Industrial Ladders: The 7 Best Options for Home Service Professionals

The right tools make all the difference on the job, especially for safety and efficiency. Whether installing a ceiling fan or cleaning out gutters, having a reliable ladder that fits your needs is essential for any trade.  

An industrial-grade ladder can supply the support, safety, and reach needed for any job. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your business?  

In this guide, we’ll compare some of the top industrial ladders designed with home service pros in mind. From lightweight, portable models to heavy-duty options for larger jobs, we’ll help you find the perfect ladder to support your work. Our goal is to ensure safety and boost productivity.  

Let’s dive in! 

The Best 7 Industrial Ladders for Home Service Pros 

Having a safe and functional ladder is essential for home service providers. Workplace injury is a high risk, with over 20,000 injuries occurring from ladders on the job.  

Finding the right equipment can help reduce this risk. However, determining which product is the best fit can be tricky. 

We’ve rounded up some of the best ladder brands for professionals. Each one provides varying levels of safety, durability, and versatility. So, which one is best suited for your fleet? 

These are some of the best heavy-duty ladders for contractors: 

Werner D1228-2 Extension Ladder 

The Werner D1228-1 Extension Ladder is a Type IAA industrial-rated ladder with a 350-lb. weight capacity and a maximum extension of 28 feet.  

The height is great for accessing places like high rooftops and powerlines. The ladder features slip-resistant rungs for added safety. This is ideal when working in challenging conditions. 

This extension ladder is best suited for roofers, painters, and electricians who need to access high areas safely. The fiberglass ensures added safety when working near electrical installations or powerlines. 

Pros:  

The ladder’s reach and non-conductive fiberglass construction make it perfect for electrical work. The sturdy design ensures safety and stability for tough jobs. 

Cons:  

While heavy-duty, it is not as lightweight or portable as smaller models. Due to its extended length, it also requires sufficient storage space. 

Price:  

The Werner D1228-2 Extension ladder costs $329.00. 

Little Giant Velocity Multi-Use Ladder 

The Little Giant Velocity Multi-Use Ladder has a 300-lb. weight capacity (Type IA) and can be used as an A-frame, extension ladder, or scaffold. Its adjustable height makes it highly versatile for different tasks. This ladder is known for its portability and safety. 

Due to its functionality and stability, this ladder is perfect for contractors, plumbers, and electricians. It can be used for a variety of tasks, such as accessing roofs, performing HVAC repairs, and gutter cleaning. 

Pros: 

The multi-use design allows for an A-frame, extension, or scaffold setup. The adjustable height adds versatility. It’s safe, portable, and supports a 300 lb. weight capacity. 

Cons: 

It can be heavier than simpler ladders and comes at a higher cost compared to basic models. 

Price: 

The Little Giant Velocity Multi-Use Ladder costs $297.99. 

Louisville Ladder FS1508 Fiberglass Step Ladder 

The Louisville FS1508 is an 8-foot fiberglass step ladder with a 300-lb. weight capacity (Type IA). Its non-conductive fiberglass construction makes it an excellent choice for electrical work. The steps are slip-resistant for added safety. 

This ladder is perfect for electricians and plumbers. Its non-conductive construction is particularly beneficial for electrical installations. And the added stability and height make it great for plumbing tasks, such as accessing pipes and working in attics or basements. 

Pros: 

The non-conductive fiberglass ensures electrical safety and a lightweight design. The slip-resistant steps also offer excellent stability. 

Cons: 

The height is limited to 8 ft. This may not be sufficient reach for all projects, and it can be heavier and less portable than aluminum ladders. 

Price:  

The Louisville FS1508 costs between $150 – $250. 

Little Giant Epic 22-Foot Ladder (Hybrid Model) 

The Little Giant Epic 22-Foot Ladder has a 300-lb. weight capacity (Type IA) and is designed for multiple configurations.  

With its 22-foot height, this ladder offers versatility for tackling a variety of tasks. It’s ideal for everything from high roofing projects to larger residential service work. 

The Epic ladder is ideal for roofers, contractors, painters, and window cleaners. Its height and flexibility allow roofers to access high, slanted roofs. Contractors can use it to work on large residential or commercial projects. Window cleaners or painters will also benefit from the height and portability for multi-level jobs. 

Pros:  

The multi-use design allows for various configurations, including extension, A-frame, or scaffold. The 22-foot height makes it ideal for accessing tall areas. It’s also compact for easy storage. 

Cons: 

This Little Giant model comes with a higher price point and can be heavy, requiring more effort to move around.  

Price: 

The Little Giant Epic Ladder will run a cost of just around $740.  

Hailo L100 Aluminum Folding Ladder 

The Hailo L100 is an aluminum compact folding ladder with a 330-lb. weight capacity (Type IA). It’s portable, easy to store, and its sturdy construction ensures durability.  

Plumbers, handymen, and contractors will benefit from the Hailo L100’s design. It’s perfect for quick tasks in tight spaces, such as plumbing repairs or maintenance work in residential homes. 

Pros:  

The ladder is lightweight and portable. Its compact, foldable design makes for easy storage and quick setup. 

Cons:  

The height is limited (typically 8 ft or shorter), and it’s less stable than larger, heavier ladders. 

Price: 

This German-designed stepladder will cost €139.99, which comes to about $150.00.  

Xtend+Climb 770P Telescoping Ladder 

The Xtend+Climb 770P Telescoping Ladder extends to 12.5 feet and has a 250-lb. weight capacity (Type I). Its telescoping design allows for easy height adjustments and collapses for compact storage.  

This model’s versatility makes it a great choice for mobile service fleets. It’s particularly beneficial in environments where portability and space-saving are key. 

The Xtend+Climb 770P is ideal for plumbers, electricians, and contractors who need a flexible, portable ladder. It allows for quick setups in residential homes or small commercial buildings. If space is limited and ease of transport is essential, this ladder is a great option. 

Pros:  

The Xtend+Climb ladder is compact, lightweight, and portable. Its telescoping design offers flexibility in tight spaces and easy storage in small spaces. 

Cons:  

The 250-lb. weight capacity may not be sufficient for more strenuous tasks. The telescoping design can also sometimes make the ladder feel less sturdy.  

Price:  

The Xtend+Climb 770P costs just over $280. 

Werner 7310 Fiberglass Extension Ladder 

The Werner 7310 Fiberglass Extension Ladder has a 375-lb. weight capacity (Type IAA) and extends to 10 feet. Made from non-conductive fiberglass, it’s perfect for tasks around electrical installations. It also features high-strength, slip-resistant feet for added stability. 

This ladder is ideal for roofers and contractors working on slanted roofs or tall buildings. Its heavy-duty design ensures stability and safety, making it an excellent choice for jobs that require access to elevated areas. The fiberglass construction also provides protection when working near electrical hazards. 

Pros:  

The non-conductive fiberglass ensures safety around electrical work. The heavy-duty weight capacity supports all types of jobs. The ladder also has slip-resistant feet, which provide extra stability. 

Cons:  

It’s heavier than some other extension ladders, and the 10-foot extension may not be tall enough for all jobs. 

Price:  

The Werner 7310 Fiberglass Extension ladder costs just about $280. 

Why Are Industrial Ladders Crucial for Home Services Businesses? 

Ladders may seem like a simple tool, but there are many specs that differ between models.  

An industrial ladder must have a minimum load rating of 120 kg (approximately 260 lbs.). Although industrial and commercial ladders are often used interchangeably, they are two distinct ladder types designed for different use cases.  

Industrial ladders are built for heavy-duty, high-risk environments where intensive use is required. They’re made from durable materials like fiberglass or aluminum, with features such as reinforced rungs and non-slip feet.  

Industrial ladders have a higher weight capacity (up to 375 lbs. or more) than commercial models, making them preferable for more demanding tasks. They’re typically also taller—reaching over 20 feet—and designed for extreme conditions. 

Industrial ladders are designed for demanding jobs and heavy use that require durable equipment. They’re made to handle greater loads and harsher conditions, making them ideal for industrial and professional jobs. 

Choosing the Right Ladder: Features to Consider 

Home service professionals know what it takes to get a job done. High-functioning tools can make or break a job site’s efficiency.  

Roofers may require a stable, high-reaching ladder, while contractors may require something that can hold more weight. If these trades arrive at a job with the wrong ladder, their work could be slowed down or become hazardous.  

Here are some of the features business owners should consider when choosing an industrial ladder: 

Height Requirements 

Consider the maximum height you need to reach for your specific tasks (roofs, attics, etc.). If you have limited funds, extension ladders with multiple levels of reach may be preferable. This will prevent you from needing to purchase more than one ladder. 

Material 

An industrial-grade ladder is typically made of fiberglass, steel, or aluminum. Here are a few things to consider when comparing the options: 

Fiberglass 

Fiberglass ladders are strong, durable, and non-conductive. This makes them ideal for electrical work and harsh environments.  

They’re corrosion-resistant and can support heavy-duty tasks, but they tend to be heavier than aluminum ladders. 

Aluminum 

Aluminum ladders are lightweight, portable, and resistant to corrosion. Their durability makes them perfect for general industrial and maintenance tasks.  

While affordable and easy to move, they are conductive, making them unsafe for electrical work. 

Steel 

Steel ladders are known for their strength and stability, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks that require a sturdy base.  

However, they’re heavier than aluminum and prone to rust unless coated. Because of this, they’re less ideal for outdoor use unless properly maintained. 

Portability 

Ladders aren’t exactly easy to lug around, so you’ll need one that fits your practical needs.  

Heavier and more stable ladders will be better suited to longer days and consistent projects. Lightweight models are ideal for ease of transport and storage. They may work best for jobs that require more movement on the job site.  

Weight Capacity 

Your ladder must be able to support your weight (or that of your employee) and the job equipment. A Type IA with a 300-lb capacity is usually a safe bet. However, if your ladder is needed more for access than utility, you could reduce its capacity. 

Multi-use Functionality 

Ladders that serve multiple purposes (extension, A-frame, scaffold) provide better versatility. This is especially helpful if your business handles different types of projects and work environments. 

Industrial Ladder Safety Equipment and Gear 

A job well done is a job safely done. Employee safety must be a top priority for all businesses. Injury on the job risks your employees’ well-being, damages to client property, and loss of contracts. Not to mention the mess it creates with insurance.  

Ensuring the safety of your team often boils down to the gear you use. This means investing in both high-grade ladders and high-grade safety equipment. 

Investing in these safety items ensures that your team works efficiently and safely. According to OHSA, proper use of PPE can prevent just over 37% of occupational injuries and diseases. 

To ensure safety on the job, here’s some equipment to consider having on hand: 

Ladder Stabilizers 

A ladder stabilizer is an attachment that provides a wider base or secures the ladder to a structure. It reduces the risk of the ladder tipping over while in use. 

Ladder Levelers 

Levelers are adjustable feet that help stabilize a ladder on uneven ground, preventing it from wobbling or slipping. 

Safety Harnesses 

A safety harness can be attached to a stable structure or the ladder itself to prevent falling while working at risky heights.  

Non-Slip Shoes 

Shoes with rubber or rubber-coated soles increase the grip on the surface. More grip helps prevent slipping when the ladder is on smooth or wet surfaces. This means a work shoe with decent tread rather than a casual shoe.  

Anti-Slip Tape  

Tape can be applied to ladder rungs to improve traction and reduce the risk of slipping. This is especially handy in wet or oily environments. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

PPE should include hard hats, work gloves with decent grip, protective eyewear, and non-slip work boots. 

Reflective Markers 

For increased visibility in low-light environments, add reflective tape or stickers on the ladder rungs. The visibility ensures that workers are seen on higher-risk job sites. It can also prevent workers from missing a rung on the ladder and slipping. 

Tool Tethers/Belts 

Lanyards or tool belts can secure tools to the worker or the ladder, reducing the risk of injury from falling objects. They can also reduce the risk of a worker lunging for a dropped tool. 

Choosing the Best Industrial Ladders for Your Business 

When it comes down to it, choosing the right ladder depends on your business’s needs.  

Before you decide, it’s important to consider your true needs. Sure, you know what you need it for, but there are more factors that will influence your decision.  

Here are a few things you should evaluate before purchasing an industrial ladder: 

Price Range and Affordability 

Staying within your budget is essential, regardless of the ladder rating. Find a ladder that suits your needs on the job and financially.  

Fleet Quantity 

How many ladders are you going to need? Whether you have one service team or multiple, it’s important to evaluate how many ladders each provider will need. Multiple different ladders may be required depending on the services you offer. 

PPE Investment 

If your business is in a riskier field where team members will be up higher, you should definitely consider investing in PPE. This shouldn’t be too much of an additional cost, but it is essential. Safety should always be factored in.  

Warranty 

Consider the warranty options when you purchase a ladder. These are expensive tools, and a warranty can help protect your investment.