Which is Best Ladder for Home Use?

 Sometimes we do things so automatically that we don't realize how dangerous they can be. Let's take an example where you can't reach something high and you use a chair or a stool. Do you always check that the support is stable? Unfortunately, it is this kind of carelessness that usually leads to many home accidents. This is why using a stepladder is a good solution to overcome this kind of problem. Indeed, in addition to avoiding accidents at home, the stepladder proves to be a very useful tool. It allows you to reach things at a high height, but also helps you when you have to do some DIY work yourself. This can be, for example, hang a picture or paint the walls of your home. In this comparative guide, we will also suggest that you discover the best stepladders on the market, according to tests and consumer reviews.

What is a Stepladder?

A stepladder is a tool that can be used for both home and professional use. No matter where you are, it is very useful because it allows you to reach high places. Most of the best stepladders are made from aluminum because it is a lightweight material. So you can easily move it from one place to another. Plus, since it's foldable, it can be stored anywhere for added convenience.

The best stepladders should be made with high quality materials and have good finishes. In addition, steps and support platforms must be provided with non-slip coatings to avoid any risk of accidents. If the stepladder is high, it will need to be equipped with a safety rail. Of course, your safety also depends on the use you will make of this tool. In this comparison guide, we'll cover the main things to consider.

Advantages and areas of application

Materials

Make sure that the materials used for the construction of the stepladder are adequate. It is essential that the tool is strong and resistant while being light so that you can easily transport it according to your needs. You should know that the better the quality of the stepladder , the longer it will keep.

The employer must ensure that the ladders, stepladders and running boards are made of appropriate materials taking into account the constraints of the environment of use. These materials and their assembly must be of a solidity and a resistance adapted to the use of the equipment and allow its use under conditions adapted from the ergonomic point of view.

Security

Here is another criterion that has been mentioned several times throughout this buying guide. It is logical that improper use of a stepladder could be dangerous and cause an accident. You must therefore check that the model chosen complies with all regulations, and that it is completely safe for you. Saving money is not worth risking your security.

Utilisation

The most important aspect to consider when buying a stepladder is what you are going to use it for. Of course, you don't have to buy a five-meter stepladder with a whole host of features if you only need a small stepladder . Also, if you think you're only going to use it occasionally, a very basic model is more than enough. On the other hand, if you plan to use it every day, invest preferably in a model with more advanced functions.

How to Use a Stepladder?

As we have already pointed out before, it is important that the stepladder is used with the utmost care. Be sure to perform some checks to make sure there are no problems and that you can ride on it safely. For example, you can check that the steps and end caps are in good condition and ensure that the stepladder is stable when you deploy it. Another important aspect is that the stepladder must be opened completely. In addition, it is necessary that the feet do not touch any surface other than the ground. You should always climb from the front and only one person at a time. Finally, make sure you are always accompanied when you use the stepladder in order to be taken care of quickly in the event of an accident.

How is a Stepladder Made?

Now that we have seen how to use a stepladder safely, let's see how it is made. This will allow you to know how to use it better and to check that the model chosen has all the necessary parts. Here is a table so that you can see more clearly: Stabilizing platform: Upper part of the stepladder which is used to place the utensils you need. Railing: Handrail located at the top of the stepladder, which is used to hang on. Safety bars: Bars located at the back of the stepladder that are used to stabilize it. Grab bar: Bar that connects the front and back of the stepladder and gives it stability. Tensioning cable: Serves to keep the stepladder open, so it must be in perfect condition. Steps: Used to reach different heights. Must have a non-slip coating. Protective caps: Reinforcements placed on the bearing surfaces.

How Much Weight can a Stepladder Support?

Generally, a stepladder can support a weight between 120 and 150 kilos, which is much more than the average weight of the average person. So almost everyone can use this tool. But as we have already indicated, it is essential that only one person at a time climbs on the stepladder, for obvious safety reasons. Even if the sum of the weight of two people does not exceed the maximum allowed, this tool is not suitable for more than one person to climb at the same time. Indeed, it would probably cause an imbalance as well as a fall.

How should the steps of a stepladder be?

The steps are an important part of the stepladder, so it is important that you learn a little about them. As indicated in the European standard NF-EN 131, the steps must have a depth of at least eight centimeters. In addition, they must be horizontal when using the stepladder. Ladders, stepladders and steps must be placed in such a way that their stability is ensured during access and use and that their rungs or steps are horizontal. The minimum distance between the steps should be 23 centimeters and the maximum distance 30 centimeters. We recommend that the steps of the stepladder have a non-slip coating. This is essential to prevent any risk of accidents. Finally, always check that the steps and end caps are in perfect condition.

How high is a stepladder?

The height varies according to the number of steps of the stepladder. This is a criterion that you must take into account when making your purchase. If the stepladder is too small and does not have enough steps, it will be a problem because you will not be able to reach objects or places placed at height. But if the stepladder is way too big, you'll probably spend more than you need, when a simpler model might have sufficed. 

What are the rules for using a stepladder?

We say it again and again but safety is paramount. You cannot ignore the recommendations made by experts in the field. Even if you use the stepladder every day, don't get too confident. This is exactly how accidents usually happen. Here are some tips to follow: Fully open the stepladder and place it on a completely flat surface. Use the handrails for your safety. Hold on to the steps as you climb the stepladder. We recommend that you use a harness for stepladders longer than three and a half meters. Do not use the stepladder barefoot. Don't try to move the stepladder when you're on top. Always make sure that the stepladder is in perfect condition. Do not hit the stepladder when transporting it.