Aluminum Step Ladder

An aluminum step ladder is simply an aluminum ladder that is hinged in the middle, forming an inverted V, with stays to keep the two halves at a fixed angle when in use.

They  commonly also have a top tray on the other side from the steps  you climb up for holding tools or paint. Step ladders have some advantages over standard ladders, including that they do not need to leaned against a supporting structure; they are self supporting.

Of course step ladders can be made of substances other than aluminum. Wood is quite common, and it's even possible to build your own wooden step ladder (there are plenty of plans available online and other places). Fiberglass is another common material.

Aluminum has the advantages of being zero to low maintenance and lighter that most wood or fiberglass ladders. I for example have a 7 foot aluminum step ladder that I've literally carried for dozens of miles through the woods when installing and doing maintenance on wire antennas ("Beverage" receiving antennas if you're interested) I have  strung from trees. I would hate to carry a wooden or fiberglass ladder that far. especially through woods and brush. Aluminum is conductive to electricity, which can be hazardous near electrical power, so fiberglass ladders are commonly used instead.

Step ladders vary in height. The most popular seem to be quite short and designed for common indoor use, as well as 6 foot, and sometimes 12 foot. I've seen them up to 17 foot, but you will not find them as tall as extension and other ladder types.

Representative in the short category is the Polder 3-Step Featherweight Aluminum Step Ladder which comes with a safety rail on top. It's a super light aluminum 3 step ladder and it's great for inside household tasks and light outdoor use. It's 32 inches to the top step and has a 51 inch high rail,and the steps ribbed to help prevent slipping. Weighing in at an amazingly light 6.125 lbs, it's convenient and easy to move around. It's very popular.

A popular example of a six foot step ladder is the Cosco "World's Greatest Lite Solutions" Aluminum 6 Foot Step Ladder Aluminum. It's a great household ladder with a lightweight aluminum frame and a large platform top step, large non-marring and skid resistant feet, with a top tray for holding tools or paint. It's rated at 225 pounds, enough for most people, and has a "limited lifetime 10-year warranty" should you need it.