How can I reuse or recycle a broken step ladder?
We’ve had an email from Kit:
how can I reuse a broken step ladder? the rungs are alright, it’s the support bit at the top that hold it in the upside down v shape that is broken. i could just give it away for scrap metal but i wondered if there was anything i could do with it instead.
I’m presuming it can’t be fixed or at least not fixed well enough to be trust-worthy (an important quality when you’re 8ft off the ground) – might be worth Freecycling it in case someone is a step ladder fixing expert though.
Aside from that, could the rungs be used as a shelving unit maybe?
Any other suggestions?
(Photo by hortongrou)
Split the two halves apart to make two metal trellis’s :)
I used my old rickety wooden A-frame ladder, just as it was, as a trellis for my honeysuckle…it looks great! Here’s a link to a photo of it:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3044/2751759048_3ef8a33e3f.jpg?v=0
Have you seen those expensive ‘ladder’ towel racks in the trendy shops? It looks just like a ladder and leans against the wall and they hang various towels on the rungs…
How about taking the ladder apart at the hinges and if it is grubby then paint one side of it – lean it above a radiator in the bathroom or bedroom to air clothes or towels x
Why dont you take the two halves apart and incorporate the steps into a garden climbing frame for the kids. I built a ‘castle’ out of old pallets and used old ladders to make ”stairs’ etc.
I think you’re on the right track with the shelving unit idea! Depending on the style of your decor you could use it in your home as a book shelf or in the garage to hold car manuals, etc. If it’s possible to detach the steps you could always use them as independent wall shelving as well?
Hmm, I’m thinking it would be useful to keep kids’ toys in with canvas or burlap bags attached, laid horizontally, and maybe hung at each end from the ceiling.
Use it to dry clothes.