A safe ladder is both small and tall.
And the ladder we reach for first—on almost every project we do—is a 4-foot stepladder.
A 4-footer is tall enough to get us to close to 8- to 9-foot ceilings for crown molding or light fixture installs. But it’s small enough to fold into a compact package.
Folded or open, it doesn’t create too big of a footprint on a tight jobsite like a bathroom remodel or demo job. A 4-footer is light enough to whip onto the truck or trailer and move around the house. This nimbleness keeps doorways safe as you pass through. Unlike the 6-foot ladders I’ve seen tipped over, it’s not prone to tip or be knocked over and it’s typically tall enough to keep work items close to you while you’re working.
Seems simple enough, but not all ladders are created equal. Small, smart features—combined with tough design elements—give ladders guts and gusto to help our projects go smoother and keep us safer while working.
DeWalt’s DXL3010-04 is such a ladder. Purpose-built for pro sites this Type 1A (300-pound rating) fiberglass ladder is trimmed and tricked to keep pros on the go. From the ground up, here are some stand-out features:
This ladder is a jobsite gem for sure.
Tangled up hoses can be frustrating and time sucks. So here's how to quickly uncoil…
Here's what really happens at an Extreme Makeover Home Edition project from my view as…
Need the best table saw for a mobile jobsite or DIYer? Look no further. Here's…
Selecting the right kitchen materials and appliances is essential so that your kitchen performs well…
Envisioning your goals for your kitchen remodel is a priority before you even consider getting…
We want you to be ready to take on your kitchen remodeling project confidently. Check…
View Comments
Thank you for emphasising the importance of purchasing safe reliable ladders. I started my own blog after a dear friend of mine smashed his cheekbone after his step ladders collapsed. It still amazes me that there is so much poor quality equipment out there. Ladders should be top priority when it comes to quality. Thanks again for great info