Which Tripod Ladder is Best for My Garden?
For general garden use, buy a 7ft-9ft tripod ladder online from Henchman, Niwaki or Henchman.
Tripod ladders provide a stable platform for hedge trimming and are far safer than a traditional step ladder. They work on the same principle of a 3-legged stool which is stable on an uneven floor, whereas a 4-legged version will often rock onto 3 of it’s 4 legs.
They are perfect for hedges but also for trimming large shrubs, fruit trees and any other job in the garden when you need to be up high to efficiently complete the work.
Which is the best brand of tripod ladder?
The main three brands of tripod ladder available in the UK are Henchman, Niwaki and Hendon. They are all well made, quality products. If you are looking for the original, it’s Hasegawa but they don’t sell directly in the UK – Niwaki are the UK importers and sell them under the Niwaki name.
Should I get a tripod ladder with adjustable legs?
Most tripod ladders have one adjustable leg at the rear, enabling you to use it on uneven ground and steps. Purchasing a premium ladder with three adjustable legs gives you more versatility in how you position the ladder on sloped ground, letting you get closer to the task at hand.
How are platform ladders different to tripod ladders?
The Henchman brand also have a model with a platform near the top of the ladder. This has two functions – it prevents you standing on the top steps as they have removed them. Standing on these steps is not recommend on any tripod ladder so this takes away the temptation.
The second benefit is comfort – the removal of the top steps provides a void for your knees to sit in and the top bar is curved for legs to rest against it. However, you can overcome this problem by applying some padding to the top two steps (see 11ft Niwaki tripod ladder image above).
Henchman also do a hi-step platform ladder which has 4 legs. This is extremely stable and one of the safest ways to work at height on a ladder. The only downside is that it is more bulky to transport and store than the equivalent height tripod ladder.
What size tripod ladder do I need?
When choosing the height of the ladder for hedge cutting, it’s important to match it with the height of your hedge. In order to successfully cut the top of a hedge in a straight line, you need to be high enough that your clipping tool is at waist to chest height.
Do I need rubber feet for my platform ladder?
Some brands offer rubber caps that slot over the feet of the ladders. These should be used on hard surfaces such as patios, paths and driveways to prevent slipping and wear to the aluminium.
Where can I buy a tripod ladder in Harrogate?
Chaplins Garden Machinery in Killinghall usually stock a couple of Hendon tripod ladders, however selection is limited so it might be best to order online direct from the manufacturer. Screwfix on Ripon Way currently stock tripod ladders but they don’t appear to have any adjustable legs so their use is potentially limited.
So what’s the Spruce Gardens verdict?
I use a 7ft Niwaki Pro adjustable for the majority of gardening jobs. It’s compact, light weight and sturdy. If you’re a home owner and have a very high hedge to trim on your property, I would recommend a Henchman Hi-step platform as you only need to assemble it and move it around once or twice a year. For professional gardeners and tree surgeons moving between jobs, you can’t beat having a couple of different sized tripod ladders from any of the brands mentioned above.
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