FOLDING LADDERS
Frequently Asked Questions About Folding Ladders
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A folding ladder is a portable ladder with hinged sections that collapse for easy storage and transport.
It’s designed to provide access to moderate heights safely and can be configured in various positions (A-frame, extension, or platform depending on model). You’ll find folding ladders everywhere — from home garages and construction sites to maintenance and light industrial workspaces — because they’re compact, versatile, and don’t require wall support. -
Absolutely. Before climbing, lock all hinges and spreaders completely open so the ladder can’t collapse.
A partially unfolded or unlocked ladder is a leading cause of ladder-related injuries. You should hear or feel a click when hinges are locked properly. -
Not required by OSHA for short folding ladders, but highly recommended.
Many folding ladders include extended handholds or safety bars to help maintain balance.
For commercial or frequent-use applications, models with integrated safety handles or platform rails are worth it. -
Aluminum – Lightweight, rust-resistant, and affordable. Ideal for general use.
Fiberglass – Non-conductive, stronger, and safer for electrical work.
Steel – Heavy-duty, but heavier and prone to corrosion without coating.
Plastic/Composite – Lightweight and used for household or short-reach applications.
Tip: If you’re working around electricity, go fiberglass — never metal.
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Your working height should be about 4 feet higher than your ladder height.
Example:For an 8 ft ceiling, a 4–5 ft ladder is ideal.
For 12 ft ceilings, go with a 7–8 ft ladder.
Avoid standing on the top step unless it’s rated as a platform.
PlatformsandLadders.com is committed to being your source for Folding Ladders. Our Folding Ladder product line includes Roll-A-Fold and Fold-N-Store Folding Ladders available in painted steel and stainless steel.
The Roll-A-Fold Ladder offers all of the advantages of a Safety Rolling Ladder with the added benefit of compact storage. By simply removing two bolts, the outer legs fold and the ladder can be rolled on its wheels and stored away neatly and safely. The large tires allow the unit to be rolled over rough terrain to access areas where most standard ladders cannot reach.
The Fold-N-Store Ladder is a portable Safety Ladder with Tilt and Roll mobility. This ladder can be used in a variety of commercial, industrial warehouse and office environments, folding easily for transportation and easily rolling over rough surfaces on its large rubber wheels.
All of our Folding Ladders lock in place when the ladder is in use for user safety and are OSHA and ANSI compliant.
Folding Ladders are designed for the following:
Compact storage
Bring elevated areas into reach
Tilt & Roll mobility
Rough surfaces by using 10" real wheels
Call now and speak with one of our well trained staff members for answers to any product related questions, obtain a quote for freight shipping to your location, purchase a Folding Ladder or find out how we can customize a Folding Ladder that will best meet your needs.