Thoughts on new extension ladder

S

sgt_rjp

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Jun 27, 2013
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I’m in the market for a 28-ft extension ladder.  I found the Little Giant Sumostance and it seems to be the perfect extension ladder.  The only drawback I’ve found is the price, but I think the features justify the cost(well, at least the Home Depot price)

 https://littlegiantladders.com/ladder/hyperlite-sumostance/
 https://www.homedepot.com/p/Little-...A-Fiberglass-Extension-Ladder-17828/302477756

It’s fiberglass, but weighs less than comparible aluminum models.  They might have cut weight by reducing the width, but the sumostance(leveling/stability system) more than makes up for it.  Thanks to the sumostance, it’s much wider at the bottom(Up to 3.75’) than standard extension ladders, and can adjust vertically up to 8” for uneven surfaces.  Actually, although I’ve seen comments that they are narrower, the specs show 18”, which is standard width.  They also put the fly section pulley and rope on the side so you don’t have to worry about catching it as you climb.  They’ve included levels as a bonus, so you can easily verify proper placement of the ladder.

I’m interested to hear from anyone with experience with this or similar LG models. Constructive thoughts for or against appreciated. They must be pretty new because I can’t find much in the way of real world experience. It seems perfect, but am I missing something?
 
I would consider buying this ladder.  Certainly I have bookmarked the item for future consideration.

Thanks for the link!
 
I've always had a healthy respect when working with ladders.  A friend's father died when I was a teenager because he fell off an extension ladder putting up Christmas lights.  Broke his neck.  A few years ago, I fell off the top of a two foot ladder and busted my tailbone.  Most ladder accidents occur because of human error.  In both cases, we were overreaching.  I was just lucky enough to be 20 feet lower and land on my butt.

I am a big fan of Little Giant engineering and quality.  I actually own two - the original 13' folding model and a black 22' from when they offered a professional grade heavy duty version.  Spendy but worth it in my opinion.

For tall work, I still prefer a traditional extension ladder rather than folding out one of their articulating models.  I have a 28' Werner aluminum but this one looks intriguing.  Fiberglass is a far safer when working around electricity but will break down if you store it outside in direct sunlight.  I like the features you highlighted and will probably look into it.

Truth be told as I sit here and think about it, I have too many ladders already.  I worked for many years as a contractor and you tend to accumulate them.  Last count it was two 2's, two 4's, three 6's, two 8's, one 10, one 12 double sided, two Little Giants, an old Krause MultiMatic, and the extension ladder.  I'm probably forgetting some.

My name's Joe and I'm a ladder-holic.
 
I could use a 20 footer for around the house. That would have a ~17 working height.
 
When you are considering an extension ladder I would respectfully offer that you also need to consider your own physical condition and strength.  Don't buy a ladder that you can't handle when fully extended.

Like others I have tons of ladders up to 32' and that length is the max I feel that I can safely handle.  Yes, I am a smaller guy.  I don't have a Little Giant ladder but I do have some clones that were made after their patent ran out.  I love them, but...

Based on my own experiences I would suggest that anyone buying one of that style of ladder try it out fully extended prior to purchase to make sure there are not any surprises.  The design puts additional weight at the very top and bottom due to widening of the ladder.  The bottom is great for stability, but at the top it adds weight where you might not want it most.

Just my 2 cents.

Peter

 
Peter Halle said:
When you are considering an extension ladder I would respectfully offer that you also need to consider your own physical condition and strength.  Don't buy a ladder that you can't handle when fully extended.

Like others I have tons of ladders up to 32' and that length is the max I feel that I can safely handle.  Yes, I am a smaller guy.  I don't have a Little Giant ladder but I do have some clones that were made after their patent ran out.  I love them, but...

Based on my own experiences I would suggest that anyone buying one of that style of ladder try it out fully extended prior to purchase to make sure there are not any surprises.  The design puts additional weight at the very top and bottom due to widening of the ladder.  The bottom is great for stability, but at the top it adds weight where you might not want it most.

Just my 2 cents.

Peter
Click to expand...

Im in decent shape but realize that I’m not getting younger and certainly not in the shape I was in even 5years ago.  That’s actually why I’m looking at this model.  It’s got the height I need and built in levelers.  It’s non-conductive ladder at the weight of competitors aluminum models.  The few personal reviews I’ve read report it to be solid even when fully extended.

Actually, I’m thinking you might not have looked at the links and just commented on the traditional LG.  It turns out they’ve got a lot of other models.  I’ve seen their earlier extension ladders(LUNAR) on cable installer and lineman’s trucks.  The one I’m looking at seems to be one of their newest models: Hyperlite.  It’s a green(not quite festool green) fiberglass extension ladder with their “sumostance” base.  I’m sure the base adds some weight to the bottom, but there is no extra weight at the top. 

Another feature I didn’t mention is the second pulley on the rope.  That side mounted double pulley system makes it even easier to raise the ladder. 

I was about to order one from Home Depot but thought I’d get a reality check from you guys.  This group appreciates quality but calls a spade a spade if things aren’t what they appear to be
 
Not to sound like an advertisement, but I might as well cover some of the remaining features.  I still suggest you follow the links and check out at least the videos.  I’m sure I’m not doing any justice.  . 

I’m looking at the 1A type(300lbs), but it’s also available in 1AA(375lb).  The top three rungs are red to help you remember not to climb on them(and keep them above the gutter or roof).  The standard hyperlite(sans sumostance) seems to be available with hooks and pole rest,  but aren’t on the ones Home Depot carries. I haven’t found them as accessories either.

 
Peter Halle said:
When you are considering an extension ladder I would respectfully offer that you also need to consider your own physical condition and strength.  Don't buy a ladder that you can't handle when fully extended.

Like others I have tons of ladders up to 32' and that length is the max I feel that I can safely handle.  Yes, I am a smaller guy.  I don't have a Little Giant ladder but I do have some clones that were made after their patent ran out.  I love them, but...

Based on my own experiences I would suggest that anyone buying one of that style of ladder try it out fully extended prior to purchase to make sure there are not any surprises.  The design puts additional weight at the very top and bottom due to widening of the ladder.  The bottom is great for stability, but at the top it adds weight where you might not want it most.

Just my 2 cents.

Peter
Click to expand...

And related to the traditional Little giant, I agree that it can get unwieldy.  Although, while looking for information on the hyperlite, I found some tips to help with that.  Mainly to only extend the top initially, and wait to fully extend the bottom until you’ve raised the ladder, hand over hand, with the base against the structure. 

Unfortunately, I just have an old articulating ladder that has to be completely extended before being raised.  These days I have better step and extension ladders, so it only gets used on stairs or other oddball situations. 
 
I have been a professional carpenter for almost 25 years. I have not ever used a ladder with adjustable feet. I can’t explain it...maybe I’m just lucky. Yes there have been times that should not have done things with a typical extension ladder, so please don’t tell OSHA on me.  I believe Werner and Louisville both make a leg attachment for extending one or both legs as needed.

Personally, the end user is the best judge of what type of ladder works best for their needs.  For me, I have a 2’/4’/6’/8’ step ladders, (2) 16’, (1) 28’ and (1) 40’.  None of these have let me down or prevented me from getting to where I needed to go.
 
Naildrivingman said:
I have been a professional carpenter for almost 25 years. I have not ever used a ladder with adjustable feet. I can’t explain it...maybe I’m just lucky. Yes there have been times that should not have done things with a typical extension ladder, so please don’t tell OSHA on me.  I believe Werner and Louisville both make a leg attachment for extending one or both legs as needed.

Personally, the end user is the best judge of what type of ladder works best for their needs.  For me, I have a 2’/4’/6’/8’ step ladders, (2) 16’, (1) 28’ and (1) 40’.  None of these have let me down or prevented me from getting to where I needed to go.
Click to expand...

I grew up in western PA and have been in WV for 25 years, and very rarely have flat base where I need an extension ladder.  I normally use a rock, brick, or block of wood, but last year I picked up an old Werner ladder with a single leveling leg that switches to whatever side you need it. It works great!  Then I found an automatic unit that looks even better, but by the time you add that to a new ladder, you’re nearly at the cost and heavier than the hyperlite. I really appreciate the solid foundation the leveler provides. I figure the wider base of the sumostance will be even better. 

 
I work regularly at height with my own 9 meter/30' ladder (Altrex Rocky 3x12) which is a bit heavy but rock solid, professional grade. When I look at a ladder like this, I cringe. Those adjustable extensions look awful. When I work high up, I don't want to put my full weight on something that's adjustable and clips on. Wide base, yes, of course, but in one piece please. These moveable parts, they're gonna fail.
 
Alex said:
I work regularly at height with my own 9 meter/30' ladder (Altrex Rocky 3x12) which is a bit heavy but rock solid, professional grade. When I look at a ladder like this, I cringe. Those adjustable extensions look awful. When I work high up, I don't want to put my full weight on something that's adjustable and clips on. Wide base, yes, of course, but in one piece please. These moveable parts, they're gonna fail.
Click to expand...

This is definitely food for thought, but you would also cringe at my efforts to level my ladder. This is what had me looking at add on leveling devices.  I just didn’t like the idea of cutting/drilling/screwinging into my ladder(the one I have was already done when I got it). I like the idea that this comes complete from the factory.  That being said, I’m sure proper care and regular maintenance and inspection is required to keep this ladder in good condition, but that is true for any ladder.  I would like to see it in person, but I can’t find any stores that actually keep it in stock. Well, I planned to place an order today, but I may wait until I can see it or get some independent reports from actual owners. 
 
Threads like these are great!  They benefit members and readers alike both now and in the future.  What I wrote was not aimed at any particular brand nor any products being considered.  It was offered as food for thought for anyone doing a Google search for advice on extension ladders who might not be as knowledgeable as so many of our members.

Peter
 
I have the 17 ft Little Giant.  I no longer use it for constrution, bu often for pruning projects.  It gets heavier every time  i use it now, but when i was only 38, it was a joy to work with. I still keep my old  twenty footer just to get onto my own house and barn roofs. When i waist masonry biz, I had several twenty footers, couple of 30 footers and a 40 footer. Also had a 30 foot ladder with a trolly for bringing materials  up onto scaffolding. I even used that one for lowering myself down into some old (pre revolution) chimes for inspection of the insides.

After I retired from the masonry biz, i kept the forty footer for one specific job.  every fall, one of my favorite customers would ask me to clean her gutters for her. I would bring my ladder and two men (a contractor buddy) and my friend would climb the ladder while two of us would anchor ropes from each side of the ladder in hopes that we ould prevent the ladder from sliding to either side.  I have used ladders for 75 years but it is the only  wayy i will use such a tall ladder, especially for cleaning gutters where thee tendency is to reach out just "another 6 inches".

One year, the  lady had not called me, so I asker her if she still wanted me to clean her gutters.  "Your not going to like it, but my husband and his dad are going to do them this year."

"That's ok.  there is plenty of work for every body."

"Is that all you have to say?"

"Yes."

She  knew me better, so she asked, "Don't you have any thoughts about it?"

"Oh yes. I would suggest you go to the  library."

She looked  puzzled. "Why the library?"

"To go to the section where they have books telling you how to live s a widow."

She laughed and replied, "I knew I could count  on you to have great advise."

She must have taken me up on the arise.  Within a couple of months, she got a divorce.

I have had several other clients who have used ladders  improperly and ended up in emergency rooms. It is usually people who hav no experience with ladders and do not have a respect for what can happen if the lean outs for "just that little  6 inches further." or stand a ladder too steep or don't level at the bottom. Or any of a number of other hazardous habits. Ladders with spread feet are a great invention.  Some, you can attach a wide set of  feet at the top.  I don't think those add to the safety of a ladder as it just  increases the temptation to reach out. I have never used them.  If i think a ladder is not set up in a safe place, I will secure it with ropes and  a solid structure to tie the other end of the ropes. Today, I only use ladders  for pruning and  have 3 legged orchard ladders. Even those can go over if one is careless in the setting up.
Tinker
 
Personally, I'd stick with Werner or Louisville Type 1 or 1a extension ladders. Both brands have a proven track record.

I'd also recommend adding Extenda Leg levers to your ladder. I use them on all my aluminum extension ladder and I couldn't imagine using a ladder without them. You can quickly adjust the legs with your feet to compensate for uneven surfaces or hillsides. Compared using scrapes of wood, bricks, etc... it's much safer and faster method to help you set up your ladder.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005...sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=ladder+levelers+for+extension+ladders&dpPl=1&dpID=41AUMJeYS9L&ref=plSrch

FWIW, I've been a painter for 8+ years. When I'm painting exteriors I'm constantly moving 16'-32' extension ladders around a house. For the average homeowner some of the features on the Sumostance like the red rings and bubble levels are cool, but not really needed. If you follow basic ladder safety practices and use common sense you can work safely on a extension ladder.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
I own a 32 foot Little Giant Sumostance. Bought it August 2016. I did a ton of research before buying, but the interwebs had little information on real world use, so I bought it sight unseen based upon their reputation. I already own a 22' LG Revolution and love it, but fully extended it has way too much flex for my comfort.

I'm scared of heights and a ladder with flex makes it 10 times worse. My gutters are 24 feet above the ground. A 28' model would have just barley cut it fully extended. So I bought the 32 because it would leave a lot more overlap and stay rigid. I'm glad I did. It's the first extension ladder I've been able to climb past 12 feet. Yes, there is a little bounce at 24', but the build quality and complete lack of side to side shift gives me confidence. I ordered it with the V / Corner house pad at the top, which keeps the ladder stuck to the house. The levels are awesome and quite sensitive. The leveling legs are easy to adjust when upright. All in all, an awesome product. I'd buy it again in a second.

FYI, I'm 40, 6' 2", 200lbs, and in good shape. If you are a ways outside of these measures, you might want to enlist the help of a buddy when setting it up. I can do it by myself with little trouble, but there isn't much room for error. It can get away from you quickly if you don't pay attention.

Also, I bought it directly from Little Giant. You need to work the sales department to do a direct sale, but it can be done. They are made at time of order, and the fewer times it gets shipped, the better. Took 2 months, roughly.

Tag me if you have further questions. I'd be glad to help.
 
We have a Little Giant A-Frame 17 foot extension ladder in our shop that I bought used.  It's an older model that doesn't have some of the features I see on the newest models I see on their web site. 

I highly recommend this ladder.  Our shop has a 15 foot ceiling and I go up and down the ladder frequently to repair lights, install dust collector tubes and add electrical outlets.  I'm 70 years old, so a) I've had a lot of experience with ladders, b) I can't afford to risk falling, and c) I want a real solid feel when I go up high.  I highly recommend this ladder, as it meets all my needs.  It is heavy, and right at the limit of what I can haul around.  Recently purchased the optional wheels, and that helps.  Definitely recommend it. 
 
One thing about he Little Giant ladders, (I have the 17 footer)keep the working parts lubricated. Mine is kept outside storage and every time I use it I give a little shot of oil to all of those slide locks. I've had the ladder for nearly 20years (don't remember when i actually bought it) and like @ RogerConnerTN says, it is near my limit to carry around, and i am only 39. It was a lot lighter when i brought it home the first time. Must be the residue from all the oil. But I'll keep it lubed and worry about the weight later.
Tinker
 
Tom Gensmer said:
As a general contractor, I regularly have to set up ladders on uneven grades. I've been looking at this product from Qual-Craft that seems to combine a wide stance, with the added benefit of accommodating uneven grades. I'd be looking at using this product with my 28' fiberglass extension ladder.
https://www.qualcraft.com/construct...ty/product/13696-basemate-ladder-level-system
Click to expand...

I like the wider stance it adds, but I'm not sure about the ladder itself with yours and ladders weight being elevated above grade. It does look interesting and I have been eyeing up a few different options. Anyone using a ladder on uneven ground needs a leveler of some type though.
 
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