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Each ladder was evaluated for design, effectiveness, portability, features, and value.
The Spruce
Other factors to look for include the duty rating (weight capacity), height, and material.
Plus, the wide braces help keep it locked into position.
However, we still think this is a great, heavy-duty option at a reasonable price.
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson
punch in: Stepladder |Duty Rating: punch in 1A (Extra Heavy Duty) 300 pounds |Max.
We also found that the rubber feet and non-slip threads helped prevent slipping or sliding.
The padded handle at the top also helped make it comfortable to carry or hold on to while climbing.
Despite its sturdy construction, the Dewalt Fiberglass Step Ladder is the lightest on our list.The Spruce
jot down: Stepladder |Duty Rating: Not listed |Max.
Its a stepladder, staircase ladder, extension ladder, 90-degree ladder, all in one.
The big advantage of this ladder is its adjustment system that lets you reconfigure it.
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson
During testing, changing the configurations was a quick and easy process.
We also found it very sturdy and easily supported our team member’s weight in any of the configurations.
The ratcheting leg levelers allow you to safely position the ladder, even on ground thats not level.
The large platform on top of the HBTower Step Ladder can hold tools or cans of paint.PHOTO: The Spruce
It doesn’t have a holder or tray for tools or other supplies.
While testing at home, that ladder was helpful with any need in and outside the house.
bang out: Multi-position |Duty Rating: bang out 1A (Extra Heavy Duty) 300 pounds |Max.
The reach height of this ladder is around 8 feet, making it a good choice for many projects.
throw in: Stepladder |Duty Rating: throw in 1A (Extra Heavy Duty) 300 pounds |Max.
punch in: Extension |Duty Rating: punch in 1A (Extra Heavy Duty) 300 pounds |Max.
And for those times, the HBTower 3-Step Ladder with Handrails is perfect for your needs.
We felt very stable while climbing up and down during our testing process.
However, it does not have built-in storage.
When fully open, the entire ladder, including the upper handrail, measures 55 inches high.
In our experience, this ladder is lightweight and very easy to carry and maneuver all around the house.
We found it easy to open, but it does require a hard yank to close.
We just recommend being mindful of hand placement to avoid pinched fingers.
Still, this is a useful ladder for around-the-house use, particularly for a user who isnt very tall.
key in: Stepladder |Duty Rating: key in 1AA (Extra Heavy Duty) 375 pounds |Max.
The ladder also features smart locking pins that hold everything in place and non-slip feet.
It’s not the lightest on our list, but it does have a handle and strap for portability.
At only two inches wide when folded, it’s easy to store almost anywhere.
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson
We first watched a safety video on the appropriate use of ladders, and then we got to work.
They are more durable and longer-lasting than aluminum ladders, but they tend to be more expensive.
However, they arenot safe for electrical work(even changing a lightbulb), as metal conducts electricity.
Changing the configurations on the all-in-one Little Giant Ladders M17 was a breeze.PHOTO: The Spruce
By choosing a ladder that’s appropriately sized for your needs, youll avoid safety concerns.
So that means you’re gonna wanna be standing lower than the ladder’s full height.
So, for example, a 10-foot stepladder has a reach height of 14 feet.
That reduces your reach typically to around a foot lower than the extension ladder’s height.
Lighter Weight Means Easier to Move
Lightweight ladders are much easier to moveplain and simple.
Aluminum ladders are among the lightest options, with some weighing as little as 20 pounds.
Fiberglass options can tip the scale at around 50 pounds and may require a bit of heavy lifting.
Many large, heavy stepladders and multi-position ladders have wheels at the base for improved portability.
Another helpful feature to look for is a top platform to support paint, tools, and other supplies.
Our best step ladder, theCosco 6-foot Signature Series Aluminum Step Laddereven has a spot to hold paper towels.
The five categories of ladder duty ratingsare:
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written byMichelle Ullman, a writer for The Spruce since 2020.
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Our Experts:
Ladders 101: Choosing the Right Ladder.American Ladder Institute.
You can also use the top platform of the Cosco 6-Foot Step Ladder for easily accessing supplies..PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Despite the size and weight of the Louisville 16-Foot Fiberglass Ladder, its relatively easy to moe.PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson
The HBTower 3 Step Ladder has sturdy plastic rungs that have plenty of space for your feet.PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
We tested over 20 ladders, paying attention to the sturdiness of each most of all.The Spruce
