What height ladder do I need?
04/11/2025
When it comes to choosing the right ladder height, many people overbuy or pick something too short and end up overreaching or replacing it. Choosing the right ladder height keeps you safe and saves you time, and in this guide, we answer the big question: ‘What height ladder do I need?’ and provide clear pointers for jobs like cleaning gutters, indoor decorating, gardening and accessing roofs.
Contents
- Why ladder height is important for safety
- Finding a safe ladder height
- Cleaning gutters
- Reaching the roof
- Indoor decorating
- Gardening and outdoor maintenance
- Warehouses and storage facilities
- Construction sites
- Offices and retail
- Order Ladders Online
Why ladder height is important for safety
Using a ladder that is too short leads to overreaching, loss of balance and often, falls. Likewise, buying too tall can also be a problem because the setup may not allow for the correct climbing angle. Choosing the correct ladder size helps to reduce slips, twists and awkward working positions, minimising risks and preventing injuries.
Finding a safe ladder height
Ladders are typically described by their overall length, but what matters in use is the maximum safe working height. On extension ladders, you should keep roughly a 75° angle and allow enough length for overlap between sections. Do not stand on the top three rungs.
On step ladders, work from the platform or a lower tread that provides a suitable handhold.
Below, you’ll find practical height guidance for common tasks. Property size, ceiling height and the space you have to set up all impact your choice, so pick the nearest safe match to your circumstances. You should use each section to confirm the working height you need and the most suitable ladder type.
Cleaning gutters
For most single-storey homes, gutters are around 2.6 – 3.2m high, so opting for a 4.0 – 5.0m aluminium extension ladder provides safe reach with the correct angle and section overlap. For many two-storey homes with eaves between 4.8 and 6.0m, look at 7.0 – 9.0m options. Always set on firm, level ground and consider a stand-off for stability.
Reaching the roof
To access the roof edge, choose an extension ladder long enough to project at least a metre above the landing point. For movement on a pitched roof, add a roof ladder for safe footing. Where storage is tight or access routes are narrow, you should consider a compact telescopic ladder, which can be a practical alternative, providing it meets the required reach.
Indoor decorating
Most ceilings in the UK are about 2.3-2.5m high, so a step ladder with a platform around 0.6 to 0.9m suits cutting-in and ceiling fixture tasks. For higher spaces, look for 1.2 – 1.5m platforms. Step ladders also provide a stable work platform for paint trays and tools, while telescopic ladders can be useful when storage is limited.
Gardening and outdoor maintenance
For hedge cutting on uneven ground, a tripod garden ladder provides wide foot placement and a third leg for stability in soil, but you should choose a size that lets you work at chest height without stretching. Taller hedges need longer tripods, but keep your weight centred. Explore our range of garden and tripod ladders and look for the right height.
Warehouses and storage facilities
For stock picking and racking, steel mobile steps with guardrails are safer than makeshift options. To select the best option for you, choose the platform height to the highest regular pick level, keeping shoulders below the top of the rack.
Offices and retail
For light maintenance, and tasks such as creating window displays and replacing ceiling tiles, use step ladders with suitable platform heights and anti-slip feet, and look for compact models that can be stored easily in back rooms and cupboards.
Order Ladders Online
As we’ve discussed in this article, picking the correct ladder height keeps you safe, steady and productive, but if you’re still wondering what height ladder you need, use the guidance above, match it to your needs and choose a ladder that lets you work without stretching. For deeper guidance, Browns Safety Services also runs ladder awareness and inspection training that cover best practice and legal duties.
Explore our full ladders range or jump straight to Extension, Telescopic, Roof, Step Ladders, and Garden/Tripod categories. Still not sure? Give us a call on 01282 615 517.