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10 Best Ladders for Painting of 2024

Updated
Got a painting job? Get the right ladder

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.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Little Giant Platform Ladder Flip-N-Lite
Best Platform Ladder
Little Giant Platform Ladder Flip-N-Lite
  • Weighs just 15 lbs
  • Storage tray and platform
  • Type 1A rated up to 300 lbs
Product Image of the Little Giant Velocity Ladder with Wheels
Best Multi-Position
Little Giant Velocity Ladder with Wheels
  • Configures into multiple shapes
  • Aerospace-grade aluminum and extra-wide feet
  • Innovative dual-pin hinges & rock locks
Product Image of the Cosco Three Big Folding Step Stool
Best Budget
Cosco Three Big Folding Step Stool
  • Very affordable price
  • Large standing platform & steps
  • Lightweight, at just 13 lbs
Product Image of the HBTower 3-Step Step Stool
Best Step Stool
HBTower 3-Step Step Stool
  • Affordable price
  • Weighs just 11.5 lbs
  • Maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs
Product Image of the HBTower Folding 4-Step Ladder
Best Step Ladder
HBTower Folding 4-Step Ladder
  • Utility tray for paint cans & tools
  • Large rubber feet for stability
  • Large non-slip steps
Product Image of the Yvan Telescoping One-Button Retracting
Best Telescoping
Yvan Telescoping One-Button Retracting
  • Easy to store and transport
  • One button retraction for ease & convenience
  • Oxidized aluminum & reinforced plastic components
Product Image of the LuisLadders Folding Multi-Purpose
Best for Painting Stairs
LuisLadders Folding Multi-Purpose
  • Extends to a maximum height of 12.5 ft
  • Maximum weight capacity of 330 lbs
  • Non-slip feet for stability
Product Image of the Louisville Fiberglass Extension Ladder
Best for Exterior Painting
Louisville Fiberglass Extension Ladder
  • Extends to 28 ft
  • Swivel feet add stability and grip
  • Fiberglass, ideal for electrical work
Product Image of the Little Giant Classic Ladder
Best for Interior Painting
Little Giant Classic Ladder
  • 375-lbs weight capacity
  • Add-on wheels make it easy to maneuver
  • Several configurations to cover every task
Product Image of the Louisville Aluminum Extension Ladder
Best for Painting House
Louisville Aluminum Extension Ladder
  • Extends to 32 ft
  • Swivel feet with rubber grips
  • Quicklatch pulley system makes extending a breeze

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we pride ourselves on delivering hands-on, expert evaluations of the best ladders for painting. Our professional team measures and compares key factors such as ladder height, stability, material, and design elements, to provide an objective ranking of each product. We’ve conducted extensive research and rigorous tests to gather reliable data. Our findings are based on performance standards, user experience, and the unique features that set each ladder apart from its competitors. We ensure our assessments are backed by facts and firsthand experiences, making our reviews a dependable resource for your painting ladder purchase decisions.



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

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Stability
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

Great ladder for office and home use! This ladder is lightweight and sturdy, making it easy for one person to maneuver. It features a broad standing deck and a tool tray, making it convenient for extended use. This ladder is also slim when folded, making it great for storing in tight spaces. Despite its light weight, it feels stable and secure, even when reaching for high spots.

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

Design
5 / 5
Material Quality
5 / 5
Stability
5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
5 / 5

Personal Perspective

I've found this ladder to be a significant help around the house, allowing me to tackle a variety of tasks with ease. Despite its weight, it's not too hard to move around, thanks to the handy wheels. The adjustable heights and configurations have proven invaluable for different situations, from cleaning gutters to reaching high ceilings. However, it's worth noting that while sturdy and reliable, the ladder does require a bit of muscle to adjust and can be a tad heavy for some folks.

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

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Stability
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with this step stool has been nothing short of impressive. The stool is a tad heavy, but that's a small price to pay for the reliability and safety that it provides. It's been a trusty aid for home improvement projects, allowing me to reach high places with ease, and the non-slip material on the steps makes me feel secure, even when dealing with tasks at my 9' ceiling!

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

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Stability
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

If you're in the market for a compact yet sturdy ladder, this one surely fits the bill. It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for indoor tasks like reaching high ceilings or changing light bulbs. Standing at 5'6", I found myself needing the third step to reach my 9' ceilings which felt stable albeit a bit uncomfortable without something to hold onto. The ladder folds up neatly, taking up minimal storage space, and the steps even have a grip feature which adds to the safety. While it may seem a tad heavy to some, the weight gives it a reassuring sturdiness, and the padding on the handle is a nice touch for added comfort and steadiness.

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

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Stability
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

Got this ladder and it's been a solid help around the house. It's sturdy, easy to handle and folds up thin for convenient storage, even in tight spaces. The extended handle and top tray are really handy for keeping tools and stuff within reach while working, though the tray is small and doesn't fit larger items. The fourth step is high enough to reduce the need for climbing on counters, which has been a relief as an older person. The downside is that the cushion material on the top cross bar is thin and has shown wear and tear quickly, plus there were some minor assembly issues.

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

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Stability
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

This telescoping ladder really came to my aid, especially considering my weakening hands and wrists. Unlike my heavy, steel collapsible ladder, this one is lightweight, easy to extend, and collapses smoothly just as shown in the product video, making it a breeze to carry around and maneuver. While it does flex a tad, as is common with extendable ladders, and I needed to ascend and descend slowly due to my balance issues, it's probably perfectly sturdy for someone with a steadier stance.

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

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Stability
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

From my personal experience, this ladder is amazingly versatile and handy for tasks around a house on stilts. Despite initial concerns about stability, especially as I'm near 300 pounds, I found it surprisingly sturdy in both straight and step ladder configurations. Learning to switch between configurations was a bit of a learning curve, but became easy with time. Transporting the ladder can be tricky as the hinges don't lock when it's folded, leading to some caution while carrying it around. However, its lightweight design and the convenience of reaching high places, from rafters to security camera installations, outweighs any minor drawbacks.

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

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Stability
4.5 / 5
Durability
3 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

For a guy who needs something sturdy and reliable, this ladder is a winner. While it's not the lightest on the market, its durability and solid construction make up for the extra weight. However, I did notice that the rung locks are made of plastic, not metal, which is a bit of a letdown considering the rest of the ladder seems to be of good quality. It's a bit cumbersome to handle, especially if you're trying to set it up alone. Yet, its sturdiness even held up for a bigger guy like myself, and the extra rubber caps I purchased did a great job preventing any damage to my property.

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

Design
5 / 5
Material Quality
5 / 5
Stability
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

User Experience

My experience with this ladder has been largely positive. As a heavier individual, I found it sturdy and safe to climb, providing much-needed stability when I accessed my friend's roof. Adjusting the ladder and moving it was a breeze, thanks to the attached wheels and its ability to grip various surfaces was impressive. However, it's important to note that this ladder is quite weighty, which can make it less convenient to use than lighter models. Also, it tends to oxidize over time, so some care is needed to prevent leaving fingerprints.

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

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Stability
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

Got this ladder and I've got to tell you, it’s a reliable piece of equipment. Despite the fact that the locks are plastic, which I initially had my doubts about, they've held up pretty well, even with heavy use. My job involves a lot of roofing work, so I put it through its paces frequently. I appreciate the 300lb rating, it gives me confidence when I'm high up in the air, covered in sweat and dealing with pesky insects. The 24ft length is adequate for a 2-story house and it's just about manageable for two people to move. One minor issue I noticed was that one of the latch springs had come off, but it was an easy fix.

Product Comparison Chart

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?

Maximum Reach

Size your ladder for the task at hand. It’s no good buying a step ladder when you need an extender. Likewise, why waste money on an extender when a simple step stool would be sufficient.

Just remember that the height listed on the ladder is the actual length, so when you angle it against the wall, that distance reduces. Given that you should never stand higher than the third rung from the top, you will typically add between 1 to 3 feet to that height with your reach.

To give you an idea of heights, here’s a handy chart:

Number of Storys Maximum Height
1 10 feet
2 20 feet
2.5 25 feet
3 30 feet

Weight

Your new ladder should be maneuverable and easy to set up. If it breaks your back every time you drag it out of the garage, you are going to limit the number of times you use it.

Aluminum ladders are the lightest, although the size makes a huge difference. A 40-foot ladder is going to weigh far more than an 8-foot step ladder.

Functions

Do you want a simple A-frame step ladder, or are you after an all singing and dancing multi-purpose model that transforms into several configurations?

The more functions the ladder has, the more complicated it is to use and possibly more expensive to buy. Having additional capabilities might also add to the weight, making the ladder more cumbersome to maneuver.

Ease of Storage

Not everyone is blessed with a ton of storage space. Not everyone has a ladder rack on their vehicle. How you store the ladder and transport it makes a difference. Telescoping models are the easiest to load into the trunk and take with you on the road, while a 40-foot extending ladder will require ample storage space.

Ladders are large items and take up space no matter what, so before you make your choice, check that you have the capacity to stow it away.

Price

Everyone has a budget, and the amount you are prepared to spend determines what type of ladder you get. A simple step stool is probably the lowest priced in the range, with the multi-purpose models fetching the most money.

That said, telescoping ladders are pretty costly too, but they are easier to store and transport.


FAQs

How Should You Safely Use a Ladder When Painting?

There are safe ways to use a ladder, and here are a few pointers.

  • Never stand above the third rung from the top. It could leave you off balance and liable to fall.
  • Don’t over-extend your reach. Again, this causes the ladder to slip.
  • Make sure you place the ladder correctly. Never put it on uneven ground or slippery surfaces like wet concrete or pavers.
  • Never use the ladder near power lines, and never exceed the weight and height limits.
  • Always maintain a minimum of 3 points of contact with the ladder (2 feet and 1 hand).

What Is the 4 to 1 Rule for Ladders?

For every 4 feet you extend the ladder, you should place it 1-foot of distance from the wall. So, if you had an 8-foot ladder, it should be 2 feet from the wall. And a 16-foot ladder should be 4 feet from the wall.

What Is the Maximum Height You Can Work from a Ladder?

You shouldn’t work above the third rung from the top. If you do, you risk falling and serious injury. Try and remember that when a ladder states a height, it is simply the ladder height rather than a working height.

And when you angle the ladder, it reduces the maximum reach further. You will add about 1 to 3 feet with your torso and arms.


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Headshot of Mark Weir

About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.