This post was last updated on July 26th, 2021 at 12:16 pm
Painting tasks, both indoors and outside, involve more than just the final painting. Adequate preparation is crucial to a good result.
Surfaces need to be cleaned and rubbed down; any damage you find will require repairing and holes filled and smoothed before the paint cans come out.
Any of these tasks have the potential to distract you when you do them on a ladder.
As ladders are essential when painting either the inside of your home or the outside, it makes sense to equip yourself with a few ladder accessories to make the painting jobs more accessible and safer.
Paint Can Holders
Suspending paint cans in the middle of the ladder increases the risk of paint dripping on the ladder rungs making them a safety hazard. You will also be using more arm movement to refill your brush each time, making you more tired.
It is far better to keep the paint can on the same side of the ladder as your dominant arm. You will keep paint drips away from the rungs as well as reducing your arm movement.
Paint Can Caddy
You fit this unbreakable plastic paint can caddy into either side of your extension ladder. It will hold any standard size one-gallon can of paint that has a wire handle. It is self-leveling and easy to fit and remove.
Ladder Paint Can Holder
Ladder Shelf System's neat accessory will fit any aluminum, fiberglass, or wood ladder - extension ladders and stepladders - and will carry any size of a paint can.
Tightened against the side of a ladder with wing nuts, it holds the paint can securely and prevents it from swinging.
Work Platforms
When you are standing on ladder rungs for any length of time, it can be uncomfortable and tiring. Work platforms provide a sturdy base to stand on that creates better balance and more comfort.
These platforms can double as a utility tray for tools or paint but have no lip at the edges to stop items from sliding off.
Little Giant Ladders Work Platform
This platform is designed for Little Giant aluminum or fiberglass multi-purpose or articulating ladders. Its weight capacity is similar to the ratings for the different ladders in their ranges.
You use the platform up to the top three rungs of an A-frame ladder set-up or the top four rungs on an extended ladder - no higher. You flick it forward with your foot as you ascend the ladder to get it out the way, then flick it back into position so you can step down on it.
When not in use, it can be located between the sides of the A-frame and folded into the storage position until required.
ORIENTOOLS Ladder Work Platform
This ORIENTOOLS work platform is similar to the Little Giant model. It's easy to use and easy to store away. The weight capacity is rated at 375 pounds, and the platform measures 15 by 16 inches.
Equipment Holders
Painters Utility Belt - 8 Pockets
Dickies 8-Pocket Padded Utility Belt for Painters. The 3-Inch belt adjusts between 32 and 56 inches. Durable white canvas construction,
When you're working on a ladder, carrying tools with you can be a time saver when you are painting. You can organize your brushes, sanding blocks, and masking tapes within easy reach without the need to repeatedly leave the ladder for something.
Check out Ladder Accessories for Stairs if you are painting in stairwells.
Little Giant Cargo Hold Tool Pouch
Designed for Little Giant Ladders, this tool holdall is small but holds a useful amount of gear for working on your ladder.
Equipment Needed to Paint on a Ladder
This list is not exhaustive but shows the many different items you may need when painting on a ladder, some of which you may need to carry on the ladder itself.
Tips For Painting on a Ladder
Conclusion
Ladder accessories for painting either indoors or outside your home can help you work smarter and safer. They may seem minor improvements but can make tasks more comfortable and less tiring, and that in itself makes you work safer.