Do you want to change the gutter or reach the ceiling but have no means? Well, a step ladder might be the type of ladder that you need. However, you need to purchase the best step ladder for the tasks you need to accomplish.
What’s a step ladder?
This is a small folding ladder that has flat steps as well as a small platform for stepping.
Parts of a step ladder
A step ladder has several parts including anti-slip safety shoes, the spreaders, the top cap
Image source: American ladder institute
My choice for the best step ladder would be the Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder, 300-Pound Duty Rating, 15422-001
Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder
Reasons for choosing the Little Giant 22-Foot Multi-Use Ladder:
- This step ladder can extend up to 19 feet. That is a favorable height and you can do almost everything with it.
- Has an industrial rating of 300 lbs and exceeds all OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration )and ANSI (American National Standards Institute ) standards.
- Can be used to reach some of the toughest areas- including the vaulted ceilings, space above the staircase and the gutters.
- Light weight- the ladder weighs 39 pounds. There are other cheaper but heavy step ladders. If weight is not an issue, then you might consider purchasing a more cheaper but heavier ladder.
- The ladder is a multi-use. The ladder can be used in five different ways including being used as an extension ladder, staircase ladder or even an A-Frame ladder.
Ladder ratings
Since we’ve already mentioned the ladder rating for this specific step ladder, what’s ladder ratings?
The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standard Z11-12 stipulates the following:
| Grade | Description of Grade | Maximum Length |
| 1AA | Construction and industrial use; special duty with load rating of 170 kg (375 lbs) | 3.6 m (12 ft) |
| 1A | Construction and industrial use; extra heavy duty with load rating of 136 kg (300 lbs) | 6 m (20 ft) |
| 1 | Construction and industrial use; heavy duty with load rating of 113 kg (250 lbs) | 6 m (20 ft) |
| 2 | Tradesmen and farm; medium duty with a load rating of 102 kg (225 lbs) | 3.6 m (12 ft) |
| 3 | Household; light duty with load rating of 91 kg (200 lbs) | 2 m (6.5 ft) |
Therefore, when buying a step ladder, consider the ladder ratings. You need to understand the maximum length of a ladder, the description and usage.
Safety measures when using a step ladder
Even if you have the best step ladder in the market, you need to observe some safety measures when using a ladder. Some of them include:
Always move the ladder when you cannot reach. This might lead to a fall and damage yourself as a result.
Never climb the back of a step ladder. Check the ladder if its single-sided or double-sided step ladder.
Always face the ladder when climbing up or down. In addition, ensure you maintain a hard grip when shifting the steps.
Set up barriers if you must use the ladder in passageways. Failure to obstruct the other people or even vehicles might cause accidents.
Do not sit, stand or climb on the top shelf.
Observe the surfaces you’re mounting the step ladder. It is inappropriate to use slippery surfaces.
Avoid pushing or pulling the step ladder sideways.
Observe the condition of a ladder before using it.
Lock the braces after opening the ladder spreaders
Choosing the best step ladder
Use the following aspects and considerations to ensure you get home with the best step ladder:
Ladder ratings and standards
Very important especially if you want to know about the maximum load that a specific ladder can hold. Check the directions from the manufacturers.
Weight
Weight becomes a consideration if you need to carry the ladder to do your job. This means that you will need a lightweight ladder for such a case. An important aspect to note:- a heavier ladder doesn’t mean it’s safer and high quality. Consider a lightweight ladder without compromising on safety and quality.
Stability
The ladder should be stable when you are climbing up or down. Remember, safety comes first.
Materials, design and construction
I know you don’t want to keep on buying a step ladder every now and then. Consider the ladder that is made from high quality materials; it will last longer.
Price
If you are on a tight budget, make sure you don’t end up purchasing a low quality ladder. Enquire from your friends who have used such ladders before. That’s why the price comes last on my list.
Uses of a step ladder
A step ladder has different uses in your home. All the do it yourself (DIY) requiring height need a ladder. For instance, if you want to mount some photos on the wall but where the children cannot reach, you need a ladder.
When the gutter is leaking or loose, use a step ladder to reach.
If you wish to use a telescoping ladder, check this article.
Should you wish to check for other step ladders listed, check below.
