"Steven L Umbach" wrote in message
. ..
I am going to some day paint the ceiling and the walls in our 17 foot high
foyer and replace the light fixture. Home Depot has reasonable rates on
ten
foot scaffolding but there is a section that I can not reach with the
scaffolding. We have four steps up to a landing and then a right angle for
the rest of the steps to the second floor. I could use extension poles,
etc
to do that part which is above the stairway but I was wondering about
using
my 16 foot extension ladder there. My concern is will the wall be able to
support the ladder and me [I weigh 230 lbs] without damage or even
breakage?
The walls are standard half inch drywall on 2X4 spaced every 16 inches.
The
ladder has the usual rubber boots on the end. Thanks. --- Steve

Other tools are better choices, but a carpet-covered 20" board lashed to the
top of the ladder, such that it prevents any hard edges pressing on the
drywall and spreads the load, would probably keep the drywall safe. 2 or 3
cable ties laced through holes on the board before you wrap and staple the
carpet scrap, should hold it in place. (don't use duct tape- the gray rubs
off) Doesn't need to be strong, just not shift around. I'd be more worried
about bottom end of ladder slipping on polished floor or loose carpet and
hopping down a step- find some way to jam-fit a block, or tie it off, if you
can. And like any high work, never work alone- you want somebody to call
911if you fall or get upside down with a leg through the rungs. (Hey, it
happens to people who work on ladders every day.)

aem sends....