[David Edmondson]

Does anyone have any advice for the best stain to be used for wooden ladders? Also is it advisable to stain the rungs?
I have to store my ladders outside just above the ground on some plastic guttering that I have cut up. However, the rungs are getting rotted.
Any help would be much appreciated. I thought I could make use of this good weather and get them stained ready for winter.

[bobby p]

yesterday i saw a workman preparing a new wooden kitchen worktop- he was painting on a special oil, told me thats whats best for wood ,repels water
  told me you have to brush the oil on both sides otherwise it buckles up

[andyM]

Probably something along the lines of a non- slip Yacht Varnish would be suitable. This should give a weatherproof hard wearing coating that should stand wear and tear.
If you speak to your local specialist paint supplier they should be able to point you in the right direction. 

[idealrob]

would think staining is illegal, as it covers over the cracks,clear  varnish would be ok i know you are not allowed to paint them, or why not get an alluminium ladder or wfp,

idealrob

[David Edmondson]

Thanks for the advice. Sounds like the Yacht varnich might be the best bet. I have an ali but can't always use it due to windy weather! Also have a wfp but only use that for safety as dont think as good as trad (oops dont want to start a debate!)

[petemg]

heres one for the traders fred dibna the steeple jack , had all his ladders painted pillar box red, the heights  he used them on is anyones guess...........pete

[idealrob]

heres one for the traders fred dibna the steeple jack , had all his ladders painted pillar box red, the heights  he used them on is anyones guess...........pete

Still illegal

idealrob

[dave f]

sikens is very good