The Art of Ladder Use in Exterior House Painting
For professional exterior house painters, a good ladder isn’t just a tool—it’s an essential part of the job. At Best House Painters, we rely on ladders daily to reach high places, ensure smooth, even paint application, and complete projects safely and efficiently. But ladder work isn’t as simple as it looks. It requires experience, technique, and the right equipment to get the job done right.
Choosing the Right Ladder for the Job
Not all ladders are created equal, and selecting the right one depends on the height and complexity of the project. We use several types of ladders, including:
Extension Ladders: Ideal for reaching second-story peaks, dormers, and taller homes. These ladders extend and lock into place, providing stability at varying heights.
Step Ladders: Perfect for lower areas like porches, entryways, and single-story homes. A sturdy step ladder is essential for precise detail work.
Adjustable Multi-Position Ladders: These can be configured in various ways, making them a versatile option for uneven surfaces or tight spaces.
Ladder Jacks & Planks: For wider areas, ladder jacks allow us to set up a stable working platform between two ladders, offering safer movement and efficiency.
Safety First: Best Practices for Ladder Use
Using ladders incorrectly can be dangerous, which is why we follow strict safety protocols to protect our crew and your home. Some key ladder safety rules we follow include:
✔ Proper Placement: The ladder must be on level, firm ground. If the terrain is uneven, we use ladder levelers or stabilizers.
✔ The 4-to-1 Rule: For every four feet of height, the ladder base is placed one foot away from the house to ensure a stable angle.
✔ Three-Point Contact: A painter should always have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times.
✔ Never Overreaching: Stretching too far to the side can cause the ladder to tip. We always climb down and reposition instead.
✔ Weight Limits: Every ladder has a maximum weight capacity, which includes the painter and any tools or paint being carried.
✔ Avoiding Electrical Hazards: Ladders should always be kept clear of power lines or exposed wiring.
Why Experience Matters with Ladder Work
Ladder use may seem straightforward, but experience makes all the difference in exterior painting. A skilled painter knows how to efficiently navigate different heights, maintain balance, and work with precision—even when painting from 30 feet up.
At Best House Painters, our team is trained in proper ladder techniques to ensure:
A safe and controlled painting process with no unnecessary risks.
Even paint coverage on high areas without drips, runs, or missed spots.
Minimal impact on landscaping, siding, and windows, thanks to careful placement and protective measures.
Need a Professional Touch? We’ve Got You Covered!
If your home’s exterior needs a fresh coat of paint but you’d rather not climb a ladder yourself, leave it to the pros. Best House Painters has the right equipment, training, and experience to safely and efficiently transform your home’s exterior.
