Community Forums

Jim A · 01-23-2019, 08:30 PM

For those of you who don't like transitioning from a ladder to the roof of their coach any more than I do, you might want to look into these. They are Safe-T Ladder Extensions by Guardian Fall Protection. They slip onto the ladder, and are clamped in place. And easily removed.

Instead of going around the ladder onto the roof, and back around it to get down, with these extensions you can to straight over the top of the ladder, but with secure hand holds. Just as easy to come down.

Unfortunately they don't work on the Little Giant ladders, due to their flair at the top.

Now I can use a 16' 3-section extension ladder that I can fit into my Flex to take the ladder to the storage lot, instead of bringing the coach to the house and my 20' ladder. Previously the ladder was too short for comfort. Now it is perfect.

Jeep401 · 01-23-2019, 08:41 PM

Nice idea, I hate ladders!

bcbowers · 01-24-2019, 07:32 AM

Jim, I carry one of those collapsible ladders that just barely reaches the top of the coach. Do you think those extensions would work on that ladder?

Jim A · 01-24-2019, 11:04 AM

Bob, I think I saw that it will not fit on the telescoping ladders. It is pretty much designed to work on the rectangular rails of common extension ladders. Check the reviews on Amazon. I think I saw that either in the questions section or the reviews on the ladder extensions.

The limited height of the telescoping ladders is why I never bought one.

RVPioneer · 01-24-2019, 11:40 AM

That’s a nice addition to a traditional extension ladder. Many accidents occur when the ladder becomes unstable. The added length on top, while aiding in the transition from ladder to roof, also creates the potential to bump the ladder causing it to become unstable. I would recommend using at least 1 tie-down strap to secure the bottom of the ladder. Running it from the 3rd or 4th rung from the bottom to a point under the coach, hitch or wheel for example, will reduce the likelihood of the bottom kicking out. 2 straps at 45 degree angles will provide additional stability. A rope could also be tied to the top rung and tossed over the roof to the opposite side and secured.

Finally, using some anti-slip material between the ladder and coach can also improve ladder stability. A yoga mat, tool box drawer liner or even applying tool dip to the ladder will work. A rag or diaper is generally not considered anti-slip. Telescoping ladders are available up to 16’ which will extend several feet above the roof. It would still be necessary to step around the ladder which could be a challenge.

Jim A · 01-24-2019, 02:38 PM

Thanks for the suggestions. I use a spotter to hold the ladder as I go up and down. (And to call 9-1-1 just in case.) The extensions have rubber strips where the extensions contact the roof, another improvement over the extension ladder itself. And anti-slip tape on the handles to prevent hands from slipping.

lwmcguire · 01-24-2019, 02:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim A

For those of you who don't like transitioning from a ladder to the roof of their coach any more than I do, you might want to look into these. They are Safe-T Ladder Extensions by Guardian Fall Protection. They slip onto the ladder, and are clamped in place. And easily removed.

Instead of going around the ladder onto the roof, and back around it to get down, with these extensions you can to straight over the top of the ladder, but with secure hand holds. Just as easy to come down.

Unfortunately they don't work on the Little Giant ladders, due to their flair at the top.

Now I can use a 16' 3-section extension ladder that I can fit into my Flex to take the ladder to the storage lot, instead of bringing the coach to the house and my 20' ladder. Previously the ladder was too short for comfort. Now it is perfect.

That is the only safe way to transition

Thanks for sharing

Tom and Patty · 01-25-2019, 09:16 AM

Thanks Jim. When I first glanced at the picture I thought it was reindeer antlers for a Christmas decoration.
I’m gonna check them out.

Jim A · 01-26-2019, 05:16 PM

I guess they do look like antlers in that photo!

ALPINEER · 01-27-2019, 03:55 PM

I also hated the transition from the ladder to the roof, until I figured out a very safe and comfortable way to do it. I put the slide out, place my telescopic ladder to the right of the slide out (extended about 4 feet past the roofline) and step to the left onto the top of the slide out and then to the roof. The slide out material will give when you step on it, and also provides some traction (since mine is fabric, not vinyl). I figure my life is worth more than the unlikely damage I would do to my topper. Now I never hesitate to get on the roof and do what I have to do.