Choosing between Step Ladders or Extension Ladders?

Shall I buy a Step Ladder or an Extension Ladder?

Feature	Step Ladder	Extension Ladder
Primary Design	Self-supporting, freestanding A-frame with a hinged design.	Non-self-supporting, single or multi-section ladder that must lean against a structure.
Best For	Low to medium height tasks, confined spaces.	High-reach outdoor tasks, accessing roofs, sides of houses, and tall trees.
Typical Use Cases	Indoor painting, changing lightbulbs, reaching high shelves, decorating, assembly work, hanging curtains and blinds, cleaning ceiling fans or light fixtures.	Gutter cleaning, roof access, exterior window washing, fascia board repairs, exterior painting.
Stability	Excellent on flat, level ground due to its wide base and freestanding nature.	Dependent on correct angling and a stable supporting structure.
Setup & Ease of Use	Quick and intuitive. Simply unfold on a level surface and engage the locking bars.	More complex. Requires correct angling, secure footing, and often a second person to stabilise.
Height Range	Typically up to 5m (approx. 16ft), but most domestic models are 1.8m–3m.	Can extend from 5m to over 15m, essential for two-storey homes.
Storage	Folds flat. Easy to store in a garage, shed, or large cupboard.	Bulky even when retracted. Requires wall hooks or significant overhead space.
Key Safety Features	Platform, tool tray, wide treads, locking spreader bars.	Non-slip end caps, rope and pulley system, overlapping sections with secure locks.

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