What Ladders Can be Used on a Stairway: Comprehensive Guide

June 19, 2024 | Nate Cord

Painting and decorating is part and parcel of home improvement, and it’s usually pretty simple to do. That is, until you need to complete different tasks in a stairwell. Here, balancing a ladder can be quite tricky.

Safety should be your number one concern when doing any projects around your home, especially when using a ladder. Different tasks require different types of ladders, including working on stairs. The good news is that there are specially designed ladders for this very purpose.

Today, we are going to find out what ladders you can use on a stairway. We will also guide you through the main safety tips to ensure you perform your task safely and effectively.

Stair Ladders

When choosing a good stair ladder, you need one that can support you and give the best possible balance. As there is a higher risk of imbalance, certain types of ladders are best suited to stairs, such as:

• Combination ladders
• Multi purpose ladders
• Telescopic ladders

Work platforms and Hop Ups can also be used safely on stairs, giving users good support.

Combination Ladders

The best type of ladder for working on stairways is a combination ladder. These models are stable and adjustable, so you can set your ladder at different heights and angles. This is important for working on stairs with different levels.

Combination ladders offer various setups to suit certain tasks. They are made with wide, strong bases, and strong locks for stability on uneven surfaces. You can also fold these ladders into a small size for easy storage and transportation. 

Many combination ladders are made with support bars, non-slip feet, and secure locking systems. These improve safety for stairway work. 

Due to their design, combination ladders can be used as step ladders, standard ladders, or extension ladders. Therefore, you can work safely in various spaces. 

Multipurpose Ladders

Multipurpose ladders can be used as step ladders, extension ladders, or as a work platform. This makes them ideal for working in tight spaces, such as stairways. 

These ladders are also lightweight, so transportation is easy. Like combination ladders, a multipurpose model has a small folding design for straightforward storage. They are usually made up of four main sections, each connected to the next with two hinges. If you need a larger angle, you can adjust the locks on the hinges.

The highest load is generally 150kg, and there is often enough room to lay down decorating tools and supplies as you work.   

Telescopic Ladders

A telescopic ladder is ideal if you don’t have much storage space. They are a practical choice for stairway tasks, and their foldable, lightweight design makes them easy to carry when needed.

Telescopic ladders can be extended to different lengths, making them convenient for various stairway jobs. Adjusting these ladders is simple. There is typically a locking system, ensuring each rung is kept in place securely when in use. This keeps the ladder and the user secure and safe at all times.

Safety features like non-slip feet and stabilising bars are included in most telescopic ladder designs. Durability is no issue with telescopic ladders, either. They are made from strong materials, such as aluminium, so will generally last a long time. They also support weights of up to 150kg.

Tips For Using Stair Ladders

When using any type of ladder for any job, always follow its safety guidelines. Working on stairs presents heightened risks. So, take time to ensure your ladder is set up correctly. Here’s what to do when using a ladder on stairs:

• Make sure there are at least three points of contact with the ladder at all times.
• Never overreach or stretch. Reposition the ladder, if needed.
• Only carry lightweight materials and tools when on the ladder.
• Do not exceed the ladder’s maximum weight limit.
• Take your time going up and down the ladder – do not rush.

When setting up your ladder, place it on a level ground for maximum stability. According to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines, “You should only use ladders in situations where they can be used safely, e.g. where the ladder will be level and stable.”

Buyer’s Guide

Here are some of the best stair ladders currently on the market.

1. Hailo 9850-101 TP Plus 2 in 1 Stair and Work Platform – Adjustable and versatile, the Hailo TP Plus 2 in 1 Stair and Work Platform features six feet with soft-grip soles for optimal stability and slip resistance on different floors. It’s stable and safe, especially on stairs. You can adjust its design to serve as a work platform or base for all Hailo folding steps and stepladders (up to four steps). This means it is suitable for use on most spiral and straight stairs.You can adjust the length and height of the ladder’s rails and feet for your project. It’s also got soft-grip soles that offer excellent stability on different surfaces. It sports a sturdy aluminium frame, built-in carry handles, and a two-hand safety unlocking system. Its small size means it fits into narrow spaces around 6cm wide, and it supports up to 150kg for indoor and outdoor use.
2. Krause Corda Triple Section Multi Purpose Ladder with Stair Function – This aluminium ladder is excellent for various tasks. It can be used as a leaning, step, and extension ladder, boasting a strong design. It has ribbed rungs on all sides for better grip and powder-coated steel slide rails for easy extension.Made with a stabiliser and anti-slip end caps, this Krause Corda ladder is safe for use on stairs. It also includes self-locking fasteners to stop accidental opening when in use and during transport. Its load capacity is 150kg, ensuring it is ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
3. Five Way Scaffold Platform Ladder – This aluminium ladder is excellent for various tasks. It can be used as a stair platform, extension ladder, step ladder, work platform and 2 single ladders. Boasting a strong design. It has square rungs on all sides for better grip and is quick and easy to set up for stair use. Made with a stabiliser and non-slip platform and handrails for extra safety, this five way ladder is safe for use on stairs. It also includes a safety rail to prevent any accidents from happening at heights. Its load capacity is 150kg, ensuring it is ideal for heavy-duty tasks.

In Summary

When working on stairs, make sure your ladder is stable and secure. And, remember to always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when using a ladder to ensure safe and effective use.

Looking for a premium stair ladder? At Ladders4sale, we offer a range of Stair Ladders for your specific needs from a range of top-rated brands.

All of our products are manufactured, tested and certified to industry standards. In addition to this, all orders come with free mainland UK shipping and after sales support from our experts.

If you require additional advice or have a question for our team, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us using this form or via phone at +441639849847.