The ladder rarely gets any attention, yet it is one of the most useful tools any decorator could own. It gives you access to parts of the room that you simply couldn’t reach. Take away the ladder, and you wouldn’t achieve the same results.
We put the 10 best ladders for painting in the spotlight, rating them on quality, price, and usability.
- Weighs just 15 lbs
- Storage tray and platform
- Type 1A rated up to 300 lbs
- Configures into multiple shapes
- Aerospace-grade aluminum and extra-wide feet
- Innovative dual-pin hinges & rock locks
- Very affordable price
- Large standing platform & steps
- Lightweight, at just 13 lbs
- Affordable price
- Weighs just 11.5 lbs
- Maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs
- Utility tray for paint cans & tools
- Large rubber feet for stability
- Large non-slip steps
- Easy to store and transport
- One button retraction for ease & convenience
- Oxidized aluminum & reinforced plastic components
- Extends to a maximum height of 12.5 ft
- Maximum weight capacity of 330 lbs
- Non-slip feet for stability
- Extends to 28 ft
- Swivel feet add stability and grip
- Fiberglass, ideal for electrical work
- 375-lbs weight capacity
- Add-on wheels make it easy to maneuver
- Several configurations to cover every task
- Extends to 32 ft
- Swivel feet with rubber grips
- Quicklatch pulley system makes extending a breeze
The Best Ladders for Painting of 2024
With so many ladders to choose from, we spent hours researching several different types of ladders, rating them for price, quality, and usability. Here are our favorite 10 examples.
Little Giant Platform Ladder Flip-N-Lite
Best Platform Ladder for Painting
This is the first of several Little Giant entries in the review. It is rated type 1A, so it has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds. The best feature is the extensive top shelf that stores paint, brushes and tools, and doubles up as a standing platform. You also get a storage tray for other items on top of the handrail.
It has a 6-foot reach, it is lightweight, easy to set up and pack down, and has extra-wide steps for comfort, grip, and reduced foot fatigue. You get an easy-release handle, and because it only weighs 15 pounds, it is easy to transport without breaking your back.
The only disadvantage with this ladder is that it is not adjustable, so you have to buy a different ladder if you need to extend your reach above the stated maximum.
Pros
- Weighs just 15 pounds.
- Storage tray and platform.
- Type 1A rated up to 300 pounds.
- Extra-wide steps for increased grip.
Cons
- Limited to 6-foot reach.
Product Specs
Weight | 15 pounds |
Height | 6 feet |
Material | Aluminum |
Type | Step ladder |
Rating | Type 1A |
Weight capacity | 300 pounds |
Price | $$$$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
Little Giant Velocity Ladder with Wheels
Best Multi-Position Ladder for Painting
Sometimes you need your ladder to step up and work for you that little bit harder. Say hello to this Little Giant multi-purpose ladder. It folds into several configurations, including stairs, step ladder, exterior, and 90-degree ladder.
It has unique dual-pin hinges, and easy-to-use rock locks, plus the wide flared legs and aerospace-grade aluminum makes this ladder feel very stable and safe. This ladder is rated type 1A, meaning it can safely handle weight capacities up to 300 pounds.
Also, it is pretty lightweight for a multi-position ladder, at just 39 pounds, and it extends to an impressive 22 feet. The main issue with this Little Giant ladder is the price. They are not a cheap option, so be prepared to dig deep.
Pros
- Configures into multiple shapes.
- Extends to 22 feet.
- Innovative dual-pin hinges and rock locks.
- Aerospace-grade aluminum and extra-wide feet.
Cons
- Expensive compared to other models.
Product Specs
Weight | 39 pounds |
Height | 22 feet |
Material | Aluminum |
Type | Multi-position ladder |
Rating | Type 1A |
Weight capacity | 300 pounds |
Price | $$$$$ |
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Our Ratings
Cosco Three Big Folding Step Stool
Best Budget Ladder for Painting
When you are working to a tight budget, you have to watch the pennies, so this step stool by Cosco is a welcome sight. It costs a fraction of the price of the Little Giant ladder. And it’s no slouch either, thanks to the extra-wide platform and large platform steps.
It has a weight capacity of 200 pounds, so you don’t get the same as other models, but that’s part of the reason why this is so inexpensive. It has an opti-bond powder-coated finish to protect it against the elements, and you get a comfortable handle grip.
Obviously, you will not repaint the exterior of your home with this ladder, but indoors, it gives you access to hard-to-reach spots, although the reach somewhat limits you. On the plus side, it only weighs 13 pounds, so carrying this ladder around should be a breeze.
Pros
- Very affordable price.
- Large standing platform and steps.
- Lightweight, at just 13 pounds.
- Comfortable handgrip.
Cons
- Lower reach limits painting scope.
- Reduced weight capacity of 200 pounds
Product Specs
Weight | 13 pounds |
Height | 2.5 feet |
Material | Steel |
Type | Step stool |
Rating | Type 3 |
Weight capacity | 200 pounds |
Price | $ |
Warranty | 10-year parts and labor |
Our Ratings
HBTower 3-Step Step Stool
Best Step Stool for Painting
Now, when it comes to sales figures, this HBTower step stool is a big hitter. It has racked up over 16,000 sales on Amazon alone! So, what has it got that others lack?
First, the price is so attractive, it could have been our budget pick, but just because it is cheap doesn’t mean it isn’t good. Second, the load capacity is 500 pounds! That’s 300 pounds more than the Cosco.
It has large rubber-padded feet for extra grip, a comfortable handgrip, and extra-wide non-slip steps. It has a high-grade steel frame, weighs just 11.5 pounds, and folds to just 1.6 inches in depth, making it easy for storage.
A couple of negatives are the warranty, at just 2-years it seems a bit mean, and the height reach. Because it is a step stool, it limits your usage.
Pros
- Affordable price.
- Weighs just 11.5 pounds.
- Maximum weight capacity of 500 pounds.
- Large rubber padded feet.
Cons
- Only has a 2-year warranty.
- Limited height reach.
Product Specs
Weight | 11.5 pounds |
Height | 2.5 feet |
Material | Steel |
Type | Step stool |
Rating | Type 1AA |
Weight capacity | 500 pounds |
Price | $ |
Warranty | 2-years |
Our Ratings
HBTower Folding 4-Step Ladder
Best Step Ladder for Painting
When you are decorating your inside spaces, you need somewhere to store your paint cans, rags, and brushes, so having this HBTower step ladder with a utility storage tray is ideal.
It has 4 anti-slip steps, a comfortable handgrip, and large rubber feet for stability and safety. When the ladder is opened, the safety buckle design automatically locks when you place your foot on the first step.
Just like the 3-step version, this one folds flat to a depth of 1.6 inches, so storing it away is easy, and it is rated type 1A with a maximum load capacity of 330 pounds. The only downside is the weight. While it isn’t the heaviest ladder to feature in the review, it weighs a third more than the 3-step version.
Pros
- Utility tray for paint cans and tools.
- Large rubber feet for stability.
- Folds to just 1.6 inches.
- Large non-slip steps.
Cons
- Weighs a third more than the 3-step.
Product Specs
Weight | 18.5 pounds |
Height | 3.5 feet |
Material | Steel |
Type | Step ladder |
Rating | Type 1A |
Weight capacity | 330 pounds |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | 2-years |
Our Ratings
Yvan Telescoping One-Button Retracting Ladder
Best Telescoping Ladder for Painting
Telescoping ladders are easy to store away and transport, especially if you lack a ladder rack on your vehicle, and this Yvan is one of the most popular. So, what has it got?
It has a maximum height reach of 12.5 feet, so you won’t struggle to reach the ceiling or first-floor window frames outside; it has a one-button retraction for a quicker pack-up time and an aluminum body that doesn’t rust and is lightweight.
The plastic elements are reinforced with nylon fiber to improve load resistance, aging, and service life, plus the aluminum is oxidized for greater weather resistance. You also get a rating of type 1A and a maximum load capacity of 330 pounds.
Because this ladder is retractable, the price jumps up, with this one costing substantially more than previously featured models. Also, telescoping ladders are more complicated to master than standard ladders, which might put some people off.
Also, a 1-year warranty is pretty mean for a ladder considering it is supposed to be robust and withstand everything you throw at it.
Pros
- Extends to a maximum height of 12.5 feet.
- One button retraction for ease and convenience.
- Oxidized aluminum and reinforced plastic components.
- Easy to store and transport.
Cons
- Costs a lot more than standard ladders.
- Short 1-year warranty.
Product Specs
Weight | 24.6 pounds |
Height | 12.5 feet |
Material | Aluminum |
Type | Telescoping |
Rating | Type 1A |
Weight capacity | 330 pounds |
Price | $$$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
LuisLadders Folding Multi-Purpose Ladder
Best Ladder for Painting Stairs
This is another multi-position ladder. It transforms to make a straight ladder, a ladder with a 90-degree bend, a scaffold platform, and a step ladder. It can be folded down so storage can be easy, and thanks to the multi-position safety lock hinges, it can change shape with ease.
This ladder has a maximum height of 12.5 inches and a weight capacity of 330 pounds. Plus, it has stabilizer bars and slip-resistant steps. It’s even a great price! The aluminum construction ensures it won’t rust, and the non-slip feet give extra stability.
Because this is a multi-position ladder, it takes some practice to master, which might put some people off.
Pros
- Extends to a maximum height of 12.5 feet.
- Maximum weight capacity of 330 pounds.
- Multiple positions, including stairs.
- Non-slip feet for stability.
Cons
- Complicated to master different ladder configurations.
Product Specs
Weight | 23.4 pounds |
Height | 12.5 feet |
Material | Aluminum |
Type | Multi-position |
Rating | Type 1A |
Weight capacity | 330 pounds |
Price | $$$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
Louisville Fiberglass Extension Ladder
Best Ladder for Exterior Painting
When you need a sturdy ladder for all the exterior painting projects, this Louisville fiberglass model is a great choice. It has a maximum 28-foot reach, so the tallest tasks are entirely possible, and it has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds.
You get mar-resistant end caps, swivel safety shoes for better grip and support, and smooth extending with durable slide guides. If you carry out electrical work, fiberglass ladders are ideal because they are non-conductive.
The rungs are D-shaped to make standing more comfortable, and you also have a safety Max-Lock with Quicklatch for fast deployment and retraction.
Now we come to the negatives. This ladder weighs 60 pounds, so you might need help lifting and positioning it; plus, it costs a lot of money. It is 3 times the price of the Yvan telescoping model.
And for such an expensive product, the company only warrants this ladder for 90 days after purchase.
Pros
- Extends to 28 feet for maximum height reach.
- Swivel feet add stability and grip.
- Fiberglass is non-conductive, which is ideal for electrical work.
- D-shaped rungs for added comfort.
Cons
- Weighs 60 pounds. You may need assistance to deploy.
- The most expensive ladder to feature so far.
- Meager 90-day warranty.
Product Specs
Weight | 60 pounds |
Height | 28 feet |
Material | Fiberglass |
Type | Extension ladder |
Rating | Type 1A |
Weight capacity | 300 pounds |
Price | $$$$$ |
Warranty | 90-days |
Our Ratings
Little Giant M17 Ladder System
Best Ladder for Interior Painting
This is the second Little Giant ladder to feature, and this one is a multi-position model, so it can extend to 15 feet for vaulted ceilings and double-up as a step ladder. It has several configurations, including 90 degrees, A-frame, and scaffolding platform, to name a few.
The frame is aerospace-grade aluminum, and the maximum weight capacity is 375 pounds, so it is classified as a type 1AA. Another great addition to this ladder is the wheels. It makes pulling and maneuvering the ladder a lot easier.
However, we always have negatives, no matter how good the product is, and this ladder has a huge price tag. So much so that many people will think again unless they specifically want this model. That said, Little Giant does make good quality ladders.
Pros
- 375-pound weight capacity.
- The add-on wheels make it easy to maneuver.
- Several configurations to cover every task.
- High-quality aluminum construction.
Cons
- Eye-watering price tag compared to other ladders.
Product Specs
Weight | 38 pounds |
Height | 17 feet |
Material | Aluminum |
Type | Multi-position |
Rating | Type 1AA |
Weight capacity | 375 pounds |
Price | $$$$$ |
Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
Our Ratings
Louisville Aluminum Extension Ladder
Best Ladder for Painting House
When you need to reach the highest points of the exterior of your home, you need a ladder that can cope. This Louisville extends to 32 feet, but you can get models in the range that reach 40 feet.
It has swivel safety shoes for grip, balance, and stability, a QuickLatch rung lock, a sturdy aluminum frame, and a load capacity of 300 pounds.
The slide guides ensure smooth operation, and the I-beam side rails offer comfort when standing at height. You also get D-shaped rungs that give a better grip, which keeps you safe at great heights.
This ladder is the heaviest to feature so far, at 63 pounds, which might mean you need assistance when erecting and taking it down. It also costs a lot, so unless you need a ladder with such capabilities, you might want to opt for something cheaper.
Pros
- Extends to 32 feet.
- Swivel feet with rubber grips.
- QuickLatch pulley system makes extending a breeze.
- 300-pound load capacity.
Cons
- The most expensive ladder to feature.
- Weighs 63 pounds.
Product Specs
Weight | 63 pounds |
Height | 32 feet |
Material | Aluminum |
Type | Extension |
Rating | Type 1A |
Weight capacity | 300 pounds |
Price | $$$$$ |
Warranty | Not stated |
Our Ratings
Product | Best | Weight | Height | Material | Type | Rating | Weight capacity | Price | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Little Giant Platform Ladder Flip-N-Lite | Best Platform Ladder | 15 lbs | 6 feet | Aluminum | Step ladder | Type 1A | 300 lbs | $$$$ | 1-year |
Little Giant Velocity Ladder with Wheels | Best Multi-Position | 39 lbs | 22 feet | Aluminum | Multi-position ladder | Type 1A | 300 lbs | $$$$$ | Limited lifetime |
Cosco Three Big Folding Step Stool | Best Budget | 13 lbs | 2.5 feet | Steel | Step stool | Type 3 | 200 lbs | $ | 10-year parts & labor |
HBTower 3-Step Step Stool | Best Step Stool | 11.5 lbs | 2.5 feet | Steel | Step stool | Type 1AA | 500 lbs | $ | 2-year |
HBTower Folding 4-Step Ladder | Best Step Ladder | 18.5 lbs | 3.5 feet | Steel | Step ladder | Type 1A | 330 lbs | $$ | 2-year |
Yvan Telescoping One-Button Retracting Ladder | Best Telescoping | 24.6 lbs | 12.5 feet | Aluminum | Telescoping | Type 1A | 330 lbs | $$$ | 1-year |
LuisLadders Folding Multi-Purpose Ladder | Best for Painting Stairs | 23.4 lbs | 12.5 feet | Aluminum | Multi-position | Type 1A | 330 lbs | $$$ | One year |
Louisville Fiberglass Extension Ladder | Best for Exterior Painting | 60 lbs | 28 feet | Fiberglass | Extension ladder | Type 1A | 300 lbs | $$$$$ | 90-day |
Little Giant M17 Ladder System | Best for Interior Painting | 38 lbs | 17 feet | Aluminum | Multi-position | Type 1AA | 375 lbs | $$$$$ | Limited lifetime |
Louisville Aluminum Extension Ladder | Best for Painting House | 63 lbs | 32 feet | Aluminum | Extension | Type 1A | 300 lbs | $$$$$ | Not stated |
Types of Ladders for Painting
Before we get into the detail of what makes a ladder great for painting, first, we need to look at the different ladders available and what they are suitable for.
Step Stools
Step stools are lightweight and easy to use. They typically come in 2, 3, 4, or 6-step versions, and they are ideal for indoor and outdoor decorating. Step stools also have a high weight capacity because they are so low to the ground.
Tall Step Ladders
Tall step ladders have wide steps on one side and support beams on the other. They are safe and easy to use and are a great middle-ground option between a step stool and an extending ladder.
They often have a small flat shelf on the top, which is ideal for standing a can of paint. The downside with step ladders is they have a fixed height and cannot be adjusted.
Multi-Purpose Ladders
Multi-purpose ladders are like the Transformer of the ladder world. They can change into several configurations, including a step ladder, extending ladder, and platform ladder. If you are looking for a ladder for all seasons, this is the variety to get.
However, while they are super useful, they can be a little complicated to master, easy to make a mistake, and very expensive.
Extension Ladders
Extension ladders have two sections that extend to reach elevated surfaces, making them ideal for exterior decorating. They typically come in 16, 24, 28, 32, and 40 feet versions and are usually made from aluminum or fiberglass.
Fiberglass ladders are heavy and better suited to electrical work, whereas aluminum ladders are lighter and easier to maneuver.
A 24 to 28-foot ladder is best suited to a 1.5 story house, while a 2.5 story home requires a 32 to 40-foot ladder. Just remember that the higher the ladder, the greater the risk of injury.
Each extending ladder has a weight capacity rating:
Rating | Maximum Capacity |
Type 3 | 200 pounds |
Type 2 | 225 pounds |
Type 1 | 250 pounds |
Type 1A | 300 pounds |
Type 1AA | 375 pounds |
Platform Ladders
A platform ladder is an A-frame step ladder with either two or three platforms at the top for storing paints and tools. They have a height reach of between 8 or 9 feet.
Telescoping Ladders
Telescoping ladders are the best option if you have limited storage or you like to carry your ladder with you on the road to work sites. They work by collapsing down to about two or three feet, and some can extend to 16 or 18 feet.
These ladders are practical if a little bit complicated to use; plus, they are expensive compared to standard ladders.
How To Choose the Best Ladder for Painting
So, you’ve decided that you want a new ladder, but what are the critical factors that go into your decision? How do you decide which is the best ladder for painting?