, you still need to look after your ladder to get the most out of it. Store in inappropriate conditions and you may find the material begin to deteriorate in time. What’s more, failure to store your access equipment safely may lead to unauthorised use of your ladders and steps – potentially leading to an accident in worst case scenarios.
Tailor-made storage for ladders
Storing your extension ladder on the ceiling of your garage is a great way to keep it safe and out of the way. No matter how small your garage is, the ceiling will always be a viable option. Best of all, it’s easy enough to build a ceiling storage rack yourself. Alternatively, you can hang your ladder horizontally on one of the walls in the garage using wall hooks – for even easier access.
If you decide to use either of these methods, make sure your ladder is installed correctly, otherwise it may fall and cause serious injury.
Other options in the garage
If you’re short on time and can’t build your own storage solution, find somewhere safe to place your ladder instead.
The best options for storing your ladder, especially extension ladders, without securing it include:
- Laying it down horizontally on the floor
- Propping it up against the wall and out of the way
Whichever of these two options you choose, make sure you think about location before putting your ladder away. You don’t want to create a trip hazard.
Garages Vs. gardens
If you’re carrying out a job over a few days or your garage is far too cluttered to even consider, don’t just take the easy option and leave your ladder outside. Even though it might be tempting, it’s not always a wise idea.
Risks include:
- Slow degradation of materials like aluminium
- Rapid degradation of any fittings, fixtures, and features made from plastic or rope
- Unauthorised use of and access to your ladder
- Risk of burglary if left outside a business premises or home
Check the safety of your ladders today
If you’ve been storing your ladders incorrectly it might be worth getting a ladder inspection to check their condition. At Browns Ladders, we offer our own Ladder Inspection Service – carrying out inspections on up to 50 of your items in one day. Should any of your ladders be damaged, we can carry out repairs for you or offer advice on the best replacements for your ladder in our online shop. Upon completion, we’ll tag all your ladders, give them an individual reference, and send over a report – so that you’re completely up to date with what went on.
For more information on any of our ladders or services, call the Browns Ladders team on 01282 615517.