What Size Ladder Do I Need
For a 2-Storey House?

Choosing the right ladder for a two-storey house is one of the most common challenges homeowners face.

In most cases, you’ll need an extension ladder between 6.4m and 10m, depending on what you’re trying to reach.

Many people assume a certain ladder height will be enough, only to find it doesn’t quite reach safely once it’s set up at the correct angle. The exact size you need will depend on the task, how the ladder is positioned, and how much working height is required.This guide will help you choose the right size with confidence.

How High Is a Typical Two-Storey House?

As a general guide:

• The height to the gutter on a two-storey house is usually around 5.5 to 6 metres

• The roof ridge (peak) is typically around 7 to 9 metres, depending on the pitch and design of the property

• Older or extended properties may vary slightly in height

This is why ladders up to 10m are commonly recommended. They provide enough reach for typical exterior work without being unnecessarily large.

Why Ladder Length Isn’t the Same as Reach

One of the most common mistakes is assuming that a ladder will reach its full stated length.

In practice:

• A ladder is used at an angle (not vertically)

• You cannot stand on the top rungs

• Some of the ladder length is lost through overlap and positioning

This means your usable working height is always less than the ladder’s full length.

As a result, a ladder that seems “just tall enough” on paper may not allow you to work safely or comfortably in reality.

Combination Ladders (Occasional Use)

Combination ladders offer flexibility, as they can be used in multiple configurations, including as both a step ladder and an extension ladder.

They can be useful for:

• Mixed tasks around the home

• Lower-level gutter cleaning

• Situations where versatility is important

However, for regular gutter cleaning on two-storey homes:

• They are often heavier and more complex to set up

• They may not offer the same reach as a dedicated extension ladder

• They are less convenient to reposition repeatedly

For most users, a standard extension ladder remains the simplest and most effective option.

Why Ladder Length Isn’t the Same as Reach

One of the most common mistakes is assuming that a ladder will reach its full stated length.

In practice:

• A ladder is used at an angle (not vertically)

• You cannot stand on the top rungs

• Some of the ladder length is lost through overlap and positioning

This means your usable working height is always less than the ladder’s full length.

As a result, a ladder that seems “just tall enough” on paper may not allow you to work safely or comfortably in reality.

What Size Ladder Do You Need for Common Jobs?

The right ladder size depends on what you’re trying to do. Even on the same property, different tasks may require different levels of reach.

Gutter Cleaning and Upper Windows

For most two-storey homes:

• A 7m to 8m ladder is typically sufficient

• This provides safe access to gutters and upper windows

However, the exact requirement will depend on the height of your guttering, the ground conditions where the ladder will be positioned, and how comfortable you want your working position to be. If you’re unsure, choosing a slightly longer ladder can make the job easier.

Roof Access

If you need to access the roof:

• A longer ladder (8m to 10m) is usually required

• The ladder should extend above the roofline for safe access

For pitched roofs, an extension ladder is typically used to gain access, while a roof ladder may be needed for working on the roof itself.

General Exterior Maintenance

For tasks such as painting, repairs, or installing fixtures:

• A ladder in the mid-to-upper end of the range (8m - 10m) provides more flexibility

• Extra height allows you to reposition less frequently and work more comfortably

This is particularly useful when working across wider areas, such as walls or fascias.

Should You Choose a 7m, 8m or 10m Ladder?

If you’re deciding between sizes, it’s helpful to think in terms of flexibility rather than minimum reach.

• 7m ladders
  ‍Suitable for lighter tasks and lower rooflines, but may feel limiting on some properties

• 8m ladders
  ‍A reliable choice for most standard two-storey homes and general exterior work

• 9m–10m ladders
  ‍Better suited for roof access, taller properties, or situations where extra reach provides added safety and comfort

In general, choosing a ladder that offers slightly more reach than you think you need will allow you to work at the correct angle and avoid overreaching.

Double vs Triple Extension Ladders

The size you need may also influence the type of ladder you choose.

‍Double extension ladders use two sections and are typically lighter and simpler to handle. They are a popular choice for domestic use and are well suited to lower heights and general maintenance tasks.

‍Triple extension ladders use three sections, allowing them to extend to greater heights while remaining more compact when closed. This makes them easier to store and transport compared to a double ladder offering a similar maximum reach. They also provide greater flexibility across a wider range of working heights.

However, triple ladders are often heavier and may take slightly more time to set up, so the right choice will depend on how often the ladder is used and the level of reach required.

Our Recommendation

For most standard two-storey homes, we recommend choosing an extension ladder in the 6.4m to 10m range, depending on the task.

If you’re unsure, it’s generally better to choose a ladder that offers slightly more reach than you think you’ll need. This allows for safe positioning and gives you more flexibility for different jobs.

Browse our range of extension ladders up to 10 metres to find the right option for your needs.

Need Help Choosing?

If you’re still unsure which ladder is right for your property, our team is always happy to help.

We can guide you based on your property type, the work you’re carrying out, and your preferred ladder type, helping you choose with confidence. Contact us today.

Frequently Asked Questions