LADDERS: BUYER’S GUIDE & FAQ

At PoolSupplies.com, we differentiate between steps and ladders to make it easier to find what you’re looking for. While both make it easy for you to get in and out of your pool, steps and ladders have a few key differences to consider.

Steps allow you to walk right into your pool while ladders require more of a climbing motion as you go up or down rungs. This may be easier for people to maneuver despite taking up more space. Steps tend to be a little more popular and a little more expensive. For more information, check out our Buyer’s Guide on Steps.

Alternatively, ladders have the traditional rung-style you may be familiar with from ladders on land. They’re typically a less expensive option than steps and will take up less space in your pool since they don’t stick out as far. If you have an inground pool with built-in steps, you may want to add a ladder in the deep end.

If you’re getting an entry and exit system for your above ground pool, you may want to consider a combination of step and ladder. To enter the pool, you can get a portion of steps that connect to a ladder outside the pool. [Shop All Pool Ladders]

If you’ve decided to go the ladder route, you should also choose the material you’d like it to be made of. Ladders are commonly made from alloy stainless steel or plastic resin. Both materials are corrosion-resistant and durable enough to handle pool life.

Resin ladders are typically less expensive, lighter and generally low maintenance. Stainless steel ladders are also fairly low maintenance but are more expensive, heavier and the most common for inground ladders. They also tend to be more stable than resin ladders.

Some ladders have a mix of stainless steel and resin components such as having stainless steel side rails and non-slip resin steps. [Shop All Pool Ladders]

Not all ladders are made the same. Getting the right height for your pool ladder is more important for above ground pools than inground pools. In above ground pools, the ladder you purchase will have to be tall enough to reach the bottom of your pool while also reaching the deck or top rail. Above ground pool ladders are usually adjustable a few inches. For inground pools, ladders rarely reach the bottom and instead span a few steps to help swimmers exit the pool.

You also need to consider how wide the steps are. Some steps are only about 18” wide while some are over 24”. The wider the step, the easier it may be to climb out. Alongside this, you’ll want to look at the ladder’s weight capacity. You want to make sure that the ladder you select is sturdy enough to handle your needs. [Shop All Pool Ladders]

As you begin shopping, you’ll also want to be familiar with the codes and ordinances of your area. You may have restrictions or requirements on the type of ladder you can use. Things to consider can include the placement, angle and security.

If you’re looking into an A-frame ladder for your above ground pool, you’ll want to consider getting an exterior ladder that slides up or has a gate that locks. While it may not be required in your area, it’s a good way to keep your pool secure while not in use and prevent unwanted, unsupervised visitors.

And remember, check if you need to pick up some deck flanges to attach your ladder to your deck. Not all ladders come with flanges in their packaging. [Shop All Pool Ladders]