FAQ
Q. What makes Stokes ladders “Professional Quality”?
A. Ladders are tools. Unlike consumers, who use tools a few times each year, you use ladders every day – all day. Stokes designs and builds ladders that are more comfortable to stand on, have more safety features, are easier to use, and are far more durable than consumer grade ladders. No shortcuts are allowed. We engineer each component for its specific use on our ladders, and we apply rigorous quality control standards to every ladder we make. Wider and deeper steps, slip resistance that doesn’t wear off steps, more rugged and durable hinge and support materials, a wider stance and even a shoulder pad for easy carrying of larger ladders are unique features to Stokes’ professional ladders. We engineer and build ladders that make you more productive for a very long time.
Q. Your step ladders are double sided. Can more than one person use the ladder at one time?
A: Yes. Our double sided step ladders (300DS Series aluminum and 500DS Series Fiberglass) meet the highest ANSI and OSHA standards and can support 375 lbs PER SIDE, making them convenient and comfortable for people working in teams.
Q. How do I safely use your ladders on a slope or on stairs?
A. We recommend using our tripod/orchard ladders on all uneven surfaces because of their inherent stability. Our unique adjustable third leg allows you to keep the steps level on slopes or stairs. If they are to be used on stairs, in addition to the telescoping third leg the ladder MUST HAVE a Hard Surface Kit installed. DO NOT use a ladder without a hard surface kit on hard or slippery surfaces.
Q. Can I use your tripod/orchard ladder on cement or asphalt?
A: We offer tripod ladders with a Hard Surface Kit, which adds slip resistant feet and a third leg restraint to the ladder for use on cement or asphalt. Even with slip resistant feet, however, common sense should be used to keep you safe: avoid unusual, steep or slippery conditions. DO NOT use an orchard ladder on concrete, asphalt, or any other hard or slippery surface without the Hard Surface Kit.
Q. How far should the third leg of a tripod/orchard ladder be from the steps?
A: The ideal distance varies by size of ladder, but in all cases the third leg should be placed so that the step treads are level, front to back and side to side. We offer a lanyard restraint as a recommended option to keep the third leg from getting too far from the steps.
Q. Why is there a red step on your aluminum ladders?
A. To remind you that it is unsafe to climb too high on a ladder. Your safety is our number one concern, and we try hard to remind you to use our ladders safely.
Q. What is that gold piece on the inside of the side rail of your tripod/orchard ladders?
A: That is a “shoulder pad”. It both locates the balance point of orchard ladders 8’ tall and taller, and provides a comfortable surface to rest on your shoulder when you carry the ladder horizontally.
Q. Can I buy direct?
A. It is in your best interest to buy from an authorized Stokes dealer because of the high freight cost of shipping small quantities of ladders. If there is no dealer in your area, or the dealer does not carry the items you want, please call us. We will work with you to get you the ladder you need.
Q. What if you do not have a dealer in my area?
A. Please call us. We will help you to acquire the best Stokes ladder for your needs.
Q. Are the dealer prices the same as your prices?
A. Generally speaking, they are. We do not dictate prices to our dealers, so prices may vary. If you consider the freight cost involved of shipping a ladder from the factory, you will likely find dealer prices to be lower.
Q. How much does shipping cost?
A. Shipping costs vary widely, and depend on the size, type and quantity of ladders you buy, plus the distance they must be shipped. The more ladders being shipped to one place, the lower the freight cost per ladder.
Q. How can I reduce shipping costs?
A. Freight companies have minimum charges. We can ship up to 6 ladders, depending upon their size, for that same minimum charge. Also, shipping ladders to a business address instead of to a residence avoids having to pay a residential delivery surcharge.
Q. How long do your ladders last?
A: We pride ourselves on making the most durable ladders in the country. If used as intended and properly stored, you should enjoy many years – even decades of use. Eventually all ladders wear out, however, even ours. Do not use a ladder that is broken, damaged or has excessive wear.
Q. How should I store your ladder between uses?
A: It is best to lean your ladder on its edge against a wall. This practice minimizes the opportunity for accident, injury, or damage to the ladder. If children are present, the ladder should be hung out of reach from a wall using hooks or brackets. With a tripod, the third leg must be supported so it cannot come out of the cradle and build a twist into the ladder.