In this day and age of do-it-yourself home improvements, the need for step ladders have become increasingly abundant.
Even for those who haven’t caught the do-it-yourself bug, this ladder has become an essential tool to everyday living.
It’s vital to note however, that all aluminum step ladders aren’t created equal. Due to the bevy of functions made available to us by the manufacturers, finding the right one to fit your specific needs can become quite a challenge.
Therefore, when shopping for a step ladder, it’s important that the you, the consumer, keeps several things in mind: 1.) what the ladder will be used for, 2.) the ladder’s weight restriction, 3.) how tall it needs to be, 4.) personal style and taste, 5.) what accessories the ladder is equipped with, and 6.) how much you are willing to spend.
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What The Ladder Will Be Used For
In choosing the right step ladder for your home, it’s best to keep in mind what it will be used for.
If the ladder will be used for everyday activities such as obtaining things off of high shelves, dusting hard to reach places, changing light bulbs, or hanging pictures, the best step ladder for this job would be a regular three-step, foldable ladder.
It’s tall enough to take care of those everyday chores, yet small enough for easy storage.
If the ladder will be used for larger household projects such as changing high recess lighting, painting your home’s interior, or other light home renovations, the best fiberglass step ladder for this job would be a three-step project platform ladder.
Ideal for household projects, these ladders come equipped with project trays for security and convenience, in addition to secure handle grips.
Although a little taller than it’s smaller counterparts, these platform step ladders are still easy to use and easy to store.
The Ladder’s Weight Restriction
In addition to determining what the ladder will be used for, it’s just as important to purchase one that is in keeping with your personal weight restriction.
Usually starting at a maximum weight limit of 225 lbs, most wood step ladders are only manufactured to hold a maximum weight limit of 330 lbs.
Here’s a tip: If it’s additional safety you are looking for, be sure to purchase one that comes equipped with slip-resistant feet and steps.
How Tall Do You Need It?
Depending on the type of job you’ll need the ladder for, being knowledgeable about the maximum extended and maximum working height is vital as well.
Once you’ve determined that information, take in consideration your height and combine that with the maximum working height suggested on the wooden step ladder.
Here’s a tip: Before making a purchase, stand on the ladder and visualize the space you‘ll be working in. Usually, this is a sufficient way to gauge the height of the rolling step ladder that’ll meet your needs.
Your Personal Style And Taste
Step ladders come in a variety of styles, colors, and materials.
Normally made from fiberglass, wood, aluminum, or metal, with colors ranging from your basic silver to mahogany, homeowners can usually find one that will fit their personal style and taste.
If you’re into the retro look, Vintage Retro Chair step-stool ladders in bright reds, whites, blacks and off-whites are the way to go.
If it’s a classic style you’re trying to achieve, the basic 3 step ladders made from darker mahogany woods to lighter woods is your perfect bet.
In addition to getting the job done, their classic looks will blend well with your home-décor.
What Accessories Are The Step-ladder Equipped With?
A standard safety step ladder is usually manufactured to help the homeowner care for the absolute basic activities around their home. There are few expectations though.
If you’re an elderly homeowner, or a homeowner with special needs, extension step ladders that are equipped with extra-wide steps, safety handrails, jumbo chairs with lift-up seats, or step ladders with wheels, will provide you with extra security and easier mobility.
For the self professed do-it-yourselfer’s, heavy duty step ladders that are equipped with project trays and hand grips are perfect, since they provide homeowners with convenience and safety.
How Much Are You Willing To Spend
The ultimate determining factor that influences what step-ladder you will or will not purchase, is price.
With prices ranging from as little as $30 to $100 or more, the price of telescoping step ladders depend much on where they are purchased, the brand name, the materials used in manufacturing them, as well as the function of, height of, and accessories that they are equipped with.
Widely available at home improvement stores such as Lowe’s and Home Depot, major retail chains such as Target and Wal-Mart, as well as online, the perfect tall step ladder is right at your fingertips.
So if you’re in the market for a step ladder, use these simple tips and take the challenge out of choosing the right one for your home.
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