Properly storing and moving your ladder helps keep it in good condition. Minor maintenance, such as bolt tightening and hinge lubrication, is also beneficial and easily done by the average person. Major repairs must be performed by qualified mechanics or your ladder's manufacturer like ladders2go.com.au.
• In addition to the guidelines listed previously, metal ladders have a couple of special requirements. Metal ladders exposed to any kind of fire or powerful chemicals are no longer safe and should not be used. Rustproofing is also recommended for metal ladders exposed often to water or rain.
• Treat wood ladders used outside to help stop weather damage. Sealants, such as linseed oil, provide either a transparent penetrating preservative or a clear finish. Paint is not an appropriate weather sealer; it can make cracks in the wood hard to see or hide them altogether. Keep wood ladders away from moisture and high heat, and always store them in well-ventilated places.
• Fiberglass ladders should not be stored in locations exposed to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light can cause the fiberglass to break down, compromising ladder safety. As with ladders made of metal, fiberglass ladders exposed to fire or strong chemicals are unsafe and should be discarded.
