Are you looking for an amazing extension ladder to add your arsenal?
You've come to the right place!
In this ProPaintCorner.com guide, you will learn:
- What to look for in an awesome extension ladder
- How to identify the best ladder for your needs
- The top extension ladders on the market right now
And much more!
Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose and use an extension ladder as a painter or contractor!
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Our Top Pick
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Our Top Pick
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TACKLIFE 17ft. Extension Ladder
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Best Budget
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Best Budget
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Little Giant Ladders King Kombo Professional 6ft Ladder
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Best High End
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Best High End
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Little Giant Ladders SumoStance 28ft Extension Ladder
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Louisville Ladder Fiberglass 28ft Extension Ladder
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Louisville Ladder Aluminum 24ft. Extension Ladder
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Werner 32′ Extension Ladder
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Bowoshen 16.5ft Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder
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HyperLite 24′ Extension Ladder
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Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
(updated 9/3/2020)
The TACKLIFE 17 Foot Extension Ladder is a fantastic choice for those who want a multi-use ladder that also functions as a traditional extension ladder.
This ladder has 3 different position options that make it super versatile for all sorts of home improvement projects as well as for professional use.
Not only that, but it's loaded with all sorts of safety features and it's really easy to maneuver around.
If you're looking for a heavy-duty but versatile extension ladder, you can't beat this one!
Top 8 Extension Ladders For Painting
In a hurry? Check out our top 8 extension ladders! Keep reading to discover more about our top picks.
- TACKLIFE 17ft. Extension Ladder
- Little Giant Ladders King Kombo Professional 6ft Ladder
- Little Giant Ladders SumoStance 28ft Extension Ladder
- Louisville Ladder Fiberglass 28ft Extension Ladder
- Louisville Ladder Aluminum 24ft. Extension Ladder
- Werner 32' Extension Ladder
- Bowoshen 16.5ft Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder
- HyperLite 24' Extension Ladder
What Are The Different Types of Extension Ladders For Painting?
Extension ladders are one of the most versatile ladders on the market because they not only are able to reach heights most other ladders can't, but they tend to be great for a multitude of situations.
However, there are only 2 main types of extension ladders on the market right now.
Standard Extension Ladders
The main type is an extension ladder that has two parts that slide out to extend the length of the ladder. Most of the ladders on are list are this type of ladder.
What I love about this type is that they're super sturdy, and often times they are fiberglass extension ladders that are very lightweight and easy to transport.
Foldable Multi-Purpose Ladders
The second type of extension ladders are the ones that are also foldable into an A-frame style ladder and sometimes they come in a telescoping, multi-use ladder style that's highly portable. What I love about these types of ladders is that they're even more versatile for multiple applications.
Especially when it comes to painting, this second type of ladder can be an amazing option if you're looking to save money by using a single ladder to meet multiple home improvement needs.
The one thing I will say is you want to make sure to investigate the lock mechanism for these ladders to ensure that the folding capability is still going to be secure when using this as an extension ladder.
Read More >> What Are The Best Telescoping Ladders Out There?
How Do You Identify A Good Extension Ladder?
So that's all well and good, but how do you properly use an extension ladder once you buy one? Extension ladder protocol is a bit more involved than using a typical step ladder, often because you're working at greater heights and in more dangerous situations.
So, make sure to use standard ladder safety protocol no matter what type of ladder you're using.
Ensure that the ground you put it on is stable and secure. Make sure to have a spotter or someone to stabilize the ladder from the ground. And make sure you secure the ladder to the surface you're working with on the top bar.
Then, you want to make sure you're using the proper rung lock mechanism to ensure safety while you're on the ladder.
One last thing to consider is ensuring you don't pinch your fingers when retracting the ladder after you're done. This is one of the trickier parts of learning to use an extension ladder when you've never done it before.
Read More >> What Are The Best Paints For Painting Your Ceiling?
What To Look For In The Best Extension Ladders For Painting?
So I bet you're wondering: What should I look for in a high-quality, heavy-duty extension ladder?
And to that, I'd say...it depends!
It ultimately comes down to what you'll need to use this ladder for.
Ladder Height
For instance, if you're looking for a two-story ladder to clean your gutters, paint your ceilings, or change lightbulbs, you'll want to look for something that's tall enough to meet those needs.
So you'll want to have a measuring tape handy and figure out how high your rooftop, ceilings, and lightbulbs are before you buy!
Environments You'll Be Using The Ladder In
You'll also want to think about the types of environments you'll be using this ladder in.
For example, if you're going to be using it on uneven terrain, outside, or in other uncertain environments, you'll probably want to choose a ladder that has stabilizing feet that can rotate and secure the ladder in various situations.
Aside from those considerations, it's important to think about the safety standards you need the ladder to meet, for instance, weight ratings, ANSI ratings or OSHA compliant certifications. This will be especially important if you're planning on using this ladder on a job-site for professional use.
However, if you're just looking for a handyman ladder to use for DIY projects, these things may be less important.
Ultimately, you just want to make sure the ladder you choose is going to be sturdy and reliable in whatever situations you'll need it in.
Read More >> How Can You Paint Your Home's Exterior Yourself?
Safety Features
Another thing to look for is the durability factors that make a ladder safe to use.
For example, you want to look for something that has sturdy rung locks, slip-resistant rungs, safety shoes, and even side rails.
These things are often overlooked, but they make or break the safety of the ladder!
Weight & Portability
Chances are if you're looking for an extension ladder you're looking for something that is still lightweight enough to be easily transported.
That's what makes extension ladders so great! Because they're often made with fiberglass or aluminum which keeps their overall weight low.
That makes them an excellent option for someone looking for a portable option that they can lift and transport themselves
However, the ladders on this list do vary in overall weight quite a bit so make sure you look out for that when looking at the listing on Amazon.
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How Do You Choose The Right Ladder For You?
So now that we've covered the basics of using an extension ladder, you might be wondering how exactly to choose the right ladder for you?
Well, before choosing an extension ladder to add to your arsenal, I'd recommend considering these different key factors:
- What is the maximum height you'll need this ladder to extend to?
- Are you looking for a super portable ladder or more of a heavy-duty ladder?
- What's the maximum weight (load capacity) the ladder needs to hold?
- What type of ladder (multi-purpose foldable ladder vs. extension ladder) is going to serve your needs best?
- What types of safety features does it need to have (are you using it for professional use)?
Looking at these factors, which of the 5 is the most important to you?
For example, if you're looking for something for professional use that needs to easily fit inside your truck and be durable enough to use on a variety of sites, you'll want to be sure to prioritize that and look for something that's portable AND heavy-duty.
However, if you're a DIY fanatic looking for a good multi-purpose ladder for around the house, you'll probably be more concerned with the maximum height and the overall weight of the ladder.
Ultimately, you need to strike a balance between these 5 things when choosing an extension ladder to suit your needs for the long term.
Now that you've got a good idea of what to look for, the different types of ladders out there, and the safety features to look for, let's dive into our reviews of the best 8 extension ladders out there!
Our Reviews Of The 8 Best Extension Ladders For Painting
Pick #1: TACKLIFE 17ft. Extension Ladder
Our top choice is the TACKLIFE 17 Foot Extension ladder.
This little thing is super heavy-duty and safe ladder for both personal and professional use.
Plus, this ladder is equipped with all the safety features you should be looking for, like non-slip rubber feet, a safe protective switch, and double riveted steps.
Overall, this ladder is such a great value for the money and it's incredibly versatile.
It has three different locking positions, 2 of which are more of a "folding ladder" style and one of which is the extension ladder style.
This means it's a fantastic multi-position ladder to add to your arsenal!
Pros
Cons
Our top choice for budget extension ladders is this epic Little Giant 6 Foot Extension Ladder.
The King Kombo professional ladder is a fantastic choice for working around the house and doing all sorts of painting projects.
While it is a bit on the shorter side, it still has all the standard safety features you should be looking for in a high-quality ladder.
For example, it's made of non-conductive Hi-Viz Green Fiberglass which means it's safe to use around electric work.
Not only that, but it also meets or exceeds all OSHA and ANSI standards, which means you can use it professionally without worrying about its safety.
And it has the added factor of being much easier to fit into tight spaces like between wall studs and in roof or attic access ports.
So this little ladder could save you quite a bit compared to the bigger ladders on this list, and depending on your needs it might just be the perfect option for your home improvement projects!
Pros
Cons
model that reaches a whopping 28 feet high!
This ladder is by far the most heavy-duty extension ladder on the list, and it comes at a hefty price point.
However, if you're looking for something that you can use to reach really high ceilings, rooftops, and other precarious areas, this ladder is your best bet.
Just like Little Giant Ladders smaller counterparts, this ladder is made from non-conductive fiberglass, has non-slip feet, and is ANSI type 1A rated for safety.
It also comes built-in with bubble levels to help you ensure the ladder is completely level.
If you want an epic, two-story (and beyond) extension ladder, this SumoStance ladder is worth the investment!
Pros
Cons
Our next choice is this incredible Louisville 28 Foot Extension Ladder which also comes in sizes up to 40 feet tall!
This ladder will also run you a pretty penny, but it's for good reason.
Louisville Ladder has been making high-quality ladders for a very long time, and this extension ladder is no exception.
It's made of non-conductive fiberglass as well, with non-slip swivel feet, and d-rungs that make it easier to stand on. It also meets or exceeds ANSI 14.4 and CSA Grade 1 ratings for professional use.
Pros
Cons
For instance, it has mar-resistant end caps to reduce marring over time, it has fly section rail protection, and it meets all ANSI and OSHA standards.
Not only that, but it has their proprietary QuickLatch runglock protection which makes it so much easier to secure fly sections and base sections when extended.
This hefty ladder provides so many amazing features, and if you're specifically looking for a two-story aluminum extension ladder, you can't go wrong with this model.
Pros
Cons
Pick #6: Werner 32' Extension Ladder
Now for a heavy-duty champ, the Werner Ladder!
This 32-foot extension ladder is a beast when it comes to all sorts of home improvement projects, and Werner has been an industry leader for a long time due to their reputation of durability.
Since this ladder is built with aluminum construction, it's a bit on the heavier side, but it also offers so much durability because of that.
Plus, it has an Alflo rung join which means it provides twist-proof performance.
It also has slip-resistant d-rungs that make it easier (and safer) to climb.
If you want something high-quality to add to your toolkit, this Werner ladder is a tough one to beat!
Pros
Cons
Our next choice is this amazing, versatile telescopic ladder that also functions as an extension ladder.
The Bowoshen 16.5 foot aluminum extension ladder is jam-packed with amazing features for both safety and versatility.
Not only does this bad boy have a 330 lb. weight capacity, but it's also able to function as an a-frame or folding ladder, and it's collapsible when not in use which makes it easy to store.
Plus it's full of amazing safety features and a safety-focused locking mechanism for each rung which makes it possible to extend the ladder to the desired length.
If you're looking for a multi-purpose ladder to meet all of your needs, I'd highly recommend this ladder by Bowoshen, especially because it comes in 3 different heights that you can choose from.
Pros
Cons
Pick #8: HyperLite 24' Extension Ladder
Last, but certainly not least is the epic HyperLite 24 Foot Extension Ladder by Little Giant Ladders.
This ladder is super lightweight and easy to use, and luckily it comes in 3 different sizes as well, ranging from 20 feet all the way to 28 feet.
If you need a ladder that's lightweight enough to maneuver easily, this ladder might be the one for you.
It's also another non-conductive fiberglass ladder which makes it safe for electrical work and much more versatile for all sorts of projects.
Plus, it's OSHA and ANSI rated to meet all domestic and international safety codes for professional use.
If you're looking for something you can invest in and feel good about, this HyperLite ladder is an excellent bet, whether you're a DIY handyman or a professional contractor!
Pros
Cons
Our Top Pick: TACKLIFE 17ft. Extension Ladder
As a 17 foot extension ladder, it should be able to meet most of your home improvement needs pretty easily.
Plus, it's such a great value for the money. Check out the lowest price on Amazon now!
Final Thoughts On Finding The Best Extension Ladder For You
All-in-all, just about any ladder on this list is going to help you get the job done when it comes to painting projects.
The beauty of extension ladders is that they come in many different heights and they're some of the largest extendable ladders available right now that won't cost an arm and a leg.
Not only that, but they also are usually really easy to store compared to your typical folding ladder or step ladder.
No matter what you choose, just make sure you take the time to learn how to use your new ladder so you have the best experience possible and you won't need to learn as you go when you're already painting.
As always, happy painting my friend!
