Aluminum Ladders vs Steel Ladders: Which One is the Right Fit for You?

When it comes to choosing a ladder for industrial and commercial applications, buyers often only consider two options: aluminum ladders and steel ladders. Both types of ladders have their own pros and cons, so the choice really depends on each buyer’s unique needs. Here are a few common differences between the two that might help you decide if you need a steel ladder or an aluminum ladder for your project or job site:

Aluminum vs Steel Ladders

When choosing between an aluminum ladder and a steel ladder, consider the following:

1. Potential Hazards. Reduced load bearing capacity

A major consideration for a lot of buyers, especially professionals in the building and construction field, is the ladder’s resistance to rust and corrosion. Building construction, roofing applications, and building maintenance often mean that the ladder will be mostly used outdoors, which it means it will be constantly exposed to the elements.

The maximum intended load a ladder can support depends on its material strength and construction. As rust degrades the steel, the ladder’s load-bearing capacity decreases. This can make the ladder unsafe for use, especially if it is required to support heavy loads or frequent use.

Aluminum is a type of metal alloy that is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, which means manufacturers won’t have to put any additional coating or include other processes to keep rust and corrosion at bay for as long as possible. With steel ladders, manufacturers often include a zinc coating (galvanized steel) to protect it against the elements.

2. Long-term cost savings

Aluminum resist rust while reducing the cost and lifetime maintenance. Steel is harder to transport, maneuver and cost more to ship and install. Steel is difficult to cut on-site, making Aluminum the new material for the modern age.

3. Portability and ease of installation

Stainless steel ladders are heavier than aluminum ladders, which means they are more difficult to handle and transport. Installation could be a challenge as well because you might need to use a crane to lift and install the ladder.

An aluminum ladder, on the other hand, is lightweight making it easy to transport and install. Often, only one qualified personnel is needed to transport and install it.

4. Versatility

Because aluminum ladders are lightweight, corrosion and rust-resistant, and durable, they make for the perfect ladder for various environments and applications. Roofing contractors use fixed aluminum ladders for their roofing jobs, HVAC service use the same to access their units, building contractors use aluminum ladders to scale walls and reach elevated areas, industrial companies use these to access lofts and/or elevated storage spaces, and architects and safety engineers use these during work inspections.

As you can see, aluminum ladders can be used in different settings and applications. So whether you’re looking for a lightweight, yet heavy-duty at the same time, ladder, you can’t go wrong with an aluminum ladder.

If you have more questions or you’d like to inquire about aluminum ladders, please fill out the Contact Form to let us know what you need. You may likewise reach Alaco Ladder at (888) 310-7040.