Can Window Cleaners Use Ladders​?

November 28, 2024 | Nate Cord

The simple answer is, yes! Ladders are an excellent tool for residential window cleaning, whether you’re a professional window cleaner or a homeowner hoping to tackle the job yourself.

Professional-grade options are your best bet, like single-section or extension ladders, as they’re especially designed with safety in mind, featuring non-slip feet, stabilisers, and lightweight aluminium construction.

Let’s look at these in some more detail…

What Are the Best Window Cleaning​ Ladders?

In our expert opinion, the best window cleaning ladders are without a doubt the Chase Window Cleaner Single Section Ladder and the Chase Window Cleaner Double Extension Ladder. But why, you ask?

Manufactured in the UK, these ladders are purpose-built to meet the demanding needs of window cleaning professionals (and homeowners looking to put on their DIY hat and do it themselves).

Chase Window Cleaner Single Section Ladder

The Single Section Ladder is constructed from lightweight aluminium, making it super easy to carry and manoeuvre, and its slim profile makes it convenient to store. It also features handy non-slip rungs and rubber feet so that it can remain stable, even on wet or uneven surfaces.

This is the perfect option if you’re looking for a ladder to assist you with quick, low-level cleaning tasks, particularly for single-story homes or even some indoor use.

If you have any questions about our ladders or just need a second opinion, feel free to give our experts a call on 01639 849847, we’d love to help!

Chase Window Cleaner Double Extension Ladder

On the other hand, the Double Extension Ladder offers exceptional versatility with its extendable design feature, allowing its users to reach multi-story windows like it’s nothing. And just like the model above, it’s constructed with a sturdy yet lightweight aluminium construction, ensuring durability without adding any unnecessary weight.

This extendable ladder also features anti-slip feet and weather-resistant coating, making it an ideal option for outdoor use, even in challenging conditions.

If you’re a professional window cleaner or homeowner tackling higher-reaching tasks, this ladder is the one for you, combining functionality, portability and most importantly, safety at high levels.

Browse our range of window cleaning ladders here, with free UK delivery available on all models.

4 Ladder Safety Tips for Window Cleaners

An alarming amount of people are taken to hospital every year after falling from the top of a ladder, with on average 515 injuries per year here in the UK. Yes, you read that correctly… per year! This highlights just how important it is to employ ladder safety practices, such as using the correct ladder for the job, maintaining three points of contact, and avoiding standing on the top rung, which is simply not designed for human support.

1. Choose an Appropriate Ladder for the Task

This tip goes without saying – choose the right ladder for window cleaning, not just any old ladder.

For example, a robust extension ladder is ideal for reaching windows high up, whereas a step ladder is much better for work closer to the ground. Learn more about step ladders here.

As you’ll be working at heights, it’s really important to make sure your ladder features things like non-slip feet, stabilisers, and a high weight capacity to handle your weight and cleaning tools.

2. Climb Safely

Again, this tip might sound obvious, but you’ll be surprised how many people don’t know how to climb a ladder properly and safely.

So, when climbing up (and down), face the ladder and maintain three points of contact at all times—either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand.

You also want to keep your hands free, so avoid carrying tools while climbing. Instead, use a tool belt or a bucket hooked to the ladder.

3. Inspect the Ladder

Before climbing onto any ladder, especially for window cleaning at heights, it’s important to get into the habit of inspecting it for damage like cracks, loose screws, or bent rungs.
You should also check the ladder’s feet for any signs of wear and tear, and make sure they provide adequate grip on the ground. If you notice any of the above, avoid using it at all costs. A damaged ladder should never be used in any circumstance.

4. Place the Ladder Correctly on the Floor

While ladders are especially designed with stability and robustness in mind, how you place the ladder will make all the difference when it comes to safety.

So, always place the ladder on a stable, flat surface. And if the ground is a little uneven, use a ladder stabiliser or leg levellers to level it out.

We recommend following the 4-to-1 rule: position the ladder’s base 1 foot away from the wall for every 4 feet of height.

Looking for a Quality Ladder for Window Cleaning?

At Ladders4Sale, we offer a range of ladders, platforms, steps, towers and accessories for all trade and do-it-yourself jobs at unbeatable low prices.

What’s more, all of our products come with lifetime support – after your initial purchase, we continue to provide ongoing support and assistance for free. In addition to this, all orders come with free shipping to mainland UK.

If you need expert advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us using this form or by calling us on 01639 849847 to speak with a member of our team. And for more tips and insights into the wonderful world of ladders, head over to our regularly updated ladder blog, written by our experts.