{"id":18170,"date":"2026-05-07T01:54:38","date_gmt":"2026-05-06T20:24:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/?p=18170"},"modified":"2026-05-07T11:06:53","modified_gmt":"2026-05-07T05:36:53","slug":"can-aluminium-telescopic-ladders-left-outside","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/ladder\/can-aluminium-telescopic-ladders-left-outside.html","title":{"rendered":"Can Aluminium Telescopic Ladders Be Left Outside?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most common questions from telescopic ladder owners is: <strong>Can I leave my aluminium ladder outside?<\/strong> The short answer is <strong>no \u2013 you should not leave an aluminum telescopic ladder outdoors for extended periods.<\/strong> While aluminium is naturally corrosion\u2011resistant, prolonged exposure to rain, sun, humidity, and temperature swings will damage the ladder, shorten its lifespan, and create safety hazards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide explains exactly what happens when you leave a telescopic ladder outside, how different climates affect it, and the best storage practices to keep your ladder safe and functional for years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u26a0\ufe0f <strong>Safety Warning \u2013 Deterioration is Invisible at First<\/strong><br>Ladders left outside may look fine on the surface while internal corrosion, UV\u2011damaged plastic, or seized locks develop. Always inspect a stored\u2011outdoors ladder <strong>carefully before each use<\/strong>. Never climb if you have any doubts.<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Outdoor Storage Reality<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many people assume that because aluminium \u201cdoesn\u2019t rust,\u201d they can leave the ladder outside year\u2011round. This is false. While aluminium does not rust like steel, it suffers from <strong>four distinct outdoor threats<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Threat<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Effect on Ladder<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Rain &amp; moisture<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Internal corrosion, frozen locks, oxidation<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Humidity<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Persistent dampness \u2192 pitting, white powder<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Sun (UV)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Plastic\/rubber degrades, becomes brittle<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Temperature swings<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Expansion\/contraction stresses locks, condensation inside tubes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Salt air (coastal)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Accelerated pitting, structural weakening<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Snow &amp; ice<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Freeze\u2011thaw damage, seized mechanisms<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Realistic Lifespan Comparison:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Storage Condition<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Expected Lifespan (Residential)<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Indoor, climate\u2011controlled<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">15\u201320 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Indoor, unheated garage (moderate climate)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">10\u201315 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Outdoor, covered (carport, under tarp)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">3\u20135 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Outdoor, fully exposed<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">1\u20133 years (or less in coastal\/humid areas)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udd17 <strong>Related reading:<\/strong> How Long Do Aluminium Telescopic Ladders Last?<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Rain Exposure Risks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rain is not just water \u2013 it carries pollutants, dust, and sometimes acids (acid rain). When rainwater seeps into a telescopic ladder:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Internal Moisture Trapping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Telescopic ladders have <strong>hollow tubes and overlapping sections<\/strong>. Water that enters between sections cannot easily escape, especially if the ladder is stored horizontally. Trapped moisture leads to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>White aluminium oxide<\/strong> (powdery residue) inside tubes \u2013 jams sliding sections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Corrosion of steel lock pins<\/strong> \u2013 they rust, stick, or fail<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aluminium pitting<\/strong> \u2013 small holes that weaken the metal<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Happens If You Retract a Wet Ladder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you collapse a wet ladder and store it, you seal moisture inside. Within weeks:<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Locks may freeze (cannot extend)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sections may become permanently stuck<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A musty smell indicates mould inside<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Proper After\u2011Rain Procedure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Extend the ladder fully<\/strong> in a dry area (garage, porch).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wipe every section<\/strong> with a dry cloth, including the inside of tube ends.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Leave extended for 1\u20132 hours<\/strong> to air dry completely.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Apply silicone spray<\/strong> to telescopic sections to repel future moisture.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Store indoors<\/strong> \u2013 never put away damp.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Humidity and Corrosion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Humidity alone (without rain) also damages ladders, especially in tropical and subtropical climates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">High Humidity Regions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Country<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">High\u2011Humidity Areas<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Risk Level<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">India<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Coastal cities (Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata), Kerala, Northeast<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Very High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Australia<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Queensland (Brisbane, Cairns), Northern Territory, Sydney<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">United Kingdom<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">All regions \u2013 persistent damp<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Moderate to High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Canada<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Southern Ontario, Vancouver (winter humidity)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Moderate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">United States<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Southeast (Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana), Gulf Coast<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Very High<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mechanism of Humidity Damage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At relative humidity above 70%, a thin film of moisture forms on metal surfaces. This film:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Supports electrolytic corrosion (especially near steel rivets or pins)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allows mould growth on organic residues (dirt, pollen) \u2013 mould exudes organic acids that attack aluminium<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promotes galvanic corrosion where different metals touch (aluminium + steel lock pins)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Humidity Protection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Store ladders indoors<\/strong> \u2013 air conditioning or dehumidifiers make a huge difference.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use silica gel packs<\/strong> inside a ladder storage bag for long\u2011term storage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wipe down weekly<\/strong> even if not used \u2013 removes accumulated moisture film.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Choose anodised aluminium<\/strong> \u2013 the thickened oxide layer resists humidity better than mill finish.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udd17 <strong>Related reading:<\/strong> Do Aluminium Telescopic Ladders Rust?<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sun and UV Damage<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sunlight damages the <strong>non\u2011metal parts<\/strong> of your ladder \u2013 and those parts are critical for safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">UV\u2011Vulnerable Components<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Component<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Material<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Sun Damage<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Consequence<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Lock release levers<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Nylon \/ ABS<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Become brittle, snap off<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Cannot retract locks<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">End caps<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Rubber \/ plastic<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Crack, fall off<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Dirt enters tubes, jams sections<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Bushings (between sections)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Nylon \/ POM<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Weep sticky residue, then crack<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Sections stick, lock failure<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Feet (anti\u2011slip)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Rubber<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Harden, lose grip<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Ladder slides on smooth surfaces<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Carrying handle<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Plastic<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Fade, become weak<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Handle breaks while carrying<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Fast Does UV Damage Occur?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Full sun exposure (daily, 6+ hours):<\/strong> Visible fading\/cracking within 6\u201312 months<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Partial sun (under carport):<\/strong> 2\u20133 years before replacement needed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indoor storage:<\/strong> 10+ years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The \u201cSticky Bushing\u201d Problem<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under sunlight, ladder surface temperatures can reach 70\u00b0C. This heat causes plasticisers in nylon bushings to migrate to the surface, leaving a sticky, oily residue. The residue:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Attracts dust and dirt<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Makes sections hard to extend<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can gum up locking pins<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Fix:<\/strong> Wipe all telescopic tubes with a dry cloth after sun exposure. Do not use oil \u2013 it makes the problem worse. Use dry silicone spray.<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">UV Protection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Store indoors<\/strong> \u2013 the only reliable solution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use a ladder bag<\/strong> \u2013 many ladders come with a storage bag; use it even indoors to block dust.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Apply UV protectant<\/strong> \u2013 303 Aerospace Protectant or similar (test on small area first).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Replace degraded parts<\/strong> \u2013 end caps and feet are often user\u2011replaceable. Contact the manufacturer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Winter Snow Concerns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Snow introduces <strong>freeze\u2011thaw cycles<\/strong> \u2013 one of the most damaging processes for telescopic ladders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Freeze\u2011Thaw Damages Ladders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Water seeps into telescopic joints or small cracks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Temperature drops below freezing \u2192 water expands by ~9%.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expansion forces aluminium outward, deforming sections or cracking plastic bushings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ice also locks sections together \u2013 you cannot extend the ladder.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When it thaws, the deformed sections may never slide smoothly again.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Snow and Ice on Locks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If snow melts on the ladder and refreezes inside the lock mechanism:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The lock pin may freeze in the <strong>unlocked<\/strong> position \u2013 dangerous if not noticed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Or freeze in the <strong>locked<\/strong> position \u2013 you cannot collapse the ladder.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Forcing a frozen lock can break the lever or pin.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Winter Storage Rules<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Never leave a ladder outside in snow.<\/strong> Even one overnight freeze can cause damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If the ladder gets snow on it:<\/strong> Bring it inside, extend fully, let it dry completely, then collapse and store.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do not use hot water to melt ice<\/strong> \u2013 rapid thermal shock can crack plastic. Use warm air (hair dryer on low).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Regional Winter Advice<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Region<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Recommendation<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><strong>Canada<\/strong> (Prairies, Ontario, Quebec)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Store ladder inside heated space \u2013 never in unheated garage if temperatures drop below -10\u00b0C.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><strong>Northern US<\/strong> (Minnesota, Dakota, New England)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Same as Canada \u2013 indoor storage mandatory.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><strong>UK<\/strong> (freeze\u2011thaw common)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Bring ladder indoors during cold snaps; dry after any snow exposure.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><strong>India<\/strong> (Himalayan regions)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Same as Canada \u2013 indoor storage only.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udd17 <strong>Related reading:<\/strong> Winter Performance &amp; Cold Weather Safety<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Locking Mechanism Problems<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The locking mechanism is the most vulnerable part of any telescopic ladder when left outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Outdoor Exposure Kills Locks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Condition<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Effect on Lock<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Timeframe<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Rain moisture<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Rust on steel pins<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">1\u20133 months<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Humidity<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Corrosion on springs<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">3\u20136 months<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Sun\/heat<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Plastic levers become brittle<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">6\u201312 months<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Dust\/dirt<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Grinding, jamming<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Weeks<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Freeze\u2011thaw<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Ice jams, deformed housings<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Single event<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warning Signs of Lock Damage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Grinding sound<\/strong> when extending \u2013 dirt or rust inside<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No \u201cclick\u201d<\/strong> when section reaches position \u2013 pin not engaging<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>One\u2011sided lock<\/strong> \u2013 only one of the two side pins engages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lever feels loose or floppy<\/strong> \u2013 internal spring broken<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Visible rust<\/strong> on pin ends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to Do If Locks Are Damaged<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Do not use the ladder<\/strong> \u2013 a single failed lock can cause the section to collapse.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clean thoroughly<\/strong> \u2013 extend, spray dry silicone lubricant into locks, work back and forth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If still not engaging<\/strong>, contact the manufacturer. Some locks are replaceable; many are not.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If multiple locks fail<\/strong>, retire the ladder. Cost of replacement is far less than injury.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best Outdoor Storage Methods<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you absolutely <strong>must<\/strong> store your ladder outdoors (e.g., no indoor space), follow these rules to minimise damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Acceptable Outdoor Storage (Least Bad)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Under a roof overhang<\/strong> (carport, porch, balcony) \u2013 protects from direct rain and most sun.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>In a locked shed<\/strong> \u2013 better than open air, but still subject to temperature extremes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>In a ventilated ladder bag<\/strong> \u2013 bags designed for telescopic ladders offer dust and UV protection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Minimal Requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Requirement<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Why<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Off the ground (on pallet or hooks)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Prevents standing water, ground moisture<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Vertical orientation<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Water drains out, no pooling in tubes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Covered from direct sun<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Protects plastic and rubber parts<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Ventilated (not sealed)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Allows trapped moisture to escape<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Not in a parked vehicle<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Extreme heat kills bushings and locks<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What \u201cOutdoor Storage\u201d Should Never Mean<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u274c Lying flat on grass or soil \u2013 traps moisture.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u274c Leaning against a wall in the open \u2013 rain enters tubes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u274c Inside a plastic bag \u2013 seals moisture in, promotes mould.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u274c In a metal shed in summer \u2013 oven temperatures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u274c Near salt spray (coastal) \u2013 even with a cover, salt air infiltrates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Protective Covers and Maintenance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A <strong>ladder cover<\/strong> or storage bag is not a solution for permanent outdoor storage, but it helps for short\u2011term protection (e.g., overnight at a job site).<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choosing a Cover<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Feature<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Importance<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">UV\u2011resistant fabric<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Required \u2013 otherwise cover degrades in months<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Waterproof but breathable<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Prevents rain entry while allowing moisture to escape<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Zippered or drawstring closure<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Keeps out insects and dust<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Light colour<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Reflects heat<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DIY Cover Alternatives<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Heavy\u2011duty tarp<\/strong> \u2013 better than nothing, but traps moisture underneath. Elevate ladder on blocks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>BBQ grill cover<\/strong> \u2013 often fits telescopic ladders well.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PVC pipe storage tube<\/strong> \u2013 seal one end, drill small vent holes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maintenance for Outdoor\u2011Stored Ladders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you store outdoors (even with a cover), perform this checklist <strong>every time before use<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u2705 <strong>Extend fully<\/strong> \u2013 check for sticking sections.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <strong>Inspect every lock<\/strong> \u2013 does each pin click and hold?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <strong>Check for white powder<\/strong> \u2013 clean immediately with dry cloth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <strong>Examine plastic parts<\/strong> \u2013 any cracks? Replace if found.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <strong>Test feet<\/strong> \u2013 rubber should be flexible, not rock\u2011hard.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <strong>Wipe tubes<\/strong> \u2013 remove any sticky residue before extending.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Monthly Deep Maintenance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bring ladder indoors (bathroom or kitchen).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Extend, clean with mild soap and water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dry thoroughly for 2 hours.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply silicone spray to telescopic sections.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collapse and store indoors (even just for a few days) to allow plastics to recover.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When Outdoor Storage Becomes Dangerous<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outdoor storage is not just about reducing lifespan \u2013 it can create <strong>active safety hazards<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hazard 1:<\/strong> Hidden Corrosion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Aluminium corrosion (white powder) may look superficial, but it removes metal. A deeply pitted rail can snap under load. You cannot see internal pitting without disassembling the ladder.<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hazard 2:<\/strong> Brittle Plastic Locks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">UV\u2011damaged plastic lock levers can snap off when you need to retract the ladder. If a lever breaks while you are at height, you may not be able to collapse the ladder to bring it down \u2013 a serious problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hazard 3:<\/strong> Rusted Lock Pins<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A rusted pin may <strong>not fully extend<\/strong>, so the section locks partially \u2013 only 2\u20133 mm of engagement instead of 8\u201310 mm. Under load, the pin can shear, causing sudden collapse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hazard 4:<\/strong> Freeze\u2011Damaged Sections<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ice expansion can deform aluminium tubes. A slightly swollen tube may still extend, but the lock holes no longer align. The lock pin may miss the hole entirely \u2013 no engagement at all.<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Real\u2011Life Example<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Case study:<\/strong> A homeowner in Florida left his aluminium telescopic ladder outside under a carport for 18 months. The ladder looked fine externally. One day, while cleaning gutters on a 10\u2011ft roof, a lock failed. The section collapsed, and he fell, breaking his wrist. Inspection revealed rusted lock pins and internal pitting. The ladder was less than 2 years old.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Moral:<\/strong> Outdoor storage is false economy. The cost of a new ladder is far less than medical bills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Final Verdict<\/em><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Can aluminium telescopic ladders be left outside?<\/strong><br><strong>No \u2013 not for extended periods.<\/strong> While occasional short\u2011term outdoor use (a few hours in dry weather) is fine, <strong>permanent outdoor storage will destroy your ladder within 1\u20133 years<\/strong> \u2013 and create serious safety risks.<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick Summary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Storage Method<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Lifespan<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Safety<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Recommendation<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Indoor, climate\u2011controlled<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">15\u201320 years<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Excellent<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u2705 Best<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Indoor, unheated garage (dry climate)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">10\u201315 years<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Good<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u2705 Acceptable<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Covered carport (no direct rain)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">3\u20135 years<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Moderate<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u26a0\ufe0f Only if unavoidable<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Open outdoors (rain + sun)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">1\u20132 years<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Poor<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u274c Not recommended<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Coastal outdoor (salt air)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">&lt;1 year<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Dangerous<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u274c Never<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If You Have No Indoor Space<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Buy a storage shed<\/strong> \u2013 a small plastic shed ($100\u2013200) provides UV and rain protection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use a heavy\u2011duty ladder bag<\/strong> \u2013 store ladder vertically inside the bag, off the ground.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rent a small storage unit<\/strong> \u2013 extreme, but worth it for expensive professional ladders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Consider a fiberglass ladder<\/strong> \u2013 more UV\u2011resistant (but still not outdoor\u2011proof).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottom Line<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your telescopic ladder is a <strong>safety device<\/strong>. Treat it like one. Indoor storage is free (a closet corner works) and adds years of life. Outdoor storage saves you 10 seconds of walking but costs you a ladder and potentially your health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udd17 <strong>Further reading:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/ladder\/do-aluminium-telescopic-ladders-rust.html\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/ladder\/do-aluminium-telescopic-ladders-rust.html\">Do Aluminium Telescopic Ladders Rust<\/a>?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/ladder\/heat-effects-aluminium-extendable-ladders.html\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/ladder\/heat-effects-aluminium-extendable-ladders.html\">How Heat Affects Aluminium Extendable Ladders<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/ladder\/aluminium-used-telescopic-ladders.html\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/ladder\/aluminium-used-telescopic-ladders.html\">Why Aluminium Is Used in Telescopic Ladders<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/p><div class=\"pai-ad\" style=\"min-height:250px;visibility:hidden;\"><span style=\"display: block; text-align: center; font-size: 10px; margin: 0 0 10px 0; color: #999999;\">Ads<\/span>\r\n<!-- Display-300x250-1 -->\r\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n     style=\"display:inline-block;width:300px;height:250px\"\r\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-3838168351244230\"\r\n     data-ad-slot=\"9933646018\"><\/ins>\r\n<script>\r\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n<\/script><\/div><script>document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",function(){\n        if(window.innerWidth <= 768){\n            if (\"immediate\" === \"delay\") {\n                setTimeout(function(){document.querySelectorAll(\".pai-ad\").forEach(el=>el.style.visibility=\"visible\")},0);\n            } else if (\"immediate\" === \"scroll\") {\n                window.addEventListener(\"scroll\",function(){\n                    let s=window.scrollY\/(document.body.scrollHeight-window.innerHeight);\n                    if(s>0.1){\n                        document.querySelectorAll(\".pai-ad\").forEach(el=>el.style.visibility=\"visible\");\n                    }\n                });\n            } else {\n                document.querySelectorAll(\".pai-ad\").forEach(el=>el.style.visibility=\"visible\");\n            }\n        } else {\n            document.querySelectorAll(\".pai-ad\").forEach(el=>el.remove());\n        }\n    });<\/script>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>One of the most common questions from telescopic ladder owners is: Can I leave my aluminium ladder outside? The short answer is no \u2013 you should not leave an aluminum telescopic ladder outdoors for extended periods. While aluminium is naturally corrosion\u2011resistant, prolonged exposure to rain, sun, humidity, and temperature swings will damage the ladder, shorten &#8230; <a title=\"Can Aluminium Telescopic Ladders Be Left Outside?\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/ladder\/can-aluminium-telescopic-ladders-left-outside.html\" aria-label=\"Read more about Can Aluminium Telescopic Ladders Be Left Outside?\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":18191,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[885],"tags":[4159],"class_list":["post-18170","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ladder","tag-telescopic-ladder"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18170","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18170"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18170\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18211,"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18170\/revisions\/18211"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18191"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18170"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18170"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aluminiummagazine.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18170"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}