It is not hard to put on/take off a cover. I do it by myself in 30 minutes or less. Yes - you have to get on top. Here is how it is done:
Start by covering all protrusions like gutter downspouts and door stops with pool noodles. Have additional bubble wrap sheets on hand to cover the edges of the awning poles and other sharp corners. I use duct tape to fasten these on.
Hopefully, your cover is folded for storage so pull it onto the roof from the back of your TT - get up on a stepladder placed near the rear door. I use an 8 foot stepladder. Get on top of the TT and contine to pull forward over skylioghts and the AC unit until it is reasonably centered. Unfold from the center out and drape down the sides.
Get down from the roof and secure the straps on the front, back and botton.
To uncover your TT, first purchase a new plastic garbage can that is large enough to accomodate the cover.
Loosen all straps. Get on top of the TT and bring up the sides, folding them into the center. You can start this by putting the ladder at each corner and bringing the sides up if you want. Continue folding to the center until the cover is about as wide as your AC unit cover.
Get down off the roof and place the garbage can at the back of the TT and gently pull the cover off the roof and fold accordian style into the can. You may have to ascend the ladder to free it from obstructions such as a TV antenna or a vent pipe - so don't tug on it!. Continue pulling until the cover is nicely folded in the can.
Remove sharp edge coverings and put them in the can on top. Put the lid on it and store.
Other tips: Don't uncover when the cover is wet. Storing a wet cover in the plastic garbage can will cause mold and mildew.
Since the front of the cover is naturally on top you will never have to worry if your pulling the correct end up first.
When you cover your TT, store the garbage can inside the TT.
Walk around the TT after covering and check for sharp corners you may have missed. Place a bubble wrap sheet between is and the cover.
Check the straps periodically to make sure they are still tight.
Experience without good judgment is worthless; good judgment without experience is still good judgment!
2018 RAM 3500 Big Horn CTD
2018 Grand Design Reflection 303RLS