This is a the best video I’ve seen so far demonstrating a telescoping ladder. I’m afraid of heights so you can probably imagine how many videos I’ve watched in an attempt to ease the burden of getting onto the roof for my van build. Thanks for being so detailed and informative! The only thing left I need to watch is someone climbing up and down when the top of the ladder is at or below the roof height.
Thanks. I am afraid of heights, too. At first, the wobble bothered me, but since it’s tied off, I feel safe. Larry has put it on the side of the RV, too. He should have included a piece to show that. You should have a ladder taller than the roof. That’s helps you get from ladder to roof. Is there something on the roof you can tie the ladder to? That is always best. Alice
Excellent review and as always super thorough and honest! I loved the way you incorporated the videos that were helpful to you in your research process. You crushed it once again Larry!👍Kudos! Dave and Lorrie
Thanks guys. That really means a lot. Larry works really hard on his editing and filming. It’s great to hear people recognize it. Saw your last video. Glad to see you guys enjoying Florida. Hope to see you guys on the road, Alice
Awesome video! This makes perfect sense (Cents, sorry had to say that..) on how to use a telescoping ladder with our travel trailer. We are retired and I have some balance issues at times. The ladder on our trailer is solid but going straight up on it and then climbing down it is nerve wracking!! Your video answered all of our questions and just made our decision for us. Thank you!
Larry, great name 😅. Don’t apologize for puns- love them obviously. I’m glad our video helped. With Larry’s RA, we need to be extra careful. He did a lot of research to find this one. If you get it, let us know what you think. Alice
We noticed our motorhome ladder getting loose the last couple of times we used it and was just considering a telescopic ladder! When you full time, you really do need something more. Great video!!😁😁
WE have one, only used it a couple of times just to make sure we could. Never HAD to use it. But we've loaned it out to someone that needed to get up on their roof. Nice video!
We used it at every campsite. We put our Starlink on roof or we used every time before we move to blow off the roof and slides. Nice of you let someone borrow it. Thanks for watching 🤗
The timing of the release of this video was perfect. I have been looking at telescoping ladders and almost "pulled the trigger" on another ladder. Now I will watch for the Xtend and Climb to go on sale. THANK YOU - it will cost me almost double the $$$, but will get what appears to be a better, safer, more reliable ladder!!
Dave & Laura, we only like to review a product after we have used it awhile. It is more expensive, but it should last longer. It’s sort of like our Honda generator- worth the price. Happy Camping, Alice
❤️ your videos. My son is doing the same thing Larry did for a living (Johnson n Johnson). I just bought one of these ladders last week. I store it under one of the couches in our class A motor home. Blessings to you!
Great video. We have one which is similar but a different model with 15 rungs so I can tie it off and still stand upright and hold onto the ladder before stepping off at the top. It goes 4 feet above the roof height. We use it for cleaning our motorhome. It was a really worthwhile purchase. We don’t take with us when we are travelling unless we are away for very long periods. Love your video and explanation 👍🏻🚐 Trev
Thanks, guys. Tied off makes it so much safer. We feel it’s worthwhile, too. Definitely needed for a full timer or for seasonal. Thanks so much for the positive thoughts. Alice
@@allan6021 Not sure of the make but it’s very similar to the one in the video but black plastic with aluminium. We have roof bars on our motorhome so I put a thick towel under the ladder, then use an elastic bungee tie at the top. I use a small step to put the towel in place between ladder and van. I do have to tie it tight to stop it slipping sideways but the towel helps and prevents marks on the van 👍🏻🙂
As someone who uses these ladders on a daily basis filling overhead fuel tanks, I can not stress how nice the angled feet feature is. Most have a flat bottom and if you are on a hard surface you are relying on just the edge for stability and they tend to want to slide. The angles on models like you just reviewed put more surface area on the ground and is more stable.
Thx DSMS for thorough review and demo FWIW I agree the only part I use of my side mounted RV ladder is the top as it is too weak for my bulk I use a foldable rated at 300#s which about max out. I've got a garage in 40'TH so storage is not an issue. Happy Camping & Stay Healthy.
Bill, thanks. The ladder we bought has the same Max at 300 lbs. There might be other ladder manufacturers that have a higher weight max? But if your ladder works for you, that’s great. Happy Camping to you, too. And also take care, Alice
Great tip. I have a Cosco telescoping ladder that I bought at 1 of the home improvement stores on sale. I had bought it for our previous camper trailer that didn’t have a ladder attached to it. Thanks for the great advice. Our current trailer does have a ladder attached to it but from now on I’m going to use the ladder for safety and easiness to get on the roof.👍👍👍
I’m glad we could help. RV ladders by themselves are just not safe. Larry did a lot of research and learned a lot from his retired firefighter friend. Take care, Alice
Thank you Larry for showing this video. It looks like a very nice ladder. I’m thinking about getting it. It works good. And it becomes compact. That’s nice. Thank you for showing how it works too! That helps a lot. See you and Alice next week. Stay safe.
Sherri, Larry knows his stuff 😅. He researches the heck out of it then uses it for months- or years like our generator- before he reviews it. See you next week- sooner on IG, Alice
AT&T cable repair people carry a 67 lb, 28 foot extension ladder on their shoulder from the truck to the pole or cable, many times a day. I know because I was one, between the ages of 63 and 66. I hated every minute of it and was afraid of heights through it all, but I trusted my equipment and my training to stay safe. We tied our ladder to the pole or the cable and then “belted off” around them, too. I am now retired, 69, (wink to Bill and Ted) and have a travel trailer that is 11’6” tall, just high enough to be scary, for me. I also have a telescoping ladder that I climb to get above the slide to blow it off with a battery powered blower, before bringing the slide in. I do slide debris removal from the side of the slide, which is not so scary because I am still on the ladder and have something to hold. My ladder has top cap cushions that I can rotate toward the trailer to avoid scratching the trailer when climbing the ladder. I have non-marring knee pads for those times I absolutely have to get on the roof, so that I don’t have to stand up.
Frank, that cable repair job does not sound fun 😂 especially if you are afraid of heights. I would love to downsize 😅 but too much money invested in this beast with all the lithium and solar. I’ll have to tell Larry to get some knee pads. That’s a great idea. Stay safe and low to the ground 🤗 Alice
So for me I really want one of these ladders. I got the ladder that folds in half and I am not a big fan. Takes up to much room. The telescoping ladder seems to take far less room. Ok side note. We need to get you some slide toppers. You will love them. Well there was the most honest part of the video "Not a young man anymore" lol. "Jerk and wiggle" you should copy write that. lol I started cracking up when you said that. Great video. I want one for sure. I think this is the way to go.
William, Larry loves his gadgets and tools. And he swears by this ladder. You know how flimsy RV ladders are. I doubt we will get slide toppers- I’ve heard stories of live things getting under them and causing a problem when you pull in the slide. As far as the old man thing, he is old 😅. It is a great ladder. Thanks for always watching, Alice
I purchased a collapsible ladder three years ago as our first TT did not come with a ladder. Our current RV has a ladder, but, I like this idea. Thanks.
We have been researching telescoping ladders and it seems like out of the reviews we have seen online that the Xtend ladder is far more superior than the other telescoping ladders. This video was very informative. Thanks so much for sharing! ~ Shion and Matthew
Shion and Matthew, Larry did a lot of research, too. We agree. Lots of great reviews. And Larry is very happy with it the months he has used it. Let us know if you end up getting one, Alice
Great video and we agree that it's a must-have! Obviously we need it, especially with those resi panels that are walked up to the roof. Ours is too heavy (for Leanna), but Mike thoroughly enjoys it, lol!
Hey Brian, That Winny you got is awesome, I don’t think they had built on RV ladders in 1976. I wish I had one of these ladders when we were racing drones to help get them out of the trees, haha. Lar
You did an excellent job of reviewing the ladder and discussing ladder use, Larry. Also illustrated was yet another disadvantage of larger trailers like 5th wheels. It's that combo of overall height (which is why you need a tall ladder along the RV's side) and that crappy attached ladder which makes buying yet another accessory seem reasonable. Our attached ladder has 2" diameter stiles and steps. It's easy on the hands & feet, only 6 rungs high, and feels rock solid. Some will be very put off by the springiness of these collapsable ladders. Our smaller (and so lower) trailer only requires a 2-rung foldable step ladder for cleaning side windows and weighs ~4 pounds. But no, we are not full-timing.
Jack, thanks for the positive comment. Yes. An RV that isn’t as tall would not so tall a ladder. But the major problem with RV ladders is that it doesn’t adhere to the 4 to 1 rule because it is straight up and down. But about the fifth wheel, I would love to downsize, but we would still want to use a ladder other than the RV one. Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Hi Alice!! Yes hubby is very happy with the ladder. I can say if we hadn’t already bought one we definitely would after watching Larry’s video. He did a great job of showing the importance of this type of ladder!! Have a super day!!!🤗
Do you take it with you? I have one that i think collapsed would fit in the bay. We will be full timing soon. I have severe arthritis and wonder how I will keep it clean. I see Larry has a leaf blower, not mentioned in the expenses😄. I am worried i cannot get up any ladder now. I use a cane. Also, i am terrified of heights. In the past, i have had to get up on our roof, but I feel sick and have nightmares. One time I was 3 stories up and it started sliding. Must have been God who saved me.
We have thought about these often and never took the time to really research them,. WE don't need to now. We know how meticulous your Larry. I now know which one to get. 😉 I would say some industrious Velcro would be easier to use than the rope. Just thinking through this out loud. ❤️👍👏 Donovan & Jodi
Well - you convinced me! I went out today and bought a 780P+ Extend and Climb ladder over all the other brands out there. The construction and 5 year warranty along with the safety aspect of it sold me. I did cringe at the cash register, though....
After using my ladder at every campground over the last year, i attach it to our rv ladder every stop, it is very dependable and strong. I never worry about using this ladder and having a failure. It’s worth the extra money, If i had a bad fall it would cost me a lot more. Good luck with your ladder. Larry
Got one! It’s fantastic, folds up nicely for stowing it away and it’s actually very light! Mine is aluminum and ten feet high. I will say they are just a tad wobbly but overall it’s a great thing to have. Get some slide toppers you will love them! Good idea to tie that ladder at the top also!
Bud, they are a bit wobbly- but that’s why the tie on helps. But it’s been tested with 300 lbs and didn’t break. We thought about slide toppers. We shall see. Thanks, Alice
I have got to get me one of these! It never occurred to me that I would need one until seeing your video. I must say however, that you navigated your rv ladder very well for a “50 something empty nester”. Tell Alice hello since she wasn’t in front of the camera in this episode. Enjoy Florida!
Robert, Larry loves this ladder. And he did so much research before buying it. 😂 Believe me, he had to rest after going up and down the ladder so many times with his RA. But it would worse with the RV ladder. I didn’t see a reason to be in the video- I needed a break 😅. Thanks for always visiting. We really appreciate it. Alice
Since we have slide toppers, we went with a similar one but A-frame, that one also help us when fixing awning related issues, like the LED strips at the end of the awning, since if we had a regular ladder we wouldn't have anywhere to lean on.
That’s a great point. I hate to admit that Larry leaned this ladder right against the awning to fix the end cap and LED lights. Luckily, no mishap. Thanks for coming by, Alice
You should check out the Murphy ladder sold at home Depot. This ladder is better then a extended ladder because it was made by a firefighter and it cost around $198 or cheaper if it was on sale.
When we had our Class A gasser, lots of storage, so we carried a 6' Werner A frame ladder in one of the bays. We recently moved to a DP and since it is a 35' unit, we actually have less underneath storage (due to raised rail frame) than in the gasser, so now need a telescoping ladder. Like you, been researching them a lot and think I am leaning towards the Extend & Climb 780P+, since I am on the larger side of the weight guidelines. Ohuhu, Wolfwise and Luisladders all gets good reviews, but there's just something that makes me think I should spend the extra money for he Extend and Climb. It's been about a year of use with your ladder. Are you totally satisfied with its performance and reliability?
This ladder is awesome, so strong. I put it out and tie it off to the Rv ladder at every campground, that means in the last year I put it away and put it back out over 30 times, I still highly recommend spending the extra money, it’s worth it. The only problem I have is that the arthritis in my thumbs makes it a little difficult to push the buttons when putting the ladder away. If you have strong hands and thumbs you won’t have any problem at all. Larry
Interesting! Have to get one! Story: I was laying in the bed in the 2011 Winnie Minnie and noticed a water stain coming out from the closet on the ceiling. I got up and looked in the closet and the ceiling was really bad so I headed up to the roof. I am climbing up the rvs ladder and when I got to the top as I've done for years as a towerman and "pulled" myself over the top of the ladder. You a know how it bends over and mounts to the roof? I was standing on the ladder and looking at the area of the leak and what do I see but where the ladder is screwed into the roof. I wiggled the ladder and it's loose under both screws! It took a few tooth picks and glue to replace the screws so they were tight and sealed the hell out of those 2 screws! After looking at how I claimed the ladder it's that last "pull" to get that ladt step done and on the roof. Now I stop at the top and slowly without putting my hands in front of the first bend of the ladder and mount to the roof on my knees and then stand up on the roof. I have no more leaks in my Closet! Blue skies and safe journey's
Larry loves his. and I feel much safer going up and down- though at first the wobble takes a bit getting used to. A firefighter buddy of ours recommended one.
Hello Larry and Alice!! This is really an awesome review and class!! Thank you very much for sharing your tips! With our new solar panel set up, something like this would be really great for reaching spots from any side of our travel trailer!! I guess my only objection to this particular ladder is the 250lb load limit. I'm a 245 lb middle linebacker. I guess I could wear some speedos so that I'd have the extra weight allowance to carry a bucket of water up to the roof to clean my solar panels hehehe Safe travels!!
I got you, they do offer a 300 lb ladder, make sure you stick with Xtend n climb or another quality brand instead of an amazon cheapo model. Let us know what you get, larry
@@DownsizingMakesCents Hi Larry!! Thank you very much for the prompt response! Thank you very much for that heads up on the higher weight allowance model. I will check that out. A side anecdote...I had retired out of the army and was doing some contract work overseas. On my R&R sessions back home, between rotations, I'd always joke about not doing any roof maintenance or other elevated activities within 2 weeks before heading to another deployment in the event of a fall or whatever. There I was....a week before heading back overseas, and I noticed some mold on my house's north face siding. So...I broke out my 16ft ladder, which folded into a stand alone 8 ft ladder. I climbed up to the second to the top rung and fired my 2500psi pressure washer perpendicular to the ladder supports. Well...the obvious happened.....it completely shot me off the side of the ladder. Fortunately, tree bark is a popular landscape material; which I had landed in a bark bed. This is a bit different activity than whatever you'd be doing on an RV. But, the principles still apply...........don't go cheap with a lesser capable ladder!! Safe travels and have fun on your tail end of the RV show !
Hi, thanks is for sharing great content. I might have not read further enough into the comments but do you have tips on how to not damage the RV when using this kind of a ladder? I have a motor home and I’m afraid of denting it. Thanks
Thank you!! Will definitely check out this ladder. Have you done a video on internet on the go? I'm still catching up on your videos. We need to get some sort of Internet capabilities for our travels this spring. All the best to you and Alice. Thanks Again!
Wow - great video! You’ve convinced me! A couple of questions: 1) how tall is your rig? I want to be sure I’m getting the correct length collapsible ladder for our rig. 2) seems like heavy duty velcro strips could be more easily and quickly used at the top instead of rope, and could be stronger and more secure - have you considered that? I bet you could even find a way to permanently attach some velcro straps at the top of the ladder for when you want to secure it to your RV ladder.
Our rig is 13 feet 6 inches to the top of the ac, but only about 12 feet to the roof at the back, our ladder is 12 feet 6 inches which is perfect for us as we don’t need overhang at the top. I ended up keeping ropes permanently attached to the top of the ladder, just under the top rung. I would be worried that Velcro wouldn’t stay attached if I lost my balance and swung hard to one side by accident. The ropes don’t take long to tie on. If I found some good Velcro straps is would give them a try. Thanks for the idea, Larry
Downsizing Makes Cents Thanks for the reply! I was thinking about some very strong industrial strength velcro. And I bet you could put a grommet in the middle, and pop-rivet them to either side of the top of the ladder. Maybe into the top or front of the top rung? Also - that rubber topper that you have seems like an important and indispensable accessory!
@@settinger14 You sound like a real DIYer like me. I actually made a foam topper before I bought the one from the company. But you definitely need one or the other, Lar
@@DownsizingMakesCents Larry - I just want to reiterate what a really GREAT video this is that you made. It’s super well organized, well filmed, well presented, and covers everything anyone might want to know! Now we just need to get you WAAAAAY more than 11K views (although I’m sure I have watched it at least a half-dozen times myself!). It’s such important information, I hope that other UA-camrs reference it. I sent the link directly to Chad @ Changing Lanes, and I’m gonna send it to a few others.
Great video and information thank you very much. Never really thought about it but it seems to be a much safer way to go. If you are going to use ropes to tie off your ladder you should use better knots at the top. Thanks
Dutch, thanks. It’s a great ladder. Larry agrees about the knots. Do you have a better know and we will update our description with your suggestion. Thanks, Alice
Very good review and recommendation. I have the 785P from when I had my sticks & bricks long ago. The ladder is excellent, the one problem I have is that it weights 38 pounds, it has a 15 1/2 feet height and I have used it plenty to clean the sides of the rig and even to cut trees that prevent me from parking or passing with my rig. I just wish it wasn't so heavy but either way I will not get rid of it and advise others to buy yours which is lighter than mine.
That is a heavy ladder. Even ours, though it weighs less than yours, is heavy. That’s why we keep it in the truck to keep weight out of the RV. Glad to hear you still like your ladder. Makes us feel better about buying ours. Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents it is the getting down i wonder about. I always have trouble. Now i cannot get on my knees, either. Just thinking of it makes me ill.
Based on your video I bought this ladder a couple years ago and it works great. However, we have a class a and I find that i need to have an "a-frame" ladder - have you upgraded your ladder?
I put this ladder up at the back of the rv at every site, that’s about 130 sites in the last 3 years. After all that time in the weather the last section sticks a bit and i have to use silicone spray to get it to move. Other than that the ladder has been great, no need for an a frame except a couple of times when we were working on our awning. Larry
Thank you for this great video. If I bought 2 of these and used 1 to be a ladder hoist ladder or laddervator do you think it would be strong enough to lift an air conditioner?
Michael, I wish I could answer. We try to answer every question but Larry isn’t feeling well. Perhaps call the company that makes the ladder? Sorry. Good luck, Alice
I agree these are nice ladders to have in your RV. However I did chuckle though after watching your opening scene climbing both ladders then 30 seconds later calling the Rv ladder flimsy. Watching the split scene where your climbing it looked like the telescoping ladder was the flimsy one about to fold in half. They must be a lot stronger than they look.
Dan, the telescoping ladder is designed to flex. The main thing is the 4 to 1 rule for ladder safety that you can’t get with an RV ladder. In that video clip Larry shared with the strength test, this ladder didn’t break even with 300 lbs. Thanks for asking. It will help others that will read the comments, Alice
Check in the description to the channel Roofing Insights. We put a link in the description of our video. If you still have a problem, let me know Alice
I like my Little Giant. It does pack up a little bigger but it is 100 times better made, costs less than half of yours and it also can be a step ladder. It is heavier due to being built better. I ordered my camper without the rear ladder as they are crap and just more possible leak points on the roof and rear wall. Just another option. I carry mine in the back of my truck although it does easily fit in my pass thru. Those telescoping ladders seem very flimsy, flex a lot and have a lot of plastic parts to be so expensive.
We have heard the Little giants are awesome. We know ours is flexible but it’s made that way. Larry like how compact his telescope is. Plus the video he mentioned shows how it was tested. You are so right about RV ladders. I don’t know if we will ever get a new RV, but if we dud maybe we will skip the RV ladder too. Alice
I have a Little Giant ladder and I like it, but as a female, who is one from birth, the weight of it does make it a challenge for me, and I have to be careful when it's used as an extension ladder. However, I have a class A RV and I hated the attached ladder, made me really nervous, so I use my ladder much in the same way you do. Hard to find videos on getting on the roof of an RV or trailer and we need to do that for proper maintenance of AC units, checking for leaks or tears, etc.
I get it. I (Alice) hate moving the ladder. It is heavy. But I feel safer climbing up it then the original RV attached ladder. I do on the roof often - mostly to film.
@@DownsizingMakesCents I'm working on getting more comfortable being on the roof. AC's need cleaning, inside and out. Roof could use a cleaning. Might need to replace the bathroom vent. Usual RV stuff. Might get a telescoping ladder in addition to the Little Giant, which is very nice, just heavy and harder to transport. Had it on the roof rack for a cross country trip and it made a HORRENDOUS noise most of the time.
I agree, getting on the roof periodically is an important part of RV maintenance and care, but I have had many close calls before i got this ladder, we put it up at every campground, Alice likes to take photos from the roof at each stop. Larry
I tried going up the side of my fifth wheel with my telescoping ladder as shown in this video…I tore a small slit in my roof membrane. Go up the back and get a cover for the tip so as not to damage your RV…like I did.
I had just gotten my ladder like this one. I would not put it up on to the ladder that's on the back of the RV. You never know when that top part of the RV ladder could give way. I would just put the ladder separate from the RV ladder to be safe. I would not trust the RV ladder at all.
Thanks for this great video, Larry. I’ve been looking at getting one of those ladders and they’re on sale on Amazon.ca today. I‘m curious why you chose to get the 12.5’ ladder vs. the 15.5’ one. I’m thinking I’d prefer to have the top of the ladder extend well above the top of the fifth wheel.
Allan, you are right. You should have a ladder that goes up above. But since Larry attaches mostly to the RV ladder, that’s why he got this size. The bigger one was heavier and more expensive but he would have got it if he didn’t use the one he got mostly attached to the RV ladder Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Leaning the ladder against the trailer ladder gives you an even surface. The only thing with the longer ladder and extending it above the roof is that it would have to lean directly on the trailer so I would need to lean it on the peak.
That’s interesting. We have never heard that before. We had a travel trailer without a ladder but it had a walkable roof- you need to get up there for maintenance. I can’t imagine having an RV that we couldn’t get on the roof?
@@DownsizingMakesCents right that was my concern to and I had one with out a ladder and I knew I had to clean the roof and inspect it so I went to have one installed and thats when I found out
@@DownsizingMakesCents it was a a Rv dealer who also contacted a couple of RV manufacturers they said you can get up there and clean and inspect but you got to be a lite person number and watch where you walk try to stay on the cross beams
@@DownsizingMakesCents oh they told me that when the technician has to work on the AC unit or any thing up there they lay down a piece of ply wood that cross from beam to beam
I am not sure all telescoping ladders have similar designs or construction but if you own a telescoping ladder, get rid of it. They seem pretty safe and there are many good reviews on here and Amazon but this thing is extremely dangerous. The plastic seals that prevent the ladder from collapsing in on itself become detached and block the pins from engaging that lock the ladder runs in place. I am an older man and the fall would have killed me. Fortunately, I caught myself and hung on until my son could rescue me with another ladder. I know this ladder is very popular on Amazon but they are a death trap! Get rid of it. Once again, these are extremely dangerous. I have contacted the US Federal Product Safety Commission to issue a recall.
We specifically show on the video that this one we have is a higher end one. Yes, there are cheaper ones that we do not recommend like this one. It’s not for everyone. But the ladder attached to the RV is very dangerous Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents they save you from having to go up on the roof every time you pack up by keeping sticks, lesves, pine needles, pinecones etc off (and pine sap) and act as an extra barrier against water leaks. Also helps keep the inside a little cooler. I'll never be without them again. Worth every penny.
@@DownsizingMakesCents oh and thanks for the video, forgot to say that, I never thought to use it in conjunction with my RV ladder like that. I don't like the steep ladder on the back nor do I trust it'll actually hold me.
I understand why some people may think that. If you are younger or really strong and healthy, it isn’t necessary. I lose my balance easily and my RA has made me much weaker than i used to be. I put this ladder up every time i get on the roof now. Larry
This is a the best video I’ve seen so far demonstrating a telescoping ladder. I’m afraid of heights so you can probably imagine how many videos I’ve watched in an attempt to ease the burden of getting onto the roof for my van build. Thanks for being so detailed and informative! The only thing left I need to watch is someone climbing up and down when the top of the ladder is at or below the roof height.
Thanks. I am afraid of heights, too. At first, the wobble bothered me, but since it’s tied off, I feel safe.
Larry has put it on the side of the RV, too. He should have included a piece to show that.
You should have a ladder taller than the roof. That’s helps you get from ladder to roof.
Is there something on the roof you can tie the ladder to? That is always best.
Alice
Excellent review and as always super thorough and honest! I loved the way you incorporated the videos that were helpful to you in your research process. You crushed it once again Larry!👍Kudos! Dave and Lorrie
Thanks guys. That really means a lot. Larry works really hard on his editing and filming. It’s great to hear people recognize it.
Saw your last video. Glad to see you guys enjoying Florida.
Hope to see you guys on the road,
Alice
Awesome video! This makes perfect sense (Cents, sorry had to say that..) on how to use a telescoping ladder with our travel trailer. We are retired and I have some balance issues at times. The ladder on our trailer is solid but going straight up on it and then climbing down it is nerve wracking!!
Your video answered all of our questions and just made our decision for us. Thank you!
Larry, great name 😅. Don’t apologize for puns- love them obviously. I’m glad our video helped. With Larry’s RA, we need to be extra careful. He did a lot of research to find this one.
If you get it, let us know what you think.
Alice
Just purchased a telescoping ladder on black Friday because of this video. Thanks so much for this and all the other video's you have done.
Michael, that’s awesome. We love Black Friday deals.
And we are glad to hear we help 🤗
Alice
We noticed our motorhome ladder getting loose the last couple of times we used it and was just considering a telescopic ladder! When you full time, you really do need something more. Great video!!😁😁
Thanks. Our RV ladder was loose, too. Larry loves his ladder. Yes- full time, you need a safe ladder.
Alice
Good safety info for the aging RVers . I will be trying this soon
Pete, believe me it’s for all ages. We were convinced by a firefighter of 35 years.
Alice
We have a telescope ladder and absolutely love it. It's truly amazing!
- Jay & Jessica
I’m glad to hear that. We only do reviews on products we have used for awhile and love - like our Honda generator.
Happy Camping,
Alice
WE have one, only used it a couple of times just to make sure we could. Never HAD to use it. But we've loaned it out to someone that needed to get up on their roof.
Nice video!
We used it at every campsite. We put our Starlink on roof or we used every time before we move to blow off the roof and slides.
Nice of you let someone borrow it.
Thanks for watching 🤗
The timing of the release of this video was perfect. I have been looking at telescoping ladders and almost "pulled the trigger" on another ladder. Now I will watch for the Xtend and Climb to go on sale. THANK YOU - it will cost me almost double the $$$, but will get what appears to be a better, safer, more reliable ladder!!
Dave & Laura, we only like to review a product after we have used it awhile. It is more expensive, but it should last longer. It’s sort of like our Honda generator- worth the price.
Happy Camping,
Alice
Thank you Larry! Just ordered same setup as you have. Very helpful insights AS ALWAYS! Have a great week ahead and safe travels!
Paul, glad we could help. Let us know how the ladder works out for you, Larry
❤️ your videos. My son is doing the same thing Larry did for a living (Johnson n Johnson). I just bought one of these ladders last week. I store it under one of the couches in our class A motor home.
Blessings to you!
Thank you so much.
J&J is a great company- good luck to him.
Larry and I both love the ladder still. It’s so much safer.
Take care 🤗
Alice
Great video. We have one which is similar but a different model with 15 rungs so I can tie it off and still stand upright and hold onto the ladder before stepping off at the top. It goes 4 feet above the roof height. We use it for cleaning our motorhome. It was a really worthwhile purchase. We don’t take with us when we are travelling unless we are away for very long periods. Love your video and explanation 👍🏻🚐 Trev
Thanks, guys. Tied off makes it so much safer. We feel it’s worthwhile, too. Definitely needed for a full timer or for seasonal.
Thanks so much for the positive thoughts.
Alice
Poshcats Camping, did you get the Xtend & Climb 785P+? How do you tie it off on your motorhome?
@@allan6021 Not sure of the make but it’s very similar to the one in the video but black plastic with aluminium. We have roof bars on our motorhome so I put a thick towel under the ladder, then use an elastic bungee tie at the top. I use a small step to put the towel in place between ladder and van. I do have to tie it tight to stop it slipping sideways but the towel helps and prevents marks on the van 👍🏻🙂
What a great idea with the telescoping ladder. I will have to look into this for my 5th wheel.
Michael, Larry doesn’t regret buying one. He regrets not getting it sooner.
Alice
Excellent "how to" - glad I found your channel, subbed right away... keep 'em coming!
Thanks. Larry tries to be thorough. Hope you find more vids that can help,
Alice
As someone who uses these ladders on a daily basis filling overhead fuel tanks, I can not stress how nice the angled feet feature is. Most have a flat bottom and if you are on a hard surface you are relying on just the edge for stability and they tend to want to slide. The angles on models like you just reviewed put more surface area on the ground and is more stable.
Brandon, love hearing from someone who knows ladders. That’s exactly why we like our new ladder over the RV one
We really like this ladder! All the detailed we needed were in this video to! Thanks for sharing as we’re in the market to get one.
I’m glad we could help. We have used it for several months now and still love it.
Alice
Thx DSMS for thorough review and demo FWIW I agree the only part I use of my side mounted RV ladder is the top as it is too weak for my bulk I use a foldable rated at 300#s which about max out. I've got a garage in 40'TH so storage is not an issue. Happy Camping & Stay Healthy.
Bill, thanks. The ladder we bought has the same Max at 300 lbs. There might be other ladder manufacturers that have a higher weight max?
But if your ladder works for you, that’s great.
Happy Camping to you, too. And also take care,
Alice
Great tip. I have a Cosco telescoping ladder that I bought at 1 of the home improvement stores on sale. I had bought it for our previous camper trailer that didn’t have a ladder attached to it. Thanks for the great advice. Our current trailer does have a ladder attached to it but from now on I’m going to use the ladder for safety and easiness to get on the roof.👍👍👍
I’m glad we could help. RV ladders by themselves are just not safe. Larry did a lot of research and learned a lot from his retired firefighter friend.
Take care,
Alice
Thank you Larry for showing this video. It looks like a very nice ladder. I’m thinking about getting it. It works good. And it becomes compact. That’s nice. Thank you for showing how it works too! That helps a lot. See you and Alice next week. Stay safe.
Sherri, Larry knows his stuff 😅. He researches the heck out of it then uses it for months- or years like our generator- before he reviews it.
See you next week- sooner on IG, Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents That’s he does that. Then he knows if it works. He’s a good handy man. See you next week have a great week!
AT&T cable repair people carry a 67 lb, 28 foot extension ladder on their shoulder from the truck to the pole or cable, many times a day. I know because I was one, between the ages of 63 and 66. I hated every minute of it and was afraid of heights through it all, but I trusted my equipment and my training to stay safe. We tied our ladder to the pole or the cable and then “belted off” around them, too. I am now retired, 69, (wink to Bill and Ted) and have a travel trailer that is 11’6” tall, just high enough to be scary, for me. I also have a telescoping ladder that I climb to get above the slide to blow it off with a battery powered blower, before bringing the slide in. I do slide debris removal from the side of the slide, which is not so scary because I am still on the ladder and have something to hold. My ladder has top cap cushions that I can rotate toward the trailer to avoid scratching the trailer when climbing the ladder. I have non-marring knee pads for those times I absolutely have to get on the roof, so that I don’t have to stand up.
Frank, that cable repair job does not sound fun 😂 especially if you are afraid of heights.
I would love to downsize 😅 but too much money invested in this beast with all the lithium and solar. I’ll have to tell Larry to get some knee pads. That’s a great idea.
Stay safe and low to the ground 🤗
Alice
We have been researching these and thinking we are once full time- thanks Chasing RV Sunshine 🌞 Joel, Deb & 🐕 Maya
Larry is so glad he has one. And he did a lot of research. So now you don’t have to 😅.
Keep downsizing,
Alice
So for me I really want one of these ladders. I got the ladder that folds in half and I am not a big fan. Takes up to much room. The telescoping ladder seems to take far less room. Ok side note. We need to get you some slide toppers. You will love them. Well there was the most honest part of the video "Not a young man anymore" lol. "Jerk and wiggle" you should copy write that. lol I started cracking up when you said that. Great video. I want one for sure. I think this is the way to go.
William, Larry loves his gadgets and tools. And he swears by this ladder. You know how flimsy RV ladders are.
I doubt we will get slide toppers- I’ve heard stories of live things getting under them and causing a problem when you pull in the slide.
As far as the old man thing, he is old 😅.
It is a great ladder.
Thanks for always watching,
Alice
I purchased a collapsible ladder three years ago as our first TT did not come with a ladder. Our current RV has a ladder, but, I like this idea. Thanks.
The ladder that comes with the RV is just not safe- it doesn’t follow the 4 to 1 rule. So it’s best to have both.
Alice
We have been researching telescoping ladders and it seems like out of the reviews we have seen online that the Xtend ladder is far more superior than the other telescoping ladders. This video was very informative. Thanks so much for sharing! ~ Shion and Matthew
Shion and Matthew, Larry did a lot of research, too. We agree. Lots of great reviews. And Larry is very happy with it the months he has used it.
Let us know if you end up getting one,
Alice
Great video and we agree that it's a must-have! Obviously we need it, especially with those resi panels that are walked up to the roof. Ours is too heavy (for Leanna), but Mike thoroughly enjoys it, lol!
Leanna, I figured you guys would have some sort of pro Mac daddy 😂. Our ladder is too heavy for me, too.
Boys and their tools 🧰 ❤️
Alice
Great info! I'll be picking up one of those ladders for my 1976 Winnebago Brave Project.
Hey Brian, That Winny you got is awesome, I don’t think they had built on RV ladders in 1976. I wish I had one of these ladders when we were racing drones to help get them out of the trees, haha. Lar
You did an excellent job of reviewing the ladder and discussing ladder use, Larry. Also illustrated was yet another disadvantage of larger trailers like 5th wheels. It's that combo of overall height (which is why you need a tall ladder along the RV's side) and that crappy attached ladder which makes buying yet another accessory seem reasonable. Our attached ladder has 2" diameter stiles and steps. It's easy on the hands & feet, only 6 rungs high, and feels rock solid. Some will be very put off by the springiness of these collapsable ladders. Our smaller (and so lower) trailer only requires a 2-rung foldable step ladder for cleaning side windows and weighs ~4 pounds. But no, we are not full-timing.
Jack, thanks for the positive comment.
Yes. An RV that isn’t as tall would not so tall a ladder. But the major problem with RV ladders is that it doesn’t adhere to the 4 to 1 rule because it is straight up and down.
But about the fifth wheel, I would love to downsize, but we would still want to use a ladder other than the RV one.
Alice
Thanks for another great video. It is smart to have more than one and I like that ladder it looks good might get one someday
Larry feels much safer with this ladder. Do some research to see which one is best for you and your RV
Alice
We bought one of these ladders last year, best purchase to date!!!
Lisa, great. I’m glad to hear it worked for you.
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Hi Alice!! Yes hubby is very happy with the ladder. I can say if we hadn’t already bought one we definitely would after watching Larry’s video. He did a great job of showing the importance of this type of ladder!! Have a super day!!!🤗
Thanks. It’s nice to hear his hard work helps.
I’ve been eyeing these up. Especially when I needed to clean off the slide out topper on the road. At home I use my aluminum extension ladder
Farco, Larry loves it. He spends a lot of time on the roof. Plus I like to go up for sunset shots and Larry feels I’m safer on the new ladder.
Alice
Do you take it with you? I have one that i think collapsed would fit in the bay. We will be full timing soon. I have severe arthritis and wonder how I will keep it clean. I see Larry has a leaf blower, not mentioned in the expenses😄. I am worried i cannot get up any ladder now. I use a cane. Also, i am terrified of heights. In the past, i have had to get up on our roof, but I feel sick and have nightmares. One time I was 3 stories up and it started sliding. Must have been God who saved me.
I will be getting one when I go full time later this year. Thanks for the info.
Edward, that’s awesome. Good luck going full time.
Alice
We have thought about these often and never took the time to really research them,. WE don't need to now. We know how meticulous your Larry. I now know which one to get. 😉 I would say some industrious Velcro would be easier to use than the rope. Just thinking through this out loud. ❤️👍👏 Donovan & Jodi
You know Larry was thorough researching 😂. About the Velcro? I’m not trusting my driver’s life with just Velcro.
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Totally makes sense!
Well - you convinced me! I went out today and bought a 780P+ Extend and Climb ladder over all the other brands out there. The construction and 5 year warranty along with the safety aspect of it sold me. I did cringe at the cash register, though....
After using my ladder at every campground over the last year, i attach it to our rv ladder every stop, it is very dependable and strong. I never worry about using this ladder and having a failure. It’s worth the extra money, If i had a bad fall it would cost me a lot more. Good luck with your ladder. Larry
Got one! It’s fantastic, folds up nicely for stowing it away and it’s actually very light! Mine is aluminum and ten feet high. I will say they are just a tad wobbly but overall it’s a great thing to have. Get some slide toppers you will love them! Good idea to tie that ladder at the top also!
Bud, they are a bit wobbly- but that’s why the tie on helps. But it’s been tested with 300 lbs and didn’t break.
We thought about slide toppers. We shall see.
Thanks,
Alice
I have got to get me one of these! It never occurred to me that I would need one until seeing your video. I must say however, that you navigated your rv ladder very well for a “50 something empty nester”. Tell Alice hello since she wasn’t in front of the camera in this episode. Enjoy Florida!
Robert, Larry loves this ladder. And he did so much research before buying it.
😂 Believe me, he had to rest after going up and down the ladder so many times with his RA. But it would worse with the RV ladder.
I didn’t see a reason to be in the video- I needed a break 😅.
Thanks for always visiting. We really appreciate it.
Alice
Since we have slide toppers, we went with a similar one but A-frame, that one also help us when fixing awning related issues, like the LED strips at the end of the awning, since if we had a regular ladder we wouldn't have anywhere to lean on.
That’s a great point. I hate to admit that Larry leaned this ladder right against the awning to fix the end cap and LED lights. Luckily, no mishap.
Thanks for coming by,
Alice
Thanks Larry.
Hope it helps
You should check out the Murphy ladder sold at home Depot. This ladder is better then a extended ladder because it was made by a firefighter and it cost around $198 or cheaper if it was on sale.
Mark, thanks for the suggestion
One of the first purchases I made was a gorilla ladder and attached an old floor mat to keep from damaging the roof edge.
Protecting the RV is important, i had to add the rubber cap that xtendnclimb makes to keep it from scratching the RV. Larry
When we had our Class A gasser, lots of storage, so we carried a 6' Werner A frame ladder in one of the bays. We recently moved to a DP and since it is a 35' unit, we actually have less underneath storage (due to raised rail frame) than in the gasser, so now need a telescoping ladder. Like you, been researching them a lot and think I am leaning towards the Extend & Climb 780P+, since I am on the larger side of the weight guidelines. Ohuhu, Wolfwise and Luisladders all gets good reviews, but there's just something that makes me think I should spend the extra money for he Extend and Climb. It's been about a year of use with your ladder. Are you totally satisfied with its performance and reliability?
This ladder is awesome, so strong. I put it out and tie it off to the Rv ladder at every campground, that means in the last year I put it away and put it back out over 30 times, I still highly recommend spending the extra money, it’s worth it. The only problem I have is that the arthritis in my thumbs makes it a little difficult to push the buttons when putting the ladder away. If you have strong hands and thumbs you won’t have any problem at all. Larry
Interesting! Have to get one!
Story:
I was laying in the bed in the 2011 Winnie Minnie and noticed a water stain coming out from the closet on the ceiling.
I got up and looked in the closet and the ceiling was really bad so I headed up to the roof.
I am climbing up the rvs ladder and when I got to the top as I've done for years as a towerman and "pulled" myself over the top of the ladder. You a know how it bends over and mounts to the roof?
I was standing on the ladder and looking at the area of the leak and what do I see but where the ladder is screwed into the roof.
I wiggled the ladder and it's loose under both screws!
It took a few tooth picks and glue to replace the screws so they were tight and sealed the hell out of those 2 screws!
After looking at how I claimed the ladder it's that last "pull" to get that ladt step done and on the roof.
Now I stop at the top and slowly without putting my hands in front of the first bend of the ladder and mount to the roof on my knees and then stand up on the roof.
I have no more leaks in my Closet!
Blue skies and safe journey's
Larry loves his. and I feel much safer going up and down- though at first the wobble takes a bit getting used to. A firefighter buddy of ours recommended one.
Hello Larry and Alice!! This is really an awesome review and class!! Thank you very much for sharing your tips!
With our new solar panel set up, something like this would be really great for reaching spots from any side of our travel trailer!! I guess my only objection to this particular ladder is the 250lb load limit. I'm a 245 lb middle linebacker. I guess I could wear some speedos so that I'd have the extra weight allowance to carry a bucket of water up to the roof to clean my solar panels hehehe
Safe travels!!
I got you, they do offer a 300 lb ladder, make sure you stick with Xtend n climb or another quality brand instead of an amazon cheapo model. Let us know what you get, larry
@@DownsizingMakesCents Hi Larry!! Thank you very much for the prompt response!
Thank you very much for that heads up on the higher weight allowance model. I will check that out.
A side anecdote...I had retired out of the army and was doing some contract work overseas. On my R&R sessions back home, between rotations, I'd always joke about not doing any roof maintenance or other elevated activities within 2 weeks before heading to another deployment in the event of a fall or whatever. There I was....a week before heading back overseas, and I noticed some mold on my house's north face siding. So...I broke out my 16ft ladder, which folded into a stand alone 8 ft ladder. I climbed up to the second to the top rung and fired my 2500psi pressure washer perpendicular to the ladder supports. Well...the obvious happened.....it completely shot me off the side of the ladder. Fortunately, tree bark is a popular landscape material; which I had landed in a bark bed. This is a bit different activity than whatever you'd be doing on an RV. But, the principles still apply...........don't go cheap with a lesser capable ladder!!
Safe travels and have fun on your tail end of the RV show !
I’ve been looking for a reason to get a collapsing ladder - this is it!
Tom, Larry wishes he bought it sooner. Hope you love yours too
Alice
Hi, thanks is for sharing great content. I might have not read further enough into the comments but do you have tips on how to not damage the RV when using this kind of a ladder? I have a motor home and I’m afraid of denting it. Thanks
There should be in the description a link to the top piece you can buy that fits on so it doesn’t scratch
This is a great video! As I intend to have solar .. I will be up there quite a bit
Darisan, Larry still needs to do his solar series. He wishes he had that ladder when installing
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents I’m looking forward to the “Larry’s Solar Spectacular” I have been enjoying studying up on the subject myself
Thank you!! Will definitely check out this ladder. Have you done a video on internet on the go? I'm still catching up on your videos. We need to get some sort of Internet capabilities for our travels this spring. All the best to you and Alice. Thanks Again!
The internet video is in the works. But Larry always adds little mods- he is working on designs for 3D printing some stuff for the video.
Alice
Looks good my problem is getting back on a ladder to come down from roof going up is easy
I go up and down the ladder much easier than the RV original ladder
Wow - great video! You’ve convinced me! A couple of questions:
1) how tall is your rig? I want to be sure I’m getting the correct length collapsible ladder for our rig.
2) seems like heavy duty velcro strips could be more easily and quickly used at the top instead of rope, and could be stronger and more secure - have you considered that? I bet you could even find a way to permanently attach some velcro straps at the top of the ladder for when you want to secure it to your RV ladder.
Our rig is 13 feet 6 inches to the top of the ac, but only about 12 feet to the roof at the back, our ladder is 12 feet 6 inches which is perfect for us as we don’t need overhang at the top. I ended up keeping ropes permanently attached to the top of the ladder, just under the top rung. I would be worried that Velcro wouldn’t stay attached if I lost my balance and swung hard to one side by accident. The ropes don’t take long to tie on. If I found some good Velcro straps is would give them a try. Thanks for the idea, Larry
Downsizing Makes Cents Thanks for the reply! I was thinking about some very strong industrial strength velcro. And I bet you could put a grommet in the middle, and pop-rivet them to either side of the top of the ladder. Maybe into the top or front of the top rung? Also - that rubber topper that you have seems like an important and indispensable accessory!
@@settinger14 You sound like a real DIYer like me. I actually made a foam topper before I bought the one from the company. But you definitely need one or the other, Lar
@@DownsizingMakesCents Larry - I just want to reiterate what a really GREAT video this is that you made. It’s super well organized, well filmed, well presented, and covers everything anyone might want to know! Now we just need to get you WAAAAAY more than 11K views (although I’m sure I have watched it at least a half-dozen times myself!). It’s such important information, I hope that other UA-camrs reference it. I sent the link directly to Chad @ Changing Lanes, and I’m gonna send it to a few others.
Great video and information thank you very much. Never really thought about it but it seems to be a much safer way to go. If you are going to use ropes to tie off your ladder you should use better knots at the top. Thanks
Dutch, thanks. It’s a great ladder. Larry agrees about the knots. Do you have a better know and we will update our description with your suggestion.
Thanks,
Alice
Very good review and recommendation. I have the 785P from when I had my sticks & bricks long ago. The ladder is excellent, the one problem I have is that it weights 38 pounds, it has a 15 1/2 feet height and I have used it plenty to clean the sides of the rig and even to cut trees that prevent me from parking or passing with my rig. I just wish it wasn't so heavy but either way I will not get rid of it and advise others to buy yours which is lighter than mine.
That is a heavy ladder. Even ours, though it weighs less than yours, is heavy. That’s why we keep it in the truck to keep weight out of the RV.
Glad to hear you still like your ladder. Makes us feel better about buying ours.
Alice
Good info, I just subscribed. Have you considered two Velcro straps to hold the ladder to the rig's ladder?
Charles, Larry thought about it but he decided to have ropes that now stay connected to the ladder.
Alice
We have telescoping ladder. Husband 💕 it!
Susan, our guys must love their toys 😂
Alice
Just what the doctor ordered!
Jay, thanks. It definitely could keep the doctor away 😉 It’s a much safer way to get on and off the roof - sticks and bricks or RV
I will be getting one of these. I'm not a fan of heights but this would make me feel more comfortable.
Robin, I hate heights, but I’ll go on top of the RV to take video and pics- it’s all about the content 😅. I do feel safer with this ladder.
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents it is the getting down i wonder about. I always have trouble. Now i cannot get on my knees, either. Just thinking of it makes me ill.
Based on your video I bought this ladder a couple years ago and it works great. However, we have a class a and I find that i need to have an "a-frame" ladder - have you upgraded your ladder?
I put this ladder up at the back of the rv at every site, that’s about 130 sites in the last 3 years. After all that time in the weather the last section sticks a bit and i have to use silicone spray to get it to move. Other than that the ladder has been great, no need for an a frame except a couple of times when we were working on our awning. Larry
Thank you for this great video. If I bought 2 of these and used 1 to be a ladder hoist ladder or laddervator do you think it would be strong enough to lift an air conditioner?
Michael, I wish I could answer. We try to answer every question but Larry isn’t feeling well. Perhaps call the company that makes the ladder?
Sorry. Good luck,
Alice
I agree these are nice ladders to have in your RV. However I did chuckle though after watching your opening scene climbing both ladders then 30 seconds later calling the Rv ladder flimsy. Watching the split scene where your climbing it looked like the telescoping ladder was the flimsy one about to fold in half. They must be a lot stronger than they look.
Dan, the telescoping ladder is designed to flex. The main thing is the 4 to 1 rule for ladder safety that you can’t get with an RV ladder.
In that video clip Larry shared with the strength test, this ladder didn’t break even with 300 lbs.
Thanks for asking. It will help others that will read the comments,
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Alice, can you share a link to that video? It’s not coming up for me.
Check in the description to the channel Roofing Insights. We put a link in the description of our video. If you still have a problem, let me know
Alice
I like my Little Giant. It does pack up a little bigger but it is 100 times better made, costs less than half of yours and it also can be a step ladder. It is heavier due to being built better. I ordered my camper without the rear ladder as they are crap and just more possible leak points on the roof and rear wall. Just another option. I carry mine in the back of my truck although it does easily fit in my pass thru. Those telescoping ladders seem very flimsy, flex a lot and have a lot of plastic parts to be so expensive.
We have heard the Little giants are awesome. We know ours is flexible but it’s made that way. Larry like how compact his telescope is. Plus the video he mentioned shows how it was tested.
You are so right about RV ladders. I don’t know if we will ever get a new RV, but if we dud maybe we will skip the RV ladder too.
Alice
I have a Little Giant ladder and I like it, but as a female, who is one from birth, the weight of it does make it a challenge for me, and I have to be careful when it's used as an extension ladder. However, I have a class A RV and I hated the attached ladder, made me really nervous, so I use my ladder much in the same way you do. Hard to find videos on getting on the roof of an RV or trailer and we need to do that for proper maintenance of AC units, checking for leaks or tears, etc.
I get it. I (Alice) hate moving the ladder. It is heavy. But I feel safer climbing up it then the original RV attached ladder.
I do on the roof often - mostly to film.
@@DownsizingMakesCents I'm working on getting more comfortable being on the roof. AC's need cleaning, inside and out. Roof could use a cleaning. Might need to replace the bathroom vent. Usual RV stuff. Might get a telescoping ladder in addition to the Little Giant, which is very nice, just heavy and harder to transport. Had it on the roof rack for a cross country trip and it made a HORRENDOUS noise most of the time.
I agree, getting on the roof periodically is an important part of RV maintenance and care, but I have had many close calls before i got this ladder, we put it up at every campground, Alice likes to take photos from the roof at each stop. Larry
Than you!
?
We have one but it makes me nervous to put it against the trailer. I’m scared it’s going to punch a hole in the fiberglass
Andrea, that’s why you get or make rubber caps, like we have. We made custom before we bought one.
Alice
We do not have an attached ladder on our Class A. Our height according to specs is 13.5 feet. I would probably need longer than 12 feet? 🤔🤔
Paul, since you don’t have an attached ladder, you should look at the 15’.
Alice
I tried going up the side of my fifth wheel with my telescoping ladder as shown in this video…I tore a small slit in my roof membrane. Go up the back and get a cover for the tip so as not to damage your RV…like I did.
Sorry to hear that. That’s why Larry showed the cover in this video and put a link in the description
@@DownsizingMakesCents yeah, I should have just gone up the back. Will be ordering cover this week
Let us know how you like the cover
I had just gotten my ladder like this one. I would not put it up on to the ladder that's on the back of the RV. You never know when that top part of the RV ladder could give way. I would just put the ladder separate from the RV ladder to be safe. I would not trust the RV ladder at all.
I tie ours up to the rv ladder at every stop for years, still going sting. Larry
Thanks for this great video, Larry. I’ve been looking at getting one of those ladders and they’re on sale on Amazon.ca today. I‘m curious why you chose to get the 12.5’ ladder vs. the 15.5’ one. I’m thinking I’d prefer to have the top of the ladder extend well above the top of the fifth wheel.
Allan, you are right. You should have a ladder that goes up above. But since Larry attaches mostly to the RV ladder, that’s why he got this size. The bigger one was heavier and more expensive but he would have got it if he didn’t use the one he got mostly attached to the RV ladder
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Leaning the ladder against the trailer ladder gives you an even surface. The only thing with the longer ladder and extending it above the roof is that it would have to lean directly on the trailer so I would need to lean it on the peak.
Ok Larry you got to remember if your rv doesn't come with a ladder that means that the roof is not a walkable roof
That’s interesting. We have never heard that before. We had a travel trailer without a ladder but it had a walkable roof- you need to get up there for maintenance. I can’t imagine having an RV that we couldn’t get on the roof?
@@DownsizingMakesCents right that was my concern to and I had one with out a ladder and I knew I had to clean the roof and inspect it so I went to have one installed and thats when I found out
@@DownsizingMakesCents it was a a Rv dealer who also contacted a couple of RV manufacturers they said you can get up there and clean and inspect but you got to be a lite person number and watch where you walk try to stay on the cross beams
@@DownsizingMakesCents oh they told me that when the technician has to work on the AC unit or any thing up there they lay down a piece of ply wood that cross from beam to beam
@@gardnetbush9768 what RV do you own? Are you a weekender or full time? We wouldn’t want to own one we couldn’t walk on
what if you don't have an RV ladder?!
We have put it on the side. We used a rope with a loop around the AC on the roof.
But make sure you get the protective toppers for the ladder
I am not sure all telescoping ladders have similar designs or construction but if you own a telescoping ladder, get rid of it. They seem pretty safe and there are many good reviews on here and Amazon but this thing is extremely dangerous. The plastic seals that prevent the ladder from collapsing in on itself become detached and block the pins from engaging that lock the ladder runs in place. I am an older man and the fall would have killed me. Fortunately, I caught myself and hung on until my son could rescue me with another ladder. I know this ladder is very popular on Amazon but they are a death trap! Get rid of it. Once again, these are extremely dangerous. I have contacted the US Federal Product Safety Commission to issue a recall.
We specifically show on the video that this one we have is a higher end one.
Yes, there are cheaper ones that we do not recommend like this one.
It’s not for everyone. But the ladder attached to the RV is very dangerous
Alice
I'll never understand why anyone would not have slide toppers!
I don’t know - we never had any
@@DownsizingMakesCents they save you from having to go up on the roof every time you pack up by keeping sticks, lesves, pine needles, pinecones etc off (and pine sap) and act as an extra barrier against water leaks. Also helps keep the inside a little cooler. I'll never be without them again. Worth every penny.
@@DownsizingMakesCents oh and thanks for the video, forgot to say that, I never thought to use it in conjunction with my RV ladder like that. I don't like the steep ladder on the back nor do I trust it'll actually hold me.
@@DownsizingMakesCents and may I suggest a ratchet strap inst of rope?
@@NYVET48TFW is it easy to move them to inspect the top of the slides?
We don’t mind - we inspect the roof more often 😁
Alice
If you ever saw how crappie they are mounted to the back of your Rig you would never climb that ladder.
Robert, I know what you mean.
Alice
RV
Exactly
This is just silly
I understand why some people may think that. If you are younger or really strong and healthy, it isn’t necessary. I lose my balance easily and my RA has made me much weaker than i used to be. I put this ladder up every time i get on the roof now. Larry