Choosing a stepladder with 4 steps

A stepladder is a special portable ladder that can be folded out to accomplish any task. It is believed that the name was formed from the word "stirrup": this is the name of the part with which you can climb a horse and maintain balance. Such a ladder consists of two rigid frames, which are fastened to each other with a hinge. In addition, they are connected to each other by a rigid (or soft) safety element.

Such devices are used not only in everyday household affairs, but also in construction, as well as in industrial production. We will talk about how to choose a stepladder with 4 steps in the article.

Designs are one- and two-sided. The second option is considered more stable and convenient (it does not need to be moved often). As for the number of steps, it can be different. However, a four-step ladder is ideal for everyday tasks. It is worth noting that the wider the steps, the more reliable the folding structure is. These steps will prevent you from accidentally slipping off.

Before you go to the store to choose a stepladder, you need to clearly formulate what kind of work you need a device for. According to their purpose, they are of two types.

• Household. These are compact and lightweight ladders that are quite easy to install. Such stepladders can withstand a weight of up to 150 kilograms. As a rule, they are periodically used in everyday life. If you have an apartment with a ceiling height of less than three meters, then a stepladder with 4 steps is fine for you. You can even buy such a model at a regular hardware store. The main thing is to remember that household stairs cannot withstand too heavy loads.
• Professional. These ladders are characterized by increased strength and high weight. Most often they have a double-sided design. Such products are capable of withstanding loads of up to 200 kilograms. Such models rarely have 4 steps. Usually these are options with two or three sections, with five or more steps. A professional stepladder can be useful for working in the country or for repairing a country house. Such ladders are stable and have additional auxiliary structures. They are sold by firms that sell construction equipment.

If earlier such ladders were made of iron pipes and plywood, now 80 percent of all ladders are made from metal alloys. Sometimes there are options made of wood. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of stepladders made of different materials.

• Wooden stepladders. The tree must be properly prepared, well dried and treated with special agents. The advantages of such models: light weight, environmental friendliness, aesthetics, you can do it yourself. Cons: chipboard stepladders are very fragile and short-lived.
• Steel ladders. Most often these are professional ladders. Pros: the products are very durable, stable, reliable, withstand heavy loads, cost a little. Cons: such models weigh a lot, they are also prone to corrosion.
• Aluminum stepladders. They are usually used for simple household chores: replace a light bulb, dust off a cabinet. Nowadays, such stairs are often coated with an oxide film (anodized aluminum) to protect the metal from corrosion, mechanical and other external influences. The advantages include practicality, strength, lightness, corrosion resistance. Products have corrugated wide steps and non-slip coatings, fixing locks and safety plates. On the legs there are rubber tips against slipping and scratching the surface.

In addition to the material from which the step ladder is made, experienced craftsmen advise paying attention to other aspects when buying.

• The stepladder must be stable both when unfolded and assembled.
• The support legs must be of the same size.
• It is necessary to check the quality of the racks (press the support and make sure there is no deflection). The reliability of the steps is also important.
• To purchase a stepladder suitable for height, make the simplest calculation. It is necessary to subtract exactly one meter from the required height - this will be the optimal size of the stairs.
• The surface of the steps should be corrugated or rubberized.
• Fastening steps to racks with rivets is an unreliable option. Choose products in which the fastening is made by pressing the ends of the steps into the rack.
• Be sure to have plastic or rubber shoes at the ends of the legs. This design will not slip. In addition, dirt will not get inside.
• The ladder must be well sanded (free from irregularities, burrs and other defects).
• Choose a structure that has a support fixing function. This will protect the ladder from spontaneous movement.
• Consider if you need additional features (roll bar, castors, tool shelves, bucket hooks, etc.).
• Buy ladders from well-known companies with good customer reviews. It is better to pay a little more than get injured on the job.

Today the models of the companies Krause, Sibrtech, Alyumet and some others are popular.

To avoid injury when using the stepladder, be sure to follow the basic rules.

1. Before starting work, carefully check the stability of the ladder by placing it on a firm, level surface.
2. Inspect the structure for faults and defects before use.
3. Do not place stairs near doors.
4. Remember that household models are not designed for the weight of two people.
5. When working on a ladder, choose shoes without laces and clothing that will not snag on the ladder.
6. In the process of work, do not deviate from the stepladder so as not to lose balance.
7. If you feel that the ladder structure is not very stable, have someone hold the structure until you complete the task.

The advantages of an aluminum step ladder are discussed in the video below.