[williamgdent]

Hey Guys,

We have been using the SL2 for the last 5 years for ALL our work which is  95% 4\5 story stuff.

I need to replace some sections this year before work starts and need a little advice.

I only have 1 job at 70 ft for which I add a couple of extra sections for the few windows needed but 30 or so that we use all sections on the SL2.

How high can the Extreme REALLY work at and is it really better at 50 FT + than the SL2?

when working above 47 ft do you have to thread the hose through each section then remove it again.

We are used to the SL2 so ... IS IT REALLY WORTH THE CHANGE..

I got some excellent advice from Alex but looking for the average guys views

looking for some honest feedback.

Bill

[Dave Willis]

Xtreme is better because it's more versatile - it can be collapsed and extended far quicker and to half way on each section. In terms of usability it's a much better pole and seems less affected by wind. The S2 though is of similar quality in terms of the carbon used and so isn't that much different. If you like the S2 and can still get replacement sections then stick with it for now and save a few hundred.
The other alternative would be to sell the S2 on I suppose. Just depends on how much you want to spend.
The Xtreme can be broken down into a normal telescopic pole for the rest of your work - there are so many options.
I use mine at 30' for everything and can quickly add an extension pack for the higher stuff.

This guy likes them      http://www.gardinerpolesystems.co.uk/acatalog/gardiner-poles-youtube-videos.html

[Chris Cottrell]

I cant really comment on the extreme 47 i did however have the smax 47 for a few days it was a great pole but a bit too flexible for me as we had some high velux windows and some solar panels to do and consequently the flex would have been in danger of dragging on the roof tiles as we used it Alex kindly allowed me to return it, i then purchased the SL2 which is a whole lot different un use almost no flex at all even at 50' and certainly doesn't get anywhere near the roof tiles when were doing the velux's & solar panels.

[Dave Willis]

Xtreme is almost a telescopic S2

I had the original Xtreme 47 I think it was but the collapsed length was too long for me. Then they brought out the newer 44 if my memory is right with the half way stop points. Perfect for me.

[[GQC] Tim]

If you want to go over 44 foot use an SL2, there is quite a large difference in weight between an Xtreme and SL2. I've owned both (still own Xtreme)

Sadly couldn't quite use the two side by side as the SL2 was sold the day I got the Xtreme in, but it seems that the Xtreme is slightly more flexible. But the difference in weight is very apparent, even at lower heights. Wouldn't like to use anything but an SL2 at those heights.

The Xtreme is easier in use due to the telescopic nature though, but if you are working at that height it's lightness all the way.

[Dave Willis]

I had both too. Xtreme for me every time. No sections on the floor, no bags to carry, no sections sticking, no sections spinnining just a better pole really. Better balanced too the S2 goes off like a kite in gusty weather over forty feet and can't be brought down and extended quickly when walking round the corner of a building.

[[GQC] Tim]

Still a considerable difference in weight though. I was surprised. I wouldn't dream of using anything else then an SL2 over 44ft. But maybe I need to eat more spinach. 

[Dave Willis]

About 500g heavier at 57 feet.

[SherwoodCleaningSe]

As to the how question, the xtreme is telescopic up to the height of the pole plus one extension so hose inside pole. Any higher than that and the hose has to be on the outside of the pole. The first part of the pole is telescopic but the last sections are modular with clamps.

For ease of use and toughness I would say xtreme. Weight wise you will never beat an sl2 as its lighter and also you only ever hold what you use at the time.

Simon.

[[GQC] Tim]

About 500g heavier at 57 feet.

Just checked the specs and you are right. Feels a bit heavier then that though. Strange.......maybe I've got different recollection then it really was in reality.

[williamgdent]

lots of the jobs have all the sections of the SL2 out and we live on the coast so wind often becomes a factor.

With the SL2 at full extension it can be a handful in the wind.

Is there really a big difference in the wind and are they really easier to use at full extension.

I have quite a few buildings I can quote if they indeed work at 80 feet but the SL2 was too much of a handful at that height. Needed the days with no wind at all but we are too busy to re schedule around wind.

Bill

[Dave Willis]

80 feet is pretty much the limit for anything I would imagine. I only clean to fifty feet. What was Alex's advice? He would know better than anyone and wouldn't force you into buying I'm sure.
I always get the impression that the S2 might be phased out in time.
I think Dave (st Ives) cleans at some impressive heights with various poles.

[williamgdent]

But is anyone using the extreme at 70 + in the real world not just on special set up occasions.
I need something that will work every day at that height.
Not just set up on windless days for a photo shoot.

Bill