Best Ladder For Painting | Top 9 Picks in 2022

Taking control of the renovation of your home is one of the most liberating and gratifying parts of being a homeowner. And one of the most necessary tasks in the process is painting.

However, painting can become an annoying task without the right equipment, especially when you have to reach high spots on the wall or the ceiling. In order to do a satisfactory and efficient painting job, you need the best ladder for painting.

Unless you’ve undertaken a home painting project before, it can be difficult to figure out which painter ladder is most suitable for you. With our reviews and buying guide below, we believe you’ll find the right fit in no time.

Let’s get started!

Best Pick

With the benefits and uses of five ladders in one, the TACKLIFE Telescoping Ladder is bound to amp up your household painting project with its myriad features and capabilities.

Its super-strong aircraft-grade aluminum construction, safety functions, comfort quota, and high weight capacity also make this one of the best ladders for painting staircase!

Budget Pick

With an impressive weight capacity of 225 pounds in a strong and durable body of steel, this steel step ladder from Rubbermaid will become the perfect painting companion without making you break the bank. Easily folded and equipped with a handy tool tray, this step stool is perfect for low-key painting projects.

9 Best Ladder for Painting Reviews

Keeping in mind functionality features, durability, and versatility, we have rounded up the 9 following painter’s ladders for your consideration. Don’t worry; every product has been thoroughly researched!

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1. Louisville Ladder AS4008

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Sturdy Yet Lightweight Construction

Aluminum is the most popular construction material for ladders, and this one from Louisville easily proves why. Boasting a weight capacity of 225 pounds, this ladder is one of the strongest on the market.

Despite that, it’s super lightweight, weighing only 18 pounds; if you’re undertaking a large painting project, you will no doubt appreciate this feature.

Built for Security and Safety

A defining characteristic of the best ladder for painting the ceiling is dependable safety. With that in mind, Louisville has equipped this ladder with thick rubber treaded feet that promise to keep you steadily on your feet. Never worry again about losing your footing due to a rickety ladder!

Convenient and Functional

Painting is a process that requires significant effort, and something that makes it easier is having your tools and equipment close at hand. Thanks to the integrated molded top and pail tray on this ladder, you can access your paint easily and avoid having to make several trips down to get your stuff.

Pros

• Slip-resistant rubber feet allow for stability and safety
• Included molded storage tray allows you to work efficiently
• Available in a number of different sizes from 3 feet to 8 feet
• Integrated pail storage for an easy painting experience
• Meets or exceeds ANSI and OSHA safety standards

Cons

• Some users report defects in construction

Bottomline: With strong construction, functional design, and thoughtful safety features, this aluminum ladder will be the perfect companion for your house painting project. However, it’s a good idea to check the seller’s credentials before you buy, as some users report that their ladder arrived with defects.

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2. TACKLIFE Telescoping Ladder

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Five Ladders in One

Whether you’re searching for the best ladder for interior painting or an outdoor paint project, investing in a telescoping ladder like this one is your best bet. Its versatile design allows you to use it at varying heights, as an A-frame, 90-degree wall, or even step ladder.

What’s more, you can even use it as scaffolding. So if you’re taking on a big painting project, this is one of your best options.

Built for Ultimate Strength and Durability

In all of our research for painting ladders, this one stands out as one of the strongest. That’s no surprise, given that it’s made of aircraft-grade aluminum! And despite being super lightweight, it has an impressive weight capacity of 300 pounds. Need to work together with a friend? This ladder will let you do it with ease.

Ensures Your Safety and Comfort

Whether it’s painting, cleaning, or even gardening, household projects require one to move around quite a bit. So does your ladder come with large, smooth wheels to make that process easier? No?

Then maybe you need a Tacklife telescoping ladder in your life! But even if you prefer to stay in one place, the riveted steps and non-slip rubber feet ensure that you’ll be safe while doing it.

Pros

• Locking safety switches ensure your stability
• Smooth running wheels for enhanced portability
• Padded rubber feet keep the ladder firmly in place
• Can be used as a 90-degree, A-frame, step, or wall ladder
• Double-riveted steps enhance comfort and security

Cons

• We couldn’t find any cons for this product

Bottomline: With an impressively versatile 5-in-1 design, high-quality construction, and dependable safety features, it’s quite easy to see where this Tacklife ladder gets its super high rating!

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3. Louisville Ladder L-3016-08 Fiberglass Stepladder

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Tough, Heavy-Duty Construction

If you’re buying a ladder, no matter the purpose, it should be strong. Constructed from heavy, strong, and non-conductive fiberglass, this ladder is built to take a beating. It comes with heavy-duty gussets and bracing, which ensure that this ladder will serve you for longer.

Keeps Your Tools Accessible

Painting a house can be a tedious process, given all of the equipment required to carry it out. Particularly if you’re in the market for the best ladder for painting high ceilings, you’ll appreciate the importance of the storage-shelf top on this ladder.

It has a magnet tray, slots for your tools and drills, a hardware tray, a curved front, and a paint bucket holder – never make annoying trips back and forth again!

Built for Safety and Accessibility

A ladder as strong as this one is only as good as its level of safety. Well, not only does this one come with heavy, slip-resistant rubber treads, but it also has angled aluminum feet to keep the ladder steadily on its feet as you work. This is further facilitated by the included reinforcement plates.

Pros

• Available in 6 different sizes from 4 feet to 12 feet
• Non-conductive fiberglass construction keeps you safe from electrical hazards
• The pro-top shelf allows you to keep your things close at hand
• Heavy slip-resistant rubber treats ensure your stability and security
• Back brace and inside spreader brace enhance the ladder’s safety

Cons

• Some users report extreme initial stiffness before opening the ladder

Bottomline: With an ultra-strong non-conductive fiberglass body, this is the ideal ladder for painting projects in environments with electrical hazards. We particularly love the molded pro-top for keeping your tools close at hand. Although it’s not the most versatile ladder, it’s certainly one of the most durable!

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4. Rubbermaid RMS-3T 3-Step Steel Step Stool

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Robust Steel Construction

Whatever else a ladder may be, it should be strong. Thanks to its tough steel construction, this offering from Rubbermaid promises to be just that. Its tough and durable build not only gives it a substantial and healthy weight that holds its own but promises ultimate durability at a low price as well.

Designed for Your Convenience

Don’t compromise your peace and convenience for the sake of a ladder that’s not thoughtfully designed. A step ladder like this one, with a convenient built-in tool tray, should be your go-to when sourcing tools for your painting project.

With adequate space for your paint pail, brushes, and anything else you might require, this ladder is built to be the ideal painting companion.

Easy and Efficient Storage

One of our favorite things about this ladder is, without a doubt, its ultra-efficient folding design, which allows for convenient storage. So once you’re done with your painting project, you can bring this little guy along on other renovation tasks as well!

Pros

• Slim folding design built for easy storage
• In-built tool tray holds paint cans and tools with ease
• Comes in a variety of size configurations from 1-step to 3-step
• Ideal for small-time, low-key home painting projects
• Padded rubber feet keep the ladder stable and protect your floors

Cons

• Somewhat heavy; does not offer much portability

Bottomline: Durably built and designed with convenience in mind, this steel step ladder from Rubbermaid is ideal for small-scale painting projects around the house. It’s obviously not suited to painting high ceilings or tall walls, though. So, if that’s what you’ll be doing, you should look elsewhere.

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5. Cosco Three Step Max Steel Work Platform

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Provides Secure and Stable Footing

This ladder exemplifies what’s so great about step ladders: with its wide, non-slip treaded steps, this little guy promises to stay steadily on its feet as you work. Plus, getting an even footing is that much easier, as well!

Easy Storage and Portability

Having to put your stuff away at the end of a busy workday can make you feel like the life is being sucked out of you. With its one-hand lock-release mechanism, this ladder won’t be part of the problem. And because it folds up so compactly, storing it anywhere is easy, too!

Integrated Project Tray for Your Convenience

One of the main reasons this ladder ended up on our list is, yes, you guessed it: its built-in tool tray! Whether you’re working with painting equipment or other materials, the tray makes it all accessible and easy to grab whenever you need.

Pros

• Super easy to fold up and store away using one-hand release
• Large and wide slip-resistant platform steps for safety and comfort
• Molded worktop shelf lets you store your equipment close by
• Has a high-weight capacity despite being relatively lightweight

Cons

• Prone to slipping under pressure

Bottomline: With its straightforward, nifty design, this is one of our favorite step ladders. We love its wide treaded steps and easy folding mechanism. However, there are some concerns that the non-slip feet are inefficient. Given that this ladder is meant for light-duty use, though, we think that’s fine. Don’t expect it to let you paint high spots!

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6. Rubbermaid RM-SLA3-T 3-Step Ultra Light Aluminum Step Stool

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Strong and Enduring Aluminum Construction

As you may know by now, aluminum is our favorite construction material for ladders. Not only is it robust and strong, but it also promises nearly unmatched durability! And you’ll be pleased to hear that this ladder can accommodate up to 225 pounds of weight at a time, too.

Portable and Lightweight

Despite its super strong and durable aluminum construction, this ladder is also surprisingly lightweight, measuring only 7 pounds in weight. Its swift folding mechanism takes just seconds to deploy, while its top handgrip allows you to move the ladder from one workstation to another with ease.

Designed with Convenience in Mind

The functionality of your ladder should be the last thing on your mind as you undertake your painting project. Thanks to the built-in tool tray, wide plastic top step, and non-marrying feet, this ladder is here to make your life easier.

Pros

• Wide top plastic step for stability and comfort while working
• Super strong yet ultra-lightweight 7 lbs aluminum construction
• Folds up easily for convenience in storage
• Equipped with non-marring feet to keep your floor safe
• Top hand grip allows for easy carrying and movement

Cons

• Not meant for heavy-duty applications

Bottomline: We like this aluminum step ladder from Rubbermaid for its lightweight build, durable construction, and thoughtful functionality features. However, this ladder is suited mainly to odd jobs here and there around the house; we would not recommend it if you’re about to embark on a full-house painting or renovation project.

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7. WolfWise Aluminum Telescopic Extension Multi-Purpose Ladder

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Ideal for Painting High Spots

Taking on a large painting project that will require you to reach high-up spaces? Then this telescoping ladder might be the perfect companion for you. Extending up to 12.5 feet in height, this ladder is ideal for painting 1-story houses.

Although we wish the steps were wider, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a telescoping ladder, after all.

Smooth and Efficient Operation

Convenience is the name of the game when it comes to this ladder. Retracting the ladder from its full height takes only 8 seconds at most, while the collapsing mechanism is such that each step falls smoothly behind the last, precluding any damage to your fingers.

Strong and Dependable Construction

Built from 6061 aluminum alloy and finished with Clean-Touch anodization, this ladder will surprise you with its strength. Not only will it last you for many years to come, but it can accommodate weights of up to 330 pounds! And because of its resistant construction, this ladder is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor use.

Pros

• Smart-Close system allows for smooth and slow retraction
• Retraction of the ladder takes only 8 seconds at most
• High-quality aluminum alloy construction with anodized finish
• Folds down to only a quarter of its extended size
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications

Cons

• The ladder is quite heavy and might be structurally unsound

Bottomline: If you’re looking for the best ladder for painting 1 story house, then this aluminum telescoping offering from WolfWise will suit your needs well. One major drawback, though, is the ladder’s plastic feet, which can either slip or damage your floors.

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8. Little Giant Ladders M26 26 Ft Multi-Position Ladder

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Built to Make Your Life Easier

Constructed from ultra-strong aluminum, this might be the best ladder for painting stairs that we have found. Why? This guy can be used as an A-frame/extension/90-degree/staircase ladder, or even as a trestle-and-plank structure.

Plus, making height adjustments is as easy as pushing just a few buttons.

Dependable Safety and Convenience

Equipped with rubber no-slip feet, this ladder is one that promises to stay on its feet as you work. Its Tip and Glide wheels allow you to move from one part of the worksite to another with ease. Transforming the ladder is a walk in the park with accessible palm buttons.

Gets the Job Done Quicker

This ladder isn’t just meant for ease, but swiftness, as well. Thanks to an intuitive design that accommodates the insertion of Little Giant’s Cargo Hold work pouch, you can keep all of your tools close at hand while you work. The work platform also allows you to keep your paint pail close at hand.

Pros

• Super strong and durable aluminum construction
• Integrated Rock Lock adjusters allow for swift and efficient ladder transformation
• Easily converts into extension, A-frame, 90-degree, or staircase ladder
• Tip & Glide wheels allow for easy mobility from one workstation to another
• Available in 4 different heights between 13 feet and 26 feet

Cons

• The ladder’s steps are a bit too narrow
• One of the heaviest ladders we have come across

Bottomline: With its strong aluminum construction and multi-use design, this is one of the most useful ladders you can buy. We do wish the ladder’s treads were wider, and yes, this is definitely one of the most expensive ladders we have reviewed. Given the features and functions it offers, though, we think that’s justified!

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9. Werner D1536-2 Aluminum Flat D-Rung Extension Ladder

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High Structural Strength

If you’re going to buy a ladder that’s 36 feet tall—like this one—then you must ensure that it’s tough. That won’t be a concern at all with this thing, given that it’s built from heavy-duty aluminum, with super-strength rungs that have been equipped with innovative Alflo rung joint connection.

Combines Safety and Performance

One of our favorite things about this ladder is its Traction-Tred rungs, which are built to be supremely slip-resistant. Although the rungs themselves are narrow, that’s a necessary trade-off for the considerable height of the ladder. For your peace of mind, though, you can always activate the ladder’s Shu-Lok spur feature!

Offers Smooth Operation

With such a tall ladder, smoothness and ease of use are paramount. Thanks to the robust spring-loaded locks on this thing, setting up and taking down this ladder is a walk in the park. Separation is also made easy thanks to a quick clip that prevents tangles and knots in the rope.

Pros

• Extra strong aluminum construction with numerous structural reinforcements
• Available in 8 different heights from 10 to 40 feet to suit your needs
• Slip-resistant Traction-Tred rungs promise to keep you safely on your feet
• Shu-Lok spur feature allows you to stay securely in place

Cons

• We couldn’t find any cons for this ladder

Bottomline: If you’ve been on the lookout for the best ladder for painting 2 story house, then we dare say you’ve found a close contender. And it’s not just because this ladder is so long!

It’s built for ultimate safety, performance, and functionality, and its super-strong aluminum construction is undoubtedly one of the most durable we have found.

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Best Ladder for Painting Buying Guide

A good painting ladder is an investment both in terms of money and time. So before making your choice, remember to keep the following factors in mind.

Ladder Type

As you may already know, ladders come in a variety of types. Especially in this day and age, the options available to you can be confusing. We’ve discussed the main ladder types to make it easier for you to choose.

Platform

As the name might suggest, a platform ladder is such that it has a shelf stationed at the very top of an A-framed design. This shelf, or “platform,” is ideal for painting because it allows you to store your tools and accessories close at hand while you’re on the ladder.

You don’t want to have to climb down again and again to get your stuff. Do note, however, that these ladders are quite large and hefty, so they require a lot of storage space.

Step Ladder

Ah, the trusty step ladder; probably every household has one. Convenient and comfortable, these ladders tend to be easy to set up and easy to fold and store away.

These ladders are well-suited to low-key painting projects; however, since they usually aren’t very tall, they’re not recommended if you’ll be painting spots very high up.

Related: Top 7 Step Ladders Reviews

Extension

Have you ever seen the kind of ladders that firefighters use? You know, the kind that opens up and seems to stretch on forever? If so, then you already know what an extension ladder is. Needless to say, such a ladder can be very helpful if you’ll be painting long vertical distances.

That being said, because of their very nature, extension ladders don’t come with a lot of support—you won’t find an A-frame here, and you’ll have to lean the ladder against a wall to be able to use it. Furthermore, you won’t have storage options on the ladder itself.

Multipurpose

We love the sound of a multipurpose ladder; it seems so nifty and functional! Also called articulating ladders, these guys typically combine features of many different ladder types.

For example, some can be lengthened like an extension ladder, while others can have their legs adjusted to different heights; the ideal ladders for stairs painting!

An articulating ladder is more than just a painter’s ladder. So, we’d suggest getting yourself one only if you think you’ll be using it for more. That’s because these ladders are quite heavy, large, and typically more expensive than other models.

Construction Material

Much depends on the material out of which your ladder is constructed; its strength and durability, of course, but also its useability in different scenarios. Typically, ladders are made from one of 3 materials: wood, metal, and fiberglass.

Wood

The classic choice in ladder construction material, wood has a variety of benefits. On top of being the most affordable, wooden ladders are also non-conductive, meaning they won’t put you at risk of electrical shock. Plus, wooden ladders are also super strong and sturdy.

On the other hand, wood is prone to elemental damage, which aluminum and fiberglass aren’t. Wood can warp or rot or be infested by tiny bugs that can eat away at the ladder from inside. Not something you want to deal with! However, if you can store your ladder in a safe, dry space, then you should be good to go.

Aluminum

By far the most popular material of choice in constructing ladders, aluminum offers a variety of benefits. Despite being so lightweight, it’s super strong and durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. Most ladders you’ll find on the market will be made from aluminum.

That being said, we would recommend steering clear of aluminum if you’re going to be working in an area with exposed wiring or other electrical hazards. That’s because, as a metal, aluminum is a strong electricity conductor. You don’t want to turn into a human circuit when painting, do you?

Fiberglass

Although fiberglass has been around for a while, ladders made from the material are relatively new.

Fiberglass ladders tend to be cheaper than aluminum or wooden ones, although they’re not as strong. However, it easily resists corrosion and rust, and it’s suitable for use both indoors and outdoors. What’s more, it doesn’t conduct electricity.

Related: Best Ladders For Electrician

Additional Features

As we’ve discussed before, what you can expect from your ladder depends on its type. That being said, there are a few other features you might want to consider as well.

Storage Space

By this, we don’t mean actual storage on the body of the ladder but rather the width of the steps. Even if you don’t get yourself a platform ladder, it can be worth it to choose one that comes with wide steps that will allow you to store your equipment close at hand while painting.

Locking Support

This is of utmost importance wherever safety is a concern. You don’t want a ladder that collapses or folds in on itself while you’re on it! As such, ladders that come with locking support are preferred to those that don’t.

Non-Slip Treads

Another safety feature to look for in ladders is non-slip treads. Especially if they’re narrow, the steps of a ladder can be conducive to slipping and falling. So not only should the steps be built with non-slip materials, but it also helps if they’re wide.

Final Words

When choosing the best ladder for painting, remember that it’s important to take your particular needs and preferences into account. Beyond a solid construction, it’s also important to prioritize safety and comfort features such as the ones we’ve read about today.

No matter whether it’s a simple step ladder or a sophisticated telescoping model, we hope that you’ve found the right ladder for yourself here. If not, why not give our buying guide another read?

Good luck, and happy painting!