A ladder is very useful in helping you get things that you want to reach. However, just using any ladder when you are working in a stair is not a good idea. You will likely get into an accident, which can be prevented if you get the best ladder for stairs.
The usual problem you will have in putting a ladder in the stairs is its uneven surface. You will have a hard time balancing the ladder, and it may even slip off. Aside from that, the stairs’ steps also have limited space, so it may not accommodate you and the ladder at the same time.
However, ladders for stairs are designed to suit the stairs’ structure so you can do any work without any problem. It is very suitable for those who have a problem decorating their walls or changing their bulb because of their stairs. Aside from that, it can still be used as an ordinary ladder to do any work even if there are no stairs.
Are you interested in getting this kind of ladder now? If you are, you should do your research first to get your money’s worth. It will also help you know what ladder you should get.
Top 10 Best Ladder For Stairs
Searching for the best ladder for stairs is not as easy as you may think. You will need to know what brands are the best and what to look for, so you get the right one. To help you out, here are the best ladder for stairs in the market that you check out.
1. Little Giant Ladders Velocity M13 Multi-Position Ladder
The first on the list is a ladder made by a well-known company, so you can be assured that it is made of high-quality aluminum. It is also a multi-position ladder so that it can be a stair ladder, A-frame ladder, scaffolding system, 90 degrees, and an extension ladder. With that, you don’t need to buy different ladders for the work you want to do since it’s all in one.
It is lightweight and easy to maintain and can carry up to 300 pounds of weight. There are dual pin hinges and rock locks that will make sure that it is secure and safe. It also has a rubber foot to prevent any slipping so you can climb without any problem.
Features
- Aluminum construction
- Wide flared legs
- Multi-position Ladder
- Dual pin hinge and rock locks
- Type IA
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Can carry up to 300 pounds
- It can be used in different ways
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Need to be oiled regularly, especially its joints
Why you should buy
If you need a reliable ladder to help you reach things in the stairs area, this will help you out. It will give you the stability and security that you need when you work on the stairs.
2. Ohuhu 12.5 FT- Best Telescoping Ladder
Next is a telescoping ladder that will ensure that you can do any work on your stairs without falling off or getting into accidents. The ladder has a height of 12.5 feet so that you can use it at home or any commercial building.
Besides that, since it is a telescoping ladder, you will not have a hard time carrying it and finding a space. Once it collapses, its height decreases by 40 inches, so it will not take up ample space. You will also like that its weight limit is 330 pounds, which means it is very durable.
For its durability, they used a high-quality aluminum alloy, so it’s strong and lightweight at the same time. It has non-slip caps to prevent any accidents from happening. The ladder also retracts and expands slowly so you won’t accidentally get hurt while using it.
Features
- Telescoping ladder
- Aluminum construction
- Portable
- One button retraction
- Safe to use
- Versatile
- Type IA
Pros
- Compact
- Portable
- Easy to use
- You don’t need big storage
- It has anti-pinch features
Cons
- It needs to expand first because you can use it
Why you should buy
If you need a ladder that will help you paint the walls or change the bulb on the stairs, this ladder will help you. It is stable and safe, so you won’t be in danger while climbing this ladder.
3. Little Giant Ladders – Best Multi-Position Ladder
If you are searching for ladders for stairs for painting walls, then getting this ladder is a good choice. It is designed to work with uneven surfaces like the stairs to work without any problem with stability. The dual ratchet is adjustable, which will help you get a level and stable ladder to climb.
Besides that, they also put wide flared legs and rungs so it can be stable and balanced while climbing. It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds, so it is durable and will not break easily. The ladder’s height is 17 feet, so you can easily reach anything you want to reach with this ladder.
Features
- Ratchet levelers
- Aluminum construction
- Multi-position ladder
- Wide flared legs and rungs
- Type IA
- Quad-lock hinges
Pros
- long-lasting
- Levelers allow you to work on uneven surfaces
- Very stable and safe
- Easy to use
Cons
- A bit heavy
Why you should buy
If you want an effective ladder that will allow you to work easy and fast around uneven surfaces like the stairs, get this ladder. It offers great stability and security to ensure that you are safe while working on the stairs.
4. Louisville Fiberglass – Best 6 Feet Ladder
This ladder is made from a very sturdy fiberglass material, which will last for a long time. It can carry up to 300 pounds of weight, so you can be assured that it’s durable. It has a nice design to it and will let you work confidently on a ladder.
The whole ladder is designed to help you in your work, so they put a molded top. That molded top has slots where you can put your tools and other stuff you may need while you are on the ladder. It is also not conducive, so you will not get electrocuted while you’re working around electricity.
It’s also not that heavy it only weighs 17 pounds, unlike other fiberglass ladders. The ladder also has an anti-slip feature to ensure that it will stay in place every time you climb it.
Features
- Molded top
- Fiberglass construction
- Type IA
- Nonconductive
- anti-slip feature
Pros
- Heavy-duty ladder
- Can carry up to 300 pounds
- It won’t slip because of its anti-slip pads.
- It has slots for your tools.
Cons
- It may not last long compared to other ladders.
Why you should buy
If you want a durable ladder that can help you work securely on the stairs, this is a good option. It will not let you down since it offers excellent stability and security while you work.
5. Cosco Telescoping Multi-Position Ladder – Best Anti slip Feature
If you need a ladder that you can use anywhere in your house, including in the stairs area, this one is a good option. It is a five-in-one ladder where it can be a stair ladder, A-frame ladder, extension ladder, scaffolding, and 90 degrees ladder. The ladder is very efficient, so you will not regret getting it for your house.
Aside from that, it is also solid so that you can depend on its durability. It is also made sure that you are safe when you use this ladder by adding a patented design hinge and great locking levers. Its every rung, and its feet also have an anti-slip feature so it won’t slip in any way while you are on the ladder.
Features
- Multi-position ladder
- Aluminum construction
- Type IA
- Anti-slip features
- Patented design hinges and large spring locking levers
Pros
- Easy to use
- It can be used in different ways
- Easy to set up
- Its rungs and feet have anti-slip
Cons
- Get easily corroded, need to maintain regularly.
Why you should buy
It is a versatile folding ladder that you can use anywhere, especially works that need to be done on the stairs. It will surely help you reach things you can’t reach safely, unlike other ladders.
6. Werner MT-22 Telescoping Ladder- Best Aluminum Construction
This ladder is also one of the best ladders for stairs that you will find in the market. It is made by a trusted company who is known for producing high-quality products. The ladder can be used in different ways like an extension ladder, scaffolding, A-frame, step ladder, wall ladder, and stairway ladder.
With its telescoping design, you will not have a hard time finding a space for this ladder. It is also very durable to use in any job for a very long time. Every rung has double rivets to make sure that it’s secured every time you step on it. The maximum height of the ladder is 22 feet, but if you make it an A-frame ladder, it will become 9 feet.
Features
- Aluminum construction
- Durable
- Multi-position ladder
- Soft-touch push knobs
- Double-riveted rungs
- Type IA
Pros
- Easy to use
- Secured and versatile
- Strong and reliable
- It can be used in different ways
Cons
- It’s heavy to carry
Why you should buy
If you need a reliable ladder to be used anywhere in the house and give you stability and security, get this ladder. It will surely help you finish the job you need to do without any frustration and accidents.
7. Tacklife Extension Ladder – Best Compact Ladder
This ladder is made from aluminum, so it’s durable and can last long even with no regular maintenance. It is easy to use and can do any job you want it to do since it’s a multi-purpose ladder. The ladder offers great stability so it won’t get fall easily or wobble while you are climbing.
It has great joints and bolts to make sure it is secure, and it’s easy to twist and turn. Every step is wide so that you can step on it properly with less pain. The ladder can carry up to 300 pounds without any problem. It’s effortless to use and set up, so you will surely finish your work in no time.
Features
- Aluminum construction
- Type IA
- Compact
- Lightweight
- 13 feet tall
- Multi-position ladder
Pros
- Easy to use and set up
- Easy to carry around where you work
- Very stable and does not wobble.
- It is easy to secure.
- Durable
Cons
- Heavier than others
Why you should buy
It is a multi-purpose ladder that is very durable and stable, so you will feel secure every time you use it. You don’t need to worry about falling off the ladder every time you want to change the bulb or hanging things on the walls.
8. Top Rung Multi-purpose Ladder- Effortless Set-up
It is another multi-purpose ladder that you can use when you want to work on the stairs. The design offers you the stability to balance yourself on the ladder easily and do your work fast and efficiently. It can carry up to 300 pounds of weight, so you can be assured that it’s durable and will not break easily.
You will never have any problem balancing yourself with this ladder since it has wide rungs that will keep you comfortable. It is also slip-resistant, so you will never slip off the ladder so you can easily climb with no worry. The ladder is also compact, so you will not have any problem carrying it or storing it.
Features
- Multi-purpose ladder
- Aluminum construction
- Type IA
- Wide rungs
- Anti-slip features
- Compact ladder
Pros
- Efficient ladder
- It can be used in different ways
- Compact so you can carry it anywhere you work
- Easy to use and set up
Cons
- It needs regular maintenance to keep it in good condition.
Why you should buy
It is an efficient ladder that you can use whenever you need to reach high areas. The ladder is easy to use and set up to easily finish your work without any problem.
9. Orientools Extension Ladderbest Anti Skid Feet
This extension ladder can also be used in different ways. It is 19 feet tall and weighs 41 pounds. The ladder is also made from aircraft-grade aluminum, so it is durable and will last longer than other ladders. You can use this great ladder, especially if you will paint your walls on the stairs.
It can hold up to 300 pounds of weight, and you will not have any pains while climbing the ladder. The wide rungs will keep your feet comfortable when you work while using this ladder. It is also a rolling ladder since it has wheels that you can use to move the ladder to whichever place you want to put it.
Features
- Multi-purpose ladder
- Type IA
- Aluminum construction
- Wider rung
- Flared legs
- Wheels
- Anti-skid feet
Pros
- Durable aluminum frame
- Can carry heavy weigh up to 300 pounds
- Versatile
- It can be used in different ways
- Long enough for any kind of work
Cons
- A bit heavy
- One person can only use it at a time.
Why you should buy
It is a versatile ladder that can surely help you do your work in the stairwell. It is easy to use and has excellent features, so you should consider this when choosing a ladder for stairs.
10. Vulcan Ladder Step Ladder- Best Wide Base Ladder
Finally, a ladder is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, very durable, and can be used in any work you want to do. What great about this ladder is it can be configured in 23 ways depending on where you need it. Each configuration will surely allow you to do any work smoothly and fast without any problem without worrying about stability and security.
They also made sure that you will feel comfortable and stable, so they make its base wide. It also has patented hinges, so you can easily configure whichever you want it to be. To last longer, they make sure that it won’t get easily corroded, and it can also withstand any weather and oxidation.
Features
- Aluminum construction
- Multi-purpose ladder
- Type IA
- Wide base
- 23 configuration
- Patented hinge
Pros
- It can be used in 23 different ways
- It has a broad base, so it more stable than other ladders
- Very durable
- 17 feet tall
Cons
- It still needs to be regularly maintained.
Why you should buy
It can be configured in different ways so you can do any type of work without any problem in adjusting your ladder.
How to Use a Ladder on Stairs
Ladder and stairs are not a good mix, but you will need them, especially if you are painting the walls, renovating, changing the bulb, or hanging decoration on the wall in the stairs. Here are some tips to ensure that you will not have any problem using your ladder on the stairs.
1. Use a Ladder Aide
A ladder aide can help give you an even and level base so you can have a stable and secure ladder in your work. You just need to set it up and mount your ladder on it, and it is ready to use. Ladder aide is very easy to use and set up, so you will not have a hard time using it.
2.Try Ladder Leveler
A ladder leveler will help you with stability since it can be used as an additional joint of the ladder. It can be used on both legs or just one to level it on the other leg, which sits on the higher stair step. This ladder leveler is also easy to set up and can be used in different types of ladders.
3. Make a Scaffolding
Making a makeshift scaffolding can also help you have a level base for your ladder. You don’t need to buy any tool to prop the ladder when you work on the stairs. That is good, especially if you are just using it once. However, you may have a problem with it when its height didn’t match the next step on the stairs.
4. You Can Use a Specialty Ladder
This kind of ladder is made for specific purposes. For example, a ladder for stairs is designed to give you better stability and safety while you are working. You don’t need to add things to your ladder since you just need to set it up, and you can use it already.
Precautions When Using Ladders in Stairs
When working with ladders and stairs, you will need to be cautious to prevent any accidents from happening. Here are some tips to be safe while working.
- Get the Right Ladder
You must choose the right ladder before you do any work. It is to ensure that that ladder will give you the right stability and safety you need before you work. Using just any ladder can lead to accidents that you surely don’t want to have.
- Inspect It Before Using
You need to inspect it before using specialty ladders that have not been used for a while. There is a chance that some of its parts are not working properly or have rust already. Make sure to check it and ensure that every part is still in good condition.
You may also like: Best Non-slip Stair Treads
- Stand It Properly
Before you step on the ladder, guarantee that it stands properly, ensure that its legs are resting in the ground or on a stable base correctly. It is to make sure that it will not wobble or fall when you step on it.
- Climb Properly
After setting it up correctly, you will need to make sure that you climb on it correctly. Remember that you need to have 3 points of contact with the ladder so you won’t easily fall. Besides that, remember to position your body correctly and always face the ladder.
- Don’t Carry Load
One of the reasons people usually fall from the ladder is because they try to climb while carrying many things. Carrying many loads is not good since the weight is not balanced correctly, resulting in accidents. Make sure not to take many things, and remember to have 3 points of contact with the ladder. If you need to carry many things, then bring them one by one or ask for someone’s help.
What to Look for in The Best Ladder for Stairs-The Buying Guide
Although you can get a ladder for stairs in the nearest hardware store or online, it is still important to know what to look for to get your money’s worth. It is also to make sure that the ladder you will get is made with quality and durability. What you will read below are the things you can use to get the best ladder for stairs.
- Materials Used
In looking for a ladder, it is essential to check what it is made from. It is to make sure that it will suit the job you will use it for. The ladder can be made from aluminum or fiberglass.
Aluminum is lightweight, so you will not have a hard time carrying it any place. It is durable, so it can last for a long time, which is suitable for your budget. This material is also rust-free and will not get easily corroded. It is also effortless to maintain, so you don’t need to clean it that much unless you use it regularly.
The downside of the aluminum ladder is it’s not suited when you work around electricity or under the sun. Aluminum is conductive, so make sure not to use it when you are handling electricity. It’s also not heat-tolerant, so it will be hot to touch or bend when working under the sun or hot environment.
On the other hand, fiberglass is rigid, so it’s very durable and will last longer than different ladders. It can withstand any kind of weather, especially heat. The ladder made from fiberglass is also safe to use when you are working around electricity.
The downside of using fiberglass is its heaviness. You will have a hard time carrying everywhere you work. It is also on the pricier side and needs regular maintenance than aluminum. However, keep in mind that any material can be conductive to electricity as long there is water.
- Height
In getting a stair ladder, it must have the right height so you can reach the place you want to reach. Think where you will use it, and if it’s mainly for the house, then get a ladder that you can use inside or outside the home. This way, you will avoid getting a ladder that you can’t use because of its height.
- Weight
It is also best to look at the weight since a heavy ladder will be hard to move. Make sure to get a ladder that you can easily use depending on where you will use it. If it’s just for house use, then get a lighter ladder so you can carry it around the house.
- Load Capacity
You can also check how much weight the ladder can carry. Ladders actually have a label listing how much weight it can take, and you can use it to determine how much weight it can hold. The ratings are as follows:
1. Type IAA – 375 pounds (professional use)
2. Type IA – 300 pounds (professional use)
3. Type I – 250 pounds (industrial use)
4. Type II – 225 pounds (commercial use)
5. Type III – 200 pounds (household use)
In checking the rating, you also need to keep in mind that you need to add the load you will be carrying on the ladder. This way, you will not have any accidents if the ladder can’t withstand your weight and your load when you use it.
FAQ’s
How do you level the ladder on the stairs?
You can use tools like ladder aide or ladder lever to have a level base for the ladder. You can also make a makeshift scaffolding.
Can you use a ladder on the stairs?
There are specially designed ladders that you can use on the stairs to give you better stability and security.
Why do I need a ladder for stairs?
Using a ladder for stairs will give you the sufficient stability and security you need when working on the stairs. It will help you reach things you can’t while ensuring that you will not have any accidents.
Conclusion
Using an ordinary stair ladder is not a very good idea. You can fall and get into an accident, which you can prevent if you get a specialty ladder. Ladder for stairs is made to use for stairs since it will give you the stability, safety, and confidence you need to do your work correctly.