Is a fiberglass or aluminum step ladder better?

Which one to buy: Fibreglass vs Aluminium Ladders.

We received many questions from customers asking if they should buy a fibreglass or an aluminium ladder. We also have heard many people said they want to purchase a fibreglass ladder because of the assumption that fibreglass ladders are stronger and more durable than aluminium ladders.

Índice Show

Which one to buy: Fibreglass vs Aluminium Ladders.
Height and Weight
Portability
Which Is Best?
Which is better aluminum or fibreglass ladder?
What is a drawback of fiberglass ladders?
Which is the strongest type of step ladder?
Do you really need fiberglass ladder?

In this article, we will explain the facts about fibreglass and aluminium ladders which will be useful for you when choosing which ladder to buy.

Fibreglass ladders are manufactured for people whose works are dealing with electricity such as electricians. Fibreglass is non-conductive to electricity so the use of fibreglass ladders can reduce the risk of getting electrocuted.

There is also a false assumption that a fibreglass ladder is lighter than an aluminium ladder. In fact, fibreglass ladders are mostly heavier than aluminium ladders. The heavier weight does not mean that fibreglass ladders are stronger and more stable. The stability of a ladder is determined by its construction such as the design of the cross braces and the foot print from stile to stile at the bottom of the ladder. A heavy ladder will actually disadvantage you when you need to carry it around especially if you have to bring your toolbox and ladder up and down the stairs.

If you are comparing ladders made from the same material, heavy ladders mean they are made from softer alloys, hence manufacturers have to use more materials to make their ladders as strong as the ones manufactured using harder alloys. In addition, the Australian Standards also require ladders to pass the tests. Therefore, ladders made from softer alloys must use more materials to meet the requirements in the Standards.

Fibreglass ladders need to be maintained regularly. The extreme UV radiation in Australia will cause the fibreglass to lose its surface’s outer layer rapidly and expose the fibre inside. You can see the visual changes when it happens such as the colour fades, the glossiness disappears and the surface becomes rough when you rub it. Your hand can also feel itchy after you touch it. Coating the fibreglass with acrylic lacquer regularly will replace the fibreglass surface’s outer layer, hence it will prolong its lifetime.

Fibreglass ladders are easier to crack compared to aluminium ladders and a tiny small crack can propagates along the fibreglass due to the frequent twisting and pressure.

Fibreglass ladders are more expensive than aluminium. Therefore, the only reason why you need to buy a fibreglass ladder is if there is an electrical hazard. If you are not working around electricity, the best choice is to buy an aluminium ladder.

If you still have questions about this topic, please contact us. We are happy to answer your questions.

While it’s hard to beat a ladder for reaching out-of-reach heights, picking the right ladder for the job isn’t always easy.

Ladders come in many sizes and styles, as well as two main materials: fiberglass and steel.

Both materials have their pros and cons, and choosing the best ladder for you depends on your specific needs and budget.

Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:

Height and Weight

While fiberglass and aluminum ladders can technically be made to any height, the weight of fiberglass ladders increases with height, making fiberglass extension ladders difficult to handle by one person alone. As a result, fiberglass is typically used only for step ladders.

Aluminum is lighter and easier to transport than fiberglass, making it a better — and more commonly used — material for straight and full-length extension ladders and even, mobile platform ladders.

Strength

Fiberglass ladders are typically stronger and more rigid than aluminum ladders, but, as we mentioned above, they’re also heavier. While they come in varying sizes capable of supporting varying weights, heavy-duty models support a maximum of 375 pounds. So, if you and/or your team needs more support, opt for an aluminum model.

Aluminum models can support up to 500 pounds, which is recommended if you need to support more than one person. You could also install a fixed ladder fall arrest system for added protection and peace of mind of workers.

Durability

Fiberglass is more durable and long-lasting than aluminum due to its superior weather-resistant nature. You can expose a fiberglass ladder to sun or rain for days on end, and it won’t rust or lose strength.

While aluminum might not be as durable as fiberglass, aluminum ladders can have long lifespans of their own if they are kept out of the elements and properly maintained. Couple it with aluminum guardrails or a handrail system and you’ll have access for years.

Portability

Ladders must be moved on a regular basis. As we mentioned above, fiberglass ladders are significantly heavier than aluminum ones, which makes them a less desirable option in many settings.

As a result, aluminum ladders are preferred at construction sites and elsewhere where portability is key.

Cost

Not only do aluminum ladders weigh less than fiberglass ladders, but they typically cost less, too. This can make them a superior option for use outdoors or in controlled settings.

Safety

Ultimately, safety is the most important factor when choosing a ladder, and the safety level of a particular ladder depends on how and where it’s used.

Fiberglass ladders are safer than their aluminum counterparts due to their electrical and heat resistance.

While rubber stand-offs and other insulation methods have expanded aluminum ladders’ usability range, these ladders should never be used near electrical wires.

Aluminum ladders can also bend when exposed to heat, making them unsafe to use unless they aren’t too badly damaged and can be repaired.

Which Is Best?

Aluminum ladders are ideal for industrial, construction, and other industries that call for workers to reach high heights.

Commonly used as step ladders, fiberglass models are ideal for smaller jobs, like painting, hedge trimming, cleaning gutters, and fence or roof repairs. And again, as we mentioned above, they should be your only choice when working with or near power lines or electrical wires.

Not all work environments and tasks are the same. Consult a ladder manufacturer’s ratings and recommendations, as well as OSHA guidelines, when considering your options.

Which is better aluminum or fibreglass ladder?

What is a drawback of fiberglass ladders?

The main drawback is its weight – the material is much heavier and denser than its competitor, aluminium. This can make fibreglass ladders inconvenient to carry around. Another drawback is the high cost of fibreglass – but if you need a non-conductive ladder, fibreglass really is the only option you should consider.

Which is the strongest type of step ladder?

Steel: Steel step ladders are durable and heavier than either aluminum or fiberglass, so they offer a sturdy base on which to climb, but steel also tends to corrode and rust if it gets wet. A steel ladder will last longer if it's used indoors and wiped dry if it gets wet.