Ladder Stabilizers: A Useful Ladder Accessory

If you regularly climb ladders, you may want to use a ladder stabilizer. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over a half-million people in the United States are treated for ladder-related injuries each year. Falling from a ladder can cause serious injury or even death. There are accessories like stabilizers, however, that can lower your risk of falling when using a ladder. 

What Is a Ladder Stabilizer?

A ladder stabilizer is an accessory that, as the name suggests, is designed to stabilize a ladder. It typically consists of a U-shaped piece of metal. When installed at the top of a ladder, the stabilizer will lower the risk of falling. It will help the ladder grip the side of the building or surface.

How to Ladder Stabilizers Work

Ladder stabilizers work by providing two additional points of contact for ladders. They are designed exclusively for use with extension ladders. You can use an extension ladder by placing it against the side of a home, building or other vertical surface. For greater stability, though, you may want to use a ladder stabilizer.

There are different types of ladder stabilizers. Some of them are made of aluminum, whereas other ladder stabilizers are made of stainless steel. Regardless, they work in the same way. Ladder stabilizers are U-shaped pieces of metal that are installed on top of an extension ladder. Rather than placing the top of the extension ladder against the building or surface, you can place the stabilizer against the building or surface.

Tips on Choosing a Ladder Stabilizer 

If you're thinking about buying a ladder stabilizer, you should choose one that's compatible with your ladder. There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all ladder stabilizer. Extension ladders are available in different sizes and styles. Therefore, ladder stabilizers won't work with all ladders. You'll need to choose a stabilizer that supports your preferred ladder.

Some ladder stabilizers are adjustable. You won't be able to change their U-shaped design, but you may be able to adjust the length of their "arms." With adjustable-length arms, stabilizers are more versatile. You can adjust the length of the arms to achieve greater stability.

Ladder stabilizers are available in different materials. Aluminum and steel stabilizers are popular. Aluminum stabilizers are lightweight and inexpensive. Steel stabilizers are more expensive, but they are stronger and better protected against damage. Think about how you intend to use the stabilizer, and choose a material that matches your application.