Symptoms
- Ladder base slides outward while climbing
- Feet skate on smooth, wet, or icy surfaces
- Ladder feels like it could kick out at the bottom
- Rubber feet look worn, cracked, or missing
Likely causes
- CommonLadder set at too shallow an angleThe base should sit about one foot out for every four feet of height; too flat increases outward force on the feet.
- CommonSlick, wet, icy, or oily surface at the baseSmooth or wet surfaces reduce the feet's grip dramatically.
- PossibleWorn, cracked, or missing rubber feetDamaged feet lose their designed traction against the ground.
- Less commonSetting the ladder on a hard, smooth floor without securing the topTile, polished concrete, or hardwood offer less grip than textured surfaces.
What to do
- Set the ladder at the correct angle: for every 4 feet of height to the support point, the base should be 1 foot out from the wall.
- Inspect and clean the rubber feet; replace them if cracked, worn smooth, or missing.
- Choose a dry, clean, level surface for the base whenever possible, and avoid ice, wet leaves, or oily spots entirely.
- On smooth indoor floors, use a ladder mat or have someone foot the base to add friction and stability.
- Secure or tie off the top of the ladder to a stable point when working at height for extended periods.
- Never stand on the top rung or the very top of the ladder, which increases the tipping and slipping risk significantly.
- Have a helper hold the ladder's base steady whenever conditions can't be fully controlled.
Tools and parts
- Ladder
- Ladder mat or stabilizer (optional)
Replacement ladder foot padsSearch: “ladder foot replacement pads”
When to call a pro
For roof or high exterior work, a licensed contractor with proper fall-protection equipment is safer than a ladder on questionable footing.
Safety
Use caution
A slipping ladder is a serious fall hazard; never climb a ladder on ice, wet surfaces, or with worn feet, and always maintain the correct base angle.