When you’re doing DIY activities, ladders can be invaluable. They help you reach high places, get a better view, and access hard-to-reach spots.
But it’s important to use them safely and responsibly. Ladders can pose risks if they’re climbed improperly, used incorrectly, or not chosen carefully.
Ladder Safety
Ladders are an essential tool for diy activities such as assembling the Christmas tree or hanging up holiday lights, but they should be used with care to avoid serious injury. Falls from ladders can result in broken limbs, spinal cord damage or even death.
When using a ladder, always face the ladder and keep both hands on it when climbing or descending. Never put one foot on a rung and the other on a different surface, as this could tip the ladder over or throw you off balance and send you falling down.
Ladders should be used carefully and safely, not just for DIY activities but also for work projects. Choosing the right ladder for the job can prevent accidents, from falls to electrocutions.
Ladder Length
When you use ladders for diy activities, it's important to choose the right size. A ladder that's too short won't do you any good, and a ladder that's too long will take up more room than necessary.
The most common way to determine a ladder's length is by counting the number of rungs, which are usually about 1 foot apart. If a ladder has 24 rungs, that means it's about 24 feet long.
This is an accurate measurement, but you should also consider how far you'll be reaching. For example, if you're working on a ceiling that's about 11 feet tall, you'll want to select a ladder with a reach height of at least 12 feet.
This sturdy aluminum telescoping extension ladder from Ohuhu unfolds to a maximum length of 12.5 feet, giving you a reach height that's enough for most home projects. It's a great pick for painting projects and can be folded down to nearly a foot long for easier storage.
Ladder Type
When it comes to using ladders for diy activities, you want to make sure that the type of ladder you choose is right for the job. Generally speaking, step-stool and A-frame ladders are the best option for indoor projects that require a lift of two to eight feet, while an extension ladder or a tall articulated ladder is appropriate for outdoor projects that need 13 feet or more of height boost.
Another option is a specialty ladder, such as an A-frame paint ladder. These types of ladders feature a side shelf that's useful for holding a paint can and a brush, saving you many trips down the steps.
In addition to the functionality of these kinds of ladders, they can also be used for a variety of other decorating and storage tasks. For example, these repurposed ladders act as shelving units with wide enough spaces and tiered levels for ample storage space.
Ladder Storage
If you use ladders for diy activities you need to make sure they are stored safely. This is important for both safety and preserving the ladder in good condition.
Ladders are heavy and long so you need a practical way to store them. This should occupy as little space as possible, but also be easy to reach and grab when you need it.
There are many smart ideas for storing ladders. Some of them will keep the ladder out of harm's way while others are specifically designed to prevent damage from the elements.
One smart option is to install hooks in your wall that hold a ladder vertically or horizontally. This is similar to how you'd hang a bike on your garage wall. These hooks should be mounted in solid studs to ensure they can handle the weight.
