Ladders are an indispensable tool for various tasks, especially for painting the roof, which can be a challenging job. Hence, having a suitable ladder that provides sufficient safety, efficiency and convenience is imperative for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
The market offers various options for ladders, from multi-functional ones that can convert into different configurations, such as scaffold, platform, or A-frame ladder, to those specifically designed for uneven surfaces like stairs.
Ladders are made from materials like fiberglass, aluminum, steel, or wood, but aluminum is the most favored due to its light weight and durability. When selecting the best ladder for your needs, consider factors such as your requirement for versatility, stability, portability, and height extension.
If you are a professional painter, you may require sturdy, non-slip, and portable ladders, while homeowners might opt for ones to reach high walls or paint a two-story home. Based on these criteria, we have compiled a list of five of the best ladders for use on stairs, high walls, or painting projects.
5 Best Ladder for Painting Stairs
Following are the best ladders for painting stairs:
- Little Giant 12017
- Cosco Telescoping Multi-Purpose Ladder
- TOPRUNG Extension Multi-Purpose Ladder
- Little Giant 14013-001 Model 17
- TOPRUNG Model 17 Ft
Little Giant 12017
The Little Giant 12017 ladder is a must-have tool for painting stairs. It’s designed to make your job easier, thanks to the Quad-Lock hinge and Rock Locks, which allow you to adjust the height and position of the ladder with ease. The Glide and Tip wheels make it simple to move the ladder from one place to another.
Worried about working on uneven surfaces? Don’t be! The Little Giant 12017 ladder is equipped with ratchet leg levelers, which give you the ability to adjust the legs to compensate for uneven ground and maintain stability. Plus, the retractable legs provide an extra 8 inches of adjustment.
This ladder is also optimized for maximum efficiency when painting stairs. It can be tilted to any degree, so you can get the job done quickly and effectively.
Moreover, it meets all regulations and standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds (ANSI).

Pros:
- Ladder with multiple uses
- 20% reduction in height
- Offers simple adjustments
- Hinges with four locks for stability
- Wheels for portability
- 22-foot maximum height limit
- Available in various forms (90-degree ladder, A-frame, extension, trestle-and-plank)
- Quad-lock hinge for stability
- Wheels for ease of movement
- Lifetime warranty for peace of mind
- Supports 300 lbs for two people
Cons:
- Shorter warranty
- Inadequate customer service
- Heavy
- Delivery-related quality problems
Cosco Telescoping Multi-Purpose Ladder
The Cosco 18 ft Reach Aluminum ladder is the perfect solution for painting stairs. With its five adjustable settings, you can easily work at the desired height, making it a versatile choice. This ladder can reach a height of 18 feet and can hold up to 300 pounds, offering both stability and durability.
Constructed with high-quality aviation aluminum, this ladder is built to last and provide value for your money. However, some reviewers have reported that it can be heavy and cumbersome to move from place to place. If you don’t plan on moving the ladder frequently, it’s a great option for painting staircases.

Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- High weight capacity of 300 pounds
- 5-in-1 ladder with extension, scaffold, step, and wall ladder options
- Commercial grade
- Slip-resistant rungs and feet for added safety
- Innovative hinge and secure spring locking for safety
- Easy to use with adjustable position
Cons:
- Heaviness makes it difficult to transport.
TOPRUNG Extension Multi-Purpose Ladder
The TOPRUNG Model – 17 ft extension ladder is a great choice for stairs with its five adjustable height options. With its aluminum construction, this ladder has a maximum height of 17 feet and can support up to 300 pounds while remaining lightweight and easy to store.
Safety is a top priority with the TOPRUNG ladder as its feet are made of non-slip rubber to prevent slipping. The ladder also comes with a two-year warranty from the manufacturer for any damages.
However, some customers have reported that the ladder may be challenging for beginners to use and adjust, and may even require a second person for proper usage.

Pros:
- The ladder has anti-slip rubber feet, ensuring safety while in use
- It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds
- Constructed with aluminum, it provides stability and durability
- This ladder is ready to use as a stepladder
Cons:
- Adjusting the ladder can be challenging
Little Giant 14013-001 Model 17
For a sturdy and long-lasting ladder, consider the Little Giant 14013-001 aviation aluminum ladder. Its sturdy structure ensures your safety while working on it, and the wide-flared legs provide ease and stability. The ladder is also portable and lightweight, making it simple to move from one place to another thanks to its bottom wheels.
This ladder is ideal for use on various surfaces such as stairs, docks, ramps, curbs, or uneven ground because of its flexibility. Despite being made of heavy-wall aluminum, it remains lightweight and easy to move. With a weight capacity of 250 pounds, it is perfect for medium-duty tasks. The Little Giant ladder offers versatility with its 24 unique configurations and compact design.

Pros:
- Supports up to 250 pounds
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to move
- Attractive appearance
- Affordable pricing
- Meets ANSI and OSHA standards
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Built to last
Cons:
- Slightly heavy in weight
TOPRUNG Model 17 Ft
A manufacturer with two decades of experience in producing top-notch ladders has given the label to Toprung’s 17-foot ladder. He has also created various types of ladders, including the multi-purpose ladder, fiberglass step ladder, combination ladder, and work interface, all with over 30 design specifications.
Toprung’s ladders surpass the standards set by the global community and are renowned for their exceptional quality. As a result, they have become the top-selling ladder company globally. To extend the ladder’s lifespan, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dry place to prevent rust. To maintain performance, the hinges should also be kept away from harmful debris and pollutants. Regularly replacing the inner and outer feet is also crucial for safety.

Pros:
- Constructed with top-notch aluminum for long-lasting stability
- Meets or exceeds standards set by organizations such as ANSI
- Can be arranged in five different configurations for versatile use, and the height of the steps can also be adjusted to suit your needs with fully extended frames.
- Wide rungs and non-slip feet provide stability and comfort
- Space-saving design, ideal for areas with limited storage space
Cons:
- Its weight makes it better suited for industrial purposes
- Requires a minimum of two people to handle safely to minimize risk
Conclusion
Your initial concern of finding the best ladder for painting stairs can now be put to rest. After I provide you with a comprehensive list and additional information, choosing the right ladder will be a breeze.
The process of selecting the optimal ladder for your painting needs doesn’t have to be complicated. By clearly defining your priorities, the task of finding the ideal ladder for painting stairs will be simpler than you expected.