The extension pole right for you

Extension poles are very versatile tools that allow you to safely reach high-access areas to complete many different tasks. R.D. Newman, inventor and founder of Mr. LongArm, developed and manufactured the first extension pole in 1958. He saw the need for painters to reach high places without having to use a ladder.

Today, there are many different styles of extension poles to choose from and they are used for much more than just painting. But how do you decide which one will best fit your needs?

Begin by imagining all the possible uses for an extension pole. Just think of any job you might need to do that requires you to reach farther than your arm can reach. Painting, window washing, light bulb changing, dusting, sweeping, the list goes on and on.

Next, ask yourself these three questions: What will I be using the pole for? How often will I use it? and how high, or far, do I need to reach?

For multiple uses requiring a high reach, choose a heavy duty or professional type extension pole. Also, when determining the length of extension pole to purchase the following rule of thumb applies. Your height minus 6 inches, added to the length of a fully extended pole tells you about how high you will be able to reach with that length pole. Most two story homes will require you to use at least an 18-foot extension pole.

A heavier fiberglass pole suitable for painting may not be the best choice if you plan to use it only for dusting. For dusting you can choose a lightweight aluminum or steel extension pole. When choosing between aluminum or steel poles, most aluminum poles and sliders are anodized which prevents rust and provides a smooth extension. Steel poles can rust over time so don't purchase a steel pole if your application requires contact with water.

If you have a task that requires contact with water, Mr. LongArm offers two styles of water-fed poles that can be used in many different outdoor cleaning situations. The HydraSoar and TeleWash extension poles can be connected to a standard garden hose. Using various styles of brushes you can clean decks, siding, windows, boats, RVs, automobiles, masonry and many other surfaces. Using a flow-thru angle adaptor you also can clean gutters.

If you need a pole to change light bulbs, choose a pole constructed of fiberglass. Fiberglass is heavier and more rigid than other materials but more importantly it is less conductive, under most circumstances, making it safer than metal poles. Always remain at least ten feet away from electrical lines or sources of electricity since most extension poles are highly conductive.

Your personal preferences and budget will help you finalize your selection. In addition to several handle and slider materials, there are also several handle diameters, handle textures and locking mechanisms to choose from.

Twist locking extension poles, usually aluminum or steel, offer a good lock with the versatility of locking at any length. Compression locking extension poles also provide the versatility of locking at any length and are available in two and three section poles. Three section poles, when collapsed, require less storage space and function well in tight spaces such as closets. Ergonomic extension poles offer a more comfortable grip and cause less stress on hands and wrists allowing the user to perform tasks for longer periods of time.

Positive-locking poles are popular with most paint contractors since they provide a push button or lever locking device and are faster to change lengths. You will want to choose a positive locking pole for prep work such as sanding and scraping since these activities require applied pressure. Positive locking type poles only lock in pre-set lengths, usually every 6 inches.

Several extension pole manufacturers offer quick tool-changing systems that allow the user to change from one tool to another very quickly. Simply push a button or lever and the tool comes off the end of the pole. These types of poles increase productivity and are an excellent choice for contractors and serious DIYers.

With this information you should be able to make an educated decision about which extension pole is right for your project.

Mr. LongArm extension poles are found in the paint department at many local hardware stores and home centers. Call (800) 821-3508 or visit www.mrlongarm.com for more information.

Courtesy of ARAcontent