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Interior vs. Exterior Ladder Racks: Which one is right for your business?

white work truck with ladder rack parked in front of house |Choosing a ladder rack | Adrian Steel

As a general contractor, your ladder is something that you carry with you every day. It’s a necessary piece of equipment – one that’s durable, dependable, and probably expensive. That means your ladder is an investment, and you need to take care of it. One of the most important considerations in maintaining your ladder is how you transport it. For contractors who tend to travel from jobsite to jobsite, the choice is obviously a ladder rack. But do you choose an interior ladder rack or an exterior one? Both come with pros and cons.

 

Exterior Ladder Racks

An exterior ladder rack has its advantages. If you’re transporting a 40’ ladder or taller, there is no way to fit a ladder of that size into the interior of your work van. Exterior racks are also preferable if you want to maximize the space inside your vehicle. However, traditional exterior ladder racks expose your ladder to the elements, such as rain, UV rays, and snow and ice. Exterior racks also add to the height of your vehicle, which can limit access to facilities with low clearance barriers. Having a ladder mounted to the roof of your work van also increases wind resistance which impacts fuel economy.

 

Interior Ladder Racks

Interior ladder racks also have both pros and cons. On the pro side, an interior ladder rack protects your ladder from inclement weather. Mounting your ladder inside your van means that you won’t have to worry about extra height or wind resistance. A ladder secured on the inside of a vehicle makes it easier for you to mount and tougher for thieves to steal. But, interior racks aren’t for everyone. If you need the flexibility of a very tall ladder for your work, an exterior rack is really your only option. So, unless you absolutely must carry a 40’ ladder or taller, you still have a choice to make.

 

Professional Ladder Rack Options from Adrian Steel

Choosing a ladder rack is not an easy decision to make, but it’s an important one. What if it were possible to have the best of both worlds? What if you had a ladder rack that lowers to your height saving you time loading and unloading? What if you had a ladder rack that keeps your ladder safe and secure on the top of your van?  What if you had a ladder rack constructed of durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum that protects your ladder from the elements? As you weigh your options, remember that your ladder rack should be designed around you, not your vehicle.

There are many excellent choices for professional general contractors on the market today. As part of our commitment to you, Adrian Steel has designed a new line of ladder racks that are efficient, safe, and easy-to-adjust. These innovative, professional ladder racks are coming soon to an Adrian Steel distributor near you! Sign up today for the latest news and product release dates!

 

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