Looking for a ladder that is comfortable to carry around and easy to maneuver?
You've come to the right place!
In this ProPaintCorner.com guide, you will learn:
- The best choice products when it comes to lightweight ladders
- Tips for ladder safety
- Which ladders are lightweight and easiest to move/use
And much more!
Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose and use the best lightweight ladders on the market!
Image | Product | |||
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Our Top Pick | Our Top Pick | Little Giant Ladders Velocity M22 Multi-Position Ladder
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| View on Amazon |
Best Budget | Best Budget | Werner MT-22 Telescoping 22-Foot Ladder
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| View on Amazon |
Best High End | Best High End | Cosco Smartclose Telescoping Aluminum Ladder
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| View on Amazon |
| Little Giant Ladders Flip-N-Lite 6-Foot Stepladder
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| View on Amazon | |
| Ohuhu Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
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| View on Amazon | |
| Louisville Ladder 8-foot Stepladder
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| View on Amazon | |
| WolfWise Aluminum Telescopic Extension Multi-Purpose Ladder
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| View on Amazon | |
| Kidde Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder
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| View on Amazon | |
| charaHOME Telescoping A-Frame Aluminum Extension Ladder
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| View on Amazon | |
| Delxo 2-in-1 Lightweight Aluminum 3-Step Ladder
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| View on Amazon |
Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
Updated On August 25, 2023
Our top pick is hands down anything from Little Giant Ladder Systems.
We have experience with these ladders, and we can tell you that they make the worksite so much easier because the leg lengths are adjustable on each side.
There are also many choices when going with the Little Giant brand, so you can find the specific ladder you need with a quality that is excellent.
Here is an example of a Little Giant Step Ladder that is lightweight, has a unique design, and makes reaching higher heights easier because of its staircase design.
When you show up to the job site with a Little Giant Ladder, you are going to look like the person for the job. And for around the house use, there is no ladder that is better.
Top 10 Lightweight Ladders
In a hurry? Check out our top 10 lightweight ladders! Keep reading to discover more about our top picks.
- Little Giant Ladders Velocity M22 Multi-Position Ladder
- Werner MT-22 Telescoping 22-Foot Ladder
- Cosco Smartclose Telescoping Aluminum Ladder
- Little Giant Ladders Flip-N-Lite 6-Foot Stepladder
- Ohuhu Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
- Louisville Ladder 8-foot Stepladder
- WolfWise Aluminum Telescopic Extension Multi-Purpose Ladder
- Kidde Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder
- charaHOME Telescoping A-Frame Aluminum Extension Ladder
- Delxo 2-in-1 Lightweight Aluminum 3-Step Ladder
What Are Lightweight Ladders For Home, Construction, And Painting?
The last thing you want to do is injure yourself carrying a ladder to where it's needed.
But you also don't want to injure yourself climbing up something that isn't sturdy enough to support your weight.
That's why we've provided you with this list of mostly OSHA and ANSI approved ladder to help you purchase a modern-style ladder that is both lightweight and sturdy enough to keep you safe.
What Are The Different Types of Lightweight Ladders For Home, Construction, And Painting?
Break that wood ladder up into pieces, and throw it into the fire. Here are the types of ladders that will help you complete your project without knocking into the walls:
Telescoping ladder
The new popular style of the ladder has a telescoping design.
This means that the legs slide down into each other(like a telescope) to compact into a smaller size than ever before.
Step ladder
Step ladders are great for consistently reaching heights that are just out of reach.
The best step ladders are typically brands like Louisville, Little Giant, and Werner, however, you will find some other good brands on Amazon if you search for the ones with high-reviews.
In fact, most painters and construction workers have a step ladder for those times when the extension ladder is too much to carry around.
Step stool
Step stools are another important tool because sometimes you don't need to reach up very high to reach the desired location.
For example, if you are cutting in the ceiling with a paintbrush, you might get exhausted by carrying a big ladder around the whole room. That's when step stools are ideal.
Fiberglass extension ladder
Fiberglass extension ladders come in handy when working around electrical work because they don't conduct electricity.
These ladders provide a sturdy design that won't break or bend as easily as aluminum, however, they are slightly heavier in weight, so take that into consideration when purchasing.
Hint: Werner makes some great 40-foot fiberglass extension ladders.
Fire escape ladders
We've also included some great ideas for fire escape solutions.
Some home building locations require that there is a lightweight fire escape ladder mounted on one of the upstairs windows for the event of a fire.
These ladders are probably some of the lightest actual weight you will find, and you could include them in storage applications, playhouse designs, and more.
Multi-position/Multi-purpose ladder
Multi-position ladders (like the Little Giant) make projects so much easier.
For example, say you need to touch up a paint spot above a staircase. You can't just set up any ladder.
You need one that folds into an A-frame form and that has legs that adjust to different sizes, so you can set the ladder on the stairs evenly without putting you at risk of falling off.
For this reason, multi-position ladders are a must-have when painting and performing other interior jobs like drywall mudding.
A-frame ladder/Folding ladder
Folding ladders differ from multi-position ladders because the legs typically don't adjust to different sizes.
A-frame ladders are still a great option for certain applications like touch up painting and exterior work like siding, soffit, fascia, etc.
The bottom line is that you purchase the right ladder for your project.
Read More >> What Are The Best Telescoping Ladders?
How Does Lightweight Ladders For Home, Construction, And Painting Work?
There are many different ladder designs that will do the job when it comes to your DIY project.
In fact, professionals often rely on a quiver of ladders that assist them in accomplishing different tasks.
An experienced painter, frame, drywall guy, or roofer, or any other construction master will always have a step ladder, extension ladder, and multi-position ladder ready for the job at hand.
Lightweight Is Key
A lightweight ladder makes things a whole lot easier when transporting tools between job sites, especially for those workers who visit multiple jobs per day.
Today's lightweight aluminum ladders save your back because they can extend up to heights comparable to heavy-duty steel or fiberglass extension ladders at a fraction of the weight.
Ladder accessories
There is a wide range of ladder accessories like this hook that easily attaches and lets you hang the ladder from the top of the roof.
You will also find ladder brackets that attach to two different ladders allowing you to hang scaffolding that makes working large areas much safer and easier.
Read More >> What Are The Best Multi Position Ladders?
What To Look For In The Best Lightweight Ladders For Home, Construction, And Painting?
Aluminum frame
Hands down, the lightest ladders will be made from aluminum.
Don't be mistaken, fiberglass and stainless steel ladders are still great options, and they are very sturdy to stand on, but they aren't lightweight and easy to move around like an aluminum ladder.
Rubber feet
Rubber grips to the ground better to help you stay safe on the ladder.
Telescoping
Telescoping ladders are a newer technology where the legs telescopically fold into each other for a compact and easy to transport ladder.
Duty Rating
Ladders have different ratings according to how much weight they can support. Look for ratings from OSHA and ANSI for the best quality ladder that won't cause problems in a professional work environment.
Here are the different ladder ratings according to a Hawaii University
Type III
These ladders are designed for light-duty use and not meant for withstanding heavyweights. You shouldn't try to carry heavy objects up a ladder that has this rating.
Type II
Type II ladders are designed for medium-duty use and have a duty rating of 200 pounds.
Type 1A
Type 1A is typically the strongest ladder rating that has a duty rating of 300 pounds.
For more help finding the perfect lightweight ladder for what you need, you might try checking out Youtube videos like this one:
Our Reviews Of The Best Lightweight Ladders For Home, Construction, And Painting
We'd be providing you with a disservice if we didn't tell you to purchase a Little Giant.
Little Giant Ladder Systems are so versatile and easy to use that you'll be pulling yours out all the time.
With an aluminum frame, plenty of extension height, and adjusting sides, the Little Giant is an unreplaceable tool for the job.
The Little Giant 22-foot velocity multi-use ladder is one of the best ladders you can purchase on the market today.
Little Giants are built with the most superior load capacity that can resist over 300-pounds, so you won't find a ladder that performs better.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Excellent versatility
- Must-have product
Cons
- Dominates the market
- Other cheaper options exist
- Isn't a fiberglass ladder
Werner is a popular choice in the construction industry because of its sturdy fiberglass frame, grippy steps, and easy to fold/unfold design.
Although its fiberglass doesn't make it the most lightweight ladder on the market, fiberglass is one of the safest materials to use around electricity and a skeleton that is hard to break or bend.
We recommend the Werner for heavy-duty outdoor jobs like roofing, soffit/fascia, siding, and more because they are always stable to stand on, and you won't need to buy another step ladder for years to come.
Pros
- Trusted brand
- Sturdy fiberglass design that doesn't conduct electricity
- A-frame stepladder
Cons
- Fiberglass isn't as lightweight as aluminum
- Doesn't fold down small
- Doesn't lock open or closed
Cosco makes a telescoping aluminum ladder that is sturdy and ready for any handyman or homeowner's unbridled attention.
The ladder game has changed, and you no longer need a lot of space to store or even set up your ladder anymore.
Telescoping ladders like this Cosco are the best option for specific uses like attic and roof access, and they are great for workers like home estimators who need to access heights but also drive a small sedan as their work vehicle.
Pros
- Innovating telescopic function
- ANSI Type 1a rating
- Fits inside a small car
Cons
- Doesn't stand up on its own
- Can't set up on stairs
- There are other telescopic ladder options
This Flip-N-Lite is a great ladder for quickly touching up paint spots, or cutting in ceiling lines without making your arms sore.
All Little Giant ladders are OSHA and ANSI tested and approved, plus they are manufactured in the USA.
Choose from four, five, and six-foot versions of the Little Giant Flip-N-Lite for all of those occasions where you find that you are slightly out of reach with a non-slip base that keeps you on top of the ladder and out of the emergency room.
Pros
- Convenient step ladder
- Sturdy ladder
- Lightweight aluminum frame
Cons
- Dominates the market
- Only goes to heights of 6 feet
- There are cheaper options for step ladders
Telescoping ladders are definitely going to be top-tier when it comes to saving weight because they are the newest technology and typically made of super-light aluminum.
Choose from an 8.5 or 12.5-foot Ohuhu ladder that is the perfect solution for storing in a tight space like a closet and whipping out when you need it.
Pros
- Convenient telescoping function
- Inexpensive
- Folds up small
Cons
- Doesn't go up very high
- Probably an imported product
- Doesn't stand up on its own (you have to lean it up against something)
Pick #6: Louisville Ladder 8-foot Stepladder
Louisville ladders make great lightweight step ladders like this one that is built with quality and comes with a limited warranty, and they also have heavy-duty extension ladders that go up to heights of 40+ feet.
You also might find this Louisville Attic Ladder might be the perfect lightweight ladder solution for your setup.
So, if you need a lightweight step ladder that is great for moving around from outdoor tasks, this Louisville model is a great option.
Pros
- Trusted brand
- Choose between step ladder or extension ladder
- OSHA and ANSI approved for safety
Cons
- Fiberglass is heavier than aluminum alloy
- Made in Mexico (foreign-produced)
- Leg lengths don't adjust individually
The Wolfwise is the best selling telescoping ladder on Amazon because of its versatile function and affordable price.
With its wide base and easy to transport size, this Wolfwise ladder competes with the Ohuhu and Cosco brands for being the best telescopic extension ladder on the market today.
Choose from three different sizes of the Wolfwise, including 8.5, 10.5, and 12.5 feet in length.
Pros
- Integrated carrying handle
- Smart-close system
- Retract the ladder in just 5-8 seconds
Cons
- Doesn't go as high as other ladders
- Doesn't stand up on its own
- Not ideal for climbing above staircases
Pick #8: Kidde Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder
It's always good to consider the event of a fire. That's why we've included this two-story fire escape ladder.
Not only is this a great ladder for the case of an emergency, but it's also super lightweight.
This is a product that is designed for disaster and with its surprisingly inexpensive cost and clever design, this might be a great option for your ladder solution.
Pros
- Flame resistant
- Rated for up to 1,000 pounds
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Not ideal for construction use
- Doesn't stand up on its own
- More dangerous for regular useer than plastic (harder to clean)
We had to include this revolutionary new design for a telescopic A-frame ladder because it is unique and very useful.
This is a super useful stepladder because it stands up on its own and folds up into a convenient size for portable use.
Easily store the charaHOME in the backseat of your sedan, and take to the road with confidence knowing you have a good ladder with you for the project at hand.
Pros
- Telescoping A-frame ladder than folds up small
- Independent locking system
- Detachable tool tray
Cons
- Shorter height than other ladders on this list
- May not be the lightest weight
- Manufacturing location unknown
Sometimes you don't need to get up too high, and that's where an aluminum step ladder comes in handy.
And when you search the lightweight ladder on Amazon, this is the first ladder that comes up, so it must be one of the best lightweight options for a step ladder.
Pros
- Aluminum construction that supports 330-pounds
- Easy storage
- Attractive design
Cons
- Doesn't go up very high
- More expensive than other step ladders
- Only 3 steps(not a 4-step ladder)
Our Top Pick: Little Giant Ladders Velocity M22 Multi-Position Ladder
Aluminum doesn't rust, so the Little Giant ladder is perfect for use in any condition. Plus, the slip-resistant legs that are individually adjustable will make touching up and reaching difficult areas a breeze.
In fact, if you are a painter, there are some spots that you literally can't reach without the help of an adjustable ladder like the Little Giant.
Support a company that still manufactures its products in the USA!
Little Giant provides jobs to over 200 American citizens.
Final Thoughts On Lightweight Ladders For Home, Construction, And Painting
Climb Safely
Take some tips from the National Safety Council for education in ladder safety.
Here are some things to remember when climbing a ladder:
- Set the ladder on a sturdy and level surface
You are at a much higher risk of injury when setting your ladder on a surface that isn't level.
If you are setting your ladder on a surface like dirt that isn't very sturdy, it's much more likely to slip out on you.
Climbing up on the roof? Roof climbing is possibly the most dangerous part of being on a ladder, so when you do climb up onto the roof, be extra careful.
Placing the ladder into the grass at an angle of 75-degrees in relation to the ground is a good place to start.
You might also try fastening the ladder to the rain gutters using a bungee cord to help prevent the ladder from falling off to one side or the other.
Tip: Sometimes it's necessary to place a ladder on a surface that isn't level. One tip you can try is to stick a board like a 2x4 piece of wood underneath the side that is sloped downward for an even sturdy ladder.
Every year thousands of people are injured and some are even killed from ladder accidents.
Here is another educative link from Penn State University that gives you some good pointers on how to climb a ladder safely.
The Options Are Limitless
After reading our list and checking sites like Amazon, you have probably learned that there are plenty of great options for a lightweight ladder that doesn't break the bank.
Picking one shouldn't be too hard, just be sure your ladder of choice has a high number of mostly 5-star ratings, functions the way you want it and you'll be good to go!
Questions?
Don't forget to hit our professionals with all of your paint questions on our Pro Paint Corner page!
Meet Your Pro Paint Corner Author
Ryan Nichols
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