I just got a 17 ft multi-use ladder and realized real quick how unsafe it is for getting second story windows. It gets real flimsy and I didn’t feel safe using it unless my partner was holding it. I ended up finishing the house by just placing the ladder halfway up the wall and using a pole to get the rest. I’m questioning how important a ladder is now. I will continue to carry it on me in case it becomes necessary but would really like to keep it simple and just use poles.
My worries are safety and damaging someones house. I know there are plenty of ladder forums but I’m wondering if there are any people on here who have had success in just using poles? Is there anyone here that simply cleans without a ladder?
My next question would be on how you price your jobs. Do you knock a little off because you don’t use a ladder? Do people complain about it?
I can understand from a customer point of view that a ladder seems more professional but from that same point of view it can seem dangerous too. Using a pole seems the safest bet. I would definitely be willing to make exceptions because sometimes you just need to get up but if I can safely reach something with a pole is that considered an appropriate way to get a job done?
I know its hard to because it all depends on the customer and what they want.
Ah! I know this is long but I’m just starting out and have my first official job this weekend and don’t want to cut any corners. For the most part I feel prepared and realize much of my experience will come from trial & error but I joined this site to hopefully answer questions and one day answer others like mine.
I welcome all advice with big open ears… or eyes in this case and appreciate all the help I’ve gotten from the forums already.
Thanks for your time!
Would a 17ft multi-use be enough for most jobs? I live in a suburban neighborhood with two story houses that are for the most part all pretty similar. I shouldn’t have to worry about uneven ground at most houses and can plan on using the ladder to get at least halfway up the house but would that be enough? Like I said, I would prefer to only use poles but can already see the advantage of adding a couple feet to my height here and there.
Otherwise I’m just gonna suck it up and hope I don’t fall!
it took me 3 months of daily use to get used to using a ladder. its a learning curve . dont overreach when up your ladder ,its tempting to overreach in the early days but thats so very risky. after my first 3 months i never needed to overreach
Hey Cody! One important question is what weight rating does the ladder have? Such as type 2, 1 , or 1A? If it’s 1A for instance it’s rated for 300 lbs when used properly and if you’re within that weight you should be fine. Unless it’s a piece of junk (what brand is it out of curiosity?) or you are not using it properly you should be fine even if it’s not as sturdy feeling as a conventional extension ladder. I’ve been using a Little Giant for probably 15 years and it didn’t take me long at all to realize they are totally safe if used correctly. Actually, using a pole off an extension ladder is probably more dangerous. I’ve done it.
And don’t get into the frame of mind of charging less because of how you do the job. People pay for results, not methods. If you find a way with water fed poles to cut your time in half you wouldn’t want to charge half, would you? Your experience and investment in equipment should land you more profit.
I would pick up some good quality extension ladders 16’ for most first story on 2 story homes, 20’ or 24’ for most 2 story, leg levelers and or Pivit Tool, and a ladder standoff. One ladder will not get you everywhere you need to clean, you need a variety that will get you to the glass in the safest way possible. If you do not have the equipment or the funding for the equipment, focus on those homes that you can do safely with the equipment you have. With experience as well as funding purchase new equipment, so that you can do other types of homes (2-3 stories etc.)
I can easily reach a roof with a 24’ ladder. You can also play it safe and a 29’ & have no worries about reaching the height you need. I would go with aluminium as fiberglass is heavy to drag around a house. You can also save your $ & invest in a WFP. You won’t regret it.
If you have a ladder rack, use extension ladders w/ leg levels.
If no ladder rack, use 6’ stack ladders that are also equipped w/ leg levels.
I tried the little giant and saw a lot of time wasted dealing w/ it.
Using ladders are the most dangerous part of our job. Be safe out there bro.
I think what everyone is saying is that your technique is very dangerous and you need to invest in proper equipment. In my experience, I need two hands on the pole to apply proper pressure. That means I would have to let go of the ladder to do a good job, or hang onto the ladder with one hand and do a poor job of cleaning the window. Listen to Steven’s post and please be safe-we want you around!
+1. I’ve used a gorilla multiladder for second story work for the last 4 years, and it has been fine. I’ve learned to expect a little more flex than a usual extension ladder- but it’s rated for 300lbs, and I’m not even half that. I also find the wider leg base of those ladders to be a little bit comforting. I use it at the full 17’ regularly. I bought a 28’ extension ladder when I was coming upon more 2.5-3 story homes.
hopefully I will be getting into WFP work soon, and I’ll be able to limit my use of ladders.
Do NOT under estimate the use of stabilizer bars and leg leveler while working. Not using a ladder stabilizer is silly and dangerous! With one on the top of the ladder you are able to get your body at a more comfortable working distance from the window. Usually the stabilizer puts you in the perfect position in front of the glass for a SAFER work environment.
Also, since you are just starting out make sure you learn the proper way to set up, carry and take down a ladder. Done right its quite easy, done wrong very dangerous. I am sure there are videos on the net for proper training.
And invest in Pure Water as soon as you can, that will save you time and energy and done right leaves an amazing result
Thanks a lot for the all the advice and concern.
I guess the first time I used it I was just surprised at how much it could bend and thought it wasn’t safe. After doing some research, I realize you guys do that every day so I’ll stop being such a wuss.
Thanks Jonny, I realize I got some learning to do and its puts my mind at ease hearing it takes some time to learn correctly.
Hey Dan, my ladder is 1A (300lbs) and I’m not even 200lbs. The ladder is made by Vulcan (vulcanladderusa.com) I saw it at Harbor Freight and jumped on the $130 sale price. And your words are true on the pricing of a job, I’ll have to remember that.
Steven, I would love to get some in the future but like you said, lack of funds is preventing me and I do plan to focus on more one story homes until I can hopefully get the right equipment. Thanks for the advice.
Thanks John D, I’ve got an aluminum never tried picking up a fiberglass one but I’ll take your word on it. And yeah WFP seems like the way to go I’ve got a nice little list of things I’ll have to save for now.
Hey Joe, All I have is my compact car for now so I gotta go with what I got and yeah I can tell it may take a little bit of extra time with the multi-use but I’m just hoping if all goes well I’ll be able to buy some good equipment in the future.
Brett, Thanks for the concern I realize its just half-ass to be up there hanging onto the ladder for life and trying to reach up and get a window with the other hand.
Alex, your post made me feel better because I’m just trying to get by for now and hearing that someone else could make it work with a multi-use makes me feel better. I realize some houses may need more ladders but I gotta work with what I got for now and as time goes on I hope to compile an arsenal of safe window washing supplies. And yeah the flex is ridiculous. I thought I was for sure going to break it but I just need to get used to working on a ladder.
llackzo and Jeremiah, thanks for the input. I have been checking out the stabilizers and plan to make that my next purchase as it’s something I can use with any ladder and like you said, puts you at a more convenient location from the house as well.
Thanks a lot for all the help you guys! I really do appreciate it.
