Ladders are not the kind of item you can just buy on impulse. When you stop and think about trusting life and limb to a piece of equipment, it's probably one of those things that might require a bit of checking out. The last thing you want to find out is that you made a poor ladder purchase when you are 20 feet off the ground. It would not be good. Best to do your ladder homework on terra firma. So what do you need to look for when buying a ladder, you might ask? Well, in this ladder buying guide, you'll be able to find out what to look for in a ladder that won't end up sending you to the emergency room.

1) Rung Strength

Rung Strength is one of the most important factors in a ladder. Not only do the rungs of the ladder help you get to the height you want, they are critical in keeping the ladder sturdy. The most important factor of a ladder's rungs is the actual connection points with the ladder's beams. Pay special attention to the kinds of welds used to connect the rungs of the ladder to the ladder frame. Many companies, like Gorilla Ladders use spot welds on their ladders. This type of weld provides many spot connections on your ladder rungs. That is not the safest weld for a ladder. Look for companies that will use a single or double weld on their ladders. For instance, Little Giant Ladders uses a double zigzag welds on their rungs. This type of weld will prove to be the most durable over the longest period of time.

2) Construction Standards

You can certainly buy a ladder for really cheap if you want one. But as the old saying goes "you get what you pay for." The same goes for ladders. When you buy your ladder, look for a piece of equipment that will keep you safe for the long haul. Do yourself a favor and look for a "made in the USA" stamp. A ladder made in the USA will have the same standards of craftsmanship as you.

3) Metal Strength

Most extension ladders are made of aluminum. But not all aluminum is the same. Different alloys give varying degrees of strength to ladder. An alloy is a blend of two metals. Normally Aluminum alloys are a blend of magnesium. Some alloys are made to create a cheaper metal. This results in a ladder that is less durable and a lot weaker. Little Giant Ladders use aircraft grade aluminum. Hey if it can hold an airplane together at 500 miles per hour, It can hold you up and keep you safe on the ground. Gorilla Ladders normally less expensive alloys. They might save you a few bucks, but will they save you a 25 foot fall on the job? Make sure to look for aircraft-grade aluminum in your next ladder.

Learn to look for these crucial elements in your next ladder. They will keep you safe and sound whether you use your ladder on the job or at home. Don't skimp on the quality of your tools. You owe it to yourself to get a ladder that will keep you safe. Look to the giant in ladders. Get a Little Giant – the next big thing in ladders.

Adam Hook is a Client Account Specialist for 10x Marketing – More Visitors, More Buyers, More Revenue. For more information about Little Giant Ladders vs Gorilla Ladders go to LittleGiantSales.com.