Risky business

Washing motorhome roofs is a very risky business, as I found out, the hard way. My first attempt involved a dodgy ladder climb onto the motorhome roof, and an uncomfortable half-hour sitting on the roof in a pool of soapy water. I was greatly relieved to have survived an even dodgier ladder descent to safety.

For my next attempt I used an antique wooden step ladder, the type that opens in an A-shape with steps on one side only. Unfortunately, I accidentally stepped off the top platform onto the side that had no steps!

I dropped to the ground and lay in a heap with a strained ankle. Limping, I went indoors where I received no sympathy whatsoever from my wife, who promptly banned me from the using this ladder.

Having learned a valuable lesson, I carefully chose my next aluminium ladder. I liked the wide platform and a grab rail at the top. I soon discovered that the narrow steps were ideal for a ballerina, but not for a bloke wearing sensible shoes.

The uneven block paving, on which the motorhome was parked, presented the next major problem.

I had to put wooden blocks under the legs to stop the ladder from wobbling.

Another bad choice in the bag, it was time to get down to some serious research.

How was I going to wash a motorhome roof without injuring or killing myself ?

Easy. When the motorhome goes in for its habitation service, ask the dealership to wash the roof.

I asked, but it said no.

Back to the drawing board to find a really sturdy ladder with safety features. I started an internet searches followed by visits to local dealers.

It was in a ladder supplier’s store that I saw what looked like the perfect solution. A large, high, sturdy ladder with hand rails from bottom to top. A large square platform on which to stand, complete with a chain to stop one from accidentally stepping off said ladder, and wide, non-slip, step treads. I found one called the LFI Pro Wide Step Ladder with six steps for sale at Ladders UK Direct. The price tag was steep, £300, but I am very happy using this new ladder.

I feel safe using it, the wide platform with security chain gives me the confidence to clean the motorhome’s roof properly, without fear of falling and injuring myself. The added bonus, which makes it worth the price, is that I can easily clean the guttering on the bungalow and the large conservatory, too.

Last but not least, my wife likes the ladder and spends less time supervising my activities. The moral of this story is: get the right equipment for the job!