On 28/07/2014 07:26, PeterC wrote:
On Sun, 27 Jul 2014 22:08:41 +0100, GMM wrote:

I need a longer ladder. I estimate I need at least 7m in total for the
current task, so a 3.3m triple (8.5m extended) such as
http://www.midlandladders.com/produc...r-546-151.html
would seem like a good idea.
Reading more closely, though, that one has a max load of 125kg, whereas
the nearest 'trade version ( a bit longer at 3.5m x 3 and 10% more) is
rated for 150kg.
Fortunately, I don't come close to either weight (yet!), but it strikes
me that th one with the higher rating is likely to be more rigid, which
would be nice at those heights. Is that a valid assumption or would I
be wasting the cash etc?

Cheers

When I wanted a 3-step-ladder for indoor use I bought an expensive Abru. It
cost abought 3x a cheap version in Wickes. It weighs more than the
'domestic' 5-tread one but it's like standing on a rock. Also the platform
is big enough for my feet.
I've used a double, 90kg-rated one and it wasn't nice. At the time, with
tools etc., I would have been ~85kg.
Just one thing: having used a trade-rated triple (about 7m IIRC), it's
furking heavy and difficult to control when extended on a windy day.
Oh, a triple is very useful at times as a double+single, using the top
section as a single.


I bought a lightweight triple 10 ft 20+ years ago. Easy to put up and
comfortable to work on. Everyone in the road has used it at some time or
another. The ladder accidents I've heard about would not have been
prevented by a more expensive ladder