Ladders are essential tools for many households, but their bulky size can make storing them a challenge. Proper ladder storage keeps them secure, accessible, and out of the way. We’ve researched creative ladder storage solutions to maximize your garage, shed, or basement space. Read on for 11 clever and practical ideas to organize your ladders.
Utilize Wall Mounts
Wall-mounted hooks and brackets allow vertical storage along any sturdy surface. Models like the Racor PHL-1R Heavy Duty Ladder Lift provide a simple lift-and-lock system for safely stowing extension and step ladders overhead. The key is installing these mounts securely into wall studs.
Wall-mounted ladder racks like the wuder 4 Step Ladder Hooks support ladders horizontally. These sturdy steel hooks keep ladders off the floor and tight to the wall. Measure carefully so they don’t obstruct doors or windows.
Build Floor Racks Against the Wall
DIY racks anchored to the studs in your garage or shed walls support ladders a few inches off the floor. This lifts their weight off the concrete while keeping them up and out of the way.
Use 2x4s or 2x6s to create an A-frame rack, sizing it wide enough for your ladder’s base. Screw sturdy brackets into the wall studs, then attach the rack securely. Add crossbeams for extra stability.
Hang Ladders from the Ceiling
Hanging ladders vertically from garage or basement ceilings is an effective storage solution. Use heavy-duty strap hangers attached with multiple lag screws into ceiling joists. Wrap the straps tightly around a closed ladder for a snug fit.
Ceiling pulley systems provide easy ladder access. Mounted on ceiling joists, a pulley lets you raise and lower the ladder smoothly into position. Secure each end with carabiners or strong rope.
Stow Smaller Ladders On Shelves
Utility shelves and storage racks allow compact storage of smaller household ladders. Look for shelving units with widths and depths suited to your ladder sizes. Keep the shelves low enough for easy access.
Bungee cords, poles, or shelving lips help secure step stool ladders upright on shelves. For extension ladders, lay them horizontally or lean them against a wall. Keep heavier items on lower shelves.
Slide Ladders Under Stairs
The empty space under a staircase is perfect for sliding away stepladders and small ladders. Install a wooden framework under the stairs to hold the ladders in place. Use 2x4s to create channels or ledges sized slightly wider than the ladder’s base.
If the area is unfinished, build an enclosed closet with a door to conceal the ladders. Include lighting inside for visibility.
Use Retractable Ceiling Storage
Retractable ladder lifts mount to garage ceilings with easy-access systems. The Werner Ladder Lift uses an automatic rope and pulley to raise and lower an attached ladder smoothly.
Other systems like the Rapid Rack 1080 Ceiling Mount Garage Storage System slide multiple ladders, rods, and storage baskets along ceiling tracks.
Get a Freestanding Ladder Rack
Freestanding metal ladder racks on casters provide flexible floor storage. Models like the Keter Pro Heavy Duty Resin Freestanding Ladder Rack offer tall storage with built-in shelving. With ladder hooks, support arms, and rubber stops, they hold ladders securely in an upright position.
DIY options use lumber or PVC pipes to form an A-frame rack. Add pegs, notches, or bungee cords to hold the ladder in place. Mount the rack on a rolling base for portability.
Use Ladder Lifts on Ceiling Tracks
Ceiling-mounted ladder lift systems allow single-handed access to stored ladders up to 20 feet long. The Little Giant Ladder Lift uses a pulley trolley on 15-foot aluminum tracks. Release the trolley, and it glides down the track to lower the ladder.
With reinforced mounting points and multiple track configurations, these lifts maximize vertical space for any garage or workshop.
Get Creative with Ladder Clamps
Clamp-style ladder mounts provide unique storage options on exposed beams, poles, pipes, or roofs. The C.H. Hanson 03040 Magnetic Ladder Holder uses industrial-strength magnets to secure ladders high up on steel surfaces.
Pole ladder mounts like the Safstar Adjustable Extension Ladder Mount Holder grip ladders horizontally. Position them on vertical poles, beams, or roofs to hold ladders off the ground.
Build a Ladder Cart
A wheeled ladder cart allows easy mobility. DIY options make use of lumber, PVC pipe, caster wheels, and wood glue to form a rolling ladder stand. The key is keeping the base wide enough for stability.
Commercial metal ladder carts like the TB Davies Ladder Cart Dolly provide thick rubber wheels and padded ladder rests. Locking casters hold the cart securely in place while loading and unloading.
Add Ladder Storage to Shelving Units
Standing shelving units like garage racks, cabinets, and workbenches often have enough room to store ladders. Add wooden brackets, corner posts, hooks, or removable bins sized to fit your ladder.
Freestanding industrial shelving like the Seville Classics UltraDurable Commercial Grade Steel Shelving works well. Secure the ladder tightly to prevent leaning or toppling.
Use Ladder Jax Portable Ladder Stands
Compact ladder stands like Ladder Jax allow easy storage of larger ladders. The Ladder Jax 8ft – 16ft Extension Ladders Durable Portable Ladder Stand fits ladders up to 16 feet. With non-slip rubber contacts and support arms that conform to each side, it holds ladders vertically without leaning. Stable tripod legs keep it freestanding.
These stands fold down flat for storage. They make it easy to move long unwieldy ladders in tight quarters and keep them securely positioned while in use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of proper ladder storage?
Proper ladder storage keeps them out of the way yet accessible when needed. It also protects ladders from damage that could compromise safety. Stored securely, ladders won’t fall over, get scratched or dented, or collect dirt and debris.
How should you position a ladder for storage?
Step ladders and short extension models can be stored upright or folded. Tall extension ladders should lay horizontally on shelves or wall hooks. Hanging long ladders vertically from ceiling hooks works too. The key is securing both ends so they don’t shift out of place.
What precautions should you take when installing ceiling mounts?
Any ceiling mounts must attach securely into the joists or trusses, not just drywall. Use lag screws and bolts where possible. Spread multiple fasteners over ceiling joints for strength. Check for electrical wires or other hidden obstacles before drilling. Consider hiring professionals for installation.
How much weight can ladder shelf racks safely hold?
Check the load capacity and weight limits listed for any commercial rack, shelf, or ladder holder. Load limits range from 150 pounds for lightweight shelves, up to 500 pounds for heavy duty ladder racks. Load larger or heavier ladders on the bottom shelves for stability.
What kind of flooring works best for ladder stands?
Ladder stands grip best on smooth, level floors like bare concrete or laminate. Use caution on tile, which can be slippery. Avoid setting ladder stands directly on gravel or dirt surfaces, as they could shift and sink under weight. Place stands over wood boards or sheets of plywood to evenly distribute weight if needed.
Should you store wood or fiberglass ladders differently than metal ladders?
Metal, wood, and fiberglass ladders can use most of the same storage methods. But take extra care securing lightweight aluminum or fiberglass models since they can bend or warp easier if overloaded. Avoid hanging fiberglass ladders by their rungs, which risks cracking.
Conclusion
A sturdy ladder is needed for many tasks, but their bulky shape makes storage a challenge. Getting creative with wall mounts, hooks, racks, shelves, and ladder stands can help maximize unused space. The right storage keeps ladders in good condition while saving room in your garage, basement, or shed. Just be sure to consider the ladder’s size and material when deciding on the best storage solution. With the right approach, even long unwieldy extension ladders can tuck neatly out of the way yet remain easily accessible.