Telescoping ladder - has anyone tried using these?

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Just saw a very short story on TV about ladders and why they fail. The telescoping ladders have strength going up and down. Many of their failures, other than the lock failing, is from the ladder being on too much of an angle. (Like when trying to avoid a slippery sidewalk so you back up the base to the grass.) That causes stress on the sides where it is usually thin walled aluminum and not very strong. So be careful not to have too much angle on those ladders. Keep them as upright as safely possible.

Also, with the Little Giant type of folding ladders that have a hinge, the hinge is a big source of failure… again when the ladder is on too much of an angle. Make sure the hinge is up, not down, as it’s stronger in that position (hinge up.).

Good luck, be safe.

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42

All good advice George. I would also add the because of the tubular rails, these ladders slide very easily when placed against gutters, etc. Even a slight wind can make them slide.
I always try to tie off the top, but if the gutters have leaf guards etc. I tie each rail into the ground using those spiral dog stakes and ratchet straps if possible.

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There is a gold nugget Joe is offering…