I've a 2017 Newmar Ventana LE, and with the rainy season almost over, I'd like to get up there and clean the roof, give it good washing...The Solar panel suggests someone got up there OK, and the ladder suggests it might be anticipated, but at 220#, I thought best to check here4 to learn if others had the same question, and found the answer...Also, would like to keep it out of the sunlight with some sort of cover, short of installing something "permanent"... would appreciate your thoughts on these issues, thank you!Michael

The roof should support you, but I would think twice about using the ladder on the back. There was a thread a while ago about ladders and what everyone carries.

Should handle your weight just fine. I’m 6’2” and was 235 and get up on mine and other MH’s with no issues. You can of course wash most of it from the sides with a brush/wash pad on a pole if you are concerned. (Step ladder required!) I just did mine from the side using a yard sprayer to lay down some water/soap/bleach mixture, let it sit for a while and then rubbed it with the wash pad. I did it this was cause I didn’t want to move it out from the carport I have it under. I see no reason to get it perfectly clean.

You should be okay. I weigh 275. I was on my latter and roof last week. Installed new slide topper fabric.

Agree with the others, it will hold you fine. During the course of ownership, you'll have to get on the roof often. Things on the roof will need maintenance and to be repaired. Plus I get on the roof every time we are parked under trees...don't want the slides to come in with pine cones or branches on them.

While you're on the roof, check all caulked areas. It's never too soon to start PM for roof leaks.

Washing my Class A roof - will it support my weight?

jplante4
Explorer II
Mar 26, 2018
The roof should support you, but I would think twice about using the ladder on the back. There was a thread a while ago about ladders and what everyone carries.
wildtoad
Explorer II
Mar 26, 2018
Should handle your weight just fine. I’m 6’2” and was 235 and get up on mine and other MH’s with no issues. You can of course wash most of it from the sides with a brush/wash pad on a pole if you are concerned. (Step ladder required!) I just did mine from the side using a yard sprayer to lay down some water/soap/bleach mixture, let it sit for a while and then rubbed it with the wash pad. I did it this was cause I didn’t want to move it out from the carport I have it under. I see no reason to get it perfectly clean.
LaTriker
Explorer
Mar 26, 2018
You should be okay. I weigh 275. I was on my latter and roof last week. Installed new slide topper fabric.
Blaster_Man
Explorer
Mar 26, 2018
Agree with the others, it will hold you fine. During the course of ownership, you'll have to get on the roof often. Things on the roof will need maintenance and to be repaired. Plus I get on the roof every time we are parked under trees...don't want the slides to come in with pine cones or branches on them.
gbopp
Explorer
Mar 26, 2018
While you're on the roof, check all caulked areas. It's never too soon to start PM for roof leaks.
obiwancanoli
Explorer
Mar 26, 2018
Thanks, everyone, your responses are very helpful.

Any thoughts on a cover, canopy, or other protection from the elements? Have to stick with non-"permanent" options...
2gypsies1
Explorer III
Mar 26, 2018
Also agree that the roof of a Newmar will hold you. :) We also used the attached ladder with no issues. Be careful though for slippage while you're up there cleaning.

Regarding the cover - from what we've heard they are a nuisance to put on and off and they can rub the paint off. Give your RV a good coat of wax regularly and it will be just fine.
NCC-1701
Explorer
Mar 27, 2018
2gypsies wrote:
Also agree that the roof of a Newmar will hold you. :) We also used the attached ladder with no issues. Be careful though for slippage while you're up there cleaning.

+1

I was on the roof of my Newmar several times per year no issues. Used the ladder on back as well. When washing, those roofs can get a little slippery so wear some soft-soled shoes that grip well and be careful.
ets1996
Explorer
Mar 27, 2018
I cut a 1/2 inch sheet of plywood into 4 pieces = 2x4x1/2 inch I lay a piece on the roof for me to work on then use another piece or two to leap frog on as I move around the roof. It spreads the weight around. hope this helps.
Bruce_Brown
Moderator
Mar 27, 2018
Directly from the brochure;

BriteTEK™ Roof with Walkable Deck

We've owned (3) Newmars now, never had a problem walking on any of them.

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Washing my Class A roof - will it support my weight?

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