So you’ve decided your walls need a fresh coat of paint? And maybe you’d like to save some (a lot of) money by doing it yourself? You’ve got everything — paint, brushes, drop cloths, paint rollers, but you feel like something is missing? Well, unless you’re 6’8”, you’ll need a good ladder too. But worry not, you’re in the right place to find all the necessary information about the best ladders for painting.
If this is the first time you’re painting your home yourself, you might be wondering where to start — do you paint the ceiling or the walls first, how do you prepare your walls for painting, and most importantly, which type of ladder will suit your needs. That’s perfectly understandable and is the reason why I’ve picked the best ladders that can serve both beginners and advanced home-renovation enthusiasts.
And while there is no clear winner, every type of ladder has its pros and cons, which I’ve outlined below. So read on to find the perfect ladder for your needs.
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1. Platform Ladders for Painting
That is probably the most convenient variant because, as the name suggests, those ladders have a platform where you can put your painting tools. Since they come in an A-frame configuration, they are easily mistaken for the more common step ladders, but there is a difference — platform ladders have wider steps and more space on the top to rest your tools.
That’s especially important if you don’t have anyone to help you. The less you have to go down to refill your painting tray, get a new brush, etc., the faster you’ll be done with the painting.
If you’re all about the convenience factor and you don’t like carrying around a massive ladder that takes up all of your storage space, consider a platform ladder. That’s what I used when renovating my apartment, and it saved me an awful amount of trouble, hence the first place on the list.
Here’s one of the best options out there:
Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Ladder
Painting your home is enough of a challenging endeavor to be bothered with heavy, massive ladders on top of that. Well, rest assured that with the Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Ladder weight is not a concern. In fact, it might be hard to believe, but at six feet, this ladder weighs under thirteen pounds!
- Comfortable standing platform makes the Flip-N-Lite...
- Extra-wide rungs prevent foot fatigue
- Lightweight aluminum step ladder is easy to transport,...
- The Flip-N-Lite meets or exceeds all OSHA and ANSI...
Therefore, anyone can move it around with ease. However, don’t be deceived by its light weight — the Flip-N-Lite is as sturdy as it gets. Hence, you don’t have to worry about stability; it’s a guarantee.
The only downside of this ladder is that it can hold up to 300 pounds, which may be a problem in some cases. However, if you need a large platform, convenient work tray, and a design that folds flat for storage, that’s the model for you.
Main Features:
- Sturdy but lightweight
- A huge platform to place your tools
- Slim profile for easy storage
- Easily opens with one hand
2. Stepladders for Painting
If you had to think of a ladder, the image of a stepladder would probably be the first thing that pops in your mind. That’s because stepladders are the most common variant on the market. They’ve been around for more than a century, and there’s certainly a reason behind their popularity.
Stepladders are great general-purpose ladders. They come in the traditional A-frame form, which means they can stay firmly on the ground but also fold down for easy storage. While not surpassing the other variants, stepladders also don’t have major weaknesses. Therefore, you can expect stability, sturdiness, and reliability.
If you need a great ladder that you’d use around your home for different purposes, stepladders are the tried-and-true classic choice.
Here is my top recommendation:
Louisville Ladder L-3016-06
Even if you’re not a beginner, balance and stability are always a concern with ladders. That is why the Louisville Ladder L-3016-06 is a product I can wholeheartedly recommend.
- Full channel fiberglass, non-conductive full channel...
- Wide back braces, vertically mounted U-shaped back...
- Inside spreader braces, each step secured with...
- Slip resistant rubber feet, aluminum angle feet with...
While most ladders tend to shake and wobble when you reach the top, that’s not the case with this model. Its incredible stability comes from the strong, non-conductive fiberglass rails. They are carefully engineered so that you don’t have to worry about things like balance and stability; they are a guarantee.
And if a platform is the best place to keep your supplies, a molded top with tool slots is the second best. Packed with safety features, the Louisville L-3016-06 is the way to go if you need a reliable and sturdy ladder.
Main Features:
- Made of non-conductive fiberglass
- Slip-resistant rubber feet
- Molded top with handyman’s tool slots
3. Extension Ladders for Painting
If you want to paint the outside of your house too, or if you’re blessed with having high ceilings, then you need an extension ladder, also known as a telescopic ladder. Unlike the other variants, extension ladders don’t have an A-frame. Instead, they function as a regular ladder and extend/contract depending on your needs.
Of course, you’ll have to lean the ladder against a wall to use it. Therefore, its uses are limited. Also, telescopic ladders don’t offer much space for tools. That may or may not be a big deal, so keep it in mind before you purchase one.
And speaking of big, those ladders are not the smallest in size, so you’ll probably need to store them in a basement or a garage. But if that’s not a problem, here’s my choice:
Louisville Ladder FE3216
Painting your two-story house is not a scary thing anymore. Not when you use the Louisville Ladder FE3216. It’s sturdy and jam-packed with safety features that make it one of the most sought-after models on the market. Moreover, it has slip-resistant feet, which is another layer of protection against wobbling and loss of balance.
- Dimensions - Extension Ladder Maximum Height (ft.): 13...
- STURDY AND STRONG: With its 300-Pound capacity, elegant...
- FIBERGLASS is non-conductive when clean and dry
- SAFE AND STABLE with Steel Swivel Safety Shoe with...
What’s common for all types of ladders is that people hate climbing and staying on them for prolonged periods of time because it’s downright uncomfortable. Well, that’s not a concern with this product, as it features D-shaped rungs, which are easier to stand on. Thus, you can focus on the painting, not on your sore feet.
A potential downside is the relatively low maximum weight support of 300 pounds. But if that’s not a problem for you, this ladder is the perfect choice!
Main Features:
- Steel safety shoes with metal shields that ensure a sturdy grip on the ground
- Fiberglass rails that make potential work with/around electricity safe
- Overall reliable structure that ensures durability, and more.
4. Multi-Use Ladders
Multi-use ladders are the newest type on the market. What makes them special is the fact that they can be used both as step, leaning, and extension ladders, which makes them the overall best buy, in my opinion.
If functionality is not enough, multi-use ladders are also not that expensive. In fact, my choice is significantly cheaper than the preceding model, yet it functions just as well, if not better!
What I love about those ladders is that they are a one-time purchase. Due to their versatility, they are all you need for everything from a simple light bulb change to a full-blown home renovation. Hence, in my view, they are the best investment compared to the other types of ladders.
So without further ado, here’s my pick:
Little Giant Ladder Systems 13610-071
If you’re all for convenience and functionality, then the Little Giant Ladder Systems 13610-071 is definitely what you need. In fact, it’s one of the highest-rated ladders by customers, and there’s a reason for that.
- Combination ladder converts to stepladder, extension...
- Ground Cue makes an audible click when you have reached...
- Non-marring V-bar on the extension side of the ladder...
- Non-Conductive Hi-Viz Green Fiberglass increases ladder...
This is a 3–in–1 ladder — an extension, leaning, and stepladder combination. What more could one ask for? Well, indeed there is more. Contrary to what you may expect, this model is also lightweight, which is kind of a big deal if you’re going to be lugging it around your house. Also, just like all of the products on this list, it has built-in safety features that ensure stability and top-notch performance.
What’s more, that’s the ladder many professionals use because of its safety-promoting nature. If painters choose to work and rely on it, it must be good enough for your needs too. In fact, that’s how you know a product is worth its money — you take a look at who buys it; and pros definitely know what they are doing.
If you need an amazing-quality, all-purpose ladder, go with that one. You won’t go wrong; trust me.
Main Features:
- Wide-flared legs for added support and stability
- A rotating wall pad which conforms to walls, inside and outside corners, and studs
- Non-conductive fiberglass that makes it safe for work around electricity
- A narrow rear side of the ladder that allows accessing various tight workspaces
5. Step Stools
Now, those may not be the first (or second) choice for most people, but they are definitely worth checking out. Step stools are relatively inexpensive, especially compared to the other products on this list. Hence, many people choose them instead of a conventional ladder, as they definitely do the job for a fraction of the cost.
However, there’s a catch. You’re saving money, but you’re compromising height. Step stools are…stools, not ladders. But, if you’re tall and your ceilings are not that high, maybe that’s the perfect option for you.
Most people don’t want to spend a lot on anything other than the necessary when it comes to home renovations. That’s why step stools made their way to my list. They get the job done, and you don’t break the bank — fair enough, right?
They are stable, extremely lightweight, and most people already have them in their homes, but it has never occurred to them to use them for painting their interior walls. Well, if you don’t have one, but you fulfill the requirement of being relatively tall, here’s my choice:
Delxo Folding Stool
If you don’t have much space to store a large ladder, the Delxo Folding 4-Step Stool is what you need. It’s great for small apartments with limited storage room, and its versatility makes it an essential tool to have in general. In addition to painting, it can also give you a lift when you want to wipe the dust from tall cupboards, wardrobes, etc.
- Reinforced High-strength Steel Step Ladder -Delxo Step...
- Stable Step-Stool Ladder -A metal support, thickened...
- Safe & Sturdy Stool with Step Ladder - Wide pedal with...
- Space-Saving Folding Step Ladder - This lightweight...
Also, if you’re on the shorter side, having a step stool around is great to help you reach high places. You certainly wouldn’t take out your ladder when you want a jar of jam from the highest shelf…
In addition, the extra-wide steps with a non-slip rubber pattern offer heel-to-toe foot support. That eliminates foot fatigue and provides you with a comfortable and stable place to stand while painting.
Main Features:
- Comes fully assembled — no fiddling around with a screwdriver
- Approved by TUV with a GS Certificate that proves the high quality and safety of the product
- Convenient handgrip that makes the step stool easy to climb and carry around
- Heel-to-toe support of the steps, which allows you to stay on the stool for long periods
- Compact design — great for households with limited storage space
- Lightweight for easy carrying
To Sum Up
Painting your home doesn’t have to be tiring and expensive. For it to be a pleasant process, however, you’ll need the right tools, and now you know what the best ladders for painting are.
There are thousands of options on the market, and if you’re doing a home renovation for the first time, it’s normal to be overwhelmed. Therefore, use this simple list to get an idea of what the differences between the various products are, and pick the ladder that will work best for you.
Also, if you’re doing your shopping all at once, and along with the ladder, you’re planning to purchase all of the other tools you’d need, here’s a little tip: look for tools by categories! I.e., when looking for paint, don’t search for anything else before you’ve picked the best color. Then, search for a ladder, brushes, and so on.
And if you’re just as indecisive as I am, and you’re still debating whether you want your walls to be “champagne white” or “moon glow,” here’s a neat tool that can help with your choice. It saved me about a week of flipping through countless paint swatches. Good luck, and have fun giving your home a glow-up!
