A telescoping ladder is a type of ladder that is adjustable in length, allowing it to remain small and portable and capable of extending out to a much greater length when necessary. These ladders are typically collapsible, and the legs of the ladder will collapse in sections into each other, somewhat similar in design to a telescope. Ladders of this type can come in a number of different styles such as straight ladders and A-frame ladders, as well as ladders designed for use in lofts or attics. A telescoping ladder can be quite useful, but care should be taken to ensure it is used safely and securely.
The purpose of a telescoping ladder is generally to allow someone to store or move a ladder more easily, while being able to use that ladder in a number of different ways. This type of ladder can potentially extend to 12 feet (about 3.6 meters) or more, while also being able to collapse down to less than 3 feet (less than 1 meter) in size. Standard ladders that are more than 10 feet (just over 3 meters) in length can be quite difficult to store and transport, while a telescoping ladder can make such tasks quite a bit easier.
A telescoping ladder typically works through a design that allows each section of the ladder to collapse down into the section below it. The rungs of the ladder will usually sit on top of the next lowest rung, so the entire ladder remains easy to use regardless of the height to which it is extended. Most ladders of this type are basic straight ladders that only have a single set of rungs and must be leaned against a wall or other object for stability. A telescoping ladder can also be designed as an A-frame ladder, however, to provide greater support while in use.
While a telescoping ladder can be quite advantageous in a number of different situations, they also have a few downsides. One of the major disadvantages of this type of ladder is that it can be substantially more expensive than a ladder of similar size that cannot collapse, due to the expense of designing and constructing such ladders. A telescoping ladder may also be prone to collapsing while in use, which could lead to serious injury of anyone on or near the ladder during such an accident. Most telescoping ladders have weight limits that are lower than standard ladders, and if surpassed the ladder may collapse while in use.