A Comprehensive Guide On Buying The Best Step Ladder
Ladder accidents, slips and falls contribute to a ton of injuries that people have to deal with all over the world. And this isn't something that you will hear about watching your favorite home improvement series.
While there is no question that a majority of injuries is caused by human negligence and errors, you have to also be careful about the type of ladder you should buy, its materials, and other features. Moreover, buy a ladder that perfectly suits your specifications.
As per statistics, it was identified that more than 175,000 people visit the emergency room every year with a whole assortment of injuries rated non-severe to debilitating.
Folks with back injuries, surgery, and other musculoskeletal complications should be paying special attention to this guide that highlight the ideal way to buy the best stepladder.
Ladders are one of the most common tools when it comes to construction or for do-it-yourself projects. However, they are also frequently taken for granted in terms of safety.
This is why it is important to take many important things into consideration whenever you hunt for a good ladder for either commercial work or for everyday household use.
*Notice: On mobile devices, scroll right to see entire table.
Product Name | Our Rating | Prices |
|---|---|---|
The Best Folding Ladder | ||
Best Kitchen 3 Step Ladder | ||
Best Twin Tall Step Ladder | ||
Best Rolling Collapsible Step Ladder | ||
Best Lightweight 4, 6, 8 Foot Step Ladder | ||
Factors To Take Into Account When Buying A Tall Step Ladder
In light of this, mentioned below are some vital things to consider:
Choosing An Adequate Ladder Style
There is a wide variety of ladders on the market, which is why you first step should be to select a product that perfectly suits your requirements and specifications.
Different styles are designed for different purposes – and you need to look for one that can get the job done while keeping you safe when it comes to climbing on the steps, standing on the ladder and getting off.
Buying a wrong type of ladder or neglecting the limitation of the said ladder in terms of the capabilities its offers for climbing can increase your chances of slipping and falling, injuring yourself.While most people only know about extension ladders – it is important to realize that there is a bunch of different types that you can go for, for example, a 3-step ladder or a 4-step ladder.
Choosing The Right Ladder Height
To make sure you select a ladder that ideally suits your specifications and requirements, it is important to get a ladder with an appropriate height that can guarantee effectiveness as well as ensure safety.
For instance, if you talk about extension ladders, you should buy one that is 7 ft to 10 ft in height in contrast to the highest point of contact (which is going to be the roofline or the wall you are setting it against). The added height benefit will enable you to prepare for the work you are planning to do.
Duty Rating Or The Performance Of The Ladder
It is important to understand that ladders are built to safely withstand a particular level of weight. A majority of ladders are designed with different weight setting or Duty Ratings – which you can determine by looking at what type of ladder it is and its grade.
This specific type of rating defines the highest level of weight a ladder can easily and safely withstand.
The weight include the total weight of the person, the clothes he is wearing and the weight of tools or other items he is going to take up on that ladder.
The total weight should never exceed the Duty Rating of the ladder; it should always be below it for added safety. Ladders are manufactured to handle a wide assortment of applications and the demands of those applications.
For instance, ladders that are commonly used around a job-site will be utilized roughly by rugged construction workers, which is exactly why the ladder should be durable, made with stronger commercial-grade materials and have a relatively higher Duty Rating compared to other ladders that are frequently used around households or by lightweight individuals.
So, before setting out to buy a collapsible stepladder, it is important to note down the weight you are going be to putting on it and the tasks you will be using the ladder for. You will have to anticipate how frequently you will be using the ladder in your home as well.
Choosing The Ideal Ladder Material
The last thing you will have to consider when buying a 4/6/8 foot step ladder is its materials. Good material contributes to its durability and functionality. For example, you can buy step ladders that are designed with aluminum, wood, fiberglass, etc.
All these materials serve a specific purpose, but it is really a personal preference when it comes to buying a ladder in the said materials. But it is important that you first figure out how frequently you are going to use the ladder, where you are going to be using it and for what purpose. You can’t buy a wooden step ladder for jobs at the construction site.
Similarly, if you are working near power lines, it isn't wise to go with an aluminum ladder. So, the material should be chosen in accordance to the environment you will be working in. Of course, if you want one for everyday household chores or DIY projects, you can select any material you want.
The Importance Of Choose The Style And The Type Of Small Step Ladder
If you feel the need to use the ladder for taking care of every day household chores and tasks on a weekly or monthly basis just like a majority of other people, it is important to buy the right type of 2 step ladder.
From changing the bulb to fetching a can of corn from the topmost kitchen cabinet, these are all tasks that you should be able to do comfortably and with zero-risk of any injury or accident.
The same goes for inspecting your rain-drainage gutter system or your any leaks around the boiler or the ceiling.
Step ladders and ladders in general come in a wide range of styles and types. For example, you can select options from single-section ladders, step ladders, ladder designed for multifunction, telescopic ladders, etc.
There is no question these hand every day tools have come a long in respect to rapid technological changes and innovation. So, the very first thing you should before making a buying decision is to first select what type of ladder you are looking for.
There are basically five top categories you can select from, which are:
- Extension ladder
- Step ladder
- Multi-function ladder
- Single-section ladder
- Telescopic ladder
The Extension Ladder
This ladder has a unique design and enables the individual to deploy numerous, single-section steps to be extended for greater reach. The ladder basically cascades – increasing your chances of reaching those hard to get areas up top when you are cleaning rainwater drainage.
The best benefit of the ladder apart from having a good reach is the fact you will not need any additional storage space for it. That is primarily because you can reduce it to a small size when you are done with your tasks and just keep it anywhere in the garage you like.
The Step Ladder
Step ladders are designed in a single-section fashion, and are fixed in length, which means they cannot be extended or shortened. However, many of these types of ladders come in a collapsible design, which means you can fold them for easy storage. The step ladder is basically a tool for freestanding utilization.
For example, they are ideal when you need to change the light bulb or when you want to get something from the top kitchen shelf. You can buy these ladders in different materials such as wood, fiberglass and aluminum.
The Multi-Function Ladder
These ladders are designed with lockable, durable steel hinges and joints and are capable of extending in order to function in a variety of different ways – which also includes a 2 or 3 step ladder.
The Single Section Ladder
This is your average, traditional ladder that has been in use for countless centuries.
These ladders have a very basic design and are to be used for ground level use where you can safely place the top of the ladder against your door, the drywall, the walls outside your house, etc.
The best benefit of the ladder is the fact it is very light in weight.
The Telescopic Ladder
These ladders are relatively new on the market and are designed with traits of an extension ladder, however, there is another technological factor integrated in them – which is that the rungs of the ladder can easily collapse so that you can more easily store the tool.
Telescopic ladders are designed with commercial grade aluminum.
The Best Step Ladder – Our Top 5 Recommendations In Each Category
Let's take a look at some of the best step ladders that the market has to offer.
The Best Folding Ladder
If you don't have enough space in your home, the folding step ladder is what you need. Here is the best one there is.
Delxo 3 Step Ladder
When it comes to convenience of storage and use, a folding ladder such as the Delxo 3 Anti-Slip ladder is the product you should go for. For something lightweight, you will be surprised to know that the ladder is designed to withstand a total weight of 330 pounds, which is really amazing. There are a multitude of applications you can use the ladder for.
From changing the light bulb to installing a ceiling fan or washing the walls or the windows, the Delxo 3 step foldable ladder has the functionality you have been looking for all this time.
It is the ideal ladder for doing household activities and tasks, especially when you need something light and compact to fix the light in your bathroom or drill screws in your room to hang a new painting or to get things done in your office or the garage.
The best part about the 3 step ladder is that it comes integrated with an anti-slip component, which means you will never have to worry about accidentally falling or slipping while using your power tools on the steps of the ladder.
Thanks to the strong handgrip the ladder provides, you will have a bit more space to stand and position your securely whenever you are doing some work overhead. Plus, the handle is designed in a way that it will never touch your knee when you are standing atop the highest pedal.
The ladder is designed with commercial grade metal and has a very sturdy frame. Moreover, you can drag the ladder across the floor as much as you want and not damage the floor. The ladder has non-marring rungs/feet. Plus, the grip of the feet is firm, which means you can perfectly your balance yourself.
In addition, the foldability of the ladder means you can easily store it anywhere you want and the price is around $60.
Some other features include:
- The product is GS certified
- Convenient hand gripping for wide ladder usage
- Non-slip rubber feet
- Easy folding design for simplified storage
Our Rating
Best Kitchen 3 Step Ladder
For those high shelves in the kitchen you need a handy step ladder. Here is the best one.
Rubbermaid RM-3W Folding 3-Step Steel Frame Stool
Nothing can more handy than an everyday kitchen ladder when it comes to getting things from the top of the shelf and putting it back up there. When it comes to simple and budget-friendly 3 step ladders, you should go for the Rubbermaid RM-3W anti-slip ladder.
You can use the ladder for a wide variety of applications such as fixing the kitchen lights, overhead drilling and electric work, fixing things in the bathroom, garage work, etc.
Another great thing about the ladder is the fact it is designed to withstand a total weight of 200lbs, which means you can easily climb to the highest step with your tools or cleaning equipment without having to worry about balancing yourself.
The durable ladder is made with sturdy metal and has a strong frame. Apart from that, the ladder is lightweight, which means you can just about take it anywhere around the house and use it without breaking a sweat.
This ladder is especially good for folks suffering from acute back pain or other musculoskeletal complications.
The three steps of the ladder allows for easy access to areas that were probably a nuisance for you. For example, cleaning the top of the big dressing table or a large book shelf is no longer an issue.
The Rubbermaid RM-3W will make common household chores a breeze for you. It is time to get rid of your old and heavy stool that is a hassle to store and carry. You can conveniently store the 3 step ladder anywhere you want. The stool comes with a Type III Duty Rating, which means you can easily carry your tools and heavy equipment up and down the ladder without worrying about anything.
Another great quality about the Rubbermaid product is that it is made with non-marring feet – which means you can dray the ladder around all you want and not worry about scratching the wooden floor or damaging the paint job on the ladder. Price is aroung $40.
Other features and benefits include:
- Made with a steel frame
- Can easily withstand 200 pounds
- Total height of 27.25 inches while erect
- Convenient foldability for easy storage
- Comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
Our Rating
Best Twin Tall Step Ladder
For more effectiveness you may need a twin step ladder, and here is the best one.
Louisville Ladder FM1406HD Fiberglass Twin Front Ladder, 6-Feet
If you are out looking for the best twin ladder for double the effectiveness and to get the job done faster, there is nothing better on the market than the Louisville FM1406HD series. The twin ladder is built with commercial grade fiberglass and offers formidable gripping and stabilization for those annoying and hard to reach overhead jobs in and around the house, office or on the job site.
The 10 step ladder is designed with every feature and functionality there is to meet the specifications of the most demanding of construction or DIY jobs.
But perhaps the best quality about the twin ladder is the fact that both areas of the ladder can be used at a single time. There are a total of 10 steps, 5 on each side, which are designed to be entered easily from both side without causing the ladder to destabilize.
The footing of the ladder is formidable and it can bear a total load of 375 lbs, yes, on each side.
This means the ladder can easily accommodate the weight two people carrying equipment and tools. The ladder is specifically designed for demanding overhead jobs and projects, which cannot be undertaken by a single individual.
With a two-person application and access, the steps of the ladder are serrated and are manufactured using commercial grade aluminum for enhanced durability.
The ladder itself is made with heavy duty fiberglass for added durability and firm grip. The feet are non-marred, which means you will not have issue dragging the ladder across the floor. Price of this ladder is around $220.
Other features and benefits of the ladder include:
- Built with steel-tube rivets for enhanced strength
- Total weight capacity of 750 pounds – which of course includes your weight and the weight of the tools you use
- 4 important load-bearing areas on the ladder that are reinforced with aluminum plates for enhanced ladder-life
- The rails of the ladder are non-conductive and the channels are coated with high quality polyester
Our Rating
Best Rolling Collapsible Step Ladder
If you are in need of a perfectly balanced and comfortable step ladder, here is what you should buy.
Tri-Arc KDSR104166 4-Step Steel Rolling Industrial and Warehouse Ladder
When it comes to the best of the best in rolling step ladders that are easily collapsible, the Tri-Arc 4-Steel Rolling ladder is the product to gun for. The ladder has become one of the most popular products in this category and is commonly used amongst both commercial and residential users.
The greatest thing about the product is the fact it is designed a wide variety of commercial and warehouse applications and offer superior balance and comfort. The design of the ladder focuses on keeping the worker safe when working overhead and at a considerable height.
The Tri-Arc KDSR104166 series comes in two different tread styles – you can select from perforated treads or serrated treads. Plus, there are plenty of different models available in the same form and shape but with different styles and dimensions. This is to ensure you have the best options to choose from, suiting your requirements. Price of this ladder is around $180.
Moreover, the ladder can be used in a variety of different work environments. The product is designed with strut tread design and come integrated with highly durable and easy-gripping guard and hand rails for optimal balance.
Other features and benefits include:
- Comes in a gray powder finish and coating
- The steps measure at 16 inches - which are wide enough to comfortable stand and balance yourself on
- The metal casters are spring-loaded
- The deep top measures at 10 inches
Our Rating
Best Lightweight 4, 6, 8 Foot Step Ladder
Finally, let's take a look at the best step ladder for everyday household activities.
Werner 223-6 StepRight 225-Pound
If you are looking for a lightweight, easy to move around 3 step ladder for everyday household activities and do-it-yourself projects then it is strongly recommended you go for the Werner 223-6 StepRight ladder. The product is designed for convenient usage and is perfectly suited for the average homeowner.
The design and built of the ladder is quite sturdy and durable. Moreover, the lightweight ladder features an easy to fold mechanism for enhanced storage.
The handgrip on the ladder is good, especially when you consider climbing with light tools and materials. The steps are designed to be slip-resistant, which means maintaining your balance is going to be easy.
Additionally, the ladder also has a comfortable yet firm grip and non-marred feet so that you don’t have to worry about scratching your wooden or tiled floor when you move the ladder around.
The total weight capacity of the Werner StepRight is 225lbs, and the price is around $30.
Other features and benefits include:
- Large platform for comfortably standing
- Non-marring ladder feet
- Easy to collapse and open
- Made with commercial grade steel
Our Rating
Bottom Line
Well, these are some of the best picks when it comes to durable and quality step ladder for home and commercial use.
