5 Best Extension Ladders for Any Kind of Work

Have you been searching for a new extension ladder for your next home project only to find that you can’t decide which options will deliver on their promises?

Well, you are definitely not alone.

With all the different brands and models out there, it is difficult to decide which product will do what it claims to.

So, we have taken the time to narrow down your options by reviewing many different choices and finding the best.

With this list, you can choose a ladder that will work for the jobs and projects you’ll be doing and be sure to get the best extension ladder for the job.

Top Pick

Werner D1528-2

This ladder comes highly-rated and offers customers a high safety rating, a heavy-duty construction, and a high weight capacity that makes it a great option for anyone doing work around the house.

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Extension Ladders Comparison Chart

—	Werner D1528-2	Werner D1120-2	Louisville Ladder FE3224	Louisville Ladder L-2321-16	Louisville Ladder AE2216	DeWalt DXL3020-16PT	Stanley FatMax SXL3020-24	Jia he Portable Multi-Purpose Ladder	Good Life EN131
Photo
Style	Multi Section	Multi Section	Standard	Standard	Standard	n/a	n/a	Multi-Purpose Folding	Multi-Purpose Folding
Duty Rating	Type IA	Type III	Type IA	Type III	Type IA	Type T1A	n/a	n/a	n/a
Size	28 ft	20 ft	24 ft	16 ft	16 ft	16 ft	24 ft	12.5 ft	16.5 ft
Weight Capacity	300 lbs	200 lbs	300 lbs	200 lbs	300 lbs	300 lbs	300 lbs	300 lbs	330 lbs
Max. Extended Length	25 ft	17 ft	21 ft	13 ft	13 ft	13 ft	n/a	n/a	n/a
Step Depth	1.75 in	1.5 in	1.5 in	1.5 in	1.5 in	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
Rung Type	D-Rung	D-Rung	D-Rung	D-Rung	D-Rung	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
Material	Aluminum	Aluminum	Fiberglass	Aluminum	Aluminum	Fiberglass	Fiberglass	Aluminum	Aluminum
Weight	55 pounds	23 pounds	51 pounds	17 pounds	30 pounds	31 pounds	23 pounds	33.9 pounds	46 lbs
Certifications	ANSI A14.2 (2007), OSHA	ANSI A14.2 (2007)	ANSI, OSHA, CSA	ANSI, OSHA, CSA	ANSI, OSHA, CSA	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

6 Best Extension Ladders (as of April, 2024):

1. Werner D1528-2 Extension Ladder – Best Top Pick Overall Review

Werner D1528-2 extension ladder is our top pick for good reason and comes with many features that make it a good option for anyone wanting a durable product.

From the 28-foot extension to the slip-resistant D-rungs, this ladder will work for any job.

Heavy-Duty Construction

This Werner extension ladder is made from durable, heavy-duty aluminum that is strong enough to last a lifetime.

This ladder’s strength and durability also allow for a high weight capacity of up to 300 pounds so that your tools can come with you while you work.

Slip-Resistant Traction-Tred D-Rungs

This ladder’s rungs come with slip-resistant traction-tred that helps your shoes grip onto the rung and reduces that chances of slipping.

This also allows you to get better footing that keeps you steady once you find the right position for the job.

ALFLO Hardened Rung Joints

These exclusive rung joints provide a more stable climb and make the rungs spin-proof so that you won’t lose your footing while on them.

These hardened rung joints also give better stability and improve the lifetime strength and safety of the ladder.

Heavy-Duty Beam Rails

This extension ladder option comes with heavy-duty beam rails that are held together with thick guide brackets that fully engage the fly section.

This allows for smoother extension and a higher level of safety when extending the ladder.

Shu-Lok Feature

This unique feature allows your shoe to rest flat against the rung, or in a spur position with the Shu-Lok feature which allows you to have better stability when climbing higher on the ladder and gives you more confidence in regards to balance.

Main Features

Exclusive Alflo rung joint means Twist-Proof performance
1.75in slip-resistant Traction-Tred D-rungs
Heavy Duty extruded rung locks
Base and fly separate easily for use as an extension or two single sections
Smooth operating pulley design. Enclosed shape protects pulley
Guide brackets mounted at the top and bottom of the rail for durability and smooth operation of fly section
Extra heavy duty I-beam rails
Rugged spring loaded locks operate smoothly
Rugged shoe rests flat or is held in spur position with SHU-LOK feature
Stacked rail design provides increased rung width on fly section
Mar-resistant end caps

PROS:

Heavy-duty construction with an aluminum build
Slip-resistant traction-tred D rungs
ALFLO hardened rung joints for better stability
Heavy-duty beam rails for smoother extension
Shu-Lok feature for better stability

CONS:

Lock assembly may not be as durable
Customers have received product with damage from shipping
It will take two people to set up the ladder

2. Werner D1120-2 Extension Ladder – Best 20-Foot Extension Ladder (Flat Top Rung) Review

Werner D1120-2 extension ladder is a great option that allows you to reach the highest areas of the house with ease.

With the flat top rungs that make getting your footing easier and the gravity spring locks, this ladder will give you the height and the safety features that you’re looking for.

Flat Top Rungs

This Werner extension ladder comes with flat top rungs that are 1 ½ inches wide and better accommodate your foot. This adds extra comfort so that you can better position your foot on the rung and reach maximum comfort.

ALFLO Hardened Rung Joints

These exclusive rung joints provide a more stable climb and make the rungs spin-proof so that you won’t lose your footing while on them.

These hardened rung joints also give better stability and improve the lifetime strength and safety of the ladder.

Rope and Pulley System

This extension ladder comes with a rope and pulley system that allows for easy extension with higher lengths.

This system allows you to pull the rope and extend the ladder to where you need it so that you can extend it on your own with ease.

Durably Made

This ladder option is made from sturdy, strong aluminum that is built to last and will keep your ladder looking like new for a long time. This ladder’s strength also allows it to have a high weight capacity of up to 200 pounds.

Lightweight

Built with durability and strength in mind, this ladder doesn’t weigh a ton as you might think.

Weighing only 23 pounds, this ladder is fairly lightweight and can be carried by one person easily so that you can transport it and reposition it on your own.

Main Features

Exclusive Alflo rung joint means Twist-Proof performance
1.5 in slip-resistant Traction-Tred D-rungs
Durable extruded rung locks are spring loaded to operate smoothly
Mar-resistant end caps
Smooth operating pulley with polypropylene rope
Modified I-beam side rails to optimize strength and weight
Pivoting shoe with slip-resistant pad

PROS:

Comes with flat top rungs for more comfort
ALFLO hardened rung joints for better stability
Rope and Pulley System for easy extension
Durably made from strong aluminum material
Lightweight and easy to carry by yourself

CONS:

Lightweight frame makes the ladder feel flimsy
Some customers have had issues with damages during shipping
High price is not budget-friendly

3. Louisville Ladder FE3224 Extension Ladder – Best Fiberglass Ladder Review

Louisville Ladder FE3224 option makes a great choice for those who are looking to do electrical work around the house because of the non-conductive fiberglass construction.

With the high weight capacity and the 24-foot extension capabilities, this ladder will get any job done.

Fiberglass Construction

This extension ladder option allows you to do electrical work because of the use of non-conductive fiberglass material. This material is strong and durable but also keep you safe around wires and other electrical currents.

High Weight Capacity

This extension ladder’s strength and durability allow this option to have a high weight capacity that allows for up to 300 pounds.

This allows you to bring the necessary tools with you onto the ladder without fear of the ladder buckling under the added weight.

Safety Shoes

This fiberglass extension ladder comes with steel-plated swivel safety shoes on the ends of the ladder’s legs that allow for better stability and balance.

These safety shoes also come with a metal shield that protects them from being broken when moving and positioning the ladder.

Quick-Latch Rung Lock

This fiberglass ladder comes with a patented quick-latch rung lock that securely keeps the rungs in place while climbing so that they are safer for use.

The quick-latch makes the rungs easy to secure and lock in place and offer better stability and safety while climbing.

Meets Safety Standards

This extension ladder option comes highly-rated for safety and either meets or exceeds all ANSI and CSA grade safety standards, making this option a safe and secure ladder for all your household projects and job needs.

Main Features

MAXLOCK Rung Lock
Patented Quicklatch Runglock System
Steel Swivel Safety Shoe With Metal Shield
Direct Rung-Rail Connection
Mar-Resistant Rail End Caps
Outside Slide Guides & D-Shaped Rungs
Meets or exceeds ANSI 14.4 and CSA grade1
300 pound capacity including user and tool weight

PROS:

Made from non-conductive fiberglass material
Has a high weight capacity of 300 pounds
Comes with steel-plated safety shoes
Patented quick-latch rung lock
Meets or exceeds all safety standards

CONS:

The weight of this ladder may be too heavy for some people
Price is on the higher end and not as budget-friendly
Many customers have received the product damaged during shipping

4. Louisville Ladder L-2321-16 – Best 16-Foot Extension Ladder Review

Louisville Ladder L-2321-16 extension ladder is a great option for those looking for a mid-range extension.

This 16-foot option doesn’t come with the same height as the others but it is sturdy and comes with a high weight capacity that allows you to bring tools with you when you use it.

Lightweight

This extension ladder option is strong and doesn’t sacrifice its sturdiness for a lower weight. This product weighs only 8 pounds and is super easy to carry by yourself and transport to different locations on your own.

High Weight Capacity

This ladder may be lightweight but it still comes with a high weight capacity that allows you to carry the tools you need with you so you will have them on hand.

With a total weight capacity of up to 200 pounds, you can carry plenty with you to get the job done.

Mar-Resistant Feet

This extension ladder option comes with mar-resistant feet that keep the ladder position in place and stabilizes it better than ever before. The metal shields allow it to be fully covered so that the plastic piece will not break when being moved or repositioned.

D-Shaped Rungs

This ladder comes with uniquely shaped rungs that help comfort to your foot with the D-shape. This curved shape gives you a more comfortable feeling because the rung is not completely flat, which can hurt your feet.

Meets or Exceeds Safety Standards

This extension ladder option is highly-rated for safety as it meets or exceeds both ANSI and OSHA safety standards. This allows you to feel secure and confident when using this ladder knowing that it is tested for assurance.

Main Features

D-Shaped Rungs
Mar-Resistant Rail End Caps
Slip-Resistant Rubber Feet
Aluminum Runglock
Swivel Safety Shoes that can be used with tread down or in spike position
200 Lbs, load capacity, includes weight of user and tools
Meets or exceeds the safety standards set by ANSI, CSA, and OSHA

PROS:

Lightweight and only 8 pounds
Has a high weight capacity of up to 200 pounds
Mar-resistant feet for better stability and durability
D-shaped rungs for better comfort and foot placement
Meets or exceeds all safety standards

CONS:

The ladder can feel flimsy due its lightweight frame
The rung locks are fixed and not adjustable
Shakes when you are climbing

5. Louisville Ladder AE2216 – Best Aluminum Extension Ladder Review

Louisville Ladder AE2216 extension ladder is a great option for those looking for a ladder that is durably made and can extend up to 16-feet.

With the high extension and high weight capacity, this ladder will work great for just about any household project.

High Weight Capacity

This ladder may be lightweight but it still comes with a high weight capacity that allows you to carry the tools you need with you so you will have them on hand.

With a total weight capacity of up to 300 pounds, you can carry plenty with you to get the job done.

Meets or Exceeds Safety Standards

Safety Shoes

This extension ladder option comes with steel-plated swivel safety shoes on the ends of the ladder’s legs that allow for better stability and balance.

These safety shoes also come with a metal shield that protects them from being broken when moving and positioning the ladder.

Quick-Latch Rung Lock

This aluminum extension ladder comes with a patented quick-latch rung lock that securely keeps the rungs in place while climbing so that they are safer for use.

The quick-latch makes the rungs easy to secure and lock in place and offer better stability and safety while climbing.

Modified I-Beam

This ladder comes with modified I-beam side rails that are full 3-inch extrusions shaped into a modified I-beam for strong but lightweight interlocking rails. This offers better security and safety while adding longer durability.

Main Features

MAXLOCK Rung Lock
D-Shaped Rungs
Full I-Beam
Mar-Resistant Rail End Caps
Outside Slide Guides
Slip Resistant Surface
Swivel Safety Shoes
Patented Quicklatch Runglock System
300 pound load capacity
Meets or exceeds the safety standards set by ANSI, CSA, and OSHA

PROS:

High weight capacity of up to 300 pounds
Meets or exceeds safety standards
Comes with steel-plated swivel safety shows for stability
Quick-latch rung lock for secure locking
Side rails shaped into a modified I beam for security

CONS:

Rung locks are made of plastic and can break easily
Can be too heavy for one person to use
Doesn’t come with a pulley system for extension

6. DeWalt DXL3020-16PT – Best Type 1A Extension Ladder Review

DeWalt DXL3020-16PT fiberglass extension ladder is a great option for those who are looking for a ladder that is non-conductive and can be used for electrical work.

With the high weight capacity and 16 feet and extension, this ladder will work for any job.

High Weight Capacity

This extension ladder’s strength and durability allow this option to have a high weight capacity that allows for up to 300 pounds.

This allows you to bring the necessary tools with you onto the ladder without fear of the ladder buckling under the added weight.

Fiberglass Construction

Tool Slots

This extension ladder comes with a top shelf that allows for better stability at full extension and has tool slots to keep your tools in so that you don’t have to hold them or use a tool belt for only a few items.

The non-marring durable top also adds durability with strength and sturdiness.

Wrap-Around Steel Shoes

This extension ladder option comes with wrap-around steel shoes that offer better stability when the ladder is in use and protects them from being broken when repositioning or moving it.

This also offers better balance when properly in place.

Main Features

Elegant design and smooth finish
Quick Latch and Nylon Rope
Runge end Caps eliminate noise while ladder is transported
Wrap around Steel Shoes
Slip-Resistant Rubber tread protects work surface
Non Marring Durable Top with tool slots
300-pound load capacity

PROS:

High weight capacity with 300 pounds in total
Fiberglass construction that is non-conductive
Comes with top shelf that contains tool slots
Non-marring durable top
Wrap-around steel shoes for better stability

CONS:

Doesn’t come with rope and pulley system
Customers have received the product damaged from shipping
May be too heavy for some people to use alone

Not Recommended

When it comes to online orders, it can be tough to know which items will not be worth the price of purchase.

So, we have taken the time to put together a few of the products that we don’t think live up to our expectations. Here are a few of the ladders that we don’t recommend.

1. Stanley FatMax SXL3020-24 Review

Stanley FatMax SXL3020-24 ladder has some good features, but overall, the product doesn’t meet our expectations of what the product should do for you.

With the high price and the reputation for being damaged during shipping, you are better off steering clear.

Main Features

24-foot extension
Direct rung-rail connection
Mar-resistant rail end caps
Patented quick latch rung lock system
Outside slide guides
Steel swivel safety shoe with metal shield

PROS:

24-foot extension
Quick-latch rung lock system
Direct rung-rail connection
Comes with a rope and pulley system
Steel swivel metal shoes

CONS:

Extremely low number of customer reviews online, which makes it hard to know if the product is reliable
Customers have had issues with damage occurring during shipping
High price that exceeds $300
Weight is more than advertised

2. Jia he Portable Multi-Purpose Ladder Review

Jia he Portable Multi-Purpose Telescoping extension ladder is portable and folds for easy transport, but this is another disappointing product overall.

With the unstable frame and the negative customer reviews, this ladder doesn’t make for a good option.

Main Features

Maximum load is 330 lbs (150 Kg)
Extend to 12.5 ft (3.8 m)
Lightweight and compact size
Easy to transport and store
Heavy duty securing strap
Foldable and retraction design
12-month warranty

PROS:

High weight capacity of up to 330 pounds
Telescopic and is compact for storage
Easy to transport when retracted
Comes with securing straps
Comes with inward slide latches

CONS:

Ladder wobbles and feels like it will buckle even when the user is well under the weight capacity
The ladder weighs much more than advertised
Legs must be fully extended to use it or else the rungs won’t lock
Reliability is in question due to low number of customer reviews

3. Good Life EN131 Review

Good Life EN131 professional folding aluminum ladder is a multi-purpose and extension ladder but it doesn’t have the quality that you should expect from a professional-grade product.

Although it is a budget-friendly option, the cost doesn’t make up for the lack of quality in the construction.

Main Features

Extension 16.5 ft
Weight 46 lbs
Loading Capacity 330 lbs
Thick aluminum
Use as telescoping ladder, twin stepladder, stairway stepladder, and two scaffold bases
Ladders lock into each position
Easy use locking mechanism

PROS:

16.5 feet of extension
Budget-friendly price point
Multi-purpose and telescoping functions
Spring-loaded lock system
Non-slip feet for better stability

CONS:

Locks can’t be secured unless it is fully extended
Heavier option that can’t be used by one person
Feels wobbly under any amount of weight
The telescoping system pinches your fingers very easily
Reliability is in question due to low number of customer reviews

Buyer’s Guide

When searching for a new extension ladder, you shouldn’t purchase the first one you see. Deciding which type will work best for you will help you find the perfect fit for the kind of jobs and projects that you be doing.

So, here are a few different things that you should consider before you make a final ladder purchase for your household.

Price

If you want to get a sturdy, well-made product you may think that by buying a higher-end item that you are getting a great option. However, the price doesn’t always determine the durability and quality of a product.

Higher priced items may offer a nicer style and color, but may not have the durability that you need to last you through industrial or professional use.

So, you want to make sure that the ladder that you choose comes at a reasonable price for what you’re getting. A good way to check this is by looking at customer reviews online.

Previous buyers will be honest about their experience with the item and often let you in on some major or minor flaws. This will allow you to decide if the minor issues are still worth the price so that you can purchase a product that you will love.

Plus, if you see a newer product that doesn’t have many reviews, then you may want to steer clear so that you aren’t the guinea pig testing out a new item that may not give you what you want.

Professional or Residential Use

If you are a construction worker who will use your ladder at a job site, then you do not want to get a ladder that is only made for residential use and vice versa.

These products are designed to withstand and last through certain environments, and if you choose an option that doesn’t work for you then you’ll end up with an item that you don’t want to use and that won’t last very long.

This could mean that you only need to do some light household projects, but end up buying an expensive ladder that is made for industrial or professional use.

This option could be very heavy and take more than one person to move. If you are doing projects in the house on your own, then this will not work well for you.

In the same way, if you are a professional and purchase a residential-only ladder, then you could end up getting hurt by using an item that can’t withstand the weight of heavy tools during a job.

The ladder could also end up getting damaged easily at a job site and cause issues with durability in the long run.

So, it is important to know what you will use the ladder for, and what types of environments that it will have to withstand to ensure that you get the durability that you need.

Weight

Another issue that could either make or break your purchase is the weight of the ladder.

If you know that you will be doing household projects on your own, without the help of others, then getting a lightweight option that you can use alone is necessary.

You wouldn’t want to get a premium product that is too heavy to move on your own if you know that you will only work by yourself.

You should also make sure that the option that you buy is not too light that you risk falling off because of the lack of sturdiness.

You don’t want to have a light option only to be bumped by a passerby and have an accident.

So, knowing the weight of what you can handle and who will be with you when working can also help determine which type of ladder you should buy.

Size

Deciding on the size and weight of the ladder that you need is another great way to narrow down your many available options. Knowing that you don’t have a lot of storage space will allow you to focus your shopping on a compact option that won’t take up a ton of room.

Or, if you have the storage space but need a ladder that is easy to transport and take on different jobs at various locations, then you’ll want to focus on options that come with carrying straps or fold up to a compact size to make for easy transport.

Knowing what you need will help you to make the right decision, so figure out what option will work best for you and focus on finding the ladder that fits your specific needs.

FAQs

With all the information in this article, you have a lot to take with you. However, you may still have a few questions to ask before you decide on a product for your final purchase.

So, we have compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions that customers have about these products and found answers for you. Here are the most frequently asked questions about extension ladders.

How much should an extension ladder overlap?

For most extension ladders up to 36 feet long, the total overlap should be at least 3 feet but for ladder lengths between 36 and 48 feet, the total overlap should be at least 4 feet.

How much can an extension ladder extend?

The average heights of extension ladders are between 16 and 24 feet.

However, there are some that extend much further and are made for professional jobs that need to reach taller windows or roofs. The longest, for safety reasons, is up to 40 feet.

How do you extend the ladder?

Most extension ladders come with a rope and pulley system that allows you to extend the ladder as you pull the rope.

This allows you to get to the height that you need and lock the ladder height in place by simply adjusting the rope and tying it off.

Are extension ladders really safe?

Extension ladders are built with safety in mind and must meet safety standards in order to be sold. However, you should always read the instructions to ensure that you are taking the proper precautions necessary to remain safe at all times.

If this is your first time using an extension ladder, then you may want to have someone with you until you get used to extending it yourself so that you feel completely comfortable while using it.

What is the four to one rule?

The four to one rule refers to the distance of the bottom of the ladder to the wall. This states that for every four feet you climb, you move the ladder one foot away from the wall for the best angle.

Conclusion

When looking for a new extension ladder, you should make sure that the product you purchase is exactly what you need.

If you choose any of the recommended products on this list and stay clear of the one that we don’t recommend, then you will get a great option that will work for any job.

Even if you choose not to purchase one of the ladders that we put on this list, then you still have the necessary information you need to find an extension ladder that will work for the jobs or projects that you need it for.