Heavy-Duty Roofing Ladders: Your Stairways to Heaven!
For the sake of simplicity, there are three types of Roof Ladders. Step ladders, extension ladders, telescoping ladders, and folding ladders, also known as multi-position ladders. Other specialty ladders are converted to scaffolds, fixed ladders, roof access ladders that attach to structures, tripod ladders, and ladders with safety cages. Still, we’ll stick to standard ladders used by roofers. And, since iRoofing is an American company with worldwide reach, you may find a few ladders featured here that are difficult to find in the U.S. and Canada.
In this blog, we break down everything roofers need to know about choosing the right ladder for the job. We cover the recommended ladder lengths, including why 20-foot and 24-foot extension ladders are the most popular for daily use and when roofers might need ladders ranging from 16 to 40 feet. We discuss materials, highlighting why fiberglass Type IA extension ladders are preferred over aluminum for safety and durability. We also explore portability, including the benefits of telescoping ladders for compact storage and attic access. Plus, we have honest opinions and reviews from roofers like yourself. If you check this iRoofing, we guarantee you will have a clear idea of what you need for your next roofing project, and iRoofing will help you land with our Instant DIY roof measurement reports
The 10 Best Roof Ladder List
- 24-ft Werner D-Rung Extension Ladder (High-reach, durable)
- 16-ft Westward/Grainger Fiberglass Extension Ladder (Standard residential work)
- Bailey Triple Extension Ladder (Compact storage, high reach)
- Chase Sloping Roof Access System (Specialized for steep-pitch roofing)
- 16-ft Louisville Ladder Twin Front Step (Great for two-person jobs)
- Werner 12-ft Fiberglass Step Ladder (Safe, non-conductive)
- Xtend & Climb Contractor Series CS155+/300 Telescoping Ladder (NEW) (Compact, portable)
- Zarges Telescopic Ladder (Easy to transport but best for occasional use)
- Werner 17-ft Aluminum Roofing Ladder with Hooks (NEW) (Must-have for steep roofs)
- Louisville 32-ft Fiberglass Extension Ladder (NEW) (Great for commercial/multi-story homes)
Best Roof Ladders for Contractors: Organized by Ladder Type
Folding Ladders
Folding Ladders
1. Is the 24-ft Werner D-Rung Extension Ladder a Good Buy for Roofers?
The 24-ft Werner D-Rung Extension Ladder is one of the most popular ladders for roofing professionals. It’s known for durability, stability, and daily use—an excellent choice for residential roofing projects.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- Sturdy Construction – Built with high-quality materials for long-term use.
- D-Rung Design – Flat rungs offer better foot stability and comfort during lengthy jobs.
- Slip-Resistant Feet – Provides a secure grip on different surfaces, enhancing safety.
Things to Consider:
- Weight Capacity – Supports up to 225 lbs, so check if it meets your job needs.
- Material Consideration – It is not non-conductive and is not ideal near electrical sources.
- Portability – Its long length may require extra space in work trucks.
- No Formal Warranty – Werner stands behind its quality but doesn’t provide a written warranty.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder,’ by Werner Co
Roofers told us that this is a rugged ladder you can depend on, but they recommend not using it alone unless you are much stronger than the average guy. Once you muscle this monster into place, be sure it will be hard to wobble. Others said they trust their life with the Werner extension ladders regularly, which has not disappointed them. Another tip is to always inspect the ladder for wear and always use three points of contact. Your ladder will not last forever. It will last a long time if you don’t beat it up.
📍 Where to Buy: Available at Werner’s website, The Home Depot, and Amazon.
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2. Is the 16-ft Westward/Grainger Fiberglass Extension Ladder a Good Buy for Roofers?
The 16-ft Westward/Grainger Fiberglass Extension Ladder is a durable, high-capacity option for roofing professionals.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- 300-lb Load Capacity (Type IA) – Securely supports the roofer and tools.
- Fiberglass Construction – Non-conductive for extra safety near electrical sources.
- Extended Reach – 13-ft extension, 15-ft reach height—ideal for single-story roofs.
- Safety Features – Quicklatch Runglock, slide guides, and rail end caps for stability.
Things to Consider:
- Weight: 30 lbs—may require effort to transport and position.
- Storage & Transport – Needs adequate space and a large vehicle.
- Limited Roofer Reviews – Few firsthand testimonials are available.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder,’ by Westward/Grainger:
A few roofers mentioned that this ladder is built for heavy-duty work. You really can depend on this ladder for heavy day-to-day use!
📍 Where to Buy: Available at Werner’s website, Zoro, The Home Depot, and Amazon.
3. Is the Bailey Triple Extension Ladder a Good Buy for Roofers?
The Bailey Triple Extension Ladder is an Australian-made, space-saving ladder that is well-regarded among roofing professionals. Its innovative design, durability, and extended reach make it a versatile tool for roofing tasks.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- Compact Storage – Folds under 2 meters (6.56 ft) for easy transport and storage.
- Extended Reach – Fully extends to 5.39 meters (17.68 ft), suitable for different roof heights.
- Heavy-Duty Construction – Supports up to 330 lbs (150 kg) for stable and safe use.
Things to Consider:
- Heavy Weight – A sturdier build means heavier than standard ladders, which may affect transport.
- Higher Cost – Advanced features and industrial-grade materials come at a premium price.
- Stability Accessories – Ladder levelers may be needed for uneven surfaces.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder,’ by Bailey:
Roofers appreciate that this ladder is available in both aluminum and fiberglass, providing options to suit their specific needs. Its triple-extension design makes storage easy and convenient, a feature many find very practical. Roofers also feel confident using it, recognizing its reliability and value as a solid investment in their equipment. However, one commonly mentioned downside is that it’s not readily available in the U.S. market.
📍 Where to Buy: Primarily available in Australia—check specialty ladder suppliers. It can also be found on Amazon Australia.
4. Is the Chase Sloping Roof Access System a Good Buy for Roofers?
The Chase Sloping Roof Access System by UK-based Chase Ladders is designed for safe and efficient work on steep roofs. This specialized system helps roofers stabilize and reduce fall risks on challenging slopes.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- Enhanced Safety – Features folding handrails, a safety chain, and suction pads for secure footing.
- High Load Capacity – Supports up to 385 lbs (175 kg), handling roofers, tools, and materials.
- Purpose-Built for Sloped Roofs – Designed for stability and efficiency when working on steep pitches.
Things to Consider:
- Limited Availability – Primarily sold in the UK, making it harder to source elsewhere.
- High Cost – Priced at around $1,800 USD, making it a significant investment.
- Portability – They are Bulkier than standard ladders, which may affect transport and setup.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder,’ by Chase:
Roofing professionals told us that the Chase Sloping Roof System is a valuable ladder for working on step roofs because it increases safety and stability. The downside is that it’s primarily available in the UK.
📍 Where to Buy: Available from Chase Ladders UK—expect high shipping costs if ordering internationally, like at Industry Supplies.
5. Is the 16-ft Louisville Ladder Twin Front Step a Good Buy for Roofers?
The 16-ft Louisville Ladder Twin Front Step is a heavy-duty twin-step ladder designed for roofing, construction, and industrial use. Its dual-sided design allows two people to climb simultaneously, making it an excellent choice for teamwork on job sites.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- Twin Front Design – Allows two workers to climb simultaneously for added efficiency.
- Sturdy Construction – Fiberglass frame for non-conductive safety and durability.
- High Load Capacity – Supports up to 375 lbs (Type IAA rating) per side.
- Slip-Resistant Steps – Ensures stability and secure footing.
Things to Consider:
- Heavy Build – Fiberglass construction makes it heavier than standard ladders.
- Storage & Transport – At 16 feet, it requires ample space for transport and storage.
- Higher Cost – Dual-step and heavy-duty materials increase the price compared to basic step ladders.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder’ by Louisville Ladder
We heard a lot of feedback from the Louisville Ladder. It´s a great ladder that offers reliable stability on the job. Roofers find it helpful because of the double-sided riser steps. It truly is worth the price.
📍 Where to Buy: Available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Amazon, and industrial suppliers.
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6. Is the Werner 12-ft Fiberglass Step Ladder a Good Buy for Roofers?
The Werner 6212 Type IA Fiberglass Step Ladder is a durable, heavy-duty option for roofers needing quick, stable access to one-story roofs. Its rugged construction and non-conductive fiberglass frame make it a reliable professional choice.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- Built for Heavy-Duty Use – 300-lb load capacity (Type IA) supports tools, materials, and gear.
- Safe Near Power Lines – Non-conductive fiberglass minimizes electrical hazards.
- Perfect Height for Quick Access – 12-ft height works well for gutters, inspections, and one-story roofs.
- Stable & Secure – Broad base & slip-resistant feet prevent wobbling.
- Tool-Friendly – HolsterTop® provides easy access to tools, nails, and fasteners.
Things to Consider:
- Heavier Than Aluminum – Moving it frequently takes more effort.
- Storage Space Needed – At 12 feet, it requires ample truck or trailer room.
- Higher Price Point – Premium quality comes at a cost, but it’s built to last.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder’ by Werner
A lot of roofers say this ladder can handle tough roofing jobs. Its quick access to roof repairs and inspections without the hassle of setting up an extension ladder is a huge plus as well. This a ladder that can be purchased in most of the U.S.
📍 Where to Buy: Available at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, and Sherwin-Williams, even in smaller communities.
7. Is the Xtend & Climb Contractor Series CS155+/300 Telescoping Ladder a Good Buy for Roofers?
The Xtend & Climb Contractor Series CS155+/300 is a portable, compact, and durable telescoping ladder designed for roofers who need easy transport and adjustable height options.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- Compact & Portable – Extends up to 15.5 ft. but retracts to a small size for easy storage and transport.
- Sturdy Construction – Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, offering strength while staying relatively lightweight.
- Adjustable Height – Locks by the foot, allowing precise height adjustments for different roofing tasks.
- Built-in Safety Features – Red/green locking tab indicators ensure each rung is securely locked before use.
Things to Consider:
- Weight – At 39 lbs, it’s heavier than traditional ladders of similar reach.
- Stability on Uneven Surfaces – Roofers may need stabilizing accessories for better balance.
- Maintenance Required – The telescoping mechanism needs regular cleaning to prevent debris buildup.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder’ by Xtend + Climb
Roofers on the East Coast like this ladder because it offers fast access for quick roof inspections and repairs. But they mentioned that it’s not the safest ladder for uneven surfaces. The upside is that you can get it at a better price from the distributor.
📍 Where to Buy: Available direct from the manufacturer, The Home Depot, and select Lowe’s locations.
8. Is the Zarges Telescopic Ladder a Good Buy for Roofers?
The Zarges Telescopic Ladder is a compact, lightweight, and durable option for roofers needing portability and quick setup. Made from anodized aluminum, it’s ideal for smaller work trucks and easy transport between job sites.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- Compact & Portable – Closes to just 0.75m, fitting in small storage spaces.
- Heavy-Duty Build – Durable anodized aluminum ensures longevity.
- Soft Close Retraction – Enhances safety by preventing sudden collapses.
- Meets Safety Standards – Supports up to 150 kg (330 lbs) and complies with EN131-6 regulations.
Things to Consider:
- Limited Reach – Max extension is 9.5 ft, unsuitable for high roofs.
- Stability Concerns – Telescopic ladders may not be as stable as traditional extension ladders.
- Lightweight Trade-off – At 8.85 kg, portability is great, but stability could be a concern.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder’ by Zarges
Roofers have praised the ladder’s build quality and safety features. A roofer mentioned to us that the ladder feels well-made and comes with additional rubber feet that can be screwed into the top section for increased protection against rough surfaces. However, for projects involving higher elevations, other roofers may need to consider ladders with greater reach and enhanced stability.
📍 Where to Buy: Manufacturer in the UK, but available on Amazon or directly from Zarges (with possible retailer recommendations).
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9. Is the Werner 18-ft Aluminum Roofing Ladder with Hooks a Good Buy for Roofers?
The Werner 18-ft Aluminum Multi-Position Ladder is a versatile and sturdy option for roofers, offering multiple configurations to handle various roofing tasks. While roofing hooks aren’t included, they can be purchased separately for added security on sloped roofs.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- Multi-Position Design – Functions as a twin stepladder, stairway ladder, extension ladder, and scaffold base.
- Heavy-Duty Build – Supports up to 300 lbs (Type IA duty rating) for tools and materials.
- Adjustable Height – The telescoping design accommodates different roof heights and pitches.
Things to Consider:
- Weight – A sturdy build makes it heavier, affecting portability.
- Learning Curve – Multiple configurations require time to get used to.
- Additional Accessories – Roofing hooks are sold separately for securing on sloped surfaces.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder’ by Werner
A few roofers told us this ladder is sturdy and suitable for most roofing tasks. They even said that it was worth the investment.
📍 Where to Buy: Available at The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Amazon.
10. Is the Louisville 32-ft Fiberglass Extension Ladder a Good Buy for Roofers?
The Louisville FE3232 is a heavy-duty, professional-grade fiberglass extension ladder built for safety and reliability. With a 300-lb Type IA rating, it’s ideal for demanding roofing tasks.
Why Roofers Will Like It:
- High Load Capacity – Supports up to 300 lbs, easily handling tools and equipment.
- Durable Fiberglass Build – It is Non-conductive, making it safer for electrical work.
- MAXLOCK Rung Lock System – Secure and easy to extend/retract, made from advanced polymer.
- Slip-Resistant D-Rungs – Serrated design provides extra footing security.
- Steel Swivel Safety Shoes – These are Adjustable for stability on different surfaces.
Things to Consider:
- Heavy Build – Weighs 70 lbs, requiring effort to carry and set up.
- Storage Needs – Closed height is 16 ft, total length 32 ft, needing ample space.
- Higher Price – Costs around $626.50, reflecting its premium features.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder’ by Louisville
Most roofers who have worked with this ladder mentioned they feel comfortable with its weight capacity. It can handle demanding tasks and daily use.
📍 Where to Buy: Available at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, and Imperial Suppliers.
Roof Ladders Honorable Mentions - Best Folding Ladders (Multi-Position) for Roofing
Little Giant PRO Series 300-Pound Folding Ladder
This aluminum ladder has cool, black anodized armor. It screams high-tech. It can be set up as a step ladder, but it folds/unfolds to a 17-footer. It has wheels that work when you tip the ladder to move it from place to place.
Roofing professionals’ insights on the ‘roofing ladder’ by Little Giant Ladder
The Little Giant PRO Series Folding Ladder is an excellent choice for roofing ladders because it offers flexibility. It’s ideal for various heights, tight spaces, and uneven surfaces. This ladder’s versatility makes it a wise investment if you mix residential and commercial roofing.
The downside is that this roofing ladder may not be found in local hardware stores. You can purchase the Little Giant Ladders on its official website, Amazon, and Costco.
Ladder Guide for New Roofers: Essential Ratings & Insights
- Type III-Light Duty – 200 lb. live load capacity (homeowner grade).
- Type II-Medium Duty – 225 lb. live load capacity (commercial handyman grade).
- Type I-Heavy Duty – 250 lb. live load capacity (construction grade).
- Type 1A-Extra-Heavy Duty – 300 lb. live load capacity (industrial grade).
- Type IAA – 375 lb. live load capacity (heavy-duty industrial grade).
Roof Ladder Parts and Specifications
As a roofing professional, you should check roofing ladder certifications whenever buying a new one. Good ladders are ANSI-certified and OSHA-compliant. Here are the terms commonly used to define a ladder:
- Length/Height – The total length along the side rails that support the rungs.
- Load Capacity – The maximum weight the ladder can safely hold, including the climber and tools (called “live load”).
- Weight – The ladder’s actual weight is not to be confused with its load capacity.
- Reach Height – Typically 4 feet higher than the ladder’s length, estimating a safe working height.
- Width – The distance between the outer edges of the side rails.
- Top-to-Bottom Rung Length – The usable rung length, excluding the extra side rail extensions at the top and bottom.
- Side Rails – The vertical supports holding the rungs, usually measured by material thickness.
- Climbing Rungs – The ladder’s steps. OSHA warns: Never stand on the top two rungs of a stepladder or top four of an extension ladder.
- Stand-Off Brackets – Attach to the ladder to prevent it from leaning on unstable surfaces like gutters.
- Wing Span – A flared design on some ladders for better stability at the top or base.
- Ladder Material – Steel, aluminum, fiberglass, or even wood.
- Mill Finish – The shape, diameter, and texture of the rungs.
Quick Tips - Roof Ladder Safety
Climbing ladders for a living is a risky business. Always be careful. Wearing the right footwear for roofing can help you stay safe up there. Many ladder-related accidents are preventable with the use of a vertical lifeline or a rope grab system. Werner offers many products for fall protection, including compliance kits, harnesses, lanyards, and retractables. Most important to your safety is equipping your contracting business with sufficiently rated, high-quality ladders like those we featured above. Stay safe and happy roofing!
FAQs - Choosing the Best Roof Ladder for Your Roofing Business
After extensive research and feedback from professional roofers like yourself, we have this bullet point list, “cheat sheet!” for fast answers.
- Best for Portability to Transport to a Roofing Job: Zarges or Xtend & Climb Telescoping Ladders
- Best for Lightweight Roof Work: Werner 17-ft Roofing Hook Ladder
- Best for Roofers on a Budget: Xtend & Climb Telescoping Ladder
- Best All-Around Choice for Roofers: 24-ft Werner D-Rung Extension Ladder
- Best for High-Reach Roofing Job: Louisville 32-ft Extension Ladder
- Best for Steep Roof Work and Steep Slopes: Chase Sloping Roof Access System
Full Disclosure: iRoofing is a roofing software company with an app that almost makes ladders obsolete in the estimating and sales stage! With iRoofing’s mobile app, you can measure any roof using satellite, HD aerial, drone, or blueprint images, then create an instant, accurate roof estimate and simulate how new roof materials and colors will look on the owners’ property… in most cases, you do not have to climb a ladder for an estimate or even get to the site. So, do you need expert recommendations on the best roofing tools? iRoofing provides insights and technology that roofers can trust, with real insights and facts!
