When we talk about extension poles, we often overlook their importance—until we need to clean, scrape, or paint areas that are difficult to reach. In many cases, we reach for a stool, ladder, or scaffold tower to access these sections. However, the constant climbing up and down, repositioning the ladder, and repeating the process can slow the job considerably.

This is why it is worth including extension poles in your project budget from the outset. The right extension pole can significantly improve efficiency and reduce physical strain.

But how do you know which extension pole is the right one for your project?

Price alone should not determine your choice. For example, lightweight extension poles are not suitable for large-scale jobs that require strength and durability. Likewise, using a 3.2 m heavy-duty extension pole for a quick painting job where the highest surface is only 2 m above the ground is unnecessary and inefficient.

Before heading to the trade store, consider the following three questions to help narrow down your selection:

• What will I be using the extension pole for?
• How frequently will I use it?
• How far up or out do I need it to extend?

In this blog, we will break down the key features to consider when selecting an extension pole, including lock systems, construction materials, and thread types.

To begin, let’s define what an extension pole is and how it functions.

An extension pole is a telescopic or collapsible pole designed to attach to cleaning and painting equipment such as roller frames, brush clamps, scrapers, and squeegees. Its primary purpose is to allow users to reach higher or more difficult areas safely and efficiently.

Extension poles offer several practical benefits, including:

• Reducing physical fatigue
•  Minimising the risk of injuries associated with ladder use
• Maintaining consistent pressure for a more efficient and even finish

Haydn stocks a wide range of extension poles in various lock systems, materials, and lengths to suit both professional tradespeople and DIY painters.

Types of Lock Systems

Generally speaking, extension poles fall into two main categories of lock systems: external locking collars and internal locking collars, both designed to secure telescopic sections. Within these categories, there are different mechanisms suited to specific applications and performance requirements.

-         External Locking Collars
External locking collars provide a secure and easy-to-use fastening system. They are typically found on trade-grade, heavy-duty extension poles designed for longer and more demanding jobs.

This type of system usually operates using a pin-lock mechanism, where a metal pin engages with a pre-drilled hole in the adjoining pole section to hold it firmly in place.

·        Dual Lock System

The dual lock system is featured on the Haydn Professional Extension Pole. This design incorporates two separate locking mechanisms:
- The first lock secures the threaded aluminium tip in place. This allows users to change tools more easily without needing to unscrew them from the pole.
- The second lock secures the telescopic section at various extension lengths.
Unlike button-release systems, this mechanism does not operate with a push button. Instead, the locking pins are connected to small side handles. When the handles are pressed towards the pole, the pins retract, allowing the pole to extend or retract as required.

·        Button Lock System

The button lock system features a single locking mechanism. By pressing the button, the internal pin retracts, allowing the pole to slide to the desired length.
The button is connected to a spring-loaded pin. When released, the spring pushes the pin back into the pre-drilled hole, securing the pole at the selected length.
This system is used on the Haydn Trade Extension Pole and the Haydn Telescoping Extension Pole.

-         Internal Locking Collars

Internal locking collars are typically used on lightweight extension poles. These commonly feature a twist-lock system, which operates through a friction-based mechanism.
By twisting one section of the pole, an internal cam expands and presses against the inside of the outer tube, locking it securely in place. Twisting in the opposite direction releases the tension and allows the pole to be adjusted.
Haydn’s DIY Extension Pole falls into this category. It is a lightweight option suitable for general painting and decorating projects where heavy-duty performance is not required.

Types of Thread Ends

Most extension poles are fitted with a standard ¾-inch Acme thread (5 threads per inch), commonly called a universal thread. This is the most common and widely compatible thread type used for painting and cleaning tools, making it a universal option for roller frames, brush clamps, scrapers, and squeegees.

Threaded tips are manufactured from different materials depending on their intended application:

• Plastic tips are typically used for light-duty work.
• Metal tips are preferred for heavy-duty applications where additional strength and durability are required.

Haydn also offers replacement threaded tips in packs of three for the Haydn Professional Extension Pole. These interchangeable tips feature a convenient clip-on and clip-off system, allowing users to switch tools quickly and efficiently during renovation projects.

Types of Materials Used

Haydn extension poles are commonly manufactured from aluminium, fibreglass, and steel, depending on requirements for weight, rigidity, durability, and conductivity. As most of our extension poles are telescopic, many are hybrid constructions — meaning they combine two different materials to increase strength while reducing user fatigue.

-         Aluminium: Aluminium is the most common material used for extension poles due to its lightweight nature, strength, and affordability. It is also rust-resistant, allowing it to withstand exposure to moisture without corroding quickly. Although aluminium is strong, it is not designed for heavy-duty applications involving excessive pressure, as it may bend under high loads or with heavy coatings when fully extended.

-         Fibreglass: Fibreglass is another common material used in telescopic extension poles. It is well known for its high strength, durability, and resistance to moisture and UV exposure. It performs exceptionally well in heavy-duty applications, offering excellent stability and rigidity. Importantly, fibreglass is non-conductive, making it safer to use around power lines and electrical equipment.

-         Steel: Steel is a traditional and reliable material for extension poles. While heavier than aluminium and fibreglass, it is often used in combination with aluminium to reduce overall weight while maintaining strength and durability.

-         Hybrid Construction: As mentioned above, combining materials is common practice to enhance performance and minimise fatigue. For example, the Haydn Professional Extension Pole features a fibreglass outer shaft for strength, rigidity, and durability, while the inner section is made from aluminium. This combination increases strength, reduces weight without compromising performance, and provides the malleability required for the pin-lock mechanism.

Choosing the right extension pole is not simply a matter of price — it is about selecting the appropriate lock system, material, thread type, and length to suit the demands of your project. Whether you are a professional painter working on large-scale jobs or a DIY renovator tackling weekend projects, the correct extension pole can improve efficiency, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall safety on site.

By understanding the differences between heavy-duty and lightweight options, external and internal locking systems, and compatible threaded tips, you can invest in a tool that delivers long-term value and performance.

For more detailed specifications and information about each extension pole in the Haydn range, click here.