Roof Cleaning

luckydc · 04-11-2008, 02:14 PM

Is it safe to lean a ladder against the side of my camper? Of course, I would wrap the ladder legs so they would not scratch the camper. Otherwise, how am I suppose to clean the roof?! I am sure not going up there. Suppose I could get a 12' step ladder, but would rather not.

Thanks!

Al in PA · 04-11-2008, 05:27 PM

I use a regular 5' step ladder and a nylon brush on a telescoping handle to wash the roof (same brush I use to wash my truck cap). I use a paint roller with a 4' handle to roll on the rubber roof sealer. You can reach half way across the roof from either side with this setup. If you don't feel comfortable toward the top of a 5' ladder, move up to the next size (8'?). I believe 12' would be overkill.

rich2500 · 04-11-2008, 06:43 PM

I do the same as Al except I need an 8ft ladder because of our sunline being an SR it is taller,If I need to get up on the roof to clean vents etc. I use an extension ladder up against the rear of the camper and make sure I'm against the metal trim along the roof.

**JohnB** · 04-11-2008, 07:53 PM

Paul

To your direct question about the ladder, yes I have leaned a normal straight ladder against the non door side of the camper. There is structure on the top of the outside wall to hold you. Caution is the point load of the ladder against the roof line gutter. If you bounce to hard on the ladder going up and down you can squeeze the gutter slightly some. Then you have to carefully flex it back out again.

Now on the door side with the awning, I have never put the ladder against the awning. That I would have more concern then the gutter on the non door side. The awning could get affected by the point pressure of the ladder against it and possibly work a small hole in the awning if the ladder shifted left to right. It does not take much to make a hole. I know…

I have had my Uncles fall off straight ladders a great numbers of times twisting and turning while trimming fruit trees. Broken back, broken arm and other body parts. From this experience I learned the heck with the money and bought good ladders for this type of roof cleaning, as you are twisting and turning constantly.

I use the long car brush with a stiffer bristle head and came at it from both sides. Here is a pic. Maybe you drop the hint you want an early Fathers day or birthday present.

Good luck

John

kanyonkitty · 04-11-2008, 07:54 PM

I use a 6' step ladder so that I don't have to climb very high, and a brush on a long handle, wash 1/2 of roof at a time. No scrubbing, usually needed, often I only need to hose it off. "IF" roof vents need some extra cleaning, I get a "friend" to do that 'cause this Kitty don't climb

luckydc · 04-12-2008, 04:47 AM

Thanks folks, for the replies. I feel a lot better about cleaning the roof now. I am not big on climbing either, Kitty, and like to keep the groun d close to the soles of my feet!

I did look at the roof yesterday. It was so dirty this winter; however, we have had a lot of rain recently, so it looks a lot cleaner now. I have not cleaned a rubber roof before, but hopefully it won't take a lot of scrubbing to get it clean.

Thanks again for the advice!

purplesuebug · 04-12-2008, 06:20 PM

I must be the only lazy person on this site. I go ahead and pay the $120.00 for a cleaning and treatment at my dealer. I figure they have the equipment and know-how to do it correctly. And as an added bonus, they fix the damage if it leaks!!! I have them check all the seams (caulking) also. I have a fear of water damage and figure the preventative maintanance is worth it by leaps and bounds. I do all the work inside and clean it often but I let the pros do the stuff I do not feel confortable doing myself.................Marshall