The quest for the perfect ladder often begins with a deceptively simple question: “What size ladder do I need for a two-story house?” While seemingly straightforward, the answer is nuanced and depends on several critical factors beyond just the number of stories. Simply assuming any ladder will do can lead to dangerous situations, inefficient work, or even property damage.
This comprehensive guide will delve into the essential considerations for selecting the correct ladder size for two story house. We’ll move beyond the vague notion of “Two Stories” and equip you with the knowledge to accurately determine your needs, ensuring both safety and efficiency for any elevated task, from gutter cleaning to roof repairs.
Beyond “Two Stories”: Understanding the Variables
The term “two-story house” is a broad generalization. Actual heights can vary considerably based on:
Ceiling Height: Ceiling heights can range from standard 8 feet to more spacious 9 or 10 feet, significantly impacting the overall wall height of each story.
Roof Pitch: A steeper roof pitch means a taller overall structure compared to a house with a shallow roof.
Foundation Height: Homes with raised foundations or basements will have a higher ground-to-gutter measurement than those built directly on a slab.
Specific Task: Are you cleaning gutters, accessing the roof, painting siding, or reaching a second-story window? Each task requires a different working height and ladder reach.
Therefore, relying solely on “two stories” to determine ladder size is inadequate and potentially unsafe. We need a more precise approach.
Key Factors for Determining Ladder Size
Identify Your Task and Target Reach:
Gutter Cleaning/Maintenance: This typically requires reaching the gutter line, which is usually located at the lower edge of the roof, just above the second-story windows.
Roof Access: Accessing the roof safely requires the ladder to extend at least 3 feet above the roofline. This allows you to transition onto and off the roof securely and provides a handhold.
Second-Story Window Cleaning/Painting: The target height here is the window sill or frame on the second story.
Other Tasks: Consider any specific tasks that require reaching higher points on your two-story home, like chimney maintenance or satellite dish adjustments.
Measure the Height to Your Target Reach Point:
Gutter Line Measurement: The most common starting point for two-story ladder needs is the gutter line. To estimate this:
Stand back from your house.
Visually estimate the height from the ground to the gutter line.
As a rough guide, a standard two-story house gutter line is often around 16-20 feet from the ground. However, this is just an estimate. Actual measurements are crucial.
For a more precise measurement (recommended): Use a measuring tape or a laser distance measurer to get an accurate height from the ground to the gutter line. Measure at the highest point of your gutters.
Roof Ridge Measurement (for roof access): If you need roof access, you’ll need to estimate or measure the height to the roof ridge (the peak of your roof). This is more challenging to measure directly from the ground.
Estimate based on gutter height and roof pitch: If you know your gutter height and have an idea of your roof pitch, you can estimate the additional vertical rise to the roof ridge.
Safer Approach (if comfortable): If you are comfortable and experienced with ladders, you could carefully use a shorter ladder to safely reach a point where you can drop a weighted measuring tape from the roof ridge to the ground. However, prioritize safety and only attempt this if you are confident and have a helper.
Account for Ladder Overlap and Angle:
3-Foot Overlap Rule (for Extension Ladders): For safe roof access with an extension ladder, the ladder should extend at least 3 feet above the roof edge you are accessing. This provides a secure handhold when stepping onto or off the roof. This 3-foot extension is included in the total extended length of the ladder, not just usable reach.
Ladder Angle and Usable Reach: Ladders are most stable and safest when used at a 75-degree angle (approximately). This angle reduces the vertical reach of the ladder compared to its total extended length. Ladder manufacturers often provide “maximum reach height” specifications for their ladders, which factor in a safe working angle and a reasonable user height. However, always double-check the “maximum reach” and ensure it meets or exceeds your target height plus any necessary overlap.
Types of Ladders Suitable for Two-Story Houses and Sizing Considerations
Extension Ladders:
The most common and often most practical choice for reaching two-story heights.
Sizing: For most two-story homes, a 24-foot extension ladder is often a good starting point for gutter cleaning and general maintenance. For roof access and taller two-story homes, a 28-foot or even 32-foot extension ladder might be necessary.
Pros: Relatively affordable, good reach, sturdy, relatively simple to use.
Cons: Can be heavy and cumbersome to move and set up, require sufficient space to extend fully, may be less versatile for uneven terrain.
Articulating Ladders (Multi-Position Ladders):
Highly versatile ladders that can be configured in multiple ways (extension ladder, A-frame, staircase ladder, etc.).
Sizing: For two-story house work, an articulating ladder with a 17-foot to 22-foot extension height rating is often sufficient. Look for models that specify their maximum extension reach as this is key.
Pros: Extremely versatile, can be used in various configurations, often more compact for storage than long extension ladders, can be used on stairs or uneven surfaces in A-frame mode, sometimes lighter than comparable extension ladders.
Cons: Can be more expensive than basic extension ladders, may have a slightly lower weight capacity in certain configurations compared to heavy-duty extension ladders, may require a learning curve to fully utilize all configurations.
Step Ladders:
Generally not suitable for reaching typical two-story heights for gutter cleaning or roof access.
When might they be (rarely) appropriate? For very low two-story homes, or for reaching the lower portions of a split-level house where the entry level is technically “two stories” but very close to the ground on one side. Step ladders are primarily for indoor or very low-reach outdoor tasks. Always prioritize an extension or articulating ladder for typical two-story exterior work.
Estimating Required Ladder Length – A Practical Example
Let’s assume you need to clean gutters on a typical two-story house.
Measured Gutter Height: Let’s say you measure your gutter height and it’s approximately 18 feet from the ground.
Task: Gutter cleaning (no roof access specifically needed, just gutter line reach).
Ladder Type: You choose an Extension Ladder.
Consider Reach and Overlap (minimal for gutter cleaning): For gutter cleaning, you don’t need the full 3-foot roof overlap, but you still want to be able to comfortably and safely reach the gutters from the ladder. Let’s aim for a usable reach slightly above the gutter line.
Select Ladder Size: A 24-foot extension ladder would likely be suitable. A 24-foot extension ladder typically provides a maximum reach height in the range of 21-23 feet (depending on the manufacturer and specific model, always check specifications). This gives you a comfortable working reach slightly above your 18-foot gutter line.
Recommended Ladders for Two-Story House Tasks
Here are a couple of ladder recommendations, focusing on ladders suitable for typical two-story house tasks like gutter cleaning and light roof access. Always prioritize ladder safety ratings and choose a ladder that meets or exceeds your specific needs and weight capacity.
Werner D1300-2 Series Extension Ladder (24-foot or 28-foot)
Why Recommended: Werner is a highly reputable brand known for quality and durability. The D1300-2 series are industrial-rated extension ladders, sturdy and reliable for homeowner and professional use. Available in various lengths, the 24-foot (D1324-2) and 28-foot (D1328-2) are excellent choices for two-story homes.
Key Features: Durable fiberglass or aluminum construction (choose based on preference – fiberglass non-conductive, aluminum lighter), available in lengths appropriate for two-story houses, slip-resistant rungs and feet, robust construction for stability.
Considerations: Werner ladders are widely available at home improvement stores. Ensure the duty rating (Type I or higher) is appropriate for your weight and tools. For roof access, the 28-foot might be preferable for taller two-story homes or steeper roofs.
Little Giant Ladder Systems, Revolution Model 22-Foot
Why Recommended: Little Giant Revolution ladders are known for their versatility and robust construction. The 22-foot model provides a maximum extension height that is suitable for many two-story house tasks. Its articulating design allows for use as an extension ladder, A-frame ladder, 90-degree ladder, and more, making it adaptable to various situations around a two-story home.
Key Features: Multi-position versatility, heavy-duty construction, adjustable height, can be used on stairs, wide rungs for comfort, non-slip feet, relatively compact for storage compared to long extension ladders when folded.
Considerations: Little Giant ladders are generally more expensive than basic extension ladders. Ensure you understand how to properly use the ladder in its extension configuration and check the duty rating. While versatile, for very high or solely extension ladder tasks, a dedicated extension ladder might sometimes feel slightly more rigid.
Louisville Ladder L-2248-1 Extension Ladder (24-foot Aluminum)
Why Recommended: Louisville Ladder is another trusted brand with a long history. The L-2248-1 is a well-regarded aluminum extension ladder that offers a good balance of strength, weight, and price. A 24-foot aluminum extension ladder is a practical size for many two-story home tasks.
Key Features: Durable aluminum construction (lighter than fiberglass), good duty rating, slip-resistant rungs and feet, robust rung locks, often more budget-friendly than some other premium brands while maintaining quality.
Considerations: Aluminum ladders are conductive of electricity, so be mindful of overhead power lines. For roof access on taller two-story homes or steeper roofs, you might consider a 28-foot model from Louisville or another reputable brand.
Important Safety Reminders
Duty Rating: Always select a ladder with a duty rating that meets or exceeds the total weight of you, your clothing, and your tools. Type I or Type IA are generally recommended for homeowner use for tasks around a two-story house.
Ladder Inspection: Before each use, inspect your ladder for any damage (cracks, loose rungs, bent rails, etc.). Do not use a damaged ladder.
Stable Setup: Ensure the ladder is placed on firm, level ground. Use ladder levelers on uneven surfaces. Maintain a safe ladder angle (approximately 75 degrees).
Three Points of Contact: Always maintain three points of contact with the ladder (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) when climbing or working.
Read the Manual: Thoroughly read and understand the user manual for your specific ladder model before use.
Conclusion: Measure Twice, Climb Once – Choose the Right Ladder Size
Selecting the right ladder size for a two-story house is not about guesswork or generalizations. It’s about understanding your specific tasks, accurately assessing the heights you need to reach, and choosing a ladder type and length that provides both the necessary reach and, most importantly, a safe working platform. Take the time to measure, consider your needs, and invest in a quality ladder that will serve you safely and effectively for years to come. When in doubt, err on the side of a slightly longer ladder to ensure you have adequate reach, but always prioritize safe ladder handling and setup practices.